?sT3 -4 Ox" OWO,40/ 9 '46 A SCRIPTURE CATECHISMAL, P A RT 1.p CON'TAINfING A FAMILIAR EXPLANATION OF THlE SELECTED FROM. TIHE OLD TESTAMENT. FOR THE USE OF SCHOOL-S AND FAMILIES. SEVENTH EDITION. By Mrs. TRIMMER. LONDON: PRINTED VY T. IRENSLEY.9 B.ILl CUURT, FLEET STREET9 POR 1. c. & j RIV~INGTON, NO. 62, ST. P A VL'S C HU 11R H-YA ED; AND 3. HATCHARD, PICCADILLY. 1811 ADVERTISEMENT. As Directions concerning the following Scripture Catechism have already been given in the Second Volume of the Teacher's Assistant, it would be superfluous to repeat them here, were the instruction it contains to be confined to the children of the lower order, for whom it was originally composed; but as the former Edition of this work has been honoured by admission into families of superior condition, and boarding-schools, it may be necessary to subjoin, for the information of those who are not already acquainted with the Plan, that the Two Volumes of Scripture Catechism agree with the two Volumes of Scripture Lessons, selected from the Old and New Testament; and that the Lessons are to be read by the Scholars, the Catechism to be used by the Teacher only. The generality of children in genteel life are able to read fluently by the time they are capa. ble of understanding the easy parts of Scripture; they may therefore be required to stuc'y IV AD)VERT1ISEMENT,* a certain portion of 'them by themiselv),es daily, befo re they hear' the'Ex plan ation; or they may read the Lessons to the Teacher, sto *)ig t be instructedI and 'questioned at the verses pointedl out as restingr places in -the Explanation. The numnlers of somec of the verses are, pit that- the children may answer the questions irelatingy to them, in the very words of Scrip~ture. The T~each[ir, therefore, shouldl name the ve rse wvith the question, andl pause, while the Child who is to make the answver looks for the ver-se. A class of childri-en may be, instructedl at once, by havinig thec Questions put4 to them in rotation;aud it will g-reatly help to keep -up attntini fthec Sc-holars take pl~aces for givingr the proper Aniswers, and receive at stated thimes little honorcary rewards for dilig'ent attenltion. Such Parenits and Hecads of Schools as have adlolpted the, Author's largrer Work, eintitlecd Sacred History, wvill, it is pr'esumned, find these Book,-s useful as p)reparatory to it. The Catechism,) indeCed, may he usedl Avith the Saucrd History wvith a li16ttle accommo11dation. EXPLANATION OF SCRIPTURE LESSONS FROM THE OLD TESTA MEAT. LESSON T. EXPLAN TI ON.-The Lessons which are going to be explained to you are taken from the Hol' Bible, that most excellent of books, which containis.11 the divixn truths God has been pleased to roveal to mankir'nd, to 'iuide them. i the way of everlasting life. The ible v-as wvritten1 by mnci1 who were inspired by the Holy Ghost to urite it accordinr 1() the will of God, and it is to be received ais the very w\vord of God it must therefore be read and listened to with grcat attention, and with a serious desire to improve by the divine inatructiun it contains. The Bible consists of a number of books, written by different persons, but all these books agree together in such a wonderful manner as to prove that all the writers of thcn) were inspired by the same Holy Spirit. The first five Books of the Bible were written by Moses, the great lawgiver and leader of the Isra-iites; Ithey are called kenesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy. The lible is a very large book all together, alid there are many things in it which cannot be underst' )od by children and unlearned people. The Lessons which are goiong to be explained, are taken from the easiest parts of the Bible, Fuch as even children may understand, if they) will give their minds to the study of them, and not neglect tile word of God, as niuny do, for the sake of reading bouhs w hich, instead of instructing them in the truths of Divine Revelatio, serve at best to amuse, and which too often corrupt th. mmind. Let not this be the case with you, but make it your daily practice, whilst you are young, to study the Scriptures, that you may grow inii grace, and increase in wisdom as you increase in statuire. Questions.---From what book,re the Scripture Lessons taken I [APs. From the Bible.] What does the Bible conit -54 0 tain? [Ans. All the divine truths which God has revealed to mankind.] Which is the most excellent book in the world? [Ans. The Bible.] Who wrote it? [Ans. Holy men ipspired of God.] ' By whom were the five first books of the Bible written? [Ans. By Moses.] Who was Moses? rAns. The great lawgiver and leader of the Jews.] Who were the Jews? [,Ans. The chosen people of God.] Have not you already learnt from former Lectures a good deal of the history of the Bible? [Ans. Yes.] Shall you not like to read these histories in the very words of'Scripture? [Ans. Yes.] Where ard they to be found? [Ans. In the Bible.] Is it not very comfortable to you to have tle easy parts of the Bible put together for you? [Ans Yes.] Should you read other books instead of Scripture Lessons? [Ans. No,] Should you prefen any books to the Word of God? [Ans. No.] Attend then while I read and explain the word of God. Read Lesson 1, verse 1 to 26. Explanation.-This is the first chapter of the first book of Moses, called Genesis; it gives an account of the creation of the world, and informs us of many things which cr:ild never have been known to mankind without Divine Revelation, because they happened before there was a man upon the earth, and were known only to God himself. The earth being without form signlifies, that all the different parts of which the world is now composed, namely, earth, fire, water, &c. were mixed together. The earth being void signifies, having no trees, plants, or living creatures upon it. The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters to bring the earth into form, and fill it with creatures. Light is one of the most valuable blessings belonging to this world. The Creator did not destroy darkness, because darkness is also a blessing, as it is suitable to repose; but God so ordered the light and darkness, that they should succeed or follow each other all round the world; so that when one half of the earth was in darkness, the other half should have light. As the darkness was before the light, it is here said that the evening and the morning were the first day. By the firmament is me:ant the air in which the birds fly. The firmament is a great blessing nothing in this world can live without air. The gatheting together of the waters into seas, and leaving dryland between them, made the world fit for the habita tion of the living creatures that were aftervard to be in it, and also for the production of trees and all kinds of plants. Grass, herbs, and fruit trees, are among the great blessings of life. If the first grass, herbs, and fruit trees, had not had seed in themselves, there would soon have been an end of their kinds; and all the living creatures which feed upon them would have died. The two great lights -which God created were the sun and the moon. The sun serves to divide the day from the night, and also to divi.de the year into the four seasons, of spring, summer, autumn, and winter: the moon dividesthe year into months. This division of time is very useful to mankind. Questions.-What did God make from notihing? [Ans. The heavens and the earth.] How came mankind to know that the world ard all things in it were made by one Creator? [Ans. God revealed it.] What form was the world in at first? 1. [Ans. It wts without form.] What was there in it? [Ans. Nothing: it was void.] What is said to have moved upon the face of the waters, to bring the earth into form, and 01 it with creatures-? [Ans. The Spirit of God.] Could mankind have found out what was done before there was a human creature upon earth? [Ans. No.J Could any creature have found out the hidden things of God, unless it had pleased God to reveal them? [Ans. No.] Out of what did God make all things? [Ans. Out of nothing.] How came there to be light? 3. [Ans. God said Let there be light; and there was light.] Does not this give you a high notion of the power of God? [Ans. Yes.] What is meant by the Firmament? [Ans. The air in which the birds fly.] What had the grass, herbs, and fruit-trees, in themselves? 12. [Ans. Seeds.] What would have happened if these things had not been created with seeds in themselves? [Ans. There would have been an end of.them.1 What would have happenedif there had been an entire epd of the herbs, trees, and plants? [Ans. All living creaturewoyid have been starved to death.] What two great lights did God make to rule the day and the night? [Ans. The suni aq lihe moon.] What else did God make to give light? [Ans. The stars.] Rend Verse 26 io the end. By man is to be understood humpnkind. God qreated at first -but one human creatdre, called Adam, which iname agnifies the man and from Adam have proceeded all thejaumih B 2 5;^. 4 creatures which have ever come into the world. Adam is therefore called the father of us all. Whatever was done for Adam, or in-respect to him, was done for him as mankind. To be in the image of God, signifies to bear some resemblance to God. By having dominion, is meant having rule over others. By subduing the earth, was meant, that man should make use of every thing the earth produced for his comfort, as lord of the creation, under God. Man could not have known what things were good for food if God had not told him, neither would he have had a right to any of the things in the world, inless God had expressly given them to him. And we should observe that, when God gave man dominion over the lower creatures, he did not give him permission to starve, or ill treat them; they were still His creatures, and he gave them food as such. We are also to observe, that God made all things good, there was no corruption or blemish in any one of them. Questions.---What creature did God make last? [Ans. Man.] What are we to understand by the word Man? [Ans. Humankind.] How many of the humankind did God make at first? [Ans. One.] Was the world made for Adam only? [Ans. No.] Who was it made for? [Ans. All mankind.] In whose image was man made? [Ans. In the image of God.] Were any of the other creatures, besides Man, created in the image of God? [Ans. No.] What did God give to man over the other creatures? [Ans. Dominion.] Who is the great governor over all things? ['ns. God.].Could man have had dominion, if God had not been pleased to-give it him? [Ans. No.] Could man have ruled over the living creatures, and have made use of those which have no life, if God had not given them for his use? [Ans. No.] What did God give to man for food? [Ans. Every herb bearing seed, and every fruit-tree yielding fruit.] What did God give to the other creatures? [Ans. Every green herb.] Was there any fault, or imperfection, in any of the creatures when they came oit of the hands of their Creator? [Ans. No.] Could they have been mended, or improved in any respect? CAns. No.] 6Wat were they all? 31. f[ns. Good, PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Explanation.-This Lesson lays the foundation of true Religion, by xevealing, that there is one God, the Father Al 5 mighty, maker of heaven and earth; those who have followed their own imaginations, instead of Divine Revelation, have fancied that there were many gods, but the works of the creation shew that they had all one Creator. This Lesson likewise gives an account of the origin of Mankind, by informing us that God made at first one Human Pair only, and ordained that the race of Mankind should increase and multiply, which has happened accordingly. We also learn from this Lesson, that before a living creature came into the world God, by making trees, plants, and herbs, with seed in themselves, provided food for all the creatures he intended to create at first, and for all that should proceed from them till the end of the world. This should lead us to reflect upop the power, wisdorn, and goodness of God, displayed in the works of the creation. Questions.--.What is the foundation of all Religion? [Ans. To believe in one God, the Father Almighty, make of heaven and earth.] In how many days did God make the world, and all things in it? [Ans. In six days.] Which of the commandments teaches the same thing? [Ans. The fourth.] How did mankind come into being? [Ans. God created one man.] Whose word havee we for there being but one man? [Ans. 'God's.] Did not God bless mankind, and say that they should increase and multiply? [Ans. Yes.] Have they done so! [,Ans. Yes.] How did God provide for all living creatures before they came into the world? [Ans. God made food for them.] Which of the living creatures was made last) [Ans. Man.] Was it not very comfortable to all the living creatures to find the world thus prepared for them? [Ans. Yes ] Was it not very comfortable to find that the trees, and plants, and herbs, had seed in themselves? [Ans. Yes.] Have not all the generations of mankind been made partakers-of the blessings of creation by these means? [Ans. Yes.] Do not we ourselves partake-of them? [Ans. Yes.] Does not the same sun and moon light us that gave light to the first man? [AIns. Yes.] Have we still day and night, and fruitful seasons? [Ans. Yes.] Do not mankind still gather seeds and fruits in abundance? [Ans. Yes.] Could any but an almighty Leing have made all things, and provided for them in this wornder- - ful mannler? [Ans. No.] Are you not convinced then that God is almighty? [Cins. Yes.] Could any but an all-wise Being have made them? [Ans. No.] Are you not convinced then that God is all-wise? [Ans. Yes.] ~/ud any 6 but an all-good God'have brought all things into being, and provided for the comfort and subsistence of all to the end of the world? [Ans. No.] Are you not convinced then that God is all-good? [Ans. Yes.] Instruction.---As Man was created in the Image of God, it was his duty to keep up this divine image, by copying the divine perfections in every thing he could; and by submitting his will to the will of God. To have the Divine Image in their souls should be the desire of every human being. Christians are instructed in the New Testament how to obtain it, and in what manner they are required to submit their will to God's will; -and children are taught this at an early age in the. Catechism; let it then be your endeavour to learn it, for there is no other way to gain everlasting life and happiness. ' If God had not given man dominion, the beasts would have been too powerful for him; and other creatures would have made him uncomfortable. If Man does not'let the other creatures have food proper for them, he acts the part of an. unjust governor, and abuses the dominion God has bestowed upon him. These reflections should lead us to be thankful to our Creator for the dominion he has given us, and to use it with kindness; and the thought that God made man in his own image, should also raise in our minds an earnest desire to be as like to God as possible, and to endeavour to increase the goodness of the world by our own good works. Questions.---As Man was made in the image'of God, who should he desire and strive to imitate? [Ans. God.] Can any creature be as good as God? [Ains. No.] But cannot they try to be as good as their nature will admit of? [Ans. Yes.] Whose will should God's creatures do, his or their own? [Ans. God's will.] Is it not a happy thing for man. to have, dominion over the lower creatures? [Ans. Yes.] How should we treat the lower creatures? [Ans. Kindly.] Whose creatures are they all? [Ans. God's.] LESSON It. Read Verse 1 to 8. Explanation.-By the heavens and the earth, and all the hosts of them, are meant the world and all things belonging to it, toether with the sun, moon, and stars. By God's resting, % C -5 *V ý I 7 is meant, that he left off creating. To bless a day, is to make it a day of extraordinary comfort and delight. To sanctify a day, is to set it apart as God's own day, to be employed in a religious manner. By God's blessing and sanctifying the seventh day, immediately after the creation, God mnade it a Sabbath, that is, a day of holy rest, to the end of the world. In verse 7, we have a farther account of the formation of Man, which shews that he had both an earthly and a spiritual nature, an earthly body, and a living or immortal soul. In respect to his earthly nature, man bore relation to the creatures over whom he was to have dominion. In his spiritual nature he bore relation to God. The life that was in hi* soul proceeded from the Spirit of God. Questions.---How many days did God employ in creating the world and all things in it? [Ans. Six days.] What didGod do on the seventh day? [Ans. God rested.] What is meant by God's resting? [Ans. He left off creating.] What did God do in respect to the day on which he rested? 3. [Ans. God blessed and sanctified it.] What is meant by bicssing a day? [Ans. Making it a day of extraordinary comfort and deligih.] Wh-at k meant by sanctifying a day? [Ans. Setting it apart as God's own day, to be utcd in hiz;ervice.] What did God make the seventh day, to the end of thekvorld-, by blessing and sanctifying it immediately after the creation? [Ans. A Sabbath-day.] What is meant by a Sabbath-day ) [Ans. A day of holy rest.] Why did God bless the seventh day? [. ns. Because that in it God rested from all his works which he created and made.] Of what did God form the first man? 7. [Ans. Of the dust of the ground.] What did God breathe into him?. [Ans. The breath of life.] What did man become when God breathed into him the breath of life? [Ans. A living soul.] Which part of man was made of the dust tf the ground? [Ans. His body.] Who did man bear relationl to by having an earthly body i [Ans. To other earthly crea. tures.] To whom. did man bear relation'by having a living soul? [Ans. ToGod.] From whom did the life that was ii his soul proceed ) [Ans. The Spirit of God.] Read Verse 8 to 16. Explanation.-The world is a verylarge place; the first mat could inhabit but a very small part of it, and he would have been at a loss where to fix his habitation without the, direction of his. Creator. The tree of life is supposed to have been ap 8 pointed, like thb water of baptism, and the bread and wine is the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, as an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace, by which man's life was continued; and as a pledge or token that he should live while he kept God's commandment. The tree of knowledge was designed to try his obedience. The exact place where Eden was is not at present known; but the account here given of the four rivers which flowed from the River of Eden shews that this earthly Paradise was in the eastern part of the world. God knew that it was not good for man to be idle, therefore he appointed him work for the employment of six days out of seven. Questioins.-Where did God place the first man after he had created him? 8. [Ans. In the garden of Eden.] Don't you think Eden must have been a most delightful, comfortable place? [Ans. Yes.] Did not God shew great kindness to Man in providing such a charming abode for him? [Ans. Yes.] What trees grew in the midst of the garden? 9. [Ans. The tree of life, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.] What ws Man to do in the garden of Eden? 15. [Ans. To dress it, and to keep it.] Had he occasiuu to dig and plrugh the ground al' IAns. No.] Was not his work very easy? [Ans. Yes.] Where were the first plants and herbs made? 5. [Ans. In the ground.] Did Man water them to make them grow? [Ans. No.] Did not they all grow up before there was a man to till the ground? [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 16 to 19. Explanation.-God is the SupremeGovernor of all the things he has created, and all creatures should obey him, who have understanding to do it. Obedience consists in doing the will of God. Man, without Divine Revelation, could not know the will of God; but God has made known that mankind must obey his commandments, in order to have everlasting life; and that man may gain this reward, God has given commandments at different times, suiting'them always to the condition and circumstances of Mankind at differeint periods of the world. The commandment given to Adam was suited to Man in a state of innocence, and in the full enjoyment of earthly happiness. God threatened Adam with death if he disobeyed his commandment, because by disobeying it he would commit sin, and death is the proper punishment of sin, because God has made life the reward of righteousness. This ~,,D6? 9 Commandment was given to Adam before Eve was created, but it was not for him only, but all mankind, who should share in the blessings of the Garden of Eden. These two verses contain what is called The Covenant of Works, a Covenant by which God promised to continue the life of Man as long as he kept his obedience; so the life of man, under this Covenant, depended upon his own works. Questions.---Who is the Supreme Governor of all things? [Ans. God.] What should all his creatures do then? [Ans. Obey him.] What is meant by obeying God? [Ans. Keeping his comhmandments.] Why did God give commandments? [Ans. That man might gain a reward.] What is the reward of obedience to God's commandments? [Ans. Everlasting life.] Does it not appear, from the commandment given to Adam, that Man was to live as long as he kept God's commandment? [Ans. Yes.] What does man commit when he breaks God's commandments? [Ans. Sin.] What is the punishment of sin? [Ans. Death.] Do those deserve to live who break the commandments of. their great Creator? [Ans. No.] What do they deserver? [Ans. Death.] Read verse 19 to the end. Ewplanation.-When God had put man into subjection to himself, he put the lower creatures into subjection to him; and having given to the creature who bore his own Divine Image the name of Man, God left man to name the lower creatures. The inferior creatures were not helps meet, or fit companions, for Adam, because none of them had, like him, a reasonable soul, and the gift of speech; Adatn's giving names to all creatures shews that he.had dominion over them.., The creature who was made from Adam's rib was of the same nature with himself, but of a different sex; Adam therefore called her Woman. Adam understood that the woman was designed to be a wife to him, and that one man should have but one wife; and he received the first woman from God's hand as his wife, promising to be true and faithful to her. Questions.---Who gave a name. to.Man? [Ans, God.] Who named the lower creatures? [Ans. Man.t. Why were none of them fit companions for him? [Ans. T'hey had neither reason nor speech.}' BidAdam think the woman, who was made of his own rib, a fit companion for him? [Ans. Yes.] Why did he call.her Woman? 23. [Ans.Because she was taken out of Man.] Did Adam take her for his wife? [Ans. '5 10 Yes.] Who did Adam say a man should leave in order to keep to his wife? [Ans. His father and mother.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-This Lesson should confirm our belief in what theFourthCommandment teaches respecting the Sabbath-day, and should lead mankind to keep the Sabbath-day holy, to tih end of the world, because as long as the world lasts mankind will share the blessings of the Creation. We should farther learn from this Lesson, that God does not want the help of man in the culture of the fruits of the earth, for he forms every plant before it grows,and waters it with dews and mists;.otherwise the labour of man would be. in vain. We should also remark, that Man at first had nothing but what was given. him; every thing belonged to the Creator of them. Man. can have nothing but what is the free gift of God. This should teach us to place our hopes and dependence upon God's power and goodness, and to be thankful to him for his wonderful bounty: We should also observe, that Man was formed of the dust of the ground; this- should make us hunmble before God. But God breathed into man the, breath of life, and he became a. living soul; this should make us set a due value upon ourselves as creatures above the brutes, and keep us from doing any thing that will in any way hurt our imrnortal soulsv It appears from this Lesson that God took Man into Covenant with himself immediately after the Creation, and, whilst that Covenant continued, every human being who was born under it would have been subject to the law of that Covenant, which was, obey, and live; disobey, and die; we find from Scripture, that none besides Eve came into the rvorld under that Covenant;. she, alone shared with Adam the blessings of Paradise. We should then consider well what Covenant waourselves are under, and we shall find that it is the Christian Covenant; the laws of this Covenant then are those to which we are to conform, because on the conditions of this Covenant our everlasting life depends. We should also remember, that every thingwe enjoy in this world is the immediate gift of God; we can make nothing grow.of itself, it is God who still fashioneth all the plants and herbs beneath in the earth,-before they reach the surface of the ground; and it is very wonderful to observe f ~f. 1'? the curious manner in which every leaf and flower is wrappe& and folded together when it first springs up. Questions;---How soon did God take Man into Covenant with himself? [Ans. At the Creatiofl.] Did God leave Man to find out his Creator? [LAns. No; he revealed himself.I Did God leave Man to contrive a Religion for himself? [Ans. No.] HIow did the first man know what he must do in order to have his life continued.? [Ans. God gave him a Commandment.] IHow did he know that death is the punishment of sin? [ Ans. God told him.] Who was the law respecting the Tree of Knowledge made for? [Ans. All mankind in; Paradise.] How many of mankind were in Paradise? [Ans. Only the first pair.] Is not the Creator as much your Lord as he was Adam's? [A ns. Yes.i Is it not your duty to.obey him? [Ans. Yes.] Are you taken into Covenantwith God? [Ans. Yes.] What Covenant are you under ý [Ans. That Chri~tian Covenant.] When were you taken.into it) [Ans. At your-Baptism.] What depends upon your keeping to the condrtions of the Christian Covenar.? [Ans. Your everlasting life.] What can Man have that is not the gift of God? [Ans. Nothing;] Can Man make any thing grow without God's blessing? [Ans. No.] Should not we- pray for God's blessing upon the fruits of the earth? [Inrs, Yes.) Hqw should we be when God grants it? [zAs- Thankful.} Have not mankind dominion over the lower creatures now I[Ans. Yes.] -Do not they still give names to things?ý [Ani. Yes.] Can mankind make any thing without having some part of God's works to make it of' [Ans. No.] Do not we da pend upom God for every thing? [Ans. Yes.. LISSON III*..Read verse 1 to g9 Ektpnaztion---Tie word subtlhe signifies sensi.ablb and tuna ning. Though none of the lower creatures are endued- wikh. reason like mankind, many of thenv hav-e- a great deal of sense. We here findthat the serpent of Eden was the most sensible of all the brute creatures;. however; hd hadnrot naturally the gift of speech, nor was he capable f knowing, any thing of God's commandnenteconcerning the tree of kIiowldge ye twetiw dhaftemjte w the wom Ti 'hiswoidrfui 12 circumstance is explained by other parts of Scripture, in which we find the Devil mentioned as the old serpent that tempted mankind; Satan entered into the body of the serpent, and under that disguise addressed the woman, and mankind through his temptation became sinners. They had now forfeited eternal life, and were subject to death. The eyes of the first pair were indeed opened; they knew evil as well as good; but instead of finding themselves gods, they knew and felt that they were poor, naked, helpless, wretches, who had nothing in the world that they could call their own. Instead of being, as God created them, the highest creatures in the world, the next in degree to angels, they had sunk themselves beneath the brutes, for they had spoiled the goodness of their nature. This change in the condition of Man is called the fall of man from a state of innocence. Questions.--How came the serpent to be able to talk to the woman about God's commandments? [Ans. The Devil entered into it.] Did the woman eat of the forbidden fruit? 6. [Ans. Yes.] Did the man eat of it also? [Ans. Yes.) What did mankind become through the temptations of the Devil? [Ans. They became sinners.] What is sin? [Ans. The breaking of God's commandments.] What did they become subject to by sinning? [Ans. Death.] HeW so? [A4ns. Because death is the punishment of sin.] What did Adam and Eve hear in the garden? 8. [Ans. The voice of the Lord God.] Do not you think it must have been a great happiness to them while they were innocent, to hear the voice of their Creator? [Ans. Yes.] Did this glorious voice fill them with joy,,after they had broken the commandment of the Lord? 9. [Ans. No.] What did it fill them with? [Ans. Fear and dread.] Read verse 9 to 20. Explanation.--When mankind had committed sin, they had nothing to look for, according to the Covenant of Works, but everlasting death; but God had graciously resolved to send his Son into the world to redeem them. He therefore took them into the Covenant of Grace, a covenant of mercy to sinners, by promising that the seed of the woman, meaning our Lord Jesus Christ, should bruise the serpent's head, or destroy the works of the Devil. And the Lord God, instead of condemning mankind to instant and everlasting death, remitted th worst part of their punishment, by condemning them only to the death of the body. In order to confirm mankind in, the belief of this Divine Promise, the Lord wrought a miracle, by changing the nature of the serpent, which proved that he could punish the Devil as he had threatened; by means of the seed of the woman. Though mankind did not perish the day they ate of the forbidden fruit, they might be said to die, because they were subject to death from that time. The sentence upon the woman condemned her to pain, sorrow, and subjection. In his state of innocence, Man had no hard work to do; the earth was under a blessing, and in Paradise it supplied him with every thing that was pleasant to the eyes and good for food, without toil or labour. By cursing it for man's sake, good took away the blessing, and the earth then brought forth abundantly things that were not good for food and Man was obliged from that time to labour hard to cultivate the fruits of the earth. Questions.---What was mankind subject to as soon as they had eaten of the forbidden fruit? [Ans. Everlasting death.] What had God graciously resolved to do in order to save their souls? [Ans. To send his Son to redeem them.] What Covenant did God take mankind into after Adam had broken the Covenant of Works? [Ans. A Covenant of Grace.} What kind of a Covenant is that? [Ans. A covenant of mercy to sinners.] What promise did God make when he took mankind into this covenant? 15. [Ans. That the seed of the woman should bruise the serpent's head.] Who was meant by the seed of the woman? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] Who was meant by the serpent that was to be bruised? [Ans. The Devil.] What was meant by bruising his head? [Ans. Destroying his works.] What was the first of the Devil's works in respect to mankind? [Ans. Tempting them to sin.] What miracle did God work to confirm the belief of what he had promised to do? [dns. God changed the nature of the serpent.] Do serpents still go upon their bellies? [Ans. Yes.] Cannot God as easily punish the Devil as he changed the serpent? [Ans. Yes.] What work had man to do in a state of innocence? [Ans. To dress the garden of Eden, and to keep it.] What was the earth under at that time? [Ans. A blessing.] What is meant by God's cursing the ground? 17. [Ans. Cutting off his blessing from it.] What was it to bring forth abundantly when it was cursed? [4ns. Thorns and thistles.] Are these good for man to eat? [Ans. No.],What was man to eat after the fall? 18. [Ans. The herb ef the field and bread.J What is bread? [Ans. Fbod made of' corn and other fruits of the earth.] Were these things to grow without any trouble to man? [Ans. No; he was to eat them in the sweat of his brow.] How long was man to eat bread in the sweat of his brow? [Ans. Till he should return unto the ground.] Read verse 20 to the end. Explanation.-The woman was not named Eve at the creation; this was her proper name, given to her by Adam, which has served to distinguish her from all other women. It seems that when mankind were innocent, and in:Paradise,. they had no need of clothing. It is supposed they were clothed after the Fall with theskins of beasts that had been slain in sacrifices, by the commandment of the Lord 3. and mankind may still be said to. be clothed in the skins of beasts, for savages really wear. skins, and those who are civilized make clothing of them. Cherubims are angels. As the tree of life was only de.-. signed for Man in a state of innocence, none of the human' race were ever allowed to enter Paradise after Adam and. Eve had broken the Covenant of Works, but they have hopes, of everlasting life through the Redeemer. Adam's giving'. his wife the name of Eve, which signifies- the mother ofall - flesh, shewed that he expected that a race of human beings would proceed fiom her, which shews that he knew their lives were respited. Questions.---What did Adam shew by giving his wife thename of Eve? [Ans. That he expected a race to proceed from. her.] Has this been the case? [Ans. Yers] What is Eve called? [Ans. The mother of the human race.] Did the Lord God turn Adam and Eve out of Paradise naked? [Ans. No; God clothed them with skins.] Are not mankind still clothed in the skins of beasts? [Ans. Yes.] Where doeswool come from? [Ans. The backs of sheep.] Is riot agreat part of man's clothing made of wool? [Ans. Yes.]; What is leather made of? [Avs. The skins of beasts.] Dtnot mankind wear a great deal of leather? [Ans. Yes.] Who did God place with a flaming sword to prevent Adam and Eve from going back to the tree of life? [Ans. Cheru. bims.J What was the first man takalt from. [Ans. The groufid.] What was-to be his latter eni? [Ans. To return: to it:} Was this sentence psasod upon Adam himaself only,. w uponamaukind [LAns Upon manki,d~ is PRACTICAiL INSTRIJCTI'0bI. hIntritd~on.--This Lesson should confirm oar belie'fof what we' read in other parts of S cripture, concerning the De-- vil, as it shews there is a malicious spirit who has been the, enemy of mankind fromn the beg~nning of the world, and.tha-t hie is the Father of lies, as our Saviour calls him. This Legson also Thews5 that it pleased God, in the 'beginning, topermit the Devil to 'temipt mankind in--order to try their obe-- dience; but that they had Divine, Rev-elation for their guide before they were tempted, for God told them they would" bring death upon themnselves if they broke his commandment; so that it was owing to themselves that the first: pair fell. intosin, for it appearsi from the Devil's sly arts, that heý had not: the power to ibrce men to sin. This wicked spirit has gona, on 'from the beginning of the world, tempting the wholerace of mankind to break God's-commandmnents, and will d~tso as longras the. world lasts, suiting his temptations to every' one according~to the circumstances he is in. We see, in thecase of our first, parents- the sad effects of yiekling' to, his;ý temptation; we should therefore take warnihga from Adam' 2nd Eve, and resolve, to keep thoe promise and vow made in our name at our baptism, whatever temptations we 'may. have to the contrary, and then we may be sure God will givei, Us grace to resi~st the Devil. Questions. ---Does not this lesson plainly prove that mankin&l. from the beginning have had a spiritual enemy? [Ans. Yes-.]' Who is this-encny?) [Ans. The Devil.] Does. it not appear'from this lesson that the Devil is very malicious and deceitful-?; [Ans. Yes.] 'Was 4"t not very spiteful to-,our first parents', i - wishing to de~prive them of all their happiness, and to bring' saverlasting death -upon them? [Anis. Yes,.] Why did God'. permit the Devil to tempt manknind? [Adns.,To try their obe..& dience.] Would it have appeared that they were willing. to believe and obey God, if they had not been trie~d? [Ans..No.J1 Did the Devil leave", off tempting mankind after he had occasioned the fall of the first pair'? [Adns. No.-] Is not the De-.i iril very sly., and ready to deceive- all who. are not upon their' guard against him? [Ans. Yes-.} Can he force us to 8ini whvlether we will or no? [.Ins. No,.] What.6hould weaChristians resolve to keep tr-ue to'? -[Adns. The promise and voWv miade in our name at our baptism.J' Whait was th~at? [,As'., To renounce the devil and all his works, the pomps and vani.* tkie Of 'this, wick ed world, and all the si4"u lust'of the lesh k 16 to believe all the articles of the Christ;an faith; to keep God's Holy Will and Commandments, and walk in the same all the days of my life.] If you resolve to do all this, what will God give you grace to do? [ 'ns. To resist the Devil.] How came this world, which God made good, to be a wicked world? [Ans. By Adam's sin.] Instruction.---We learn further from this Lesson the deadly nature of sin, and that nothing but the grace of God can save sinners from everlasting death. God has graciously taken mankind into a Covenant of Grace, but if they yield to the Devil, and live wickedly, they will still bring everlasting death upon themselves. We should therefore take warning by Adam's fall, and resolve to make use of the means of grace afforded us, lest we have a greater fall than his, even the death of the soul, after Christ has redeemed it. The means of grace are principally the Holy Scriptures, Prayer, and the two Sacraments. Questions.---What alone can save sinners from everlasting death? [Ans. The grace of God.] Which are Christians under, the Covenant ýofGrace, orthe Covenant of Works? [Ans. The Covenant of Grace.] Shall we be saved under this Covenant, if we live a life of wickedness? [Ans. No.] Are we secure from the Devil's temptations under the Covenant -of Grace? [Ans. No.] What may we still bring upon ourselves by disobedience? [Ans. Everlasting death.] What should the history of Adam's fall make us resolve to make use of? [Ans. The means of grace afforded us.] What are these? [Ans. The Holy Scriptures, Prayer,.and the two Sacraments.] What are the two Sacraments? [Ans. Baptism and the Supper of the Lord.] If we do not make use of these, shall not - we have a worse fall than Adam's? [Ans.Yes.] What was he condemned to? [/Ans. The death of the body.] What shall we be condemned to if we depart from the Covenant of Grace? [Ans. Everlasting death.] Instruction.---When God condemned Adam, and in him altl mankind, to return unto the dust from whence they were taken, he condemned them also to toil and sorrow in this world, and drove them away from the Tree of Life. In this God shewed his grace and mercy, for had mankind been allowed to continue in Paradise, they would have set their affections orr the things of this world, and this would have made them un-- willing to leave it when God saw fit for them to do so; and if they had continued to live a life of ease and comfort, they would have- forgotten they were sinners, and this would have 17 kept them from repentance, and then they would not 1ave been saved. Besides, as mankind committed sin in the body, it is proper they should suffer in the body. But instead of eating of the tree of life in this world, we shall be permitted to live for ever in heaven, hereafter, if we are faithful and obedient. Questions.---Which did God shew to man, unkindness or mercy, when he condemned them, in Adam, to eat bread in the sweat of their brow, till they should return to the dust from which they were taken? [Ans. Mercy.] What would they all have set their affections upon, if they had been admitted into Paradise? [Ans. The things of this world.J Would not that have made it the harder for them to die? [Ans. Yes.] What would they have forgotten if they had been suffered to live a life of happiness? [Ans. That they were sinners.] What would this have kept them from? [Ans. Repentance.] What "would have happened if they had not had repentance? [Ans. 'They would not have been saved.] Is eterrnl life hIst to mankind by their being kept fiotn the tree of life? [Ans. No.] Where may they hope for everlasting life? [/Ins. In heaven.] Must not all first suffer death? [i4ns. Yes.] Will death be an evil if it leads us to everlasting happiness? [Ans. No.] LESSON IV. Read verse I to 17. Explanation.---It appears from Eve's words, when her first son was born, that mankind were in favour with God notwithstanding they had sinned, for she considered the increase of thehuman kind asa blessing, which it would not have been if mankind had been under the condemnation of everlasting death. It farther appears from the account of Cain's conduct, that the Devil continued his temptation when mankind mult. tiplied; and he seems to have begun his wicked works, by tempting Cain to disobey the Ordinance of God, and make an offering of his own chusing iln the room of it. We find that God offered pardon to Cain, if he would repent and obey; from which we learn that the design of the offering which Abel offered, was to take away sin; it must, therefore, have been ordained of God, as a means of grace, and as a pledge, or token of God's pardon to sinners. It is said that Abel offered of the firtlings of his flock, that is, a lamb,; and w6 18.ad that, under the Jewish law, the Paschal lamb was meainl to represent the Redeemer of the world; from which we may judge that a lamb was appointed to 1.e slain and offered as a sacrifice for sin, from the time mankind dirst became sianers. Gain's first offence, therefore, was disobeying the Ordinance of CGod, by bringing of the firuits of the ground instead of the firstlia,0ot his fcick. Thus heP siigrhted the nm'erms of grace, and becamnc, in consequence of it, the slave of Sa taf, wvho led hbm on from sin to sin, till God was provoked tV drive him away from iis lpresence, that sacred spot where the Lord shewed forth his glory, and testified his acccptync of the appoiuted oftering, by sending fire frornm heave to conumnle it. QYleslios.---l Vhat did EveA. say when her first son was born? [ins. I have gotten a man from the Lord.] What did she name him? IAs. CainJ] V hat did she name her next son? [Ans. Abel.I What employment did Caln follow i [Ans. He was a killer of the ground j VWhat is meant by a tiller of the ground? [Ans. A husbandman.] What was A bel? [Ans. A keeper of sheep.] DI)oes it not appear from these occupations that the earth stood in nted of cultivation, and that im. 1heccp required to be kept together? [Ans. Yes.] WVerq mankind allowed to eat flesh at that time? [Ans. No.] What could they want from sheep then? [Ans. Wool.] Did not they also want lambs for offering? [Ans. Yes.] What offering did Cain make to the' Lord? 3. [Ins. Of the fruits of theground.] What offering did Abel make? [Ans. Of the firstlings of his flock.] Whose offering was accepted? LAns. Abel's.] Why was not Cain's accepted? [Ans. Because it was not theproper one.] What sin did Cain commit when he made animproperoffering? [kns. He disobeyed the ordinance' of the Lord..] Did not the Lord, after this offence, promise to pardon his sin if he would do well? 6. (iAns. Yes.] What. did the ILord tell him would lie at his door, or remain with him, if he did not' make use of the means of grace? [Ans. Sin.] bid Cain repent and' turn unto the Lord? [Ans. No.] Who do you suppose put 'it into his head to be angry with God, and to kill his innocent brother? [Ans. The Devil.], Did not the Devil suit his arts so the condition of Adam's sons, as he had done before in respect to Adam and Eve? [Ans. Yes.] Had he power to force Cain to sin? [Ans. No.] Could Cain hide any of his sins from the eye of God 1 9. [Ans. No.] What did God condemn Cain to be? 11. [Ans. A fugitive' and. a vagabond, on the earth. Where was he. driven from? 19 13. [Ans. The presense of the Lord.] Was not the Lord visibly present in the place where Cain and Abel made their offerings? [Ans. Yes. J What did God do that Cain might live as a warning to others, instead of being put to death? 15. [A7ns. Set a mark upon him.] Was it not a dreadful punishment to be driven from the presence of the Lord, and to lead a vagabond life, with all the terrors of a guilty conscience? [Ans. Yes.] As St. Paul says that God reckoned Abel as ighteous, where may we suppose ho found his reward? [Ans. In heaven.] Where did Cain go to when he was driven from the presence of the Lord? 16. [Ans. To the land of Nod.] Who went with him? [Ahns. His wife.] Read verse 17 to the end. Explanation.---The city which Cain is said to have built, was nothing more, we may imagine, than a few huts. He seems to have given up the occupation of a husbandman when the Lord cursed him from the earth. Among the descendants of Cain we do not find one good person mentioned, but there were several who were remarkable for their ingenious inventions. The father of such as dwell in tents, &c. signifies the first inventors of tent-making, &c. By the time Enos was born, which was 235 years after the creation of Adam, there were in all probabiliy thousands of men, women, and children in the world., The expression,. then began men to call upon the naiie of the Lord, is understood to mean, that such persons as kept to the religion which. was ordained of the Lord, joined together in public worsiip, and called themselves the people of the Lord; while Cain and his descendants forsook the worship of the Lord, and became idolaters. As Abel was so good, and in such high favour with God,. it is likely that Eve thought he was the promised seed, and her hopes seem to have revived at the birth of Seth; and indeed. it was ordained of God, that the Saviour of the World should be of the race of Seth. By calling upon the name of the Lord, as men are said to have begun to- db in, the days of Enos, we are to understand that God hada Church upon earth;. consisting of those who obeyed his Divine Ordinances ' and. that they were called the servants, or people, of the Lord. Questions.---How long was it after the creation of Adam that. Enos the son of Seth was born? [Ans. 235 years.] Was& there not a great number of men, women, and children, inthat space of time? [Ans. Yes.J What are men said to har 20 begun to do at this time? [Ans. To call upon the name of the Lord.] What is understood by this expression? [Ans. That such persons as kept to the true religion called themselves the people of the Lord.] Why did they so? [lAns. To distinguish themselves from the wicked race of Cain.] What are the race of Cain supposed to have done? [Ans. To have forsaken the worship of God, and to have made idols.} PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instructiao.---The first thing we learn from this Lesson is, thdiat God from the beginning, required mankind to honour and worship him in his own appointed way, not according to their fancies; nothing can be a means of grace that has not been ordained of God as such. Abel's offering of the firstlings of his flock could not have taken away sin, if God had not ordained it as an outward and visible sign of the inward and spiritual grace, by whichsinners through Divine mercy were made righteous. Under every dispensation there have been Divine Ordinances, and will be to the end of the world, for Christ has said his Church shall never be destroyed; therefore we may be certain the two Holy Sacraments of Baptism and the Lord's Supper will be continued till he comes again to judge mankind; and these are the Ordinances Christians are bound to obey we should,, then, take warning from Cain's punishment,. and never suffer the Devil to tempt us to depart from God's Holy Ordinances, lest he cut off from his Church as Cain was, by being driven from the presence of the Lord, and deprive us of the means of grace. Questions.---In what way should God be honoured and worshipped? [Ans. In his own appointed way.] As God appoints outward and visible signs as pledges of his mercy and grace, should we presume to make use of other signs? [Ans. No.] Should we neglect to make use of those which God has.appointed? [Ans. No.] What Holy Ordinances has God through Christ, ordained in the Christian Church? [Ans. Baptism and the Lord's Supper.] Should not those who call themselves Christians make use of both? [Ans. Yes.] Instruction.--Another thing we should learn from this Lesson is, never to give way to anger; for the Devil will certainly take advantage of our doing so, and lead us into greater wickedness. Whenever we find anger rising in our minds, we should pray to God to give us grace to get the better of it. As we find that' God sometimes gives ingenuity to bad men, in order to make them useful in the world, we should resolve never to be proud in our skill in any art or science. uestions. ---What was the first question which God put to Cain when he saw that he was wroth? 6. [Ans. Why art thou wroth?] If-Cain had considered this properly, would he have kept his anger? [Ans. No.] Had Abel done him any injury by offering the proper offering? [Ans. No.] Might not Cain have offered the same, if he had chosen to do so'? [Ans. Yes.] Would not God have accepted it from him? [Ans. Yes.] Had he any cause to be angry withGod? [Ans. TNo.] Why did Cain hate Abel? [dns. Because he was a better man than himself.] Might nothe have been as good if he had tried? [Ans. Yes.] Would God have driven him from his presence if he had been righteous? [Ans. No.] Was Abel's death a mark of God's anger? [Ans. No.] ' Did not God, by avenging his death upon Cain, shew that he loved Abel? [Ans. Yes.] Which was the happiest, Cain, who lived under the.anger of God; or Abel, who was slain, and taken to heaven? [AIAs. Abel.] What should we do when we find anger in our minds? [Als. Pray to God to give us his grace to get the better of it.] Are any of Cain's family mentioned as good people? [Ans. No.] Were any of them ingenious? [Ans. Yes.] What was the name of the son whom Eve considered as being given-to her instead of Abel? [Ans. Seth.] What was the name of Seth's son? [Ans. -Enos.] What did men begin to do inhis days? j[Ans. Call upon the name, of the Lord.] LESSON V. Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.---The generations of Adam signify the race of Man, which began in Adam and Eve, and has increased from.generation to generation. Adam's son, Seth, being in his image, signifies, that he had the same nature as the first man after his fall. When Adam came out of the hands of his maker, he was good and in the image of God, but before he had a son he had corrupted human nature, by committing sin, and had brought death into the world; and had not God in hi graee and mercy provided for-the redemption of mankind, the whole race would have been subject to everlasting death in consequence of Adam's sin; but before there-was any increase of mankind, God hadpravided for their redemption from everlasting death; therefore Seth, and all since Adam, have come into the world under the Covenant of Grace; they are col-. dlemned to the death of the body with their common parents Adam and Eve, but they will rise fiom the dead, and will have everlasting life and happiness, through the merits of a crucified Saviour, if they do not themselves forfeit the grace of God. The life of the first man was spared for a great number of years, and we do not read that he offended God; it is therefore reasonable to suppose that he repented of his sins, and obtained remission, by means of the sacrifice God ordained. Questions.---In whose image, or likeness, was the first man created? [Ans. God's.] What did God call both the man and the woman in tihe day they were created? [Ans. Adam.] What is the meaning of this word? [Ans. Man.] How long did Adam live on the earth? [Ans. Nine hundred and thirty years.] What was the name of Adam's son who was born when Adam was an hundred and thirty years old? 3. [Ans. Seth.] What happened to Adam when he had lived as long as God saw fit? [Ans. He died.] Had he not sons and daughters besides the three which are mentioned by name? E[Ans. Yes.] Instruction.---In this chapter, one ofa generation are mentioned to the time of Noah, to shew that Noah came from Adam, in she line of Seth; but Noah's three sons are mentioned, because from them the whole earth was peopled again after the flood. We must observe, that all who are here named, as far as Noah, excepting Enoch, are said to have died at last, though they lived a much.greater number of years than men do now. To walk wiith GOD, signifies, tolive agreeably to the will and commandments of GOD, or, in other words, to lead a godly righteous life. Enoch did so and was translated, or taken to heaven without dying. Methuselah, the son of Enoch, was the oldest man that ever lived; he was born 247 years before Adam died. The Patriarch Noah was. born nearly 600 years.before the death of Methuselah. Questions.---Does it not appear from this chapter that mankind increased in the early ages of the world, after the same manner that they do now from father to son? [Alns. Yes.] What is the good man's name who is said to have walked with God? [Ans. Enoch.] Who was the oldest man that ever lived in the world? [Ans. Methuselah.] 2,3 PRC'TICAL INSTRUCTION. 'Instruction.---We should learn from this Lesson to consider ourselves as being by nature born in sin, the children of wrath, not in the image of God, but in the image of sinful Adam. This is called Original Sin; but God has graciously provided for our regaining his Divine Image through Jesus Christ our Saviour; and Christ appointed the Holy Sacrament of Baptism, as a means for our beilg cleansed from the corruption of our nature, and being born again as children of Grace, as the Church Catechism explains to us. WSe must live, therefore, according to our new birth unto righteousness, n6t following the desires of the flesh, as Adam and Eve did, through the temptations of the Devil, but following the desires which the Holy Spirit puts into our hearts, and we should bring our will into subjection to the will of God, then may we hope to have the Divine Image restored in us. Qu estions.---In what light should we consider ourselves as the children of Adam? [lAns. As being born in sin, and the children of wrath.] Have we the Image of God in us when we are born? [Ans. No.] How can we, as Christians, be cleansed from the corruption of our nature? [Ans. By Baptism.] What are we made in baptism? [Ans. Children of grace.] What desires did Adam and Eve follow through the temptation of the Devil? [Ans. The desires of the flesh.] What should we follow as children of grace? [Ans. The desires of the Holy Spirit.] Whose will should we follow in all things? [lns. God's will.] WhAt image willbe restored to us if we liRe in this manner? [Ans. The Image.ofGod.] Explanation.---St. Jude, in his Epistle, speaks of Enocha# a prophet, who foretold to his generation that there would be a day of judgment, when God woult punish the wic'ked for their ungodly deeds. His being translated to heaven pr9yed that there is another world for the righteous; and when we read that he was thus rewarded for walking with God, we should resolve to follow his example, that we rpay at the end of the world find admittance into the same blessed place. Questions.---In what should we follow Enoch's example? [Ans. In walking with God.] What is meant by walking with God? [Ads. Leading a godly life.] Are we notfound to this by the Christian Covenant? [Ans. Yes.] LESSONT VI Read verse I to 14. Explanation.---By the time Noah's three sons were betn, there must have been a great number of people in the world. We find that some of them were called the Sons of God? others the Daughters of Men. By the Sons of God were meant the Church of God, those who had faitIh in God, and lived righteous lives, obeying the Divine Ordinances, and looking for a heavenly inheritance. By the Daughters of Men were meant, the women who belonged to those who had forsaken the Lord God, and followed their own vain imaginations. The first are supposet to have consisted of Seth's race, and such other's of Adam's posterity as kept to the true religion. The others to have been the descendants of Cain, and those of Adam's posterity who joined with them. By marrying the Daughters of Men, the Sons of God had the chance of being drawn away from the true religion themselves, and of having their families brought up in unrighteousness. The word:;, verse 2, My Spirit shall not always strive with man, for that he also is flesh, signified, that God would withdraw his grace, because men minded nothing but worldly things, and lived as if they had not immortal souls. Mankind must have arrived at a dreadful pitch of wickedness, when the thoughts of their hearts were only evil continually. The expression, God repented that he had made man, signified, that God would not bless mankind, but destroy them. The expression, it grieved him at the heart, signified, that mankind had forfeited God's favour, and provoked his anger to the greatest degree. It is not possible for God to repent or grieve after the manner of men; such terms are applied to God because there is no language that can describe him according to his infinite perfections. To find'grace in the sight of the Lord, signifies to be in the fav6ur of God. A just man and perfect in his generation, meant one who practised justice towards mankind, and righ. teousness towards God, in the midst of a corrupt generation. The earth being filled with violence signified, that the inhabitants of it were under no restraint from the laws of God &d men, but committed all kinds of outrages. By all fesh Were meant, all living creatures. A race of wicked creatures who dishonoured their Maker, and who were in the image of Satan himself, were not fit to live; they had corrupted the earth, and all the creatures in it, by making them instruments of wickedness, therefore God saw fit that every thing should be destroyed, excepting a small remnant of each kind. Questions-- -Who are supposed to be meant by the sons of God? 1. [Ans. Those who had faith in the Lord God, and lived righteous lives.] Who are meant by the daughters of men? [Ans. The daughters of those who did not worship the Lord God, and who lived unrighteous lives.] What hazard did the sons of God run by marrying the daughters of men? [.4ns. Of being drawn fiom the true religion, and of having their families brought up in unrighteousness.] What did the Lord say his Spirit should not always do? 3. [Ans. Strive with men.] What is to be understood by this? [Ans. That God would withdraw his grace from them.] Whose image were mankind in when their minds were fullofwickednesss? [Ans. The Devil's.] Whose works did they do when the earth was filled with violence? [Ans. The Devil's.] What had mankind corrupted? [AIns. The earth and all things in it.] How had they corrupted them? [Ans. By using them for wicked purposes.] What did God resolve to do on actount of the great corruption ithat was in the earth 7. fAns. To destroy the earth with all the creatures in it.] Why did God spare Noah? [Ans. Because he was a good man.] Did not Noah shew that he feared and loved God, by his leading a righteous life, in the midst of a wicked and corrupt generation? [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 14 to the end. Explanation.---It pleased God to give particular directions concerning the ark, because Noah could not have contrived it himself, and besides it was to be a sacred vessel, or one that God designed for a holy purpose. The length of the ark was about 182 yards and a half; the breadth of it 30 yards 15 inches;. the.height 18 yards and a quarter. In this narrow compass was the remnant of God's creation to be preserved, while multitudes of every kind were destroyed by the flood! That neither Noah nor those who were afterwards to people the eart: might suppose that the flood was produced by natural causes, God expressly dclared, it was to be by an act of his own almighty power. The Covenant which God promised to establish with Noa, 26 -was that whkch God made with mankind after the fall, respecting a Redeemer. That there might be no occasion for a Dew creation, God commanded Noah to take sonic of every kind of cerature into the Ark. And as they could not seek food for themselves,, Noah was ordered to provide it for them. It is supposed, that the ark wa~s not completed till the end of the 1.20 years which God had resolved to grant mankind upon earth, after he -threatened to withdraw his Holy Spirit from them.; St. Peter tells us, that Noah preached righteousness to them, that is, reminded them of their duty, warned themn of their danger, and endeavoured to bring them to repentance, but without success; they despised Noah, and defied the Almighty. IQuestilons. --What did God command Noah to mak-,e? [Ans. An Ark.] What purpose was the Ark designed for? [Ans. To preserve righteous Noah, and those that were with him in -the ark.] Was Noah's ark a very'large veissel? [.-Ins. Yes.] What -did God say. to Noah when he had told him how the ark was to be made? 17. [Ans. And, behold, I, ev-en 1, do bring *a flood of waters upon the earth., to destroy all flesh, &-c.] Do not these words shew that the flood did not happen naturally, or by~chance, but by the miraculous power of God? [Ans. Yes.] What promise did God make to Noah? 18. V Ans. To establish hris Covenant.] What Covenant? [Ans. he Covenant of Grace.] Who did God command Noah to take into the ark? [Ans. His whole family.] How many persons did his family consist of? [Ans. Eight persons.] Who were they? [dins. Noah, and his wife, and his three sons, and their wives.] What creatures w 'as Noahxcomma.nded to take into the ark? [Ans. Some of every kind.] How were *they to be fed? [Atns. God comm-anded Noah to carry food of every kind into the ark.] Did Noah do as the Lord commanded him? [Ans. Yes.] How long is it supposed to have been from the time of God's threatening to take his Holy Spirit fromn the wicked inhabitants. of the earth to the finishing,of the ark? [Ans. 120 years.] What did Noah do besides building the ark? [Ans. Preach righteousness.].Did the people repent? [Ans. No.] -rRACTICAL INSTRUCTION..Instruction. --In order to* improve by this Lesson, wte must, observe, that it was by mixing with wi~cked people, and resisting the Spirit of God, that those 'Who before wvexe reckoned as the sons of God, because they were of the 4.hurch of God, became so wicked as to provoke the Lord to take hi% Holy Spirit from them after which they gave themselves up entirely to do the works of the Devil, and provoked the Lord to cut them off for their wickedness. This should make us resolve to avoid'the company of wicked people, to follow the dictates of the Holy Spirit, by which are meant good desires, leading to just and pious actions? and to pray to God to give us his grace to our life's end. Questions.-Doesit become those whoare called the children of God to choose their company amongst wicked people who have no regard to religion? Ans. No.] Who are reckoned as the Children of God upon earth at this time ' [Ans. Christians.] Does God give the help of his Holy Spirit to Christians? [Ans. Yes.] For what purpose does God give them the help of the Holy Spirit? [Ans. To enable them to do their duty.] Should Christians slight the Grace of God and yield to the temptations' of the Devil? [Ans. No.] What will God do to them if they resist, or strive against his Holy Spirit [Ains. Take his Holy Spirit from them.] Who may be said to strive against the Holy Spirit? [Ans. Those whi work wickedness.] LESSON VII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation---By clean beasts,verse 2, are understood,beasts which mankind were commanded to offer as sacrifices. As God named seven days as the time from Noah's entrance into the ark to the flood, we may judge that the wicked inhabitants of the earth having polluted the Sabbath, and made it an unholy day by their abominations, God saw fit to make it the day of their punishment. The age of Noah points out the time at which the flood came upon the earth; which was about the year of the world 2349. By going willingly into the ark, Noah and his family shewed their faith in God's mercy. The creatures that went into the ark, must have been brought to Noah, as they were at first to Adam, by the power of the Lord: for they were not capable of knowing any thing of God's design to destroy the world, nor of the building of the ark. By breaking up the fountains of the great deep, ver. 10, is understood causing the waters below the firmament to burst.2 a 18 through the earth, so as to overflow all the dry land; and by opening the windows of heaven, is understood causing the waters above the firmament to pour down fi-om the sky in a violent manner. This could only be done by the Creator, who had divided the waters from the waters, and set them bounds which they could not pass. By the expression in verse 16, the Lord shut him in, meant that the Lord put it out of Noah's power to leave the ark after.he had once entered it, as perhaps he might have desired, and likewise prevented the wicked from entering in, as they might have attempted. Such a vessel as the ark could never have withstood the violent torrents of water, if it had not been preserved by dithe miraculous power of the Almighty. The height of the waters above the highest mountains was 27 feet nine inches. There are' numberless marks of a universal flood remaining in the world at this time; such as shells hardened to stone and covered with veins of metal, bones of unknown animals, &c. which labourers often dig up from a great depth in places very remote from the sea, and which prove that the flood must have reached those places; there is not a country in the kriown world, that has not some tradition or other concerning the flood. Questions.---Was it not very comfortable to Noah to receive testimony from God that lie wvas righteous? [Ans. Yes.] What number of every kind of beast did God c6mmand Noah to take into the ark? 2. [Ans. Seven pair of clean beasts and two pair of unclean ones.] How many pair of each kind of fowls was.Noah to take? [Ans. Seven pair.] Did not God foretel to Noah the very day on which lie should bring.the flood upon the earth? fAns. Yes.] How old was Noah when he entered into the ark? 5. Ans. Six hundred years.J How long was it from the creation of the world to the flood? [,ns.. 2349 years.} Did Noah and his family go willingly into the ark?. [Ans. Yes.] What did they shew by this? [Ans. Their faith in God's mercy.] Did the different creatures know of God's design to bring a flood upon the earth? [Ans. N6.] I-ow came it to pass that they went to Noah? [Ans. They were guided by the power of the Almighty.] Did the different creatures ever go in this manner to any man else? [Ans. Yes; to Adam.] How soon did ihe flood happen after Noah entered into the ark? 10. [Ans. Sever days, as the Lord had paid.1] ow was it brought about? [Ans. The fountains of the great deep were broken up, and the windows.f heaven ~ 29 were opened.] Who had power to do this? [Ans. None but the Creator.]' How long did the rain continue? 17. [Ans. Forty days.] What became of the ark? [Ans. The waters bore it up, so that it floated above the highest mountain.] What happened in consequence of this astonishing flood? 2J. [Ans. Every living creature was destroyed, except Noah and those that wvere with him in the ark.] How long did the waters prevail upon the earth? [Ans. An hundred and fifty days.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From Noah's faith in God's word, which led him to prepare the ark, and afterwards to enter into it with his family, we should learn to obey the word of God, which, in the NewTestament, calls upon Christians to separate themselves from the wicked, and put themselves into the way of salvation. From the preservation of Noah we may learn, that God is a rewarder of those that diligently serve him; and that if it is best for his servants to continue in this world, either for their own sakes or the good of others, he will certainly preserve their lives, and carry them safely through the greatest dangers. Questions.---How can Christians imitate Noah? [Ans. By separating themselves from wicked people, and going into the way of salvation.J Where can we learn the way of salvation? [Ans. From the word of God in the New Tesstament.] What may we learn from the preservation of Noah? [Ans. That God takes care of his servants.] Is it possible for any person to be in a more dangerous situation than Noah was? [Ans. No.] LESSON VIII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.-By God's remembering Noah, and all that were with him in the ark, ver. 1, is meant that God's Providence was over them to support and deliver them, whilst the wicked inhabitants of the earth were perishing. Soon after-they were dead, God began to set the earth to rights, and make it fit for the future habitation of mankind. By having no windows in the sides of the ark, Noah and his family were prevented, from seeing the destruction of the 30 rest of mankind, which would have occasioned them great pain and sorrow. We are told that Noah stayed seven days between the different times of sending forth the raven and the dove; from whence we may suppose, that he observed the Sabbath, and looked for some extraordinary blessings npon that holy day. Though the face or surface of the earth was dry upon the first day of the first month, so that it would bear the weight of such a creature as a dove, it was not fit either for man or beast bef6re the twenty-seventh day of the second month. It is worthy of remark, that not one of all the living creatures that went into the ark died in the space of twelve months and upwards, though many of them had been accustomed till then to live entirely in the open air. From Noah's building an altar, and offering burnt offerings, it appears, that the Divine Ordinances relating to the sacrifices still remained in the Church of God. It is said, that the Lord smelled a sweet savour, the meaning of which is, that the sacrifice Noah offered was pleasing to God, because it was offered with faith, and agreeably to his own appointment. Quiestions.---Who did God remember when he brought the flood upon the earth? [Ans. Noah, and every thing 4hat was with him in the ark.] Whalit did God do for their deliverance out of their c6nfinement? [Ans. God stopped the fountains of the great deep, and shut up the windows of heaven.] What happened at the end of 150 days? 3. [Ans. The ark rested on the mountains of Ararat.] How soon were thle tops of the mountains seen? 5. [Ans. On the first day of the tenth month.] Was it not a great comfort and mercy to Noah and his family to be spared from seeing the drowning of the world? (Ans. Yes.] What did the dove bring back the second time she went out from the ark? 10. [Iths. An olive leaf.] Don't you think the sight of that leaf must have been very comfortable to Noah? [Ans. Yes.] What did he know by it? [Ans. That the waters were abated from off the face of the earth.] Did Noah go out of the ark when he found that the earth was dry? [Ans. No; he stayed till God should call him out.] Who camt out of the ark when God called them? [,lns. All who went into it.] How were they all preserved alive in such a close place? [Ans. By the.miraculous power of God.] For what purpose did Noah offer burnt offerings? [Ans. To shew his gratitude to God, and his faith.J What did' the Lord say when Noah had offered his sacrifices 21. [Ans. I will not any more curse the ground for man's sake.] When did God curse the ground for man's sake? [Ans. After Adam's transgression.] Did God expect that mankind would be perfectly righteous after the flood? [Arns. No; God knew they would be all sinners.] Did God resolve to shew mercy to them, and make the earth more comfortable than it had been? [Ans. Yes.1 What did God ordain to render the earth conmfrtable? [Ans. Regular seasons.] Was not this. a-great instance of the mercy and goodness of God? [Aiis. Yes.l PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We should learn from this Lesson to fear and love God, who, after punishing the wicked inhabitants of the earth, removed the curse brought upon the ground for Adam's sin, and rendered the world a comfortable abode for those who were afterwards to live in it. Questions.-What should you learn from this Lesson? [ Ans. To fear and love God.] Why should you fear God? [Ans. Because he punishes the wicked.] Why should you love God? [Ans. Because he has removed the curse from the ground.] Is not the earth in itself a very comfortable world? [.1ns. Yes.] Is it not very pleasant and beneficial to have different seasons? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not a great happiness to have seed-time and harvest? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON IX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanalion.-The earth was now a new world, for every thing in it was renewed. Noah and his family were the only human beings in it. And the Lord having suffered the curse upon the ground to end with the wicked inhabitants, whom he saw fit to cut off, graciously restored the blessing he at first pronounced on the earth at the creation; and gave Mankind the like dominion over the inferior creatures,as he gave toAdam, which could never have been kept up if God had not implanted in the nature of brute creatures a fear and dread of mankind, for many of them are much stronger, than men. God also gave mankind leave to kill animals for food. In a state of Wi. infnocence, before delh was brought into the worrd, mankind were to live upon fruits and herbs. To restrain men from killing one another God now made a law against murder. It is an offence to God himself to murder ene of that kind which has borne the Divine Image. To deliver Noah and his family from the dread of another general flood, and to prevent those who should come after him from living in fear of it, God vou'chsafed to make arn Everlasting Covenant with mankind, in which he graciously included all other living creatures. The bow which God appointed as the token of this covenant was the rainbow. When a rainbow appears, it is asure sign that it does not rain, at that time, in all parts of the world; for the rainbow is occasioned by the sun's shining upon the clouds. The farrily of Noah kept together for a considerable time after the flood; but all the nations who ever lived in the world, or who now inhabit it, proceeded originally from one or other of Noah's three sons. Questions.---In what light might the earth be considered after the flood? [dns. As a new world. Of how many persons did the race of mankind consist after the flood? [Ains. Of eight persons.] Who were they? [Ans. Noah, and his wife, and his three sons, and their wives.] What did God graciously do after he had renewed all things? [Ans. God blessed Noah and his sons.] What did God implant in the nature of brute creatures to keep them from hurting mankind? [Ans. A fear and dread of men.] What law did God make to prevent men from killing one another? 5. [Ans. Whosoever sheddeth man's blood by man shall his blood be shed.] Why is it a greater crime to kill a man than any other living creature? [Ains. Because man was made in the image of God.] What did God vouchsafe to make with mankind that they might not live in continual dread of another general flood? [.Ans. An everlasting covenant.] What did God graciously promise by this covenant? 12. [Ans. That he would no more cut off all flesh, and destly6 the earth by a flood.] With whom did God graciously make this covenlant? [Ans. With every living creature for perpetual generations.] 12. Did God appoint any sign or token of his everlasting covenant [Ans. Yes, the rainbow.] Did the family of Noah separate from each other immediately after they came out of the ark? [Ans. No.] Who have proceeded from the sons of Noah? [Ans. All the nations of the earth.] How long did Noah live after the flood? 28. [Ans. Three hundred and fifty years..] What -was his age- when he died? [Anms. Nine hundred and fifty years.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. i-nstruction.-Thoughl God has vouchsafed to. make an ever-. lasting covenant that thle earth shall no more be destroyed by water, we learn from the New Testament that it will finally be destroyed by~fire, and its dest-ruction will be as Sudden asý that of the old world by th~e flood. We cannot tell when' this. wvill happen; we should therefore learn righteousness. and, practise it,, that we may not be cut off in our sins. As God vouchsafed to take the lower creatures into his everlastingr covenant,, we should learn from thence to treat themn with kindness while they live, and to put themn to, the easiestdeath we cain when we are under the necmsity of killing them for food. And when we view a rainbow, we should call to mind God's mercy and goodness in making, his everlasting. covenant, and be thankful.Questions.- --Will not the earth be destroyed. again? [Ant. Yes.] How is it to be destroyed? [Ans. By fire.] Is it known. when this will happen? [Ans. No.1 What should:wedo in order to: be prepared for the end of the world, and our owNv death [Ans. Learn righiteousnegs and practise it~j Do. you think God will be pleased with those who torture the creatures he himself hias taken into his everlasting covenant [Ans. No.] What should the rainbow put. us inL mind of~ [Ans. God's everlasting covenant.] Does not this coxenant' concern us? ( ibis. Yes.] -Wh~at should we be the n for it? CAns. Thankful-,J LESSON X.. Read the whole Lesson.-, Baplanafion.- The Mountains of Ararat, upon one of ýwhlch the ark rested, were in the East; and it is supposed that rnan.kind'after the flood fixed their dwellings near that. spot-. -Ila the tenth chapter of Genesis., which is not iisv this book of Le*-- sons., we have the generations of Noah?K that ia, the names of' the sons and grandsons of. Shem,, Ham,* augi Japheith., an d of the diffierent regions of the earth., which were in Rpocess of time, peopled by. them and their descendants% For some tima after the ilnod, mankind dwelt all together in. that part of the, wolrld where the- ark reated, called in. Scriptur, the I4&1 'Ti Lesson we are now going to consider gives an account of the dispersion of mankind, or their separating to go into different parts of the world. It was a great happiness for mankind while they dwelt together, tospeak the same language; what the original language was is not known. All mankind did not journey from the East country. The presumptuous design of building a city and a tower that should reach to heaven, was contrived by a part of them, at the head of whom we may reckon Nimrod, one of the grandsons of Ham. Nimrod was proud of his strength; and others, trusting in their own wisdom and skill, joined with him in providing for their security against another flood, instead of trusting in the everlasting covenant God had vouchsafed to make. Nothing, however, could be more foolish than an attempt to build a city and a tower to reach to heaven. The expression, ver. 5, the Lord came down to see, signifies only, that the Lord noticed their proceedings. The children of men, signified those among the descendants of Noah who were no longer the children of God. To confound their language, tignified to make them forget the words they talked before, and call every thing by a new name. It is likely that the languages talked among them were as different as English, Latin, French, &c. By this confision of tongues a stop was put to the building of the city, for those who were concerned in building it could no longer understand each other. All who spake the same language naturally kept together, and became the founders of different nations. The genealogy from Shem (verse 0, to the end) was preserved in the Bible, in order to shew afterwards that our Lord Jesus Christ was, according to his human nature, of the line of Shem: this genealogy is here carried on to Abraham, as that. of Seth was to Noah. Questions.-In what part of the world are mankind supposed to have fixed their habitations after the flood? [Ans. The East.] Did all mankind remain in the East? [Ans. No.] Where did some journey to? 1. [Ans. To a plain in Shinar.] Who is supposed to have led them on to build the Tower of Babel? [Ans. Nimrod,] Who was he? [Ans. One of the grandsons of Ham.] What did they set about building at the plain of Shinar? 3. [Ans. A city and a tower whose top should reach to heaven.] Did the Lord suffer Nimrod and the rest to accomplish their plan? [Ans. No.] What did the C 35 Lord do? 7. [Ans. Confound their language.] What was put a stop to by the confusion of languages? [Ans. The building of the city and tower.] What did the Lord do then? 7. fAns. Scattered them abroad upon the face of all the earth.] What is meant by the generations of Shem? [Ans. Those who descended from him.] Who was the father of Abraham? 26. [AIns. Terah.] Who was the wife of Abraham? 29. [Ans. Sarai.] Where did Terah die? 31. [Ans. In Haran.] Were the lives of the patriarchs who are mentioned in this chapter as long as those of the patriarchs who lived before the flood > [Ans. No.] Were they not much longer than the lives of mein are at present? [Ans. Yes.1 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION'. Instruction.---This Lesson should warn us against pride and impiety. No one can defeat the purposes of the Almighty; but God can confound the devices of the wicked, and bring all their designs to nought. Questions.---Had the people after the flood any reason to. fear that they should be destroyed, as the former inhabitants. of the earth had been by a flood of water? [Ans. No.] Why not? [Ans. Because God had promised never more to destroy it so.] If God had not made this promise, and was likely tobring another flood, could those who began to-build Babel have saved themselves? [Ans. No.] Can any one hinder theAlmighty from doing whatever he sees fit? [Ans. No.] Cannot God hinder wicked people from putting their designs in execution? [Ans. Yes.] Could any of the people who built Babel expect to be made to forget their language and to make use at once of words they never knew before? [Ans. No.] Could they have thought that the very means they made use of to keep themselves together, should be the occasion of their being scattered over the face of the earth? [Ans. No.] Should not you be greatly surprised to find yourself at a loss for English words, and talking Latin or Greek? [Ans. Yes.] What should we learn from this account of the confounding of languages? [Ans. Not to follow any wicked devices.] LESSON XIL Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--After the dispersion of mankind, the different Nations fell into idolatry: by idolatry is meant, the. w hip 36 of idols; any creature that is worshipped as God is an idol. The sun, the moon, the stars, men, birds, beasts, fishes, trees, and plants, nay devils, have been idols to different nations. Some of the nations entirely forsook the worship ofthe true God; others continued to worship the Lord, but joined idols with him; this was very displeasing to God, and is supposed to have occasioned his hiding his glory from mankind. In order to restore true religion, and keep up his Church in the world, God resolved to have a nation or people entirely devoted to himself, among whom he would shew forth his Almighty power, and prove to all the other nations of the earth that he is the only true God. The nation which God designed for his own people was not founded when Terah died, but God determined that the head of this nation-should be of the race of Shem; because from him the Redeemer of the world was, to proceed. Abram was of the race of Shem. There is reason to conclude that Abram believ ed in the Lord,. and served him to the best of his knowledge, in that corrupt generation. That Abram might give an example of faithfulness to the world, God was pleased to try his faith by variousmeans. The Canaanites were some of the descendants of Ham the son of Noah. At the time the Lord promised the land of Canaan to Abram it was far from appearing a desirable place, for the fruits of the earth failed there, so that he could not get. a supply of provisions for himself and his family. Questions.---What did the different nations fall into after the dispersion of mankind? [i/Ans. Idolatry.] What is idolatry? [Ans. The worship* of creatures instead of God.] What did. God resolve to do in, order to restore true religion and keep up his Church in the world? [Ans. To have a nation entirely devoted to himself.]- What did God resolve to display among, his own people? [Ans. His Almighty power.] For,what purpose did God intend to shew forth his Almighty power? [Ans. To prove to all nations that lie is- the only true God.j Whd did the Lord fix upon to be the head of his own nation &, [Ans. Abram.] What did the Lord require him to do? 1. [Ans. To leave his country and kindred, and go to a place that the Lord should direct him to.] What did the Lord promise Abram in case he should obey him? 2. [Ans. To make of him, a great nation, in whom all the families of the earth should be blessed.] Did Abram go as the Lord' had said? [Ans. Yes.] What relations of his accompanied him? 5. [Ans. Only Sarai. his,ife, and. Lot his nephew.] How old was Abram at that 37 time? 4. [Ans. Seventy-five years old.] To what place did they go? 5. [Arns. Into the land of Canaan.] What people inhabited the land of Canaan at that time? [Ans. The Canaanites.] What did the Lord do to strengthen the faith of Abram [Ans. The Lord appeared unto him, and promised. to give him the land of Canaan.] Was it a desirable country at that time? 9. [Ans. No; there was a grievous famine.] DidAbram trust in the Lord's promise notwithstanding? [Ans. Yes.] How did he testify his faith? 8. [Ans. He builded an altar and offered sacrifices. Did he continue in the land of Canaan? 0. [Ans. No he went into Egypt.] Why did he go into Egypt? [Ans. Because he could not get food for his family in Canaan.] Why not? [Ans. Because there was a grievous famine in the land.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION:. Instruction.----It is true that the Lord does not now appear in order to give commandments to particular persons, but by having done so in former times, the Lord has furnished mankind with examples; and he has caused his commandments to be written in the Scriptures, by which every one, who hears or reads them, is called of God to serve and obey him. In. this part of Abram's history, we have an example of obedience to a very difficult command; from which we should learn to obey all the commandments of God. Questions.---Does the Lord appear now to give commandments to particular persons? [Ans. No.] Did the Lord appear in former times? [Ans. Yes.] What has God furnished. the world with by this means? [Ans. Examples] What has. God done in respect to his commandments [Ans. G6d. caused them to be written in Scripture.] What is every one who hears o( reads God's commandments called upon to do? [Ans. To serve and obey God.] What should we learn frorm Abram's example? [Ans. To obey all the commandments of God,] LESSON: XII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---We may be sure that Abram followed the direction of the Lord in all his removals; and we find that wherever he fixed his tents, he built an.altar and offered sacri ices, which shews that he obeyed the ordinances of the Lord. His kind and generous behaviour to his nephew Lot shews him to have been a man of very amiable manners. At the time the Lord promised to Abram, that he would give him all the country round him to a very great extent, Canaan was possessed by the Canaanitish nations, which were veqy powerful, yet Abram firmly relied on the word of the Lord. Question.---Was not Abram very kind and obliging to Lot, in giving him the preference? [Ans. Yes.] What part of the country did Lot choose? 11. [Anis. The plain of Sodom.] Was it a pleasant country? [/ns. Yes.] What sort of people were those of Sodom? 12. [Ans. Very great sinners.] Did Lot make a proper choice when he paid more regard to the beauty of the situation than to the character of the people he was going to dwell amongst? [Ans. No.] Where did Abram dwell? [Ans. He continued in the lhnd of Canaan.] What did the Lord promise Abram after that Lot was separated from him? 15. [Ans. That he would give him the whole land ofl Canaan as an inheritance for his secd.1 Who was in possession of the land at that time? [Ans. The Canaanitish nation.] Was Abram powerful enough to conquer them and drive them out? [Ans. No.] What did he trust in? [Ans. The word of the Lord.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From this part of Abram's history, we should learn to pay regard to religion wherever we go; to be kind and obliging to our relations; and to place a firm trust and confidence in the promises of God. Servants should take warning from this Lesson not to quarrel with the servants of their masters or mistresses friends, lest they bring inconvenience upon those who employ them. Questions.---What should we pay regard to wherever we go? [4ns. Religion.] What should we place our firm trust in? [Ans. God's promises.] How should relations behave to one another? [Ans. With kindness.] What should servants in particular learn from this Lesson? [Ans. Not to quarrel with the servants of their masters or mistresses friends.] LESSON XIII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation;.-From the number of kings mentioned in thi: chapter, we may understand, that the part of the world in which Abram and Lot lived was very populous; though it is likely that each king had only a small extent of territory, excepting Chedorlaomer. Lot soon began to feel the ill consequences of living among wicked people; if Abram had not gone to his rescue, Lot and his family would have been in a dreadful situation. By the account which is here given of Abram's servants, and the respect that was paid to him, we may understand that he was regarded by the neighbouring princes as a person of high consequence. It must have been a great comfort to Abram to receive the blessing of Melchizedek, the priest of the most high God. Questions.-What misfortune happened to Lot and his family r[Ans. They were taken captives.] Would this have happened if they had continued to dwell with Abram? [Aws. No.] How did they escape? 14. [Ans. Abram went with his servants and rescued them.] How many trained servants had Abram? [Ans. Three hundred and eighteen.] Who met Abram and blessed him? 18. [A/ns. Melchizedek, the priest of the most high God.] What did Melchizedek bring forth? [Ans. Bread and wine.] What did Abram-give him? 19. [ /ns. Tithes of all.] What are tithes? [Ans. Tenth parts.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION.. Instruction.--The sad consequences of Lot's choice of situation should teach us, whenever we find it necessary to change our place, whether as servants, or in any other capacity, to endeavour to settle ourselves among good and religious people, instead of coveting a situation which promises great worldly profit. Questions.-What should beour first desire when we change our place of residenee? [Ans. To get among good religious people.J Which will be best, to live in families where no regard is paid to religion, but where great profit may be gained; or to live in families where they serve and fear God, but where the profits are less I [Ans. Where they serve God,] 40 LESSON XIV. Read the uwhole Lesson. Exptanation.-The expression, I km thy shield and thy exceeding great reward, verse 1, signified, that the Lord would defend Abram against all his enemies, and reward him for his righteousness. Some years had passed since the Lord first promised to make of Abram a great nation, and that in him all the families of the-earth should be blessed. Abram was commarided to use the ceremonies of dividing the heifer, &c. because the Lord was going to make a Covenant with him, after the manner in use among men at that time. The smoking furnace and the burning lamp passing between the pieces, was a sign' that the Lord confirmed his Covenant. But Abram was not to expect to be put in possession of the land of Canaan himself, neither were hns posterity to he settled in it till they had been afflicted in another country four hundred years. This prophlecy related to the bondage of the people of Israel in the land of Egypt. At the time God made this covenant with Abram, Canaan was in the possession of the different nations mentioned at the end' of the Lesson. Hagar was the handmaid of Sarai, who having no children herself, had given Hagar to Abram for a wife, according to the custom of those times. Hagar had a son, who was named Ishmael, by command of the Lord, who promised that a great nation should proceed from him. Questions.-What did the Lord say to Abram when he appeared unto him in a vision? 1. [Ans. Fear not, Abram, I am thy shield and thy exceeding great reward.] Was it not a great comfort to Abram to know that the Lord himself would. defend him against all his enemies? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not a great encouragetnmnt to him to be told that his rightousness should be rewarded? [Ans. Yes.] Who did Abram say was heir to 11 he had at that time? 2. [Ans. One born in his house.] Who was that one? [Ans. Eliezar his steward.] Why was Abram's steward to be his heir? [Ans. Because Abramn had no. child.] What did the Lord tell' him? [.Ans. This shall not be thine heir.] What did the Lord promise him? verse S. [Ans. That his seed should be as the stars for number.) Did Abram believe this i [An*, Yes.J, Was it not a great - d, 41 proof of faith in such an old man as Abram to believe that a gTreat nation Aould proceed from. himkl? [Ans. Yes.] WVhat did the Lord count this faith for ) 5. [Ans. For righteousness.]. What did the Lord to.,t Abram conicerning his seed, after he bad performed all the ceremionies required of him? 13 [A4ns. Thy seed shiall be a s-tranger in a land that is not theirs,ý and shall serve thiem; and they shall afflict them four hunidred years.)J What people wvas miea~nt by Abram's seed? [Ans.. The Israelites.] In wyhat land w,,ere they to be iii bondage four hundred years? [Anzs. Th~e Land of Egypt.] What did the Lord foretel respecting the peoplc '~f Egypt? 1.5. [A4ns. That hie would judge theni.] What did hie promise respecting the people of Israel? [tins. That they should come out of Egypt with great substance.] What promise did th-e Lord make Abram for himself? 15. [A.ns. That hie, should go to hi5 fiathers in peace, and should be buried in a good old ageý.] What was the smoking furnace and the burning lamp passing between' the pieces which Abram. had divided, 4a sign of? [A4ns. That the Lord made a Covenant, that day with Abram.] What were the wvords of this Covenant? 19. [Anis. Unto thy seed have I given this land, from the river of Egypt unto flhe great river, thie river Euphrates.] Who possessed the land of Canaan at that time? [A4ns. The nations (mentioned in the lasyt verses.]. What son had Abram when he was fourscore years old? [Ans. Ishmael.] Who was Ishmael's motheri [Aens. Hagar.J What promise did the Lord make to Hlagar concerning Ishmael? [Ans. That a great nationi should proceed from him.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION~. Thstruction.--We learn fromn this, Lesson, that God reckons fa iWas righlteous to those who obey his eomm-andm-ehnts, That in the days of Abram he continued to coilfirm. the faith of his servants by outward signs; as in the' beginning of the world, and as lie-now does in the Sacraments of Baptism anid the. Lord's Supper. We also learn that the rervants of God do. not stv~e the full accomplishment of the ]Divine PromisesIi th is Ili fo. Q uestions.-.....What does. God reckon 'as. -righteousness to thiose wvho obey hiiýcommanidcn.eits? [Ans. Faith.] How has God confirmned the faith of his servanits? [Ans. By' outwvard signls.] Was not Abram'r's faith confir~med by outward signt? [11An. Yes.]. By what outward signs is the faith of Chrtian!Cu.flýre4? L*g By those in the Sacraments of Baptism and. 42 the Lord's Supper.] Did God put Abram in possession of the land of Canaan, or did he only promise it to his family? [Ans. God only promised it.] Was Abram to live tp see them in possession of it? [Ans. No.] But was it not a great comfort to him to know that the great nation, which was to proceed from him, would in time have a fine country to live in? [Ans. Yes.] Can the servants of God at this time expect to see.all the promises of God fulfilled to them in this life? [Ans. No.] Where may they hope for the completion of them? [Ans. In the next life.l LESSON XV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--The words, Walk before me, and be thou perfeet, verse 1, signified that Abram should serve the Lord truly all the days of his life. The former covenant which God made with Abram was in favour of the great nation that was to proceed from him. The covenant which we have an account of in this Lesson, was the Covenant of Grace, made first with Adam, and established with Noah, and now again established with Abram. The word Abram signifies high father; Abraham, signifies father of a great multitude. The Lord's promise to be a God to Abraham and to his seed after him, signified, that he would bestow upbn his faithful servants such blessings as none but God can give. The law of circumcision Swas given in order to distinguish the great nation which was to be God's peculiar people, and to keep them separate from heathens. The word Sarai signifies a lady, Sarah a princess. It is said that Abraham laughed: the meaning of which is, that he greatly rejocied. Till this time Abraham had persuaded himself that Ishmael, who was then thirteen years old, was the son from whom the great nation was to proceed, and his affection for him made him desirous that it should be so; but the Lord had ordained otherwise; however, a promise was made to Abraham for Ishmael, that he should also be the head of a mighty nation. Questions.-What did the Lord, who appeared to Abram, call himself? 1. [Ans. The Almighty God.] What did God require Abram to do? [Ans. to walk before him, and be perfect.] What did God say should be with Abram? [Ans. His Covenant.], Who did he say he should be a father to? [Ans. Many nations.] What was Abram's name to be in future? 6. [Ans. Abraham.] What kind of Covenant was this to be which related to many nations? [A'ns. The everlasting Covenant.] What law did God make in order to distinguish his own peculiar people? [Ans. The Law of Circunmcision.] What was Sarai's name to be changed to? 15. [Ans. Sarah.] What promise did God give to Sarah? [Ans. That she should have a son, and be the mother of many nations.] What did Abraham say to God? 18. [Ans. 0 that Ishmael might live before thee.] What promise did God make then? 19. [Ans. 'That Sarah should have a son, and call his name Isaac.] What promise did God make respecting Ishmael? 20. [Ans. That he would make of him a great nation.] What were Ishmael's twelve sons to be? [Ans. Princes.] With whom did God say he would establish his Covenant? [Ans. With Isaac.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From this Lesson we learn that God requires his servantsto walk before him, and be perfect, that is, to follow his commandments; and to keep true and faithful to him to the end of their lives. We also learn, that those who are taken into Covenant with him, if they will believe his word, and obey his laws, the Lord will be their God, that is, he will regard them as his own people, and give them his choicest blessings. The Sacrament of Baptism is used in the Christian Church, instead of the Iaw of Circumcision, which Christ put an end to when he admitted the Gentile nations into his Covenant. Questions.-Are Christians required to walk before God and be perfect, like Abram? [Ans. Yes.] Ho'w can they do this [Ans. By following God's commandments.] What did the Lord promise Abram that he would be to him and his seed after him? [An:. A God.] What has the Lord promised to be to Christians, if they walk before him faithfully? [Ans. A -God and Father.] How will he be a God and Father to them? [Ans.He will give them his choicest blessings.] Where may we learn what the blessings of the Christian Covenant are? [Ans. In the New Testament.] What Sacrament have Christians in the room of the Law of Circumcisibn? [Ans. The Sacrament of Baptism.] LESSON XVI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction-.--As the Lord vouchsafed to inform Abraham of his purpose to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah, Abraham pre1 44 suinned to intercede for these cities. The 'Inhabitants of themo miust have arrived at a dreadful height of wickedness, whenthere were not even ten righteous persons in them: no wonder~, therefore, that God should determine to cut them off. Whe 'n Abraham said, verse 1215,, Thou wilt not destroy the, righteous with the wicked, hie did not, perhiaps, think of the recompence of the righteous hin another world, yet he was confident in his own mind, that the Judge of all the earth -would do right. We are riot to conclude from the Lc~rd's pm,,inise, to save Sodom and Gomorrah if there shiduld be found ten righteous persons in them, that the righteous are never cut off by' God's Judgments. -Nations are indeed spared for a length of time for the sake of the righteous that are in them: but, when. the principal part of the inhabitants are enormously wicked-, God brings destruction. upon the nation by one or other of his, judgments, and then the righteous and the wicked are cut off from the earth together; but that which is a punishment to the wicked proves a blessing to the good, by removing them into a better world. Questions.---What did the Lord inform Abraham hie was gigto do?- 20. [Ans. To destroy Sodom and Gomorrah.] WVhy did. God shew this favoiir to Abraham? [A4ns. Because he Was righteous.] Why did the Lord resolve to destroy Sodom and Gomorrah? L*Ans. Because the people were very wicked.] For what number of righteous persons woul,d the Lord have spared Sodom - and Gomorrah.? 32. [.4ns. Ten.] Must not these have been dreadful wicked cities in which thete were not ten good. people to be found? [Ans. Yes.]; P1RACTIQAL rN5TRTJCTXONInstruction.-Tn other parts of Scriptur~e Abraham is called the Friend of God, and we here find the Lord talking to Abraham as his friend; but we should particularly remark the reason'which the Lord gives for this wonderful condescension, verse 2, which shiould lead us to follow the example of Abraham. And since we -learn from, this Lesson, that God cuts off whole, nations by dreadfuil judgments when they arrive at the highest pitch of wickedness, we should consider that' every person contributes towards the righ~teousness or sinfulness of theRation to which hie belongs,; and this should make every oneresolve to add hlimselIf to the number of the righteous. From Abraham's words, verse 25ý, ShalI not the Judge of all the 0 45 earth do right, we should learn to acknowledge the justice of God in all his ways. Ouestions.-What reason did God give for treating Abrahanm as his friend? i 9. [Ans. That he would command his children and his household after him, to keep the way of the Lord, to do justice and judgment.] Who besides Abraham will God regard as his friends? [Ans. Those who do the same as Abraham did.] What does God do to whole nations when they get to the highest pitch of wickedness? [Ans. God cuts them off.] Do not you make one of the nation you live in? [An;s. Yes,] If you are good what will you help to make it? [Ans. A righteous nation.] If you are wicked what will you help to make it? [Ans. A wicked nation.] What should you do then? [Ans. Live a righteous life.] When God's judgments are in the earth, and we hear of nations being cut off, ought we not to think as Abraham did, that the Judge of all the earth always does right? [Ans. Yes. LESSON XVII. Read the whole Lesson. Evplanation.-We may judge from the account here given of the people of Sodom, that they were bent upon wickedness by night as well as by day. Lot proved not only his abhorrence of their wicked deeds, but shewed likewise his hospitality to strangers, by running the hazard of his life rather than join the wickedness of the city, or give up to ill treatment the travellers he had received under his roof. The men of Sodom could not hurt the Angels; but Lot, if left in an unprotected state, could not have resisted the multitudes that surrounded his house. As soon as the Angels tbld their commission, Lot understood that they were ministering Spirits sent from Heaven to execute the will of the Almighty upon that wicked city. It is probable that Lot lingered that he might take some of his goods with him. - The expression made use of by the Angel, verse 22, I cannot do any thing till thou be come thither, shews that the Angel was commissioned to see Lot in a place of safety before he destroyed the wicked cities. The word Zoar signifies little. It was by the power of the Lord that Sodbm and 'Gomorrah were destroyed, though the Angels were his ministers. This judgment was very different from that by which the old world was destroyed, and served to shew that God has 4 '6 power over all the elements; fire as well as wvater are ait hl~s command.---Lot's wife looked behind because she disbelieved the word of the Lord, and had a desire to return to Sodom. Why Lot ifid n4ot continue in Zoar we are not told, but it is probable he found the inhabitants of the city such as lie could' not live amongst. Questions.---In what form did the Angels appear to Lot? [Ans. As Men.] What did Lot shew to these Angels when he supposed them to be travellers? [A4ns. Hospitalitvj1 How did the Ang-els reward Lot for his hospitality to them? [AnIIs. They rescued him, and smote 'his enemies with blindnless.] What did the Angels desire Lot to do? [Ans. To get out of the city with all his family.]* Did all his family consent to gro with him? 14. [A~ns. No; his sons in-law -would not give credit to him.] Did Lot set off immediately? 16. [A1ns. No; he lingered.] What did the Angels do to hasten him, and hiis wife, and daughters? [Adns. Laid hold of their hands, and set them without the city.] 'Was 'not the judgment by which) Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed very different from the flood? [Ans. Yes.] Did any of Lot's family look back? [A4ns. Yes; Lot's wifel1 How was she punished? [Ans. She became a pillar of salt.] Did this pillar remain for any length of time? [Ans. Yes.] Who did God remember to'save when he destroy ed the cities of the plain? 29 [AXns. Abraham and Lot.] Why did God save them? [Ans. Because they were good men.] Was it not a dreadful sight to behold the smoke of the cities going up like the smoke of a furnace? [Anis. Yes.] Where did Lot fix his abode when hie left Zoar? [-,ns. In a cave.] Were not his circumstances altered greatly for the worse in consequence of his having left righteous Abrahamn.. and livingr among wicked people? [A4ns. Yes.] What became of Lot's servants whose qiualTels first occasioned their removal? jjdns. It is mostly likely that tlseyperishi~d in Sodom.] PRAtCTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction --The cities of Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed, not only as a punishment upon the wicked people that inhabited them, but, as St. Peter tells us, God turned them into Ashes, and c01'demned them- with an overthrow., to make them an ensamnple unto those that should after live ungodly; and the Lord delivered Lot, not only to reward him for cont11inuig righteous among such a wikdpolbut rlso to show that 16eknowethhow to deliver the ungodlyout oftemptations. Every 47 individual therefore of every nation should learn from this his" tory to fear God, and trust in him. The punishment of Lot's wife was also intended as an ensample or a warning to the world. In the Book of Wisdom in the Apocrypha, the pillar of salt, into which she was turned, is called a monument of an unbelieving soul; and our Saviour, when he was foretelling to his disciples the destruction that would fall upon Jerusalem, and afterwards upon the world itself, said, Remember Lot's wife: therefore those who read the account of the judgment that was inflicted upon her for disbelieving God's word, should take heed, as St. Paul expresses it, that there be not in them an evil heart of unbelief. Questions.--- As Sodom and Gomorrah were destroyed for the wickedness of the people, what should every person in a nation keep from? [Ans. Wickedness.] As Lot was saved for his righteousness, what should every person in a nation endeavour to be? [Ans. Righteous.] What does the writer of the book of Wisdom call the pillar of salt into which Lot's wife was turned ) [Ans. A monument of an unbelieving soul.] What did our Saviour say to his disciples concerning her crime? [Ans. Remember Lot's wife.] What should we remember about her? [Ans. That she was punished for 'unbelief.] What sh6uld we take heed of from her punishment? [Ans. That there is not in us an evil heart of unbelief.] LESSON XVIII. Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.---We here read the fulfilment of the promise which good graciously made to Abraham, that Sarah his wife should have a son. Isaac is supposed to have been two years old wnen he was weaned, at which time Ishmael must have been sixteen. It seems from Ishmael's mocking, that he was jealous of Isaac. Sarah was very wrong in shewing such resentment; her conduct on this occasion proves that the best people sometimes commit great faults. If the Lord had not commanded Abraham to do as Sarah desired, he would not have turned Hagar -and Ishmael out of doors, for he greatly loved this son; but his giving them only bread and a bottle of water shewed that he had faith in the Lord's promises respecting Ishmael. The Lord suffered Hagar and Ishmael to be reduced to such a state of misery, in order to shew, by relieving them, that he remembered his promises, and would fulfil them. Questons..---Did not the Lord fulfil the promises he haeý made to Abraham and Sarah, that they should have a son Ans. Yes.] What name did they give to this son?, [Ans. Isaac.] Why did they name him so? [Ans. Because the Lord had commanded them.] How old was Abraham when Isaac was born? [Ans. An hundred years.] Did not Abraham and Sarah rejoice greatly when their son was born? [Ans. Yes.] What did Sarah say to Abraham when she saw Ishmael mocking at her son? 10. [Ans. Cast out this bondwoman and her son, for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.] Did this please Abraham? [Ans. No.] Did Abraham love Ishmael? [Ans. Yes.] Why did he send Ishmael and Hagar away? [Ans. Because the Lord commanded him.] What did Abraham shew by giving 'them only bread and water? (Ans. His faith in God's promise.] What promise? [Ars. That God would make of Ishmael a great nation.] What happened to Ishmael in the wildernessof Haran? 15. [Ans. He was ready to die for want of water.] Was not his mother greatly distressed? [Ans. Yes.] How was she comforted? 17. Ans. The Angel of God called to her out of Heaven, and shewed her where there was water.] Did God renew his promise to Ishmael at this time? [Ans. Yes.] Did God continue to protect him and watch over him? [Ans Yes.] What did he become as he grew up? 20. [Ans. An archer.] What is an archer? [,Ans. One who shoots with a bow and arrows.] Where did Ishmael dwell? [ns. In the wilderness of Paran.] Where did his mother take a wife for him? [Ans. Out of the land of Egypt.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-.-The birth of Isaac shews the truth of God's promises, and should teach us to depend upon them. From Ishmael's oting dismissed from his father's house by the command of the lord, we learn that God sometimes suffers misfortunes to happen to people, in order to bring about the purposes of his good providence. If Ishmael had continued to live in Canaan, he would have lost the chance of being the head of a great nation, for that land was designed for the nation of the Israelites, of which Isaac was to be the head. The Lord's providing for Ishmael, when he was destitute of the common necessaries of life, and ready to die, shews, that to be utider the providence of God is better than to be pos-' sessed of great riches; for the providence of God supplies thof, things which are best for every one, under all circum stances. The history, of Ishmnael furnishes encouragrement to all you-ng persons, who Rre obliged to turm out into the wide world, not to fall into despair, but to put their trust in God Alnmiglhty, who if they obey his commandments, will deliver them out of their troubles, and put them in somneway or other of gaining a maintenance. 9 uestions.--Wbat should we learn from reading 6f the birth of Isaac? [Ans. To depend upon God's promises.] Where,can we find themi? [zlfls. In Scripture.] Which is bait, to be under the Care of God's providence., or to possess great riches? [A4ns. To be under God's providence.] Would Ishmael have6 beeni the head of a great nation if he had continued to live in. Canaan? [A4ns. No.] What did he stand in rteed of when he was ready to die in the wilderness of B~eer-- sheba? [A4ns. A little water.] Could all the riches in the world have purchased a drop of water for him at that time? [A4ns. No.] How was he supplied with it? [Ans. By the providence of God.] What does God by his providence bestow upon his creatures under all circunistances? [Ans. Whatever is best for them.] Who, in particular, should take encouragement from this part of Ishmael's history? [A4ns. All young person~s who are obliged to turn out into the world.] What may they hope God will do for them if they put their trust in him? [A4ns. Put them in a way of gaining their livelihood.] LESSON XIX. Read~ the whole Lesson. Explanation,~--The.' expression, God did tempt Abraham. verse 1, signifies-that God put his faith to the trial. The words, l3ehold here I am, shewed Abraham's readinless to obey any command the Lord might see fit to give him. He had entered. into a solemn Covenant to serve the Lord with a perfe~ct heart; and, hard as the. command, to offer up his son as a burnt of-' fering must have appeared to him, Abraham obeyed it im-. mnediastely, for hie believed that God would sooner raise his son from the dead, than not make good his promises. When he had laid his son upon the altar, and stretched out his knife to slay him, he had done what the Lord required, he had offered him up; and it now appeared that the Lord did not intend to make him kill his son, and that Abrahamb had not trusted in vain in the Divine promises. To rewg&d Abraham'ns faith, the Lord coufirmed his former promise by au oath. The Lord swore by himself, as St. Paul observes, because he could not swear by a greater. By the Lord's swearing, we are to understand that the Lord made a 4solemn promise to his own great name. Questions.---What did God command Abraham to do to try his faith. [Ans. To offer up his son Isaac.] Was it not a great trial to a kind and aged parent to be cohmmanded to sac^fice, as beasts were sacrificed, the son in whom all his holps were placed?. [Ans. Yes.] Did Abraham obey God's commandments without complaint? [Ans. Yes.] How came he to do so? [Ans. He believed in God's promises.] What promises? [Ans. That God would make a great nation of Isaac; and that in his seed all the families of the earth would be blessed.] How could Abraham expect these promises to be made good ifJle should put Isaac to death? [ 'ns. He believed God would raise Isaac to life again,, sooner than not keep his promises.] Did not this belief shew the strength of Abraham's faith? [Ans. Yes.] Did God suffer him to kill his son? [Ans. No.] How did God prevent him from doing so when he had taken his knife for the purpose? [Ans. The Angel of the Lord called unto him out of heaven.] What did the angel of the Lord say? 12. [Ans. Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do any thing unto him, for now I know th'at thou fearest God, seeing that thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son fromtne.] Why was Isaac called Abraham's only son [Ans. Because Ishmael was sent away.] What did Abraham see ready to his hands to offer as a sacrifice in the stead of his son? 13. [Ans. A ram caught in the thicket by his horns.] What did the Lord do to confirm the faith of Abraham, and to reward him for offering up 1:is son? 15. [Ans. Swear by himself that he would bless him according to 'his former promises.] What is to be understood by the Lord's swearing by himself? [Ans. Making a solemn promise in his own great name.] Do not you think Abraham must have felt very happy after receiving such promises as these? [Ans. Yes.] Was he not fully rewarded for his faith? [Ans. Yes.] Who was Nahor? 20. [Ans. Abraham's brother.] What was his wife's name? [Ans. Milcah.] What relation was Rebekab to N.ahor? [Ans. His grand-daughter.] What was his father's name? [Ans Bethuel.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We learn from this Lesson, that Abraham Iheyed his faith by his works, when God tried him. His ei ample teaches us, that true faith leads men to do whatever God commands. From Abraham's readiness to offer up his son when God commanded him to do so, it appears that he feared and loved God above all things; by this act Abraham attained to the perfection of that righteousness which cometh by faith, he proved himself worthy to be called the father of the faithful, and his example in this particular instructs all who would be reckoned 'hildren of Abraham to be ready to offer up what is most dear to them rather than break the commandments of God. Questions.---By what did Abraham shew his faith? [Ans. By his works.] What does his example, teach us? [Ans. That true faith leads men to do whatever God commands.] Who is Abraham called the father of? [Ans. The faithful.] Who should follow his example? [Ans. All who would 4e reckoned the children of Abraham.] LESSON XX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---We find from this Lesson, that though God had given to Abraham for the great nation that was to proceed from him all the land of Canaan, he did not claim it for himself, neither would he accept as a gift even a small part of it for a burying place for his family, because God had not yet taken it from the Canaanitish nations, though he designed to do so four hundred years afterwards; by which time the Lord knew the people of Canaan would become so wicked that thej would not be fit to live upon the earth. In Abraham's time, their iniquity was not yet full. When Abraham had purchased the Cave of Machpelah, he had a small spot in the land of Canaan which he could call his own, -and his choosing a burying place there, shewed that he believed God's promises concerning that land. Questions.---Did Sarah die before Abraham? [Ans. Yes.] How old was she when she died? 1. [Ans. One hundred and twenty seven years.] Where did'Abraham bury her? [Ans. In the Cave of Machpelah.] How did he come by this cave and the field where it was? [Ans. He bought it of Ephrpn the Hittite.] How came he to buy a field in the lhad of Canaan, when God had given the whole country to him? [Ans. Because -the Lord had not given it to him for, himself.J For whom had he given it him? [Ans. Fot the greit natica D 2 N 11hnt was to proceed from him.] What nation wNas that?Ln. The Israelites.] Hlow soon were they to have itI LJhs. Four hundred years afterwards.] Why did not the Lord give Abraham the land for himself? [A4ns. Because the Lord had not yet taken it from the other nations.] On what accouont was it to be taken awa;y fr-om thcni at la~st? [. fls. For their wickedness.] What did Abraham's choosing a burying place 'in a country where he was a stranger and a sojourner shewA-? fAns. His faith in 'God's promises.] In what light did the children of Heth regard Abraham )5. [Ans. As a m3igrhty prince.] Did not they treat him -with great re.M)cct?,[Ans. Yes.] Did noC Abrahamn return their courtesy?. [Ans. Yes-.] NWhen Abrahamn had paid the money, who did the field and the -cave belong to? [Ans. To him,] Was not this a very trifling possession for a mighty prince? [A4ns. Yes.] What gave him a right to this title~ [ Ans. He had a great number of alified servants.] How many armed servants did he take with him when he went against the kinigs to rescue Lot? r,4,s, Three hundred and eighteen.] See Lesson xiii. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Ins~truction.- -Abraham's care to provide a burying place shews that he looked for the resurrection of the body, and his fixing -upon a spot in the land of Canaan, for this purpose, shews that he firmly believed his poster 'ity wouild, in God's,Own time., possess the country, when the sigrht of that Cave would serve to rem*ind them of the truth of God's promises xnade to him and fulfilled to them. qruestions.---If Abraham had thought that Sarah's body or his own would never be raised from the dead, would he have been so particular about a buryiug place? [417s. No.] What did he shew by choosing a spot in the land of Canaan for this purpose? [tins.'His faith in God's promise.] What promise?, [tins..Tha~t God would give that country to his seed.] LAESSON XXI. Read -verse I' to 15. &xph~zation...--We find from the first verse that though Abraham had not the actual possession of the land of Canaan, h6 enjoyed great prosperity in it. Abraham was desirous of seeing Isaac tuarried to one of his.own *kindred, because the people -of the land Nvere idolaters. The ceremony of. putting Uzi.,ha~d'twder the thigh, auswered to that which is now III 53 uise among Christians, of laying the hand upon the Gospe1r,, wheri a solemnn oath is taken. Abraham would not suffer Isaac to leave the land of Canaan to seek a wfbecause he was fearful that he would forget the promise of God, and settle himself in Mesopotamia instead of Canaan. Abraham's servant knew that God had vouchsafed to direct his master's affirs in a miraculous manner, and this encouraged him to implore the Almighty to guide himn also in his difficult. undertaking. In those days people fr-equently changed their places of abode; they were on this account obliged to have public wvells, and water their flocks at, stated times, when all the young women used to attend, becauge it was. a part of their business to water the flocks. Questions.- - -Did the Lord bless Abraham in all things, as hie had promised? [Ans. Yes.] What was' Abraham desirous of before hie died? 2. Ildns. To get a wife for his son Isaac.] Why would not Abraham let Isaac choose a wife for himiself among the people of Canaan? [A4n;. Because they were idolaters.] Why would not he let him go amongst his own kindred? [A4ns. For fear he should not live in Canaan after his death.] W~hat did Abraham's servant take with him? 10-. [I Ans. Ten camels.] What are camels? [Ans. Beasts of burden.] What did Abraham's servant do when he arrived at Mesopotamia? 12. [Ans. He prayed God to prosper his journey.] Read verse 15 to, the end. Explana I on. --Rebekah's readiness to draw, water for Abraham',s camels, shewed great tenderness of disposition. It was very hard work for a young woman to draw wvater for ten camiels, considering that these creatures usually take largre draughts of water, sufficient to satisfy their thirst for sev'eral days, which enable them to travel through sandy desarts where no water is to be had. By the behaviour of Abraham's; servant)we may jud ' er that he perceived the hand of Providence iii this matter, and was grateful. The ready consent of Rebekah's, friends to part with her, and the words they spake at parting, shiew that they also were of the same opinion. Abraham's.servant, though he must have been fatigued with so-long a journey, wvouild take 110 refreshment himself till hie had eased the poor beasts of their burdens, and delivered his nmaster's messa~ge. He related the matter from the beginning, in order to shew that tjie Lord favoured his undertaking. The ha~te of j14 this good steward to return with Rebekah, plainly shews, that he had a great affection for his ancient master. The blessing pronounced by Rebekah's relations.at her departure, proves, that they knew of the promises which God had graciously made to Abraham, and that they had faith in them. The marriage of Isaac is supposed to have taken place soon after the death of Sarah, when he was about forty years old. Questions..--Was the servant's prayer exactly fulfilled? [Ans. Yes.] What was the damsel's rame who came to the wellt and filled her pitcher; and asked him to drink? 15. [Ans. Rebekah.] Whose daughter was she? [Ans. Bethuel's.] Who was Bethuel? [Ans. The son of Nahor.] Whose brother was Nahor? [Ans; Abraham's.] What did Rebekah offer to do after she had drawn water for Abraham's steward? 19. [Ans. To draw water for his camels.] Did not this shew that, the was very tender-hearted? [Ans. Yes.] Was- not Abraham's steward surprised to find things fall out exactly according to his prayer? [Ans. Yes.] What did he give to Rebekah in return for her kindness? 22. [Ans. A golden eatring and.two. golen bracelets.] What did he do when Rebekah told him who she was? 26. [Ans. He bowed his head and worshipped the Lord.] Who did he say led him to the house of his master's relations? [Ans. The God of Abraham.] Who came out to meet him when Rebekah returned to the house? 28. [Ans. Laban her brother.] What did Abraham's servant say when Laban, set meat before him, and those that were with him? 32. [Ans. I will not eat until I have told: my errand.] Did'Rebekah's father and mother consent to her going with Abraham's servant? [Ans. Yes.] What did the servant do then? 52. [iAns. He worshipped the Lord.] How long did he stay with her relations? [Ans. All night.] What. did he say then? 55. [Ans. Send me away unto my master.] Did Rebekah's relations consent at last to her going away so soon. [Ans. Yes.] Did she like to go? [Ans. Yes.] What did Rebekah's friends do when they took leave of her? 60. [Ans. They blessed her.] Did not the words of the blessing shew that they knew of God's promise respecting Isaac? [Ans. Yes.] How did Rebekah and her damsels travel? 61. [4ns. They rode upon camels.} Did Isaac meet them? [Ans. Yes,] Did he marry Rebekah? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Istruction.---By Abraham's desire to get a wife of his owft kindred for his son, he shewed his faith in God's promises, srmd gave an example to parents to be more attentr"ve to re'li-i gion in marrying their children, than to fotn. Isamih bave found a richer Nvife in Canaan, but not one who wag lik~ely to bring up her ch ildren to fear and love the true and only God. Abraham's servantlis supposed to have been Elie zer,. m-entioned Genesis, Chapter 1 5, verse 2, as the person, who would have been heir to all- Abraham's worldly possessions, if, he had died childless; yet Eliezer was very zealou~s to get a` wife for Isaac, and desirous to. do every thing in his power to? promote the happiness of his good old master. He also shewed, himself to be a very religious man, as well as a faithful servant, by praying the Lord to- prosper his master's affairs which were committed to his hands, by ascribing the success of themn to tho' Providence of God, and by being thankful to God for rendei ing his journey prosperous.. Servants of everydegree may lezirnv a good lesson from this account of Abraham''s. steward. Questions. ---What did Abraham shew by his earnest desireto get a wife for Isaac amongst his own relations? [Ans. Hit. faith ini God's promises. ) Did Abraham look out for a woman. with a great fortune4 for I.saac? [Ans. No.] Where might~ hie have found such an one? [Adns. In Canaan.] Could lie find a good religious woman who behiaved in the true God in those idolatrous nations? [Axns. No.] If he had paid regard. to riches. instead of religion, could he have expected theblessing of God to be continued to his family.? [d'ns. No.I Can Christians expect the blessing of. God to attend them if they pay no. regaad to religion in making marriages? [.~ns.No.] Did not Abraham's steward prove himself to-be -avery faithful servant? [Ans. Yes.] Did he look to his own interest only, without caring about hisi master's? [AIns. No.], Whose happiness had.,he at heart? rI'ns. His master's.] Didt he go about his affairs- as if there was 'no. God to overlook his. actions? [A4ns. No.] What did-he do in order to obtain the blessing of God when he was doing. his duty? [Ans. Pray to. God.] What did he do -when God had granted his prayer? [,Ins. He returned thanks. to God..] Cannot all servants from, the highest to the lowest follow his example, by being 'faithful to their masters,'and pious towards God.? [.4m. Yes..) LESSON XXII. Read verse I to I1. ZRplknation. --Abraham sent his six'sons away to distant places,,., thatthe nations proceeding from them might not after-s wards be in the way of the people who were to come from Isaac; and he gave Isaac all that he had in the land of Canaan, because he was likely to fix there. The promise which the Lord made to Abraham, for himself, when he made a solemn Covenant with him, was fulfilled. See Genesis, chapter xv. verse 15. Quiestions.---What was the promise which the Lord made to Abraham for himself, when he made a solemn covenant with him in behalf of the nation that was to proceed from him? [Ans. That he should go to his fathers in peace, and be buried in a good old age.] How old was Abraham when he died? [Ans. One huindred and seventy-five.] Where was he buried? [Ans. In the Cave of Machpelah.] What country was that in? [Ans. Canaan.]V Who buried him? [Ans. His sons Isaac and Ishmael.] Read verse 11 to 19. Explanation.--We find that after the death of Abraham, the blessing of the Iord was continued to Isaac; and that God's promises respecting Ishmael were exactly fulfilled. Questions.---Who did God bless as he had blessed Abraham after Abraham's death? [Ans. Isaac.] Was not Ishmael blessed also? [Ans. Yes.] What was the whole of the portion of ishmael and his mother Hagar when they left the family of Abraham? [Ants. Some bread and a bottle of water.] What.did God promise fagar when her son was ready to die for want in the wilderness of Beersheba? [Ans. That he would make of him a great nation.] What did God promise concerning his sons? [Ans. That he should have twelve sons who stould all be princes.] Hotw many sons of Ishmael are menti'ned in this Lesson? 13. [Ans. Twelve.] What are they called? [Ans. Princes.] At what age did Ishmael die? [Ans. At A hundred and thirty seven.] Read verse 19 to the end. SThe two nations which the Lord foretold would proceed from Rebekah, were the Israelites and the Edomites; of the first Jacob was the head; of the other Esau was the head. The Israelites were to be the Lord's own people, to which the Edomites were in process of time to. be in subjection. We Sfind that the father and mother of these twin-brothers had each of them a favourite. 57 The birthright which Jacob desired was the Lord's blessing given first to Abraham, and afterwards to Isaac. It appears that Jacob had considered the value of this blessing, and had. faith in God's promises Esau, on the contrary, set no value upon it, but gave his mind up to the sports of the field. Questions.---What promise did the Lord make to Rebekah? 21. [Ans. That two nations should proceed from her, and that the elder should serve the younger.] What two nations were meant? [Ans. The Israelites and the Edomites. [What name did Rebekah give to the eldest of her two sons? [Ans. Esau.] What name did she give to the other son? [Ans. Jacob.] What was Esau as he grew up? 27. [Ans. A man of the field.] What was Jacob? [Ans. A plain man dwelling in tents.] Which of them did Isaac love best? [Ans. Esau.] Which did Rebekah love best? [Ans. Jacob.] What did Jacob persuade Esau to sell him for a mess of pottage? 29. [Ans. His birthright.] What did Esau and Jacob mean by the birthright? [Ans: A right to the Lord's blessing.] Could they sell and buy the Lord's blessing? [AIs. No.] Was not this a bad action in both the brothers? [,Ins. Yes.] What did Jacob shew by desiring the birthright? [Ans. That he believed the promises of God.] What did Esau shew by selling it? [Ans. That he despised them.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instructionl.---We find that Abraham continued faithful to the end of his life; we do not read of one instance in which he departed from the right way; he walked before the Lord and was perfect in respect to religion all his days, and he- gained for himself by his fidelity the title of the Father of the Faithfil; so ti::t not only all the Israelitish nation looked upon him as their Father, but all good Christians are taught by our Saviour to regard themselves as children of Abraham and heirs to the promises made to him respecting the everlasting covenant, as is explained in the New Testament. Esau's selling his birthright for a mess of pottage is reckoned by St. Paul a profane or irreligious action, and so it certainly was; but it is too common a thing to see those who call themselves Christians parting with the. blessing of the Lord for the trifles of this life. Jacob was right in desiring the blessing, but he was very blameable in the way he took to obtain it; there-. fore, while we imtitate him in the one, we should be careful not to follow his example of taking advantage of his brother. Questions.--What is Abraham called on account of his being, D5 faithful to God to the end of his life? [Ans. Thr Father of the Faithful.] What people in particular reckoned themselves his children? [Ans. The Israelites.] Who does our Saviour reckon children of Abraham? [Ans. All good Christians.] In what do good Christians resemble Abraham? [Ans. In Faith and good Works.] What promises will they partake of, with Abraham? [Ans. Those of the everlastiing Covenant.] What did God promise by this Covenant to bless? [Ans. All nations.] What should we learn from Ishmael's being so prosperous, and from his having twelve- princes for his sons? A.,ns. To trust in God's promises.] Can those expect to be blessed on earth and to be received into heaven hereafter who despise the blessing of the Lord? [Ans. No.] In what re-- spect was Jacob right when he gave up his pottage? [Ans. In desiring the Lord's blessing.] In what respect was he wrong? [Ans. In taking advantage of his brother.] Should Christiansimiitate such actions as this? [Ans. No.] LESSON XXIII. Read to verse o0. Explanation.---As Esau was Isaac's favourite son he probably intended to entreat the Lord to bestow the blessing upon him, which had been given first to Abraham,4and then to himself. Rebekah was equally desirous that her favourite should: obtain it; but nothing that either Isaac, Rebekah, Esau, or Jacob could do, could alter the purpose of the Almighty, who. had determined, before the children were born, from whiph of the two his chosen people the Israelites should proceed; and it was certainly very sinful both iq Rebekah and Jacob to practise deceit and falsehood as they did. The blessing which Isaac pronounced was inspired of the Lord; Isaac did not speak his own words,.but he delivered a prophecy from theLord, which foretold that the people of Israel would be the great nation, which should be blessed above all other nations. Questions.---What did Isaac wish to do before he died? [Ans. To bless Esau.] What did Rebekah wish to do? [Ans.. To get the blessing for Jacob.], Was it right in her to putJacob upon-practising deceit-, and to deceive h'er husband?, [Ans. No.] Was it right in Jacob to deceive his poor, old blind-':fther when his mother desired it? [Ans. No.] To whom did Isaac think he was giving a. blessing? [Ans. Esau.] Were the words.he spoke hig own words?.[Ans. No, the words of t*a Lord.j What did they containl? [Ans A prophecy.]. ~ 59; What did they foretell? [Ahs. That the people of Israel shoulda be the great nation that should be blessed above all other nations.] Rotad verse 30 to the end. Explanation.---Isaac trembled because he found he had intended to give a blessing contrary to the will of the Lord, but he knew it must be as the Lord ordained. Esau repented with tears; but his repentance could-make no alteration in the decree of the Almighty, which had passed before he was born. A blessing was given to his posterity, though not equal to that on Jacob's. Esau was very sinful in hating his brother and re-- solving to kill him; but Jacob, for the deceit he had been. guilty of, was justly punished by being obliged to leave his native home and go amongst strangers; and Rebekah was alsojustly punished by the loss of her darling son, whom she never saw from that time. But the Lord had another purpose in sending Jacob away, namely, that he might not marry a Canaanitish woman. Questions.---How was Isaac affected when he found thati ie bad blessed Jacob instead of Esau? 32. [Lns. He trembled exceedingly.] Was not Esau greatly afflicted when he fouud that the blessing had been pronounced on Jacob? [Ans. Yes.] Was not Isaac inspired to pronounce a blessing on Esau's posterity? [Ais. Yes.] Was it equal to that on Jacob's? [Ans. No.] What did Esau resolve to do when he found Jacob had gone by subtlety, and that the best blessing was pro. nounced upon him? 41, [Ans. To kill him.] What did Roe bekah advise Jacob to do? 43. [Ans. To flee to Haran, to her brother Laban.] What excuse did she make to Isaac for his going? 40. [Ans. 'hat she was afraid he would marry one of the women of Canaan.] Was it not a sad thing for Jacob to be obliged to leave his father's house, and take a long journey on foot of 450 miles? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not a great punishment to him. who had been his mother's favourite to be obliged to go amongst strangers? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not a great punishment to Rebekah to lose the company of her daring son.? [,As. Yes;] PRACTIGAL' INSTRUCTION; Ihstruction?.---The circumstances which we are particularly to remark in.this Lesson are, that Esau could not obtain the blessing of the Lord when he sought it with repentance and tears, because he had formerly despised it; and that, by practising deceit, thoughit was from pious motives, Jacob brought 60 great distress upon himself. Esau's fruitless repentance should make us resolve to set a due value upon the blessing of the Lord, which belongs to true Christians, and to endeavour to keep it to the- end of our lives. The unhappy consequences of Jacob's deceit should make us resolve to act with uprightness and singleness of heart. Questions.---Did Jacob add to his comforts by practising deceit? [Ans. No.] What did he bring upon himself? [Ans. Great distress.] What should Esau's fruitless repentance make Us resolve to do? [Ans. To set a due value upon the blessing of the Lord, and try to keep it to the end of our lives.] What should the unhappy consequences of Jacob's deceit make us resolve? [Ans. To act with uprightness and singleness of heart.] LESSON XXIV. Read to verse 10. Explanation.--Isaac commanded Jacob to go to Padan-aram for a wife, because he knew it was the will of God that the heir of the Promises should not marry amongst the Canaanitish nations. Before Jacob left his father's house the Lord inspired Isaac to pronounce the blessing of Abraham upon him. Esau, before the first blessing was pronounced, had married a Canaanitish woman, which shewed that he had no regard for the true religion. It was of no use to marry wives of Ishmael's race; because none of the promises respecting the chosen nation belonged to Ishmael. Questions.--Why did Isaac send Jacob to Padan-aram? [Ans. SBecause his relations lived there.] Who had Esau married? [Ans. Some of the daughters of the Canaanites.] Who did he marry when he found those women displeased his fathei? [Ans. Daughters of Ishmael.] Did any of the blessing of Abraham, as it was called, belong to Ishmael? [Ans. No.] Read verse 10 to the end. Explanation.--Jacob's condition was now greatly altered, he hbad no earthly comforts left, but the Lord, who knew that his' ieart was faithful in respect to his worship, vouchsafed to comfort him by a vision, in which he gave to him the same promise he had before made to Abraham and Isaac, respecting their seed or posterity; and the Lord also added a promise for Jacob kimself; and Jacob made a solemn vow, by which he engaged hitmself to serve the Lord, and not to worship any false gods. Questions.---Was not Jacob's condition greatly altered when he left his father's house, and was obliged to lie down in the open air with only a stone for his pillow? [Ans. Yes.] How did the Lord comfort him? [Ans. By a dream.] Who did the Lord call himself at this time? 13. [Ans. The Lord God of Abraham his father, and the God of Isaac.] Did not the Lord make the same promise to Jacob as he had before made to Abraham and Isaac? [Ans. Yes.] What nation did this promise relate to? "[Ans. The great nation that was to proceed from Jacob.] What nation was that? [Ans. The Israelites.] What promise did the Lord give Jacob for himself? 15. [Ans. Behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again intothis land; for I will not leave thee till I have done that I have spoken to thee of.] Was not this a most comfortable promise? [Ans. Yes.J What did Jacob say when he awaked 16. [Ans. Surely the Lord is in this place, and I knew it not; and he was afraid, and said, This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.] What did Jacob make at that time? [Ans. A vow.] What was it? 20. [Ans. And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, if God will be with me, and keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I return to my father's house in peace, then shall the Lord be my God, and this stone which I have set up for a pillar shall be God's house; and of all that thou givest me, I will'surely give the tenth unto thee.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From Jacob's dream we learn that God is present in all places, and that he employs his angels for the security and defence of his faithful servants. This should teach us to put a firm trust and confidence in the goodness of God in all our dangers and distresses. The poorest person upon earth is as much the object of God's care as the highest, provided his faith and piety be sincere. From Jacob's prayer to God, to give him only food, and raiment, and peace, we should learn to be contented with the necessaries of life. A scanty portion' of the -things of this world, with peace and God's blessing, is better than great abundance without it. Questions.---What should this account of Jacob's dream teach us [Ans. To put a firm trust in God in all dangers and distresses.] What should we learn from Jacob's prayer? [Ans. To be contented with the necessaries of life.] Which is best' a scanty portion 'with peace, or great abundance without it [dns. A scanty portion with peace.] LESSON XXV, Read the whole Lesson. KEplanntion.---The land of the people of the East was MVesopotamia, from whence Rebekah, Jacob's mother, came. Laban acted very deceitfully in giving Leah instead of Rachel; but Jacob's conscience must have told him, that he had been a- deceiver himself; and perhaps this made him bear the illt treatment of Laban the more patiently. Questions.---What place did Jacob go to? [Ans. Haran in, the East.] Did he find his mother's relations there? [Ins. Yes.] What relation was Laban to Rebekah-? [Ans. Her brother.] What was the name of Laban's daughter who went to water the flocks? 4. [.ins. Rachel.] Why did Jacob weep when he saw Rachel? [Ans. Because he was rejoiced at find-- ing his relations.] Did Laban give him a kind welcome? 13, [Ans. Yes.] What reward did Laban agree to give Jacob for his labour.? 16. [Ans. His daughter Rachel for his wife.J What trick did Laban put upon Jacob when he had served seven years? 2 r [Ans. He made him marry Leah instead' of Rachel.] What did Jacob agree to do then? [lAns. To, serve seven years more for Rachel.] Did Laban suffer him tomarry her at last? [Ans. Yes.] Had Jacob any other wivea, besides Leai and Rachel? [Ans. Yes; Zilpah and Bilhah.] Which of his wives did Jacob love most? 29. [Ans. Rachel.] Had she any children? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION~, Instruction.--This Lesson should strengthen our faith hi the providence of God - and it should also instruct us, at the same time; not to neglect to do all we can for our own maintenance. Jacob, when Laban received him into his family, endeavoured to make himself as useful as he could; for he knew that it is unreasonable in those who are able to,Workto live a burden upon their relations; Questions.---Did not God put Jacob in tihe way of getting bread to eat and raiment to put' on? [An:C Yes D] Do not, you think his conscience must.have reproached himfor de. ceiving his a'ged father, when he himself was deceived by Laban? [Ans., Yes.] Did Jacob; when he rwas received" amongst his mother's relations, desire to live an idle life and" to be maintained at their expense [Ans. No.] What should people. do when by. the chances of life they are obliged to throw themselves upon the kindness of their relations? [Ans, Try to make themselves useful.] Should people impose upon their relations who are in distressed circumstances, and make& them work for them for nothing? [Ans. No.J LESSON XXVI. Read the whole Lesson.. Explandti6n.--It appears fi'om Laban's unwillingness to part *ith Jacob, that he served him very faithfully, and that the Lord blessed his endeavours to increase the property of his employer. By the proposal which Jacob made we may judge,. that Labah had entertained unjust suspicions of his honesty. The conditions he offered, of having only the speckled and spotted cattle, &c. were such as would shew, that it was by the blessing of the Lord only that he became rich; for God' alone could cause the cattle to be of any particulir colour. Questions.---Had Rachel a son at last? -i. [.ns.Yes.j What did she name him? [Ans. Joseph.] What did Jacob desire to do after the birth of Joseph? [Ans. To return to his cdwn country.] WasLaban willing to part with him? [Ans. No.] Why did Jacob propose to Laban to have only the speckled. and spotted cattle, and the brown sheep, for his hire? 33. [Ans. That his righteousness might answer for him in time to. come.] Did Jacob's store increase after this? [Ans. Yes.] What had Laban found by experience? 19. [Ans. That the Lord had blessed him for Jacob's sakb.] What did Jacob mean, by saying, that his righteousness should answer for him for the time to come? [Ans. That he would shew he had nothing but what he gained honestly.] How came his cattle to increase so abundantly [Ans. By.God's blessing,] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION: I istruction.--The favour which God graciously shewed to JAcob in increasing his store, should entourage us to fear and. love God, and trust to his blessing, upon our own industry,. rather than place too much dependance upon relations. Questions.---Can any person by industry increase his store if God does not see fit to let him? [Ans. No.] Can any one hitder another from thriving in the world if God sees fit to bless him? [Ans No.] What should every one- trust in? [4ns, The.blessingof God.j 64 LESSON XXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---Laban's sons were jealous because Jacob, by the blessing of God, had gained a considerable provision for his family; he could not have lived comfortably amongst them, after they were thus set against him, therefore the Lord commanded him'to return to the land of Canaan. Jacob had a just right to take his cattle with him, but the images which Rachel concealed were not his, neither would he have suffered such things to be mixed among his goods, if he had known it, for they were some kind of idols which Laban worshipped as gods; and his having them shews, that, though Laban and his family believed in the true God, they were not free from idclatry. The making a heap of stones witness, signified only that the heap was set up as a memorial of the Covenant betwixt Jacob and Laban, that when either of them saw it he might call to mind the oath they had mutually taken. Questions.---Was Jacob comfortable amongst his mother's relations after God had increased his substance? [Ans. No.] What did the Lord command him to do when Laban's sons were spiteful to lim? 2. [Ans. To return to the land of his fathers and his kindred.] What land was that? [Ans. Canaan.] What did the Lord promise Jacob? [Ans. That he would be with him.] Did Laban's sons contradict Jacob when he told them how faithfully he had served their father, and that it was through God's providence he was become rich? [Ans. No.]' Were Leah and Rachel willing to go with him? 14. [Ans. Yes.] What did Rachel take away that belonged properly to her father? 17. [Ans. His images.] What did Laban do when he returned home and found that Jacob was gone with all his family? 20. [Ans. He pursued after him.] What did God do to prevent Laban injuring Jacob? 24: [Ans. God came to him in a dream.] Did Jacob know that Rachel had taken her father's images? [Ans. No.] Could Laban contradict Jacob, when he told him that he had served him faithfilly, and that he should have had no reward for his services if God had not graciously blessed him? [Ans. No.] What was made a witness or memorial of the Covenant between Laban and Jacob? 5 f. [Ans. A pillar, and a heap of stones.] What was this pillar and heap of stones to put each of them in mind of when they saw them? [Ans. That they should not' pass over them to hurt each other.] In whose name did they swear when theymade this covenant? 53. [Ans. In the name ( 65 of the God of Abraham and Nahor.] Who was the God of Abraham and Nahor? [Ans. The Lord God Almighty.] Did Jacob and Laban part in friendship? [,ns. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From Jacob's conduct towards Laban, those who meet with-unkindness from relations should learn to bear it with patience, till it shall please God to bless them with an opportunity of changing their situation for the better; resolving in the mean while to have a regard to their conduct, so as to make God their friend. Then may they confidently hope that God will change the hearts of their enemies. In one particular Laban set a good example, namely, by laying aside his resentment when he found it was displeasing to God. Questions.---Did not Jacob she\w himself to be of a very patient temper? [Ans. Yes.] Would he not have increased his sufferings if he had given way to ill-humour and fretfulness? [Ans. Yes.] Who should follow his example? [Ans. Those who meet with unkindnesss from their relations. What should such persons resolve to do while they are waiting for a good opportunity of changing their situation [,'ns. To act so as to make God their friend.] What may they then hope God will do for them?- [Ans. Change the hearts of their enemies.] Did Laban set a good example in any particular [Ans. Yes; in laying aside his resentment.] LESSON XXVIII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---We learn from this Lesson, that Angels were employed to guard Jacob; but as Jacob's conscience reproached him for having treated his brother unkindly, he did not dare to rely even on the defence of angels till he had made his peace with Esau. To shew that he made no pretensions to rule over his brother, Jacob called Esau his lord, and styled himself his servant. The present which Jacob sent to Esau testified his earnest desire to be-reconciled to his brother. Questions.---Who met Jacob, as he went on his way? 1. [Anhs. The Angels of God.] What did Jacob say when he saW them? [Ans. This is God's host.] Who was Jacob afraid to meet notwithstanding? [Ans. His brother Esau.] What did he think Esau would do? [Ans. Cut off him and his family.] What did Jacob do in this time of distress? [Ans. Pray to God to deliver him.] What did he do to appease Esau [4ns.E: 66' hent him a present.} Did not the present shew that Jacob was very rich in cattl, in flocks, and in herds? [Ans. Yes.] [PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION'. Instruction.---In Jacob's distress at the thoughts of meeting" Esau, we see the power of conscience. Even a divine promise and a guard of angels did not give him courage when he called to mind the offences he had committed against his brother twenty years before. This should make us very careful to keep from bad actions but such is the weakness of our nature, that the best people in the world often do things for which their consciences reproach them: on these occasions they should follow the example of Jacob, by endeavouring to do all in their power to make amends to those they have offended or injured. and pray to God to deliver them from the evils they are fearful, of. Though Jacob had laboured veryhard.in the service of Laban, helooked.upon allhispossessions as proceeding from the bounty of the Almiighty; and acknowledged that he was not worthy of the least of all the mercies he had received. His heart overflowed with gratitude when he called to mind the destitute condition in which he left his father's house, and compared it with the abundance with which he was returning to it: in this he set an example to all who are prosperous in the world. Questions.---What should the account of Jacob's distress at the thoughts of meeting his brother make us resolve to do? [Ans. To keep from bad actions.] What should we do whenever conscience reproaches us with having done a bad action? [Ans. Endeavoufr to make amends for it.] What else shoul&d we do? [Ans. Pray God to deliver us from the evil we are fearful of.] Had not Jacob laboured very hard in the service of Laban? [Ans. Yes.]. Did he say, as many people in theworld do, I have nothing but what my services deserve [Ans. No.] What did he acknowledge in his thanksgiving to God Almighty? 9. [Ans. That he was not worthy of the least of all the mercies and the truth which God had shewed him.] What was he possessed -of when he past over Jordan in his Way to Mesopotamia? 9. [Ans. Nothing but his-staff] What was he possessed of when he passed it again in his return to Canan? [Ans. Abundance of flocks and herds.] To whom did be set a good example by being thankful to God for his merges? [Ans. To all who.are-prosperous in the world.] 67 LESSON XXIX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---VWhen Esau set out to meet Jacob he was sertainlyenraged against him, and determined to take revenge, for Jacob's former treatment of him; his affectionate behaviour afterwards was owing to God's having changed his heart. Jacob's conscience was quieted when his brother had accepted his present, for he knew he had done all in his power to make him amends for his former fault. By his care for the women and children, and the flocks and herds, Jacob shewed the tenderness of his disposition. He would not accept of a guard' from his brother, because he knew that while he did right, theLord would be with him wherever he went. The house which. Jacob built was a tent. He bought a piece of land at Shalem, and built an altar, that he and his family might worship God in the right way, according to the practice of Abraham and; Isaac. The words El-elohe-Israel, signify, the God the Go& of Israel. Questions.---How came Esau to behave so kindly to Jacob when he met him? [Ans. God had changed his heart.] Was Jacob's conscience quieted when Esau accepted his present? [Ans. Yes.] How came it to be so? [Ans. Because he had. done all he could to make amends to his brother.] Why. did; not Jacob. accept of Esau's offer to send some of his folk to guard him! [Ans. Because he knew that the Lord would be with him while he did right.] Where did Esau go to? 16. [Ans. To Seir.] Where did Jacob go.after Esau's departure? [Ans. To Succoth.] What did he do there? [4ns. He built him an house, and made booths for his cattle.] Where did he. go to afterwards? 18. [Ars. To Shalem.] What did he do there? [Ans. He bought a piece of land, and builded an altar.] What did he build an altar for? [Ans. That he and hii family might worship God ag Abraham and Isaac worshipped him.] What is the meaning of the words, El-eloheIsrael? [Ans. The God the God of Israel.] 1hRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--The behaviour of Jacob to Esat, affordt arti Reample to all who have given ill-treatment; and that ot Esau; gives an example to all who have received ill-treatment. Jacqb. shewed a proper sense of his'faut, and a desire to makef rmends for his unkind behaviour; Esau laid aside his rssnt 68 ment, and not only freely forgave his brother, but treated him with the utmost kindness. From this Lesson those who are sincerely sorry for their offences may derive hopes that God will turn the hearts of those whom their ill conduct has made, their enemies. Questions.---Who should take example from Jacob's behaviour to Esau when hle went out to meet him? [Ans. All who have given ill treatment.] Who should take example from Esau when he received his repentant brother with open arms? [.lns. All who have received ill treatment.] Did not God by his grace change the heart of Esau, after Jacob had prayed to be saved from the anger of his brother? [Ans. Yes.] Who may hope that God will turn the hearts of those they have provoked to anger? [Ans. Those who are truly sorry for their offences.] LESSON XXX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---Bethel was the place where Jacob made a vow, and set up a pillar, after the Lord appeared to him in a dream when he left his father's house, The words Beth-el, signify the house of God. As Jacob was going to establish the worship of the Lord God in his family, it was highly proper that he should destroy every thing that bore any relation to idol worship. The terror of God, verse 5, is that fear Which God sends into the hearts of the wicked, to keep them from huiting his faithful servants. The divine promise made to Jacob, in the I th and 12th verses, were the same as that which the Lord before made to Abraham and Isaac. Jacob's twelve sons, who are here named, were afterwards the heads of the twelve tribes of Israel. We find that Jacob returned to his father's house in peace; and that Isaac had the comfort of embracing once more a long lost son. By Esau's joining with Jacob in the last mournful offices to their deceased father, we may conclude, that they continued to live in peace and harmony together. Rebekah's death is not mentioned, but most probably it happened while Jacob was at Padanaranm. Questions. -Did Jacob continue to dwell in Shechem? [Ans. No; he went to Beth-el.] Had he ever been there before? LAns. Yes.] What happened to him there? [Ans. He had a wonlerful dream.] What did Jacob do in the morning after 69 ihe'ad that dream? [Ans. He set up a pillar, and vowed a vow.] Had God done all that he promised for Jacob? [Ans. Yes.] Had not God done a vast deal more for him than'he asked? [Ans. Yes.] What was wanting of all that he had prayed for when he made his vow, when he arrived again at the place where he had made it? [Ans. Nothing, but to return to his father's house in peace.] Were not the people who inhabited the land of Shechem idolaters? [Ans. Yes.] What would they have done if God had not put his terror upon them? 5. [Ans. They would have pursued Jacob.] What is meant by the terror of the Lord? [Ans. That fear which God sends into the hearts of the wicked.] What does God send it for? [Ans. To keep them from hurting his faithful servants.] Did the Lord appear to Jacob at Bethel? 6. [Ans. Yes.] What new name did the Lord give him? [Ans. Israel]J What promise did the Lord graciously make to him at this time? [Ans. The same which the Lord before made to Abraham and Isaac.] Did not the Lord promise to make of Israel a great people? [Ans. Yes.] Did not the Lord promise to give the children of Israel the land of Canaan? [Ans. Yes.] How many sons had Israel? [Ans. Twelve.] What were their names? [Ans. Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Dan, Napthtali, Gad, Asher, Issachar, Zebulun, Joseph, Benjamin.] What did these become afterwards? [dAns. Heads of the tribes of Israel.] Did Jacob return to his father's house in peace? [Ans. Yes.] Was Isaac living when he returned? [Ains. Yes.] Did he live long afterwards? [Ans. No.] How old was he when he died? [Ans. An hundred and fourscore years.] Who buried him? [Ans. His'sons Esau and Jacob.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---By Jacob's care to destroy every thing relating to idol worship, and to establish the worship of the true God in his family, those who make promises and good resolutions in the time of distress, are instructed to fulfil them in the day of prosperity. From the various changes in the circumstances of Jacob, from the time he left his father's house to his return to it in peace, we are led to reflect on the ways of Providence, by which the affairs of men are so ordered as to bring about the purposes of the Almighty. Questions.---What should those do who make promises and good resolutions in the time of distress? [Ans. Fulfil them in the day of prosperity.] Did not Jacob experience a variety of changes from the time he left his father's house? [Ans. Yes.] 70 THow did God comfort him under his affliction? [Ans. By a dream, and most gracious promises.] Did not God bring him in safety to the house of his mother's brother? [Ans. Yes.] Did nuot God enable him to gain great riches, and to provide for a numerous family notwithstanding his father-in-law and brethren endeavoured to prevent his doing so? [Ans. Yes.] Did not God turn away his brother's anger from him? [Ans. Yes.] Did not God bring him back after twenty years absence in safety to his father's house? [Ans. Yes.] What should we learn from all this? [Ans. To reflect onthev.woaiderful ways of Providence.] LESSON XXXI.;rxplanation.---The history of Joseph, which you are now going to read, shews a great deal of the ways of Providence. We may here plainly see, that God, in his government of the world, leaves men free to follow their own will, so that they have power to do good and bad actions. but in respect to the good or harm their actions shall do to others, God overrules them, so that, whatever may be intended, no more harm can happen to any one than the Lord sees fit to permit for their chastisement, trial, or punishment. Read the uhole Lesson. Explanation.--In the early ages of the world, before the Scriptures were,written, the Lord fiequently made known things which he designed to bring to pass, by means of dreanis. They were very different from common dreams, which have no signification at all. Joseph's two dreams signified, that he 9hould afterwards be a great governor, and that his brethren should bow down' to him. Joseph's readiness to go to his brethren, and the paine he took to find them, shewed, that he had no hatred in his heart towards them. Reuben rent his clothes in token of sorrow when he found that Joseph was not in the pit. Jacob put on sackcloth when he mourned for his son, because it was usual for great mobrners to do so. Questions.---Which of his twelve sons did Jacob love most? [Ans. Joseph.] Why did he love him best? 3. [Ans. Because She was the son of his old age.] How did he shew his fondness for him? [Ans. By giving him a coat-of many colours.] Did his brethren love him? [A.ns. No; they hated him.] Were they aotvery wicked to hate tbeir brother only becaw their father loved him? [Ans. Yee.] What made'them hate.him still more? 6. [Ans. Because he dreamed dreams, and t6ld them to his brethren.] What did these dreams signify? [Ans. That Joseph would be a great governor, and that his brethren would bow down to him.] Did Joseph hate his brethren? [Ans. No.] What did envy and hatred lead them to resolve upon doing? 18. [Ans. To kill Joseph, and cast him into a pit, andsay some evil beast devoured him.] Did they all agree in this design? 21. [Ans. No; Reuben said, Shed no blood, only cast him into the pit.] What did Reuben intend to do? [Ans. To deliver Joseph, and conduct him to his father.] What did.the rest of Joseph's brethren do, when they had stripped him of his coat of many colours, and cast him into a pit? [Ans. They sat down to eat bread.] Were they not very hard-hearted? [Ans. Yes.] Did they leave Joseph in the pit? 25. [Ans. No; they sold him to the Ishmaelites.] What did Reuben do when he returned to the pit and found that Joseph was not there? 29. [Ins. He rent his clothes.] What did the other brethren do? 31. [Ans. They dipped the coat of many colours in blood, and carried it to their father.] How did Jacob behave when he saw it? 33. [Ans. He put on sackcloth and mourned.] What did the poor afflicted parent say, when his sos and daughters strove to comfort him? 35. [Ans. He said, I will go down to my grave sorrowing.] Were not his sons very undutiful and hard-hearted to deceive him in this cruel manner? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Midianites do with Joseph? 36. [Ans. They carried him into Egypt, and sold him.to Potiphar.] Who was Potiphar? [Ans. Captain of the guard to Pharaoh -king of Egypt.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Joseph's brethren having their hearts full of 'hatred and envy,,designed to kill him: but, by the Providence of God, the Ishmaelitish merchants arrived, at that critical juncture, to save his life, and to carry him into their country, where the Ishmaelites, having a.view to their own interest only, intended to sell Joseph for a slave; God's providenee ordered it so, that he-shound be sold to a kind and generous master. These events served to chastise Jacob for making a favourite of one of his children, and to prepare Joseph for his future advancement. We may be certain, that nothing hap-.pens by chance, every thing is under the government of an all-wise and over-ruling Providence, which orders all things * in heaven and earth..Quesions,---Does any thing happen by chance? [Ans. No.] By what are all things ordered both in heaven and earth? [Ans. By an all-wise and over-ruling Providence.] LESSON XXXII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---The misfortune which happened to Joseph through the false accusation of his mistress, was permitt,.6 by the Almighty as a trial of his virtue. The dreams of the chief butler and baker were of the same nature with those which Joseph had had. What afterwards happened to the chief-butler and baker shewed, that both the dreams and interpretation came from God. Questions.---Did Joseph suffer great hardships in a state of slavery? [Ans. No.] What is said of him? 1. [Ans. That the Lord was with him, and that he was a prosperous man.] How came he to be so? 3. [Ans. Whatever he did the Lord made it to prosper.] What was upon all that Potiphar had in the house and in the field while Joseph had the charge of it? 5. [Ans. The blessing of the Lord.] Did Joseph's prosperity continue? [Ans. No.] What misfortune happened to him? 20. [An?. He was cast into prison.J Did the Lord forsake him? (Ans. No; the Lord was with him, and shewed him mercy.] How did the Lord shew him mercy? 22. [Ans. The Lord gave him favour in the sight of the keeper of the prison.] How did the keeper shew him favour? [Ans. By committing all the other prisoners to his care.] Did the Lord continue to prosper what Joseph did? [Ans. Yes.] What did Joseph say when the chief butler and baker expressed a desire to have an interpretation of their dreams? 8. [Ans. Do not interpretations belong to God?] What did Joseph do as soon as they had t6ld the dreams to him?] [Ans. He interpreted them.] By what means was he enabled to do so? [Ans. God put the interpretation into his mind.] What request did Joseph make to the chief butler? 1i4. Ans-. That he would think of him, and mention him to Pharaoh.] Did things happen according to Joseph's interpretation? [Ans. Yes.] Did the chief butler remember Joseph according to his promise? 21. [Ans. No; lie forgot him.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From the distress which fell upon Joseph, in consequence of his mistress's false accusation, we may undere. stand, that God sometimes ordains that good people shall suffer by the wickedness of others, as a trial of their patience and resignation. And from the unexpected' kind treatment which Joseph met with from the keeper of the prison, we learn, that God by his providence lessens the sufferings of good people, and defeats the malice of their enemies, by turning misfortunes into blessings. This should teach us never to despair, but to submit with patience to the will of God, not doubting but that Providence will order all things for the best if we strive to do our duty. Questions.-Was there not a sad change in the circumstances of Joseph, when he was removed from such an honourable situation in Pharaoh's house, and cast into prison as a vile ungrateful wretch? '[Ans. Yes.] Did the Lord forsake him in this time of his distress? [Ans. No.] Did the keeper of the prison look upon him as a bad man? [Ans. No.] How came he to shew kindness to Joseph? [Ans. God put it into his heart to do so.] Was it not an honourable employment to have the care of all the other prisoners? [Ans. Yes.] Was not Joseph's situation much better than he could have expected? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not a great mark of the favour of God towards him, that he was inspired to interpret the dreams of the butler and baker? [Ans. Yes.] What should we learn from all this? [Ans. Never to despair.] What should we do when evil befals us? [Ans. Submit with patience to the will of God.] What should we always think in time of trouble? [Ans. That God will order all things for the best if we strive to do our duty.] LESSON XXXIII. Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.---The magicians were the most learned men ia the kingdom, but their knowledge could not enable them to interpret Pharaoh's dreams, which were of the same kindras those before dreamed by his butler and baker; they were sent from God. We find that it pleased God to give Pharaoh an answer of peace by the mouth of Joseph. Pharaoh's appointmett of Joseph to the high office of ruler over all the land of Egypt, and the honours he heaped upon him, shewed his faith in what the Lord had been graciously pleased to reveal by A. I 74.Joseph. The name which Pharaoh gave to Joseph signified a prime or principal minister. Questions.---Who did Pharaoh send to in order to have his dreams interpreted? [Ans. The magicians.] Who were they? [Ans. Some of the most learned men in the kingdom.] Why could not they interpret Pharaoh's dreams? [Ans. Because interpretations belong to God.] What did Joseph say to Pharaoh when he told him, he had heard say of him, that he could underst4nd a dream to interpret it? 15. [Ans. It is not in me, God shall give Pharaoh an answer of peace.] Did not God give Pharaoh an answer of peace by the mouth of Joseph? [Ans. Yes.] Did not Joseph, being inspired of God, give Pharaoh very excellent advice? [Ans. Yes.] Did Pharaoh know of any man among the Egyptians capable of undertaking to do what Joseph advised? [Ans. No.] What did Pharaoh say to his servants? 37. [Ans. Where shall we find such a man as this, in whom the Spirit of God is?] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From the account here given of Pharaoh's dreams, and the interpretation of them, we learn, that God orders fruitful or unfruitful seasons, according to his own good pleasure. From the magicians of Egypt not being able to interpret dreams, we should be warned not to go to astrologers or cunning men and women who pretend to tell fortunes or interpret dreams. God alone has foreknowledge of what will happen in times to come; and God sent the dreams to Pharaoh for a very important purpose, and inspired him with a desire to know the meaning of them, that he might send for Joseph. But fortune-tellers are a set of impostors, who take advantage of the weakness of their fellow-creatures to cheat them of their money. Had not Joseph been sold into Egypt, and had he not been cast into prison, he would never have been known to PhIraoh, consequently, he never would have been governor of Egypt. It is impossible for any one to foresee what misfortunes may lead to; therefore those who suffer unjustly should place their firm trust in Providence, not doubting but that God, in his own good time, will deliver and recompense them; if not in this world, at least in a better. Questions.---Do fruitful and unfruitful seasons happen by chance? [Ans. No; they are ordered of God.] What should we do in a time of scarcity? [Ans. Pray to God.] What 75 should we do in time of plenty? [Ans. Thank God.] Who alone knows what will happen in future? [Ans. God.] To whom do all interpretations belong? [Ans. To God.] Should people then set themselves up as interpreters of dreams? [Ans. No.] Should they place any faith in dream books? [Ans. No.] Did not all Joseph's misfiortunes serve as steps to honour and preferment? [ns. Yes.] What should those who suffer innocently do? [4Ans. Place a firm trust on Providence.] LESSON XXXIV. Read the whole Lesson, Erplanation.---Jacob seenis to have had the same partiality for Benjamin, as he formerly entertained for Joseph. Benjamin, as well as Joseph, was the son of Jacob*s beloved wife Rachel, and lived at home with him; Jacob's other sons were separated from him, having families of their own. -Joseph spoke roughly to his brethren in order to try them, that he might know whether they were reformed or not. From Joseph's detaining Simeon in prison we may judge, that Simeon had shewn the most cruelty towards him, and that he was suspicious of his having acted the same part by Benjamin. Joseph's return of the purchase money served two purposes; to try the honesty of his brethren, and to relieve the wants of his relations by his bounty. Q;,'c.tions.---Where was Jacob at the time the famine began? [Ans. In the land of Canaan.] What did he do when he felt the scarcity? [A-ns. He sent his sons to buy corn in Egypt.] Did he send his eleven sons? 3. [Ans. No; he kept Benjamin at home.] What did Joseph's brethren do when they came before him? 5. [ ins. They bowed themselves with their faces to the ground.] Did he know them? 8. [Ans. Yes.) Did they know him? [Ans. No.] What did Joseph remember when he saw his brethren bowing down before him? [Ans. His dreams.] Why did he speak roughly to them, and call them spies? [Ans. To try them. I What did he require them to do? 16. [zAns. To go and fetch their brother Benjamin.] What did distress make Joseph'sbrethren remember? 21. [Ans. Their cruelty to Joseph.] Do not you think it must have been a very great comfort to Reuben to reflect, that he had had no hand in such wickedness? [Ans. Yes.] How was Joseph affectedwith the discourse of his brethren? 23. [Ans. He turned himtelf about from them and wept.] Did not this shew his tenrrK 2 76 iess of disposition? [Ans. Yes.] Was not Jacob greatly affected when his sons told him all the circumstances of their journey, and that Joseph required them to take Benjamin to Egypt? [Ans. Yes.] Did he consent to Benjamin's going? [Ans. No.] What did he say they would do, if they took Benjamin from him? [4Ans. Bring down his grey hairs with sorrow to the grave. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---This Lesson affords a powerful warning to all persons not to commit wicked actions, as they may be certain that they will leave a sting in their conscience, which will make them unhappy; and most likely bring suspicions upon them in cases wherein they are quite fiee from blame. The conscience of a sinner may be insensible for a while; but sooner or later it will awake, especially in time of distress, when it will torment him with horror and remors-e. Questions.---What do wicked actions leave behind them? [Ans. A sting in the conscience.] What will this do? [Ans. Make them unhappy.] What other consequences do bad actions bring upon those who commit them? [.Ans. Cause them to be suspected when they are not guilty.] Is it possible for any person entirely to destroy his conscience? [A4ns. No.] When is it most likely to reproach them? [Ans. In times of distress.] LESSON XXXV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---When Israel said, that his son should not go down, and that all these things were against him, he had not properlyconsidered the necessitytherewas for sending Benj amin. The present which he sent to Joseph, as the governor of Egypt, consisted of the choicest produce of the land of Canaan. Though Joseph was raised to such a height of grandeur, he honoured his ancient parent; and though his brethren had acted so wickedly towards him, he still loved them tendenly. It was very natural for him to love Benjamin the most, because he was his own mother's son. Questions.---Who was Israel? [Ans. Jacob.] Did Israel at last consent to send Benjamin with his brethren? [Ans. Yes.] To whose protection did he humbly commit him? [Ans. To the protection of God Almighty.] Had Joseph's grandeur set 77 him above his relations? [Ans. No.] What did his brothers think of his inviting them to dine with him? 17. [Ans. That he wanted to make bondmen of them.] How did they offer their father's present to him? 26. [Ans. They bowed themselves with their faces to the earth.] Did Joseph make himself known to his brethren? 30. [Ans. No; he sought where to weep, and he went into his chamber and wept there.] How did he shew his preference to Benjamin? 33. [Ans. He sent him a larger mess from his table.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Though God did not expressly command Jacob to send Benjamin, he looked upon himself as called upon to do so, because he perceived it to be his duty. Whoever, in like manner, resolves to do his duty, may safely trust to the goodness of the Almighty. Joseph set an example very proper for al persons to imitate who have been injured, or ill-treated by their relations. Questions.---Did Jacob like to let Benjamin go with his brothers? [A.ns. No.] Why did he consent? [Ans. Because he thought it was his duty.] What should we resolve to do on all occasions? [Ans. Our duty.] What may we safely rely on, if we do so? [Ans. The goodness of the Almighty.] Had not Joseph the power of taking full revenge upon his brethren. for the injuries they had done him? [ins. Yes.] Would not many people, in his situation, have shewn great resentment towards them? [,Ans. Yes.] Would he have done his duty if he had taken revenge upon them? [Ans. No.] Who should imitate the kindness of his behaviour? [Ans. All who have been injured, or ill-treated by their relations.] Is it right to return evil for evil? [Ans. No.] LESSON XXXVI. Read the whole Lesson. Ex.lc'nC:ion.-.--Joseph had formed a plan for the benefit of his relations,; and as he could not, by inquiries, learn the real character of his brethren, he resolved to make full trial of them himself. It was with this view that he ordered the steward to put his silver cup into Benjamin's sack. Judah's speech is one of the most moving speeches that ever was made, and shewed that he had, at that time, great tenderness in his disposition. Questi",s. ---For what purpose did Joseph order his steward. to put his silver cup into Benjamin's sack? [Ans. To try his 78 brethren.] How did they behave when, the steward charged them with having taken it? [Aiss. They were greatly distressed.] What did they do when the cup was found in Benjamin's sack? 13. [Ans. They rent their clothes, and returned to the city.] How did Joseph's brethren behave when they were brought again into his presence? 14. [Ans. They fell before him on the ground.] Did any of them speak to Joseph? [Ans. Yes. Judah.] Was not his speech a very moving one? [,'ns. Yes.] What did he say God hail fbouil out? [Ans. The iniquity of him and his brethren.] Did not Judah shew great regard to the comfort of his father? [Ans. Yes.] What was he afraid of? 29. [Ans. That he should bring down the grey hairs of his father with sorrow to the grave.J How came Judah to offer to remain as Joseph's bondman instead of Beb.jamin? 33. [Ans. Because he could not bear to see the evil that would conme upon his father if the lad was not with him.] Was not the behavicur of the brethren to Benjamin very different from their former treatment of Joseph? [Ans. Yes.] Do not you think it must have given great satisfaction to Joseph to see such a happy change in their tempers and dispositions? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Judah's regard for his ancient parent affords a good lesson, for it is no uncommon thing 4i the world for sons and daughters to bring down the grey hairs of their venerable parents with sorrow to the grave, by their undutiful behaviour. This is a very great.sin, and will certainly bring a heavy pujnishlient upon those who are guilty of it, while such as honour their parents will gain the blessing of God. Questions.---Is it not a very great sin to be undutiful to parents? [Ans. Yes.] What will it bring upon those who are guilty of it? [Ans. Punishmnent.] What will those dutiful children gain who succour and help their aged parents? [Ans. The blessing of God.] LESSON XXXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---From Joseph's behaviour, when he made himself known to his brethren, it plainly appears that he had done nothing before out of unkindness, but merely to try them. Having done this, lie told them of the plan he had formed fol the Pitablishment of his aged parent, and his whole family in 79 the land of Egypt. Pharaoh's liberality towards Jacob flnd his sons shews, that Joseph had given him the greatest satisfaction. Questions.--What does Joseph's behaviour shew? [Ans.That he had peifectly forgiven his brethren, and that he loved them most tenderly.] Is it not very moving to read of Joseph's making himself known to his brethren? [Ans. Yes.] Do not yon think his brethren must have been greatly overcome when he said to them, I am Joseph? [Ans. Yes ] Was it not very kind in him to desire them not to grieve or be angry with themselves that they sold him? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not very comfortable to them to find, that all the while he was speaking roughly to them, and trying them, he was forming a plan for their benefit? [Ans. Yes.] How was good old. Jacob affected when he heard that Joseph was alive, and that he was governor of all the land of Egypt? [Ans. His heart fainted, for he believed them not.] What did he say when he had heard the words of Joseph, and saw the waggons that were sent to fetch him? 27. [Ans. His heart revived, and he said, It is enough; Joseph my son is yet alive I will go and see him before I die.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--Joseph, by his behaviour to his brethren, when he made himself known to them, set an example of meekness and true brotherly love, such as our Lord Jesus Christ strongly recommended to his disciples and, in his great care to provide for his aged parent, and in his father's house, he set an example to all sons and daughters who may be blessed with success in life, not to think of themselves only, but to help their relationi; as much as they can. Joseph's advice to his brethren, See thlat ye fall not out by the way, affords a very instructive,lsson to families consisting of many children. For by holding together, they may mutually promote the welfa.re of each other; and every one, by being kind to the rest, will certainly increase!hi own happiness. By Joseph's words, It was not you who sent me hither, buc God---God sent mpe before you, to preserveyou a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance, we should learn to consider whatever befals us as ordered by Providence. Quest ions.---VWhat virtues did Joseph set an example of by his behaviour to his brethren when he made himself known to them? [Ans. Meekness and-brotherly love.] Who stipnglv recommended the practice of these virtues? [ins. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] What shouuld those who are successful in life learn from Joseph's care to provide for his father and family? [Ans. To help their relations as much as they can.] What may the sons and daughters of a family promote by holding together? [,Ans. Each other's welfare.] What will every one of them certainly increase by being kind to the rest? [Ans. His own happiness.] What should we learn from Joseph's words, And God sent me before you, &c.? 5 [,Ans. To consider all things that befhl us as ordered by Providence.] LESSON XXXVIII. Read the w'hole Lesson. Erplanation.-Though Joseph had sent to fetch his father, Jacob did not go to Egypt without a divine command and promise. As the famuine was very distressing in Canaan, God in his mercy permitted his faithful servant to remove with his ftmily to another country, where they might enjoy all the comforts of life. Famine is one of those plagues which the Almighty sends upon wicked nations to punish the sins of the hnhabitants, and awaken them to repentance. We see by this Lesson how it came to pass, that the posterity of Abraham came into the land of Egypt, the land in which the Lord foretold they would be as strangers, not inheritors, for a considerable time. Questions..---Did the Lord approve of Jacob's leaving the land of Canaan? 3. [iAns. Yes.] Where did the Lord command him to go? [Ans. Into Egypt.] What did the Lord graciously promise him? [Ains. 1Te Lord promised that he wouldpmake of Israel a great nation.] Did Jacob and his family pursue their journey after Gcd appe-ared to him? [iAns. Yes.] How many persons did Jacob's family consist of? 26. [AIns. Threescore and ten.] Donl't you think it must have been very moving to see the meeting between Jacob and his son Joseph? [Ans. Yes.] What had the Lord foretold to Abraham conceriing his seed or posterity? [/ns. That they should be strangers in a land that was not theirs, and should serve them four hundred years.] What would have happened to the house of Israel if they had continued in Canaan at that time? [,rns. They would have sufireed-greatly by the Iamine.] Which was the best country for them to live in when there was famine in all lands, and abundance of corn in Egypt alone? [Ans. Egypt.] Did God send Jacob and his family out of Canaan in anger? [Ans, No; in mercy.] 81 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---By leaving the land of Canaan and goingr into Egypt, Jacob gave a proof of his faith in God's promises,. and of his submission to Providence, in which all persons should endeavour to imitate him: but it must be remembered that Jacob before he left Canaan took care to satisfy himself f:illy that he was really called to quit his situation: he did not,!hke many people in the world, rashly quit a good situation, and cast himself upon Providence, without any promise or reasonable expectation of protection. Questions.---Did Jacob leave Canaan inconsiderately? [Ans. No.] What did he take care to satisfy himself of before he quitted his situation? [Ans. That he was really called upon toquit it.] Who should imitate him in these, particulars? [A.n. All persons.] LESSON XXXIX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---Pharaoh's kind reception of Jacob and his family, is to be considered as a mark of the blessing which attended the good old Patriarch; God was with him according to his gracious promise wherever he went. Jacob's desire to be buried in the land of Canaan, is a remarkable proof of his ftith in God, for it shews his firm belief, that God would givethat land to his posterity. Questions.-- Was Jacob presented to Pharaoh? [Ans. Yes.] Was Jacob lifted up by receiving such honours in Egypt?: [Ans. No.] How did he behave to Pharaoh? 7. [Ans. He blessed hinm] What appears to have attended Jacob in all places? [AIns. The blessing of God.] What did God promise Jacob when he first appeared to him at Bethel? [Ans. To be with hi:n in all places whithersoever he went.] Did the children of Irael increase in the land of Egypt? 27. [Ans. Yes; they multiplied exceedingly.] How long did Jacob live in Egypt? LAns. Seventeen years.] What did he require hisi son Joseph to swear? 29. [Ans. That he would bury him in the burying-place of his fathers.] Where,was that? [Ans. In the -.land of Canaan.] What did this desire shew? [Ans. Jacob's firm belief that his posterity would inherit that land.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From Jacob's calling his life a pilgrimage iu his answer to Pharaoh, we are taught to consider the present 3 5. life as a pilgrimage, or journey, towards a heavenly country: if we thus think of it, we shall be careful not to quarrel with our fellow-travellers by the way: and should our days be few and evil, we shall bear our lot with patience, while we look forward to an eternity of bliss beyond the grave! Questions.---What is meant by a pilgrimage? [Ans. Along journey.] Why did Jacob call his life a pilgrimage? [Ans. Because it led to another country.] What country? [Ans. An heavenly one.] Is the life of a Christian a pilgrimage? [Ans. Yes.] Who are our fellow-travellers? [ ns. Our fellow-Christians.] If we look upon ourselves as travelling to a heavenly country, what shall we bear with patience? [4As. The evils of life.] LESSON XL. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---We find by Jacob's dying words, that he kept God's promises in mind, and depended upon them to the last. Joseph took his two sons with him to his dying father, that they might be reckoned among the children of Israel, and so become partakers of the blessings of the Lord. When Joseph presented his sons, Jacob was inspired to foretel that the nation from Ephraim, the younger son, would be a greater nation than that from Manasseh, the elder son; on this occasion Jacob was a prophet, that is, one who by the inspiration of God foretels things to come. Questions.---What did Jacob keep in his mind to the last? [Ans. God's promises.] For what purpose did Joseph take his sons to his dying father? [Ans. That they might be reckoned among the children of Israel.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Parents should above all things endeavour to secure the blessings of the Lord for their children, that they may be reckoned amongst.his chosen people. Joseph possessed in Egypt earthly riches and honours equal to any his posterity could expect in the land of Canaan, yet he was desirous they should be numbered amongst the children of Israel, that they might have arr inheritance with the people of God. Questions.---What was Joseph desirous of obtaining for his children? [Ans. The blessing of the Lord.] Is not this blessing of more value than riches and honours? [Ans. Yes.] 85 What people should parents desire their children to be reckoned amongst? [Ans. God's chosen people.] Have your parents taken care that you should be reckoned amongst God's chosen people? [Ans. Yes.] What did they do that you might be so? [Ans. Had me baptized.] Can your parents continue this blessing to you if you lead a life contrary to God's will and commandments. [4Ans. No.] LESSON XLI. 'Read the whole Lesson. Exf'latnation.---It was the will of God that the numerous family of Jacob should, after his death, form all together one people under the denomination of The Children of Israel, or Israelites; and the land of Canaan was, in process of time, to be portioned out among the different tribes which should proceed from his twelve sons; and the Messiah, the Saviour of the world, was to proceed from the tribe of Judah. All this Jacob foretold by the inspiration of God. By embalming was meant, taking out the bowels, and filling the body with spices, in order to keep it from decay. Joseph was about 56 years old when his father died; he continued to dwell in Egypt, and all his brethren with him, because the time was not yet come for the children of Israel to be put in possession of the land of Canaan. The children of Israel, of whom he took an oath, were the children of himself and his brethren. It appears from his desire to have his bones carried to Canaan, that Joseph believed in the promises of God made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and wished to be numbered among the people of God. Queslimns.---Were the sons of Jacob to separate after his death? [Ans. No; to keep together as one people.] What were they to be called? [Ans. The children of Israel, and Israelites.] Why were they to be called so? [Ans. Because God gave the name of Israel to their father.] What land were they afterwards to inhabit? [/Ins. The land of Canaan.] From which tribe was the Messiah, or Saviour, to proceed? [Ans. The tribe of Judah.] Did Jacob's sons, according to his desire, carry his body to be buried in the cave of Machpelah? [Ans. Yes.] What made Joseph's brethren afraid that he would take revenge of them for their former cruelties as soon as his father was dead? 15. [Ans. Their consciences.] Why did Joseph weep when he received their message? [dns. Because they had not confidence in him.] Why did Joseph and his brethren remain in Egypt? [Ans. Because the time was not yet come for the children of Israel to be put in possession of Canaan.] To what age did Joseph live? 22. [Ans. To an hundred and ten.] What did lie make the children of Israel sware before he died? [Ans. To carry his bones with them into the land of Canaan.] What did this desire shew? [Ans. His faith in God's promises.] What did the children of Israel do with the body of Joseph after he was dead? 25. F/Ins. They embalmed it, and put it in a coffin in Egypt.] Why did they embalm it? [Ans. To keep it from mouldering away.] Why did they wish to keep the bones together? [Ans. That they might carry them with them to Canaan as they had promised.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instructzon.--We have now read the whole of the histories of Jacob and Joseph, which shew, in a most striking manner, the t-uth, -foreknowledge, and providence of the Almighty; and teach us to consider the various afflictions and disappointments of human life, as chastisements for sin, or trials of virtue. With the death of Joseph ends the first book of Moses called Genesis. Questions.---Have not you found great pleasure as well as instruction in reading the histories of Jacob and Joseph? [4Ans. Yes.] Have not you found much to admire and approve in the character of each of them? [Ans. Yes.] What does this part of Scripture prove in a most striking manner? [Ans. The truth, foreknowledge, and providenceof God.] In what light does it teach us to consider the various afflictions of human life? [Ans. As chastisements for sin, or trials of virtue.] What book ends with the death of Joseph? [Ans. The first book of Moses called Genesis.] LESSON XLII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--This Lesson is taken from the second book of Moses called Exodus, which gives an account of the wonders which the Lord wrought in the land of Egypt for the deliverance of the children of Israel from the bondage which the Lord foretold this people would have in the land of Egypt. Joseph, and all that generation which came out of Canaan, were dead. This part of the history of the children of Israel relates to the next generation, who most likely had fallen from 85 the worship of God, and stood in need of chastisement to bring them to a sense of their duty. The king of Egypt here mentioned, came from another country, and.conquered Egypt, which accounts for his paying no respect to the memory of Joseph. Levi was one of the twelve sons of Jacob; Amram was the grandson of Levi. Moses, who was so wonderfully preserved, was ordained of God to be the lawgiver of Israel, and to conduct them out of Egypt. Questions.---What was become of Joseph, and the rest of Jacob's children, &c.?, [,Ans. They were all dead.] How many sons had Jacob? [,ns. Twelve.] How many persons did the family of Jacob amount to, when they went into Egypt? [Ans. Seventy persons.] What is here said of them? [Ans. That they multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty, and the land was filled with them.] Did not God foretel to Abraham, that his seed should be a stranger in a land that was not theirs, and should be afflicted there? [Ans. Yes.] Did not the Lord promise Abraham that he would deliver his seed from the nation that should afflict them, and bring themr out with great substance? [Ans. Yes.] Who were meant in that prediction by Abraham's seed? [Ans. The people of Israel.] Who were meant by the nation that should afflict them? [Ans. The Egyptians.] How came the Israelites to go into Egypt? [Ans. God directed them to go thither.] For what purpose? [,Ans. To save them from famine.] Was it not a blessing and a comfort to those who left Canaan at that time to be received into Egypt? [Ans. Yes.] Who was governor of Egypt when Jacob went thither with his family? [Ans Joseph.] Was. the king of Egypt kind -to them? [Ans. Yes.] Did the people receive them willingly? [Ans. Yes.] What cruel command did that Pharaoh, who knew not Joseph, give to prevent the people of Israel from increasing? [Ans. That every son which was born should be thrown into the river.] Why did God suffer the people of Israel to be thus afflicted? [Ans To bring them to a proper sense of their duty.] Who was Levi? [Ans. One of the twelve sons of Jacob.] Who was Amram? [Ans. One of Levi's grandsons.] What was his wife's name? [Ans. Jochebed.] What did Jochebed do to save her son? 3. [Ans. Made an ark of bulrushes, and laid it by the river's side.] Who found the child? 7. [Ans. Pharaoh's daughter.] Was it not very fortunate that Pharaoh's daughter happened to go to the river at that particular tirme, and that she took pity upon the babe, and fixed upon Jochebed 10 86 as his nurse? [Ans. Yes.] How did all these things happen for the preservation of Moses? [Ans. They were ordered by the providence of God.] What was Moses ordained of God to be? [Ans. The lawgiver of Israel._ What was he to do for them? [Ans. Bring them out of Egypt.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--We may learn from this Lesson, that God can deliver any one from the greatest dangers. That he is true to his promises, and that he will not suffer wicked people to defeat the designs of his providence. Questions.---Vere not the Israelites in a most miserable condition? f Ans. Yes.] Did God forget the promises he had made to their forefathers? [tAns. No.] Who are meant by their forefathers? [tAns. Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.] Was not Moses in a very dangerous situation by the brink of the river? [Ans. Yes.] Did God deliver liimn from it? [Ans. Yes.] What may we learn from this? [Ans. That God can deliver us from the greatest dangers.] What should the thoughts of these things lead us to do? [Ans. To trust in God's providence.] LESSON XLIII, Read the whole Lesson. Ecplanation.---While Moses dwelt in Midian, the first of the Pharaohs who afflicted Israel died, and another cruel tyrant rose up in his stead. The Lord had never forgotten the Covenant he had made with his faithful servants, though it is likely their descendants, who were under the cruel bondage of the Egyptians, did not remember the God of their fathers; but affliction brought the promises of God to their mind. There had not been for many years an open vision of God; Jacob is the last we read of, to whom the Lord God had appeared. The Angel of the Lord is the same as the Lord God, or the Son of God, who is truly God, of the same nature with God the Father. A land flowing with milk and honey, signified a very plentiful country. God called the Israelites his people, because he had chosen them from all nations to keep up the true religion in the world, at a time when idolatry prevailed every where, but more particularly in Egypt. Moses was ordained to be the minister of the Lord God, in th'e deli., verance of his people. 87 The Egyptians had a number of idols, which they wor. shipped under different names. Moses desired to know by what name he should call God, to distinguish him from the false gods of the heathens. The title, I am that I am, could not be properly applied to any but the Supreme Being, who has ever been, now is, and will continue to all eternity, the same, the universal God of the whole creation. It pleased God to be moreover distinguished to the Israelites, as the God of their forefathers, on account of his covenant with them. The ground on which Moses stood was called holy ground, because it was sanctified by the Lord's appearing there. The Lord foretold to Moses the different manner in which the Israelites, and the king of Egypt, would receive his message, in order that Moses might not be disheartened. Take particular notice as you go through these Lessons of God's promises and threatenings, for you will find they were all fulfilled. Questions.---Who did Moses consider as the people of God, and his brethren: [4Ans. The Israelites.] What did Pharaoh seek to do, when he heard that he did so i [.Ans. To kill Moses.] Where did Moses go to when he left Egypt? 1. [.Ans. To Midian.] What employment did Moses follow in the land of Midian? [Ans. lie kept the flock of Jethro his fatherin-law.] Where did he lead his sheep to? [Ans. To Mount Horeb.] What wonderful sight did Moses behold at Mount Horeb? [Ans. A bush burning with lire, and it was not consumed.] Who appeared to Moses in the bush? [Ans. The Angel of the Lord.] Who is meant by the Angel of the Lord? [Ains. The Lord God.] Did Pharaoh live till Moses returned into Egypt? [Ans. No; he died while Moses was in Midian.] Did there come a better king in his stead? [Ant. No; another cruel tyrant.] How did he treat the Israelites? [Ans. Very cruelly.] What did they do in their affliction? [Ans. They cried unto God.j Did God take compassion upon them? [ Ans. Yes.] What is God said to have remembered? [Ans. His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.] What was that? [Ans. To make of their seed a great nation, and to be their God.] What did God graciously resolve to do when the Israelites cried unto him? [Ans. To deliver them out of the hands of the Egyptians, and bring them into a land flowing with milk and honey.] What land was this? [Ans. The land of Canaan.] Why did God call Israel his people? [Ans. Because he had chosen them from all nations.] What had he chosen them for? [Ans. To keep up true religion in the World.] What prevailed in all nations at that time? [Ans. Idolatry.] W\ho did God ordain to be his minister, in the deliverance of his people? [1ns. Moses.] By what name did God command Moses to distinguish him firom the false gods of the Egyptiamrs? 14. [Ains. I am that I am.] By what other title did God see fit to declare himself to the Israelites? I. [i47s. As the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.] WVhit did God's message to the Israelites agree with? [HAs. His promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.] What did God say the Jiraelites would do? 18. [lAis. Hearken to Moses.] What did God' 5Oy respecting Phax aoh? 1). [Ans. That hlie would not let bIael cgo1 ]What did the Lord say he would do in respect to I.ypt [ [4ns. Smite Egypt with all his wonders.] What did ti eLord s hy Pharaoh would do after that? [Ans. Let the Ceople go.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. InstruIction.---From this Lcsson we should learn that God has a!ways eiCen). is niow, and cever xill be, the greatest and most glorious of B13eings; that he is f ithful to his promises, and ever ready to hear the prayers of his people when they call upon him; and that while the bodies of his servants are mingled with the dust, he is still their God, vhich plainly shews thliat there is not an end of them hvien their souls are separated from their bodies by &deafh; they still live unto God. Questions.---Does not this Lesson sshew tlht God is a most won1derful Being? [Ans. Yes.] What is God always true to? [Ans. His promises.] What does his calling himself the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, after th'ose patriarchs had been dead a great many years, shew? [HAns. That they still live unto God.] What should we believe then? [Hns. God's promiseis] What may we hope for? [Ans. A life after death.] LESSON XLIV. Read the wihole Lesson. Explanation.---It was the humble opinion which Moses had' of himself that made him afraid the Isrrelites would not believe him. The Lordwromght miracles e Aeregtihen the faith of Moses, that he might go on his mission with holy confidence; and the Lord promised to work the like miracles in the sight of the elders, to prove to them that Moscs was really sent by him. Pharaoh, king of Egypt, who reigned at that time, was a very wicked man, and the Lord knew that he "vould set him 89 s-lf against him, and refuse to obey his voice; this would be a presumptuous sin, for which he would deserve to be cut off from the face of the earth; but instead of punishing him in this manner, the Lord resolved to let him live with a hardened heart, without the help. of the Holy Spirit, which is the worst punishment that can be inflicted upon a sinner in this life. By going to Jethro, and afterwards taking his family with him, Moses testified his faith in the Lord. The Rod which Moses was commanded to carry in his hand was in its nature a common stick: it was called the Rod of God, because it was the badge of Moses's holy office, and he was always to stretch it forth when a miracle was to be wrought by the power of the Lord. The Lord called Israel his son, even his firstborn, because they were his chosen people; and the Lord told Pharaoh, before he refused to obey his voice, that he would punish him for his disobedience. Qiestions.---Were not the miracles of turning the Rod into a Serpent, and making Moses's hand leprous, &c. very astonishing? [Ans. Yes.] Who did the Lord appoint to go with Moses to Pharaoh? 14. [Ans. Aaron his brother.] What was Aaron to do? 16. [Ans. To speak for Moses.] What was Moses to take in his hand? [Ans. The Rod of God.] What was he to do with it? [Hns. Signs.] What was Moses to say to Pharaoh? 22. [Arns. Thus saith the Lord, Israel is my Son, even niy Firstborn, and if thou refuse to let him go, behold I will slay thy son, even thy firstborn.] Why did the Lord call Israel his firstborn? [Ans. Because they were his chosen people.] Who did Moses and Aaron gather together? 29. [Atns. All the elders of the children of Israel.) Did they speak the Lord's words, and work the signs before them? [Ans. Yes.] iWhat was Moses to tell the elders of Israel? [.4ns. 'I hat the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, had appeared unto h!im. tiat he would deliver them out of Egypt, and bring them iito) the land of Canaan.] By what name were they to distinguish God? [Ans. I am that I am.] Did the people believe the words of Moses, when they saw the signs which were wrought? [Ans. Yes.] What did they do when they heard that the Lord had visited their afflictions? 31. [Ans. They bow ed their heads and worshipped.] What punishment did the Lord threaten to inflict upon Pharaoh? [Ans. To harden his heart.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--We are to observe, in this Lesson, that the Lord wrought miracles by the hand of Moses, in order that his people might believe his word, and the account of these miracles should confirm our faith, that is, they should convince us that the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, is the only God, the Creator and Governor of all things. We should also take notice that Moses of himself was not capable of talking in such a manner as was likely either to persuade the people of Israel to believe God had sent a message by him, or to prevail on a proud impious tyrant like Pharaoh to part with a vast number of people who were his slaves. But the Lord supplied all the defects of Moses, from which we may be assured that whatever God makes a duty, he will enable his servants to perform in every rank and condition in life. Questions.---For what purpose did the Lord work miracles by the hand of Moses? [Ans. That his people might believe his word.] Was it not sufficient to make them believe what Moses and Aaron said when they saw the miracles of the Rod, and Moses's hand? [ Ans. Yes.] Could Moses have performed these miracles of himself? [Ans. No.] Would the Lord have wrought the miracle to confirm a falsehood? [Ans. No.] What should we believe then from this account we have of those miracles? [Ans. That the Lord God of Abraham is the only God.] Who alone is able to change the nature of the different creatures? [Ans. The Creator.] Was Moses capable of talking in a persuasive manner? [Ans. No.] -Did he not say of himself, O my Lord, I am not eloquent, neither heretofore, nor since thou hast spoken unto thy servant: but I am slow of speech, and of a slow tongue? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord say to him? 11. [Ans. Who hath made mens' mouths, or who maketh the dumb or deaf, or the seeing, or the blind, have not I the Lord?] Do not those words shew that God can enable people to do whatever he sees fit to make their duty? [Ans. Yes.] Should we ever shrink back from our duty because we fancy we are not able to perform it? [Ans. No.] LESSON XLV. Rcad the whole Lesson. Explanation.-- Pharaoh's answer was exactly what the Lord foretold it would be, and shews that he was a very presumptuots sinner, for he defied the Almighty; and his behaviour to Moses and Aaron, who went to him as the ministers of the 91 [.rd, proves him to have been full of pride and arrogance. The Egyptians called the Israelites Hebrews. It appears that Pharaoh was altogether a very bad man; that he had neither religion nor humanity in his heart. The officers of the children of Israel were a kind of foremen, placed over the rest to keep them to their work. The officers thought themselves in evil case, because Pharaoh added to their afflictions; for they did not yet understand, that these very afflictions would lead to their deliverance. The faith of Moses himself seems to have been staggered, by his finding things at first contrary to the expectations he had formed. The Lord graciously overlooked these ofliences, both in Moses and the people, because they proceeded fi-om ignorance; and he resolved to shew his ways unto the children of Israel, and his works unto Moses. Questions.---Did Moses and Aaron go to Pharaoh? [Ans. Yes.] What did he reply when they said, Thus saith the Lord, Let my people go, that they may serve me? 2. [Ans. Who is the Lord, that I should obey his voice, to let Israel go I know not the Lord, neither will I let Israel go.] What command did Pharaoh give concerning the people of Israel? 6. [AnTs. That they should make brick without straw.] Was not this thought a great hardship at that time? [Ans. Yes.) Did Pharaoh relieve them when their officers complained to him? [Ans. No.] Did not Moses himself complain? [Ans. Yes.1 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We find that Moses, with the assistance of his brother Aaron, delivered the Lord's message to Pharaoh without fear or dread, though he had supposed it was not possible to do it; this shews that God is ready to help the natural infirmities of his servants. Pharaoh's whole behaviour proves him to have been a very presumptuous sinner; but the Lord saw fit to sutlfr him to afflict his people to try them, and also that he might shew forth his power in their deliverance. The elders of Israel thought the Lord had given them up, because he did not immediately deliver them, for they did not yet know the ways of Providence: but the Psalmist says, God shewed his -ways unto Moses, his works unto the children of Israel. We should therefore study the history of the Israelites to learn the ways and works of God. Question7s.--- What kind of sin was Pharaoh guilty of when he made such an impious reply to the Lord's message? [Ans. A presumptuous sin.] Had the Lord forsaken his people when he. permitted Pharaoh to afflict them so cruelly? [Ans. No.1 92 Why did the Lord suffer them to be so treated? [,4An. To try them and to shew forth his own almighty power.] What were both Moses and the elders of Israel ignorant of, when they complained so bitterly because they were not delivered immeditely? [Ans. The ways and works of God ] Where should we study to learn the ways and works of God? [Ans. In the history of the Israelites.] Does not this chapter shew us, that it is one of the ways of the Lord to suffer his people to be tried by affliction? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XLVI. Read to the end of verse 13. Explanation.---It appears from verse 1 that the Lord did not send any of his judgments upon Pharaoh till after Pharaoh had refused to obey his commandment, and had defied his power. We should take particular notice in the following verses of the Lord's promises to Moses, and how exactly they agreed with his former promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The name Jehovah signifies the Lord, the only God. Questions.---Did the Lord bring judgments upon Pharaoh before he had been guilty of presumptuous sin? [Ans. No.] Who did God call himself when he appeared to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? [Ans. The Lord God Almighty.] Did not the Lord establish a covenant with those patriarchs to give them the land of Canaan for their posterity? [Ans. Yes.] What did God say he remembered when he heard the groaning of the children of Israel? [Ans. His covenant.] Did not God foretel to Abraham that his seed would be in bondage in Egypt? [Ans. Yes.] How long were they to be so before they were delivered from this bondage? [Ans. Four hundred years.] Did not God tell Abraham that at the end of that time he wuld judge, that is, send judgments upon the nation which afflicted his seed? [Ans. Yes.] Did not the Lord say he would bring them out of that land with great substance? [Ans. Yes.] What do the promises of God to Moses in this chapter exactly agree with? [Ans. God's promises to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.] Did the people of Israel pay attention to these grac ious promises when Moses repeated them to them? [Ans. No.] What prevented them? 9. [Ans. Anguish of spirit and cruel bondage.] What did the Lord give Moses and Aaron a charge to do? 13. [Ans. To bring tho children of Israel out of Egypt.] t3 R'ad verse 1 after 13 to 14. Explanation.---The expression, I have made thee a god t6 Pharaoh, signified that the Lord had appointed Moses to speak the Lord's words, and to receive the prayers which Pharaoh would sometimes offer. The expression, Aaron shall be thy prophet, signified that he should speak what Moses desired him, as Moses was to speak what the Lord commanded him., We learn from St. Paul, that the sorcerers here mentioned were named Jannes and Jambres. The miracle of turning their rods into serpents was done by the power of the Lord, not by their enchantments. Pharaoh's sending for these sorcerers was a presumptuous sin; and the Lord suffered him to be deceived by their enchantments as a punishment. Questions.---How did God say the Egyptians should know that he was the Lord? 5. [Ans. By his stretching forth his hand upon Egypt to bring.out the children of Israel from among them.] What did Aaron do before Pharaoh and his servants? [Ans. Cast down his rod, and it became a serpent.} Who did Pharaoh send for to see if they could act the like? [ads. The magicians.] Did their rods become serpents? [Jns. Yes.] By whose power were all their rbds turned into serpents? [-ns. By the power of the Lord.] What shews that it was so? 12. [Ans. Aaron's rod swallowed up their rods.] What effect had this miracle upon Pharaoh? [Ans. H-is heart was hardened, and he hearkened not unto them, as the Lord had said.] Read verse 14 to the end. Explanation.---The miracle of changing the water into blood was wrought by the power of the Lord: at the lifting up of the rod of Aaron, all the waters became blood: the sorcerers could do no more than lift up their rods; but by their doing so, Pharaoh and the Egyptians were deceived into an opinion, that the miracle was nothing but enchantment or conjuring. Thus Pharaoh's heart was hardened, so that he kept to his former resolution. The turning the water into blood, and killing the fish, was a heavy judgment upon the Egyptians, as they abstained from' eating most kinds of animals, fed greatly upon fish, and drank scarcely any thing but water. Questions.--What was the first plague of Egypt? 23. [Ans. Turning the water into blood.] By whose power was all the water turned into blood? [Ans. By the power of the Lord.] 94 What resolution was Pharaoh confirmed in? [Ins. That he would not let Israel depart.] Was not the turning the water into blood, and killing the fish, a heavy judgment upon the Egyptians? [Ans. Yes.] How long did it continue, before the Lord sent Moses and Aaron to Pharaoh again? 23. [Ans.i Seven days.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The Lord's exercising the unbelief of the Israelites, which proceeded from anguish of spirit only, shews us that God makes gracious allowances for the infirmities of human nature. The case was very different in respect to Pharaoh. His sins did not proceed fiom infirmity, but presumption he defied the Lord, and set himself against his commandments, in consequence of which every thing that was suited to soften the heart of any one but a presumptuous sinner, hardened his; that is, the more he saw of the wonderfill works of God, and the more he was called upon to obey the Lord, the more lie resolved not to obey him, but to follow his own will. From this we learn that it is the way of the Lord to withdraw his grace from presumptuous sinners, as a just punishment for their wickedness; and that they then go on without fear or shame from crime to crime, till the Lord sees fit to cut them off. This should lead us to obey the commandments of God with a willing mind. Questions.---Was the Lord greatly offended when his people did not immediately accept the comfort he sent them by Moses and Aaron? [Ans. No.] What did God graciously make allowance for? [Ans. The infirmity of human nature.] Is it not very comfortable to know that when the servants of God are overcome with sorrow, God pities and forgives them? [Ans. Yes.] Did the disobedience of Pharaoh proceed from anguish of spirit and cruel bondage? [Ans. No.] What did it proceed from? [zAns. Wickedness and hardness of heart.] What does God do in respect to those who harden their hearts and refuse to obey his commandments? [Ans. Withdraw his grace.] What happens then? [Ans. They go on from sin to sin till God tuts them off:] What should this lead us to do? [Ans. To obey the commandments of God with a willing mind.] Instruction.---By turning the rods, which were mere sticks, into living animals, God shewed that no creature is of any particular rank of beings but by the will of the Creator. This 95 should make us thankfil to him for having created us human creatures. By turning the water into blood God proved that his goodness supplies us with water, which is one of the great blessings of life. The thought of this should make us grateful to God for the plentiful supply of so useful an element, and fearful to offend him, lest he should by some means or other deprive us of it. Questions.---What did God prove by turning the rods into living animals? L[Ans. That every creature is, whatever it is, by his power.] What rank of beings are you of? [Ans. Of the race of mankind.] Are there any creatures above mankind in this world? [Ans. No.] Are there any besides them who are capable of knowing their Maker? [Ans. No.] Are there any besides mankind who have hopes of immortal life in Heaven? [Ans. No.] What should you be to God for his having made youa human creature? [Ans. Thankful.] What did God shew by turning the water into blood? [Ans. That it is his goodness that supplies us with water.] Is not water a great blessing? [Ans. Yes.] How should we be without it? [Ans. Very uncomfortable.] Should we not be thankful to God for so valuable a blessing? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XLVII. Read the whole Lesson. Errplanation.--We find that the magicians still kept on with their enchantments, with a view to destroy the credit of Moses and Aaron---and the Lord suffered Pharaoh to be deceived by them. If the magicians could have brought frogs out of the river, they certainly could have driven them back again; but Pharaoh was obliged to have recourse to the ministers of the,Lord for deliverance from this dreadful plague; he could no longer glory over Moses, as it seems he had done. Moses was now in the stead of God to him; he received their petitions and promises, which a presumptuous man was not permitted to offer to God. By the plague being put an end to exactly at the time fixed by Pharaoh, the Lord proved, that the frogs did not go away of themselves; and by hearkening to the intercessions of Moses in behalf of Pharaoh and his people, the Lord put great honour upon his chosen servant. The dust changed into vermin must have been a dreadful plague. It was the dust of the land of Egypt only, where the 96 lEgyptians dwelt, that became lice; we may be sure that the laud of Goshen, where the habitations of the Israelites were, was free from them. It may be supposed, that the magicians practised their enchantments against the Israelites; but they were compelled to acknowledge the finger of God. The plague of flies must also have been a very distressing one, for tnost likely they were of the stinging kinds; and even the buzzing of such swarms of insects must have been very disagreeable. The Psalmist says, that the Egyptians were devoured with flies; they certainly must have suffered great anguish from them, or the hard heart of Pharaoh would not have relented. It is plain that he wished to continue his oppression towards the Israelites, as he would not consent to their going out of the land to sacrifice. The Egyptians made idols of those kinds of creatures which the Patriarchs offered in sacrifice; of course they would have held the Israelites in abomination, if they had sacrificed such things before their eyes. Questions.---What was the second plague of Egypt? 5. [Ans. The plague of frogs.] By whose power did the frogs come up? [Ans. By the power of the Lord.] Are not frogs very disagreeable creatures in a house? [Ans. Yes.] Must it not have been very uncomfortable to have the very'bedchambers filled with them? [Ans. Yes.] Was Pharaoh's heart softened by this plague? [Ans. No, it was hardened.] What was the third plague of Egypt? 16. [Ans. The plague of lice.] Was it not a dreadful one? [Ans. Yes.] What part of the land was this plague of lice in? [Ans. It was throughout all the land of Egygt.] What did the magicians say to Pharaoh? 18. [Ans. This is the finger of God.] Did Pharaoh join with them in acknowledging the power of the Lord? [Ans. No.] Was not his heart very hard and obdurate to withstand such miracles? [Ans. Yes.] Which was the fourth plagueof Egypt? 24. [Ans. The plague of flies.] Were the houses of all the Egyptians filled with the flies? [Ans. Yes.] Were these swarms of flies in the land of Goshen, where the Israelites had their dwellings? [Ans. No.] How came it to pass, that those winged insects should fly to the houses of the Egyptians, and leave those of the Israelites? [Ans. Because the Lord ordered it so.] Why did the Lord cause Pharaoh to be told beforehand, that he should make this distinction? [Ans. That he might know that God is the Lord in the midst of the earth.] Did Pharaoh let the people go when the plague of ties was removed? [Ans. No; he hardened his heart.] C PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---As the miracles recorded in this Lesson were wrought to prove that God is the Lord, we should regard them as proofs of-his being so. From the plagues of lice and flies we find, that creatures which appear to us small and insignificant may become dreadful to mankind by an immoderate increase. Questions.---Did not the miracles prove that God is the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] In what light should we regard them? [Ans. As proofs that He is so.] LESSON XLVIIL Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---As God chose the children of Israel from all nations to be his own people, in order to shew forth his mercy and goodness; so he raised up Pharaoh and the Egyptians above the people of Israel for a time, in order to shew forth his Almighty power among them. This was agreeable to the divine promise made to Abraham. The murrain upon the beasts, and the boils upon men and beasts, were very dreadful judgments: from the magicians being afflicted, it is plain that they had no hand in bringing them, nor could they take them away. The land of Egypt being watered by the overfl6wing of the river Nile, it was very uncommon to see rain there, much more hail. We find from tle account given of the plague of hail, that in it God employed three elements against Pharaoh; air in the thunder, water in the hail, and fire in the lightning: Questions.---Which was the fifth plague of Egypt? [Ans, The murrain of beasts.] Was it not dreadful to the Egyptians. to lose all their cattle. [Ans. Yes.] Did any of the cattlk belonging to the children of Israel die of the murrain? 6 [Ans. No.] Did Pharaoh inquire into this circumstance? [.Ans. Yes.] Did he repent when he found that the judgment was sent upon the Egyptians only? 4AnS, No.) Did he still harden his heart? [Ans. Yes.] Which was the sixth-plague of Egypt? 8. [.ins. The plague of boils and blains.] Did this plague fall upon the magicians? [tins. Yes.] Do not yoe think the plague of boils must have been very distressing? [Ans. Yes.] For what purpose did the Lord say he wouil bring all these plagues upon Pharaoh and the Egyptians 13. [Ins. That, they might know that.there was none likA thi P 98 Lord in all the earth.] What plague did the Lord threaten to send next? 15. [Ans. Pestilence.) How came it to pass, that all these plagues were wrought in the land of Egypt in parti"cular? [Ans. Because the Lord raised up Pharaoh to shew forth his power in him.] Where was the Lord's name to be honoured by means of Pharaoh and the Egyptians? 15. [Ans. Throughout the whole earth.] What was the seventh plague of Egypt? 17. [Ans. The plague of hail.] Was the storm very dreadful? [Ans. Yes.] Was the plague felt in the land of Goshen, where the people of Israel dwelt? 25. [Ans. No.] Were there any among the people of Egypt who feared the Lord? 20. [Ans. Yes.] What did they make their servants and cattle do? [Ans. Flee into their houses.] What did Pharaoh do when he was terrified by the tempest? 27. [Ans. He called for Moses and Aaron.] What did he beg them to do? [Ans. To entreat the Lord for him.] How did Pharaoh behave.when he found that the rain, the hail, and the thunder, had ceased? 34. [.4ns. He sinned yet more, and hardened his heart, he and his servants.] Did he let the children of Israel go? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--This Lesson teaches us that the Lord can turn all the blessings of fife into plagues, and that he does so for the punishment of wicked nations i that he can also send diseases upon man and beast, and remove them at his pleasure. We also learn from this Lesson, that God, if he sees fit, preserves his servants, while his judgments are falling upon the nation they live in, so that nothing shall hurt them: from whence we should learri to fear God, and trust in his mercy and goodness, while we keep his commandments. The behaviour of Pharaoh, when he was frightened by the tempest, shews that the wickedest people sometimes make promises, which, from hardness of heart, they as often break. LESSON XLIX. Read the whole Lesson. ~aplanation.---Locusts are winged insects in the form of grasshoppers; they are great devourers; It is said that a locust is so fierce, it will attack and kill a serpent: how dreadful then must it have been to the Egyptians to have all the earth covered, and all their houses filled with locusts I We find, that these insects were brought by the ~i power of God from a distant country. By turning the wind and destroying the locusts, the Lord proved that this formidable army of insects was entirely at his command. By casting them into the sea, instead of causing them to die upon land, there was no danger of a pestilence from the stench of them. The plague which was sent after the locusts were removed was the most dreadful of all. The Egyptian darkness was certainly attended with unusual horrors; it was a darkness that might be felt, and those upon whom it fell were quite destitute of those inward comforts which religion alone can give--comforts which cause light to spring up in darkness. The Israelites having light in their dwellings, might have taken this opportunity of departing; but the Lord would not suffer them to steal away, as he intended to bring them out of Egypt in a triumphant manner. It is said again, that the Lord hardened the heart of Pharaoh, and he would not let them go; from which we may understand, that the more Pharaoh was commanded to let the people of Israel depart to serve the Lord their God, the more obstinate he became to keep them as his slaves. Questions.---Why did not God cut off Pharaoh and his people, instead of letting them live to grow more and more wicked? 1. [Ans. That the Israelites and their children might know the Lord.] What was the eighth plague which the Lord threatened to send upon Pharaoh and his people? [Ans. Locusts.] What are locusts? [Ans. A kind of large grasshopper.] Had there ever been such locusts in Egypt before? [Ans. No.] What did Pharaoh's servants entreat him to do? 7. [Ans. To let the people of Israel go.] Did he comply with their entreaties? [Ans. No.] What -did Pharaoh do when he saw the locusts devouring every thing? 16. [Ans. He sent for Moses and Aaron in haste.] What did he pray them to do? [Ans. To entreat the Lord their God to take away the plaguec.] Did Moses and Aaron comply with his entreaties? [Ans. Yes.] Did the kindness of the Lord in taking'away the locusts soften Pharaoh's heart? 20. [Ans. No; it hardened it.] What was the next plague 21. [Ans. Darkness over the land of Egypt, even darkness that might be felt.] How long did this darkness continue? 22. [Ans. Three days.] Was n"t this a dreadful plague, especially to wickedpeople? [Ans. Yes.] Arenotwicked people commonly afraid of being in darkness? [Ans. Yes.] Were the children of Israel in darkness? [Ans. No; they had light in their dwellings.] What reason did Moses gi for F2 i, ob desiring to take'the flocks and herds? 26. [Ans. That they wanted them for burnt offerings and sacrifices.] What did Pharaoh in his fury say to Moses? 28. [Ans. Get thee from me, take heed to thyself, see my face no more; for in the day thou seest my face thou shalt die.] What reply did Moses make? [Ans. Thou hast spoken well, I will see thy face no more.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From this Lesson we learn that, under the direction of the Almighty, locusts will lay waste a country like a destructive army; many of these insects are hatched every ytar, and if the Lord should see fit he could soon collect them from the uninhabited parts of the earth, and send them upon this land in as great numbers as he did upon Egypt; besides God has constantly at his command thousands and millions of different kinds of insects, all capable of doing great mischief in our fields and gardens: we should therefore humbly beseech God to preserve us from the insect tribes, and should be thankful to him for doing so. We should also be admonished by this Lesson to consider, that it is God alone that dispenseth light and darkness. We should therefore be thankful to God for the blessing of light, and should endeavour to live so agreeably to his will and commandments, that we may never provoke him to send upon us such dreadful visitations as struck terror and dismay into the minds of the most hardened sinners. Questiosm.---Could not the Lord send locusts here in as great numbers as he sent them to Egypt? [Ans. Yes.] What creatures besides locusts eat up cabbages and those sort of things? [Ans. Caterpillars.] Suppose these should be sent so as to cover the face of the whole land, would it not be a sad thing? [Ans. Yes.] What cause blights and mildews? [Ans. Very small insects.] Suppose these were to be. sent,, so as to cover all our fruit-trees and garden plants, would they not do us great mischief? iAns. Yes.] Could not God send them in such numbers if he saw fit? [4ns. Yes.] What should we pray God to do? [Ans. To preserve us,from the insect tribes.] 'What should we be when he does preserve us from them? [Ans. Thankful.] LESSON L. Read the whole Lesson. Explahation.---From this Lesson it appears that Moses was inspired by the Lord to threaten Pharaoh with the last plague, 101 immediately after Pharaoh had said, he should see his face no,more, and that having delivered his message, Moses went out from Pharaoh in great anger. We may be certain that the Israelites were not to borrow of the Egyptians, according to the common meaning of the word, with a promise to return what they borrowed; but merely to desire the Egyptians, in a peaceable way, to furnish them with the things above mentioned, instead of attempting to take them by violence. This was lawful for them to do, bectse they were expressly commanded of the Lord to do it. It is worthy of remark, that none of the plagues were ever brought suddenly upon Egypt; notice was given of them at least a day before; and sometimes there was the space of seven days between one plague and another. In respect to that of the death of the first-born, it is supposed that Pharaoh was threatened with it before the tenth day of the month, at' the sametime that the Israelites were apprised of God's mercifil design to save and deliver them, as is related. in' the next 'Lesson. Questions.---What did the Lord tell Moses he would do? I.. [Ans. Bring one plague more upon Egypt.] What did Moses direct the people of Israel to do before this? 2. [Ans. Borrow of their neighbours jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment.] What was the last plague which the Lord threat - ened to bring upon Egyt? 4. CAns. To slay all the firstborn.] Why did the Lord resolve to slay the first-born of the Egyptians? [Ans. Because Pharaoh had refiied to let Israel go.] Had his people joined with him? 6. [Ans. Yes.J Were any of the first-born of the Israelites to be slain? [Ans. No.1 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTIO-. Instruction.-From the account we have of the Lord's proceedings with Pharaoh, we- may understand how God deal with presumptuous sinners, with such as harden their hearts, and absolutely refuse to obey his voice, and hearken to his ministers. The Lord. turns their hardness of heart into a punishment, by depriving, them of his grace; in consequence of which they become blind to their best interests, and go on headlong to destruction. The example of Pharaoh should lead us carefully to avoid a wicked course of life, and earnestly to pray the Almighty to save us by his grace frorm hardness of heart, and contempt of his word and commandments. Questions.--How does God deal with presumptuous sinnners? [Ans. He turns their hardness of heart into a punishment.] How does the Lord do this? [Ans. By withholding his grace. What do sinners become when God's grace is withheld from them? [Ans. Blind to their best interests.] What do they do when they are under this spiritual blindness? [Ans. They go on headlong to destruction.] What should the example of Pharaoh lead us carefully to avoid? [Ans. A wicked course of life.] What should it lead us to do? Ans. To pray to God to save us by his grace from hardness of heart, and contempt of his word and commandments. LESSON LI. Read to verse 29. Explanation.---This Lesson gives an account of the first institution of the feast of the Passover, which was ordained of God to keep up the continual remembrance of his delivering the Israelites from Egyptian bondage. The deliverance of the people of Israel from Egyptian bondage was a type, orfigure, of the greater deliverance of mankind from the bondage of sinl and the passover was a representation of the great sacrifice to.be made by the Redeemer, in the fulness of time. By means of the institution of the passover, the people of God, who lived before the coming of Christ, could testify their faith in God's mercy through a Redeemer. Questions.---How were the people of Israel to prepare for the passover? 3.' [Ans. They were to take a lamb for a house.] What sort of a lamb was it to be? 5. [Ans. Without blemish, a male of the first year.] What were they to do when they had killed the lamb? 7. [Ans. Put some of the blood upon the doorposts.] What were they to do with the flesh 8. [Ans. Roast it and eat it.] What were they to eat with it? [Ans. Unleavened bread and bitter herbs.] How were they to eat it? 11. [Ans. In haste.] 'What did Moses call it? 11. [Ans. The Lord's passover.] Why was it called so? 11. (Ans. Because the Lord would pass over the houses where the blood was sprinkled, and not slay the first-born.] What was the Passover designed for? [Ans. To keep up the remembrance of God's mercy, in delivering Israel out of Egyptian bondage.] What was this deliverance a type or,figure of? [Ans. Of the greater deliverance of Mankind from the Bondage of Sin.] Wheat was the Passover a representation of? [Ans. Of the great sacrifice to be made by the Redeemer.] Who is the 103 Redeemer? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] What cou'd the people of God express by means of the Passover? [Ans. Their faith in God's mercy through a Redeemer.} Read verse 29 to the end. Explanation.---From these verses we may learn, that thes Israelites kept the Passover; that the Lord smote all the firstborn of Egypt as he had threatened; that Pharaoh and his servants behaved on this occasion exactly as the Lord had foretold to Moses; and that the Israelities were delivered from Egyptian bondage, Rameses was the chief city of Goshen, Succoth was about twelves miles from it. The 430 years of the sojourning of the children of Israel are reckoned from the first pilgrimage of their forefathers, when Abraham went out of Canaan into Egypt. Questions.---Did the children of Israel keep the Passover as the Lord comnanded? 28. [Ans. Yes.] What happened at midnight? 29. [Ans. The Lord smote all the first-born of the land of Egypt.] What did Pharaoh do when this dreadful plague was sent? 30. [Ans. He rose up in the night and all: his servants.] How came they all to rise from their beds? [Ans. Because there was not a house in which, there' was not one dead.] Who did Pharaoh call for? 31. [Ans. Moses and' Aaron.] How did the Egyptians behave? 33. [Ans. They were urgent to send the people away.] Did the people of Israel borrow of the Egyptians jewels and raimen.t, as Moses directed them? [Ans. Yes.] How came the Egyptians to lendthem? 35. [Ans. The Lord gave them favour in the sight of the Egyptians.] Why did the Lord let them take these things? [Ans. To make them amends for their cruel bondage.] How many persons did the -family of Jacob consist of when they went into Egypt? [Ans. Seventy.] How many were there of them when they went out of Egypt? 37. [Ans. Six hundred. thousand men, besides women and children.] Was not this a wonderful increase? [Ans. Yes.] How many years were Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and the children of Israel, sojourners, without being posssessed of any country they could call their own? 40. [Ans. 430 years.] From what period are those years reckoned? [Ans. From the time that Abraham went first into Egypt.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction..-The institution of the Passover was to be olb I 104 -served as a feast for ever; that is, as long as the Israelites should continue to be the people of God. It was ordained for the Israelites, under what is called the Mosaic Dispensatation, that is, as long as the law of Moses should be in force; and the Jews of the present day, who do not believe that the Redeemer is come, but profess to keep the law of Moses, stiff ohserve the Feast of the Passover every year. When our Saviour was crucified the Passover was abolished or put an end to, therefore Christians are under no obligation t- keep it; but just before our Lord Jesus Christ offered himself for the sins of the whole world, he ordained the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, to serve as a memorial of his having died for the sins of the world, and Christians are required to shew their faith itr their Redeemer, by partaking of this Holy Scrament, instead of the Passover. Questions.---Are Christians under any obligation to keep the Passover? FAns. No.] Have they no institution by means of which they can testify their faith in a Redeemer? [Ans. Yes.] What is it? [Ans. The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper.] Who ordained this? [Ans. Christ himself.] Who are under an obligation to partake of it ) [Ans. All Christians.] Instruction.---We find that God at length subdued the haughtiness of Pharaoh, and constrained him to let the children of Israel go; that they had full liberty to depart, and went out with great riches. This'memorable event proves, that nothing can withstand the power of God; it likewise proves the love of God to his people, and the truth of those promises which he had made, of delivering the Israelites fi-om the slavery under which they had so long groaned. The history of their deliverance from Egyptian bondage should encourage Christians to depend upon the truth of God's promises respecting the deliverance of mankind from the bondage of sin and Satan. Questions.---What should Christians learn from the history of the deliverance of the children of Israel from Egyptian bondage? [,ns. To depend upon God's promises.] What has God delivered mankind from, through Christ? [ns. The bondage of sin and Satan.] LESSON LII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-.aHad the Israelites been left to themselves.ey:pr woq4. most probably have taken the nearest way toCaC r05 saan; but, after so many years of bondage, they werevery unfit to- encounter such formidable enemies as the- Philistines, The Pillar of the Cloud which went before the Israelites, was a token, to- them that the Lord God was present withthem, and. it might very properly be called the Presence of the Lord... The Lord left Pharoah to go, on in his presumptuous siir, that he might bring upon himself the destruction to which the Lord had justly doomed him. By the destruction of Pharaolt and his host,' the Lord- fulfilled all his- Divine Promises and& Threatenings respecting the deliverance of his- people fronm" Egyptian bondage and the punishment of Pharaohj and the Lord proved, beyond. doubt, that He is the L-OR1D GOD ALMIGHTY, and~that there is none-like him'in all the earth# Questions.---Did the Lord conduct the Israelites the nearest way towards the laird of Canaan? 17. [Ans. No.f Why did not the Lord let them go through the land -of the Philistines? [Ans. Lest they should repent if they saw war, andreturtfbaclk to Egypt.J Which waydid theygo? 1Ei EAns. Through the Wilderness by the Red.Sea. WhYr did -Moses- take the bones of Joseph? g19, [Ans. Because Joseph had made the people of Israel- swear to do so.] Had the people of Israel any visible token that the Lord went with them.? 21. (Ans. Yes-; theLord-went before them iii a pilrar of a cloud, to lead'them in the -way;- and by night iw a pillar of fire; to give them light. - What may this Cloudy Pillar very properly-ti Heealled? [CAns. The Ptesence of theLordGod!J What did the -Lrd say about suffeying Pharaoh to pursue them? 4. [Ahs; t wil- be hoi noured -upon-Pharaoh and-upon all his host; that the Egyptians may know that I am the- Lord.)T- Who was with Pharaoh when he pursued after Israel.? 6:- [Ac,. All the-horses and chariots of Pharaoh, and his horsemen and'his army. How were the Israelites affected when they saw Pharaoh and all his host? Io0 [Ans. They were sore afraid, and they cried unto the Lord.] What did Moses- bid them- to db when they murmured?- 13. [4ne. Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord.]; Whodid Mbses say would fight for- them'? [IAns. The Lord.) Who removed from -before the camp of Israel, and went behind it? 1I9. [Ans. The Angel of God-c] Where was he? rAns, Ihf-the-Pilaraof the Cloud. - What was ihis Pillar to-the -Egyptians-? [Ans Acloud a'd-darknessVl What was it to -the Israelites? [Ans.- A light by night.] What mi" raele.-happened whenMosesý as the minister qfGbc, stretched authis hand..over the sea? 21. [Ans.-The Lord niahiA th, se.4 106 dry land, and the waters were divided.] What did the children of Israel do then? 22. [Ans. They went into the midst of the sea upon dry ground.] What did Pharaoh and the Egyptians do? [Ans. Pursued after them.] When the Lord beamed forth his gloryfrom the Pillar of Fire, what happened to the Egyptians? 24. [Ans. They were troubled.] What did they say then? 25. [Ans. Let us flee from the face ofIsrael, for the Lord fighteth for them against the Egyptians.] What did the Lord command Moses to do then? 26. [Ans. To stretch out his hand that the waters might come upon the Egyptians, upon their chariots, and upon their horsemen.] Did the Lord overthrow the Egyptians in the sea? [Ans. Yes.] How many of them escaped? 28. [Ans. Not one.] What did the Israelites behold when they had walked through the midst of the sea? 30. [Ans. All the Egyptians dead upon the sea shore.] Was not this a most wonderful miracle? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord fulfil by his destruction of Pharaoh and his host? [Ans. His promises to the Israelites, and his threatenings to Pharaoh.] What did the Lord prove by all his wonderful miracles in Egypt and at the Red Sea? Ans. That He is the Lord God Almighty, and there is none like him in all the earth.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The Pillar of the Cloud, by giving light to theIsraelites, at the same time that it cast darkness upon Pharaoh and his host, was an emblem of God's different dealings with those who lelieve his Word and obey his commandments, and with tlfose who, having no Faith, set themselves against God and goodness. To the former his Grace is as a light to guide them in all their paths; to the latter his Anger is as a cloud to darken their minds. Spiritual darkness and hardness of heart go together; they at first proceed from indifference for religion, and unwillingness to receive divine truth; but they are afterwards increased by God's withholding his grace, as a just. and proper punishment for presumptuous sin. If we wish to avoid spiritual darkness and hardness of heart, we must yield our minds to obey the commandments of God, and pray daily for the light of his grace. Questions.--What is God's grace to those who believe hisword and obey his commandments? [Ans. A light to, guide' them in all theil- ways.] What is God's anger to those who have no faith, and who setthemselves against God and goodsesa? [Aus. As a cloud to datken their minds., What goes o10 along with spiritual darkness? [Ans. Hardness of heart.] From whence do they first proceed? [Ans. From indifference for religion, and unwillingness to receive divine truths.] How are they afterwards increased? [Ans. By God's withdrawing his grace.] Is not this a just punishment upon presumptuous sinners? [Ans. Yes.] What method must we take to avoid spiritual darkness? [Ans. Obey God's commandments, and pray for his grace.] LESSON LIII. Read to the end of verse 27. Explanation.-The Lord knew that his people had learnt many bad habits in Egypt, and that their faith was very imperfect, he therefore saw fit to expose them to a variety of, changes and trials partly to improve their minds, and mend their hearts; and partly to shew to the world the methods of his providence towards those whom he acknowledged as his people. XWe here find, that instead of cutting them off for distrusting his providence and murmuring against Moses, the Lord relieved their distress, and to strengthen their.faith gave them a Divine Ordinance. Questions.---Where did Moses conduct the people to from the Red Sea? 22. [Ans. To the wilderness of Shur.] What did they feel the want of there? [Ans. Water.] What did the people do at Marah when they found the water bitter? 23. [Ans. They murmured against Moses.] Was not this very wicked, as the Lord had wrought so many miracles for them? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord do when Moses cried unto him? 25. [Ans. Shewed him a tree to make the waters sweet.] Had not the people great encouragement to obey the Lord their God, and to do what was right in his sight? [Ars. Yes.] What place were they led to next? 27. [Ans. Elim.] Was there any want of water there? [Ans. No.) Read verse 27 to the end. Explanation;---It is to be observed, that the Lord did not speak unto Israel himself, because he hadordainedMoses to be their Mediator. The word Manna signifies, What is it? Quails were a kind of bird. The Lord sent manna from day to day, to make the people of Israel sensible of their dependance on his bounty. The withholding it on the Sabbath, served to keep in mind, that it actually came from God, and alsp to shew. that people will not be losers by keeping the Sabbath. The Israelites at ' ' * *'....... '. ' ' that' time received a command to keep the Sabbath holy.--- Probably they had been prevented from observing the sacred day in Egypt for many years; the restoring of it was a mark of God's favour, for a Sabbath Day is one of the greatest blessings any nation can enjoy. It was a very remarkable circumstance that some of the manna which would not keep from day to-day, when gathered by the people for their own eating, was preserved in a pot as a memorial for a great number of years. Questions.--What day after their departure from Egypt did the people arrive in the wilderness of Sin? 1. [Ans. On the fifteenth day of the second month.] What did they wish when they were there? 3. [Ans. They had died in Egypt.] What did they say Moses had brought them into the wilderness to do?* [Ans. To die of hunger.] IHad not the Lord given them water when they thought they should die of thirst? [Ans. Yes.] Had they reason to think he would let them die of hunger? [Ans. No.] TWho did they murmur against when they pretended to murwunuagainst Moses? [Ans. The Lord ] What did the Lord promise to Moses that he would send? 11. [Ans. Flesh and bread J, What was the flesh which the Lord promised? [Ans. Quails.) What was the bread? [Ans. Manna.] Do not you think the Israelites must have been struck with confusion when they beheld the glory of the Lord, and found that he-had heard their murmurings? tAns. Yes.J Towhom did the Lord speak? [Ans. to Moses.J Why did the Lord speak to him, and. not to the people? [Ans. Because the Lord had ordained Moses to be their Mediator.] Were the quails and the manna sent? [Ans. Yes.] What did`Moses call the manna? 15. [Ans. The bread whichi the Lord had sent.] How much were they to gather? 17. [Ans. An-omer full for every person.] Were not some of the people able to gather it up quicker than others? [Ans. Yes.] How did it turn out notwithstanding? [Ans. He that had gathered much had nothing;over;. he that gathered little had no lack.] Was not this a very worrderful circumstance? [Ans. Yes.] What happened ifthe people did not gather the aanna earlyt in the morning? 19, [Ans. When the sun was hot it melted.}, 1Hbw nuch were the people commanded to gather on the sixthday?- 21, [ /ns. Two omerseach.] Why-were they to do so? [Ans. TIat they might rest on the Sabbath.] Did anymanna.fall Bpon the Sabbath-day? [,Ais: No.] Did that which was gathe.red over and aboyef1r that day'keep? [Ans. Yes.] What did thi-41eew?- [An*. Thav the Lord. had ordained the seventh day to be. kept holy..; Did the people restupon the Sabbath 109 day? [Ans. Yes.] How came the portion which Aarof laid up to keep from spoiling? [Ans. The power of the Lord preserved it.] How long did the people of Israel. eat- manna 35. [dns. Forty years.J PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---In the history of Pharaoh we have seen the manner of God's dealing with presumptuous sinners, who set themselves entirely against God, and refuse either to believe his word or obey lis commandments. From the history of the Israelites after their deliverance from Egyptian bondage, we may learn how God deals with those that are in covenant with him. Christians should seriously attend to the history of the Israel;tes for their own edification. This Lessen teaches us, that God is good and merciful, that lie passes over many offences, and gives sinners repeated proofs of his divine goodness and compassion, that he is ever ready to provide for the necessities of his people, and that he requires the Sabbath-day to be kept holy. We cannot.read this part of the histpry of the Israelites, without blaming. them for their ingratitude; let us therefore take warning from it, and keep in mind the Divine promises, constantly looking. forward to the heavenly Canaan.} Questions.-Were not the Israelites a very ungrateful people? [Ans. Yes.1 Should Christians follow their bad example? [Ans. No.] What should they always keep in mind? [Ans, The divine promises.] What should they constantly look forward to? [Ans. The heavenly Canaan.] LESSON LIV; Read verse 1 to 7. Explanation.-By their continual murmurings, the Israetles certainly provoked the Lord tt let them perish in the Wilder, ness:-but as the Lord had promised Abraham, Isaac, andJacob,~to make of-their seed a great nation, he spared them for the sake of their forefathers-.. Questions.---How did the people of Israel provoke the Eopd in the wilderness of Sin? [,ins. By murmuring.] Why did" the Lord spare them? [Ans, Because of his covenant withAbraham,,Isaae, and Jacob.j] Read verse to theknd, Erplnatir7r.--The Lordnot nlyspared.thepeople, but of& fbred to make a covenantkwith themnupon such terms that ther 1-10 could not blt gladly accept them; and they promised to d& their part. When the people had promised to obey the voice of the Lord, the Lord informed Moses of his design to give them a Law. They were to receive this law through their Mediator Moses, that is, the Lord wonld speak the law to Moses; but the Lord promised to let the people hear his glorious voice when he should speak it, that they might believe Moses in future when he should declare unto them the words of the Lord. Hitherto the Israelites had seen the Lord only in the pillar of the cloud, which though a certain token of his Divine presence, gave but a faint idea of his glorious majesty. Little did they think what an awful scene was preparing for them! Questions.---Did such an ungrateful people deserve to betaken into covenant with God? [Ans. No.] Did theLord of his own mercy and goodness make a covenant with them? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord require on their part? 5. [Ans. That they should obey his voice indeed, and keep his covenant.] What did the Lord promise to the Israelites on his part? [Ans. That they should be to him a peculiar treasure above all people, a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation.] What answer did the people make altogether? [Ays. All that the Lord hath spoken we will do.] What did they enter into with the Lord, when they said these words? [Ans. A Covenant.] What did they bind themselves to do) [Ans. To obey the. Lord's voice indeed, and keep his covenant.] Had they not great encouragement to do so. [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord inform Moses of when the people had promisedby him, to obey his voice indeed, and keep his covenant? 9. [Ans. That he would come and speak to Moses, that the people might hear and believe Moses for ever.] Why did Moses speak to the Lord, and to the people? [,ns. Because he was their Mediator.] What did the Lord say he would do in the sight of all the people on the third day? 10. [Ans. Come down upon mount Sinai,.. What was-to be done to either man or beast who should touch the, holy mountain? [iAns. Ile was to be stoned or shot through.] Why were these ruiles ordained? [Ins. That the people might reverence the Lord.]. What was heard.and seen on thethird day in the morning? 16. [Ans. Thunder and lightning, and a thick cloud, and the sound: of the trumpet exceeding loud.i How were the people aflfected when. they heard..it [Ans. They all trembled.], How did the mountain appeari. 18Q L4ns. It was altogether in a t 111, smoke, and it quaked greatly.] How came it to beso? [ir. The Lord descended upon it in fire.] What was the name of this mount from which God spake the commandments? 18. [Ans. Mount Sinai.] What did Moses do when the trumpet sounded long, and waxed louder and louder? 18. [Ans. Moses spake, and God answered him by a voice.] Who did the Lord call up to the top of the mount? 24. [Ans. Moses.] Who else did the Lord permit to goup into the mount? [Ans. Aaron.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We should particularly observe ifi this Lesson, that as soon as the Lord-had delivered the people of Israel out of Egypt, and taken them into covenant with himself, as his peculiar people, he gave them a Law, to shew that his design in thus separating them from the other nations of the earth was to establish pure religion amongst them. Those who are properly God's people are always in covenant with him, and are bound to keep his laws. The Law was given in this solemn manner not only to. convince the people of Israel that it was God who spake to them, and to inspire them with fear, but also to teach all who should ever hear or read of it, that those who should break this law would expose themselves to the vengeance of the Lord. Questions.---For what purpose did the Lord chuse the Israelites as his people, and give them a Law? [Ans. To establish pure religion amongst them.] Who are God's peculiar people at this time? [Ans. Christians.] What are they bound to keep? [Ans. God's -laws.] Why did the Lord give the Law fiom Mount Sinai in so solemn and awful a manner. [Ans. To convince the people of Israel that it was God who spoke to them.] What was it designed to teach all who saw or should ever hear of it? [Ans. That those who should break the Law given at Mount Sinai would expose themselves to the vengeance of the Lord.] LESSON LV. Read the whole Lesson. Ekrplanation.---The Lord ordained Moses-to be the Mediator-between him and' his chosen, people the Israelites, because he knew that a Mediator was necessary for them and he knew that Moses would be a faithful Mediator, By a faithful Mediatoris meant, onewho, going, between two parties, has a regard to the honour and interest of eachb without think-- ing of himself. It appears, from the conduct of Moser, that lih had the highest regard for the honour of God, and the greatest eare for the people of Israel. That the people might know and feel that they stood in need of a Mediator, and learn to fear God, the Lord gave the Law frpm Mount Sinai with such astonishing proofs of his greatness and majesty, that thi people were ready to die with fear, and humbly entreated to have Moses as their Mediator. Questions.---What did the Lord speak when he descended on Mount Sinai'? [Ans. The ten Commandments.] What did the Lord'say of himself before he spake them? 2. [Ans. The Lord said, I an the Lord thy God, who brought thee out of the land of Egypt, out of the: house of bondage.] Whose words are the Ten Commandments? [Ans. The very words, of God.] Did the people behold the Lord God?.18. [A7ts. No.] What hid'his glory from them? [Ans. Clouds and thick. darkness:] Did' they hear the glorious voice of the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] What were the people convinced'of when they saw the lightnings, and heard the thunderings and the sound of the trumpet, and saw the mountain smoking? [Ans. That it was best for them to have a Mediator ] Why did the Lord appoint Moses to be the Mdiator between him and the people of Israel? [Ans. Because the Lord knew that Moses would be a faithful Mediator.1 TRACTICAL; INSTRUCTION. nstruction.---The Ten Commandments still make a prin* cipal part of the religion of the People of God, and in respect to them Christians may consider Moses as their Mediator; and we have reason to be thankful to God, that he has graciously given us his Law by the mediation of Moses, rather than by speaking to us himself in thunderings and lightnings; we should therefore shew our gratitude to God for the mildness of his dispensationa by keeping the Commandments aa faithfully asif we had heard them delivered from the moutth of God on Mount Sinai, Questions.---Ofwhat db the Ten Commandments stillimake. a principal part? [Ans. Of the religion ofthe people of God.] bWhat is every Christian by his baptismal vow bound to do in: respect to them? [Ans. To keep God's holy will and cmnmand, ments, and welk in the same all the days of hislife..] Should: we not study the commandments, and pray to Godtoincline our hearts-to keep themn? [Ans...e. Doa not you. think.you should-have. been as. muc4 terrified'a&Athe-Israelites were,. if * you had been present when the law was given from Mount Sinai? [Ans. Yes.] How should we shew our gratitude to God for the mildness of his dealings with us? [Ans. By keeping the commandments as faithfully as if we had heard them from God himself. LESSON LVI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--This Lesson gives an account of the ratifyihg or sealing of the covenant between God and his people. That Moses might not be suspected of imposing upon the people, the Lord vouchsafed to appear to the view of a number of witnesses, heads of families in Israel, in order to convince them of the truth. From the short account which- is here given of the appearance of the glory of the Lord, we may conceive, that it exceeded every object in nature for brightness and beauty. That the words of the Ten Commandments might not be forgotten, the Lord wrote them himself upon two tables of stone, which were called the tables of testimony. Questions.---What have we an account of in this Lesson? [Ans. The ratifying or sealing of the covenant betwixt God and his people. ] What did all the people say with one voice when Moses came down fiom the- mount, and' told them alf the words of the Lord and all the judgments? 3. [dns. All the words which the Lord hath said we will do.] For what purpose did the Lord command Moses to take Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, up into the mount? 9 [Ans. That they might see the God of Israel.] Was not the appearance of the Lord very glorious and beautiful? [Ans. Yes.] Did the Elders go up! to the top of the mount? [Ans. No.] Who did go up? [Ans. Moses.] What covered the mount when Moses remained on it ) 15. [Ans. A cloud.] How long did the Cdoud cover the mount before the Lord called unto Moses out of the cloud? [Vns. Six days.] How did the glory of the Lord appear to the eyes of the, people of Israel? 17 [Ans. Like devouring fire.] How long was Moses in.the mount? 18. [Ans. Forty dAys and forty nights.] What did the Lord give Moses when he had done-communing with him [Ans. Two tables of Testimony written with the finger of God.) What was written upon them? [dns. The Ten Commandments.J] Who was, appointed to- be the minister of Moses [Ans. Joshua.] 114 PrACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Tnstruction.---The account which we have in this Lesson of the solemnity with which the Covenant of the Lord was made, ratified, and confirmed, should put us in mind of that better covenant, into which we were taken at our baptism, which was sealed, not with the blood of bulls or of rams, but wiith the precious blood of our Redeemer, Jesus Christ; and we should remember, that for us as solemn a promise and vow has been made as that which the children of Israel uttered with one voice. If we depart from our bounden duty, if we forsake God, and are unmihdful of the Lord who bought us, we shall forfeit all the privileges of the Christian covenant, and make ourselves children of the Devil, and heirs to everlasting misery. Questions.--What should this Lesson put us in mind of? [Arns. The Christian covenant.] When were you taken into this covenant? [Ans. At your baptism.] Was any promise and vow made in your name? [,ins. Yes.] Who made it? [Ans. Your godfathers and godmothers.] What did they promise and- vow in your name? [Ans. That you should renounce the Devil and all his works, &c.] If you keep to y6ur covenant what privileges will you have? [.',ns. You will be a member of Christ, the child of God, and an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven.] If you depart wholly from this covenant what will you make yourself? [Ans. A child of the Devil, and heir to everlasting misery.] LESSON LVII. SHRead the whole Lesson. Expla'nation.--We find that the people of Israel soon departed from the Covenant of their God, and cast off their Mediator. The golden Calf, which they obliged Aaron to make for them, was in imitation of the idols of the Egyptians. By informing Moses before he left the mount of the proceedings of the people, the Lord shewed that he knoweth- all things, Moses brake the Tables of Testimony because the people had broken the Covenant. It became Moses, as the mediator of the covenant, to maintain the honour of the Lord, by having those put to death who had introduced idol worship among a people expressly chosen of the Lord as his own peculiar nation. The ~, 1 5 Levites consecrated themselves to the Lord,by separating themselves from idol worshippers, and putting them to death. Having maintained the honour of the Lord, Moses shewed his love for the people, by pleading for them. His words, Yet, if thou wilt forgive their sin; if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book of life signified, that he wished to die without entering into the land of Canaan, if the Lord would not pardon his people. Questions.--Did the people of Israel keep their covenant with God? [Ans. No.] Did they keep the first commandment? [Ans. No.] What is the first commandment? [Ans. Thou shalt have none other Gods but me.] Did they keep the second commandment? [Ans. No.] What is the second commandment? [Ans. Thou shalt not make to thyself any graven image, &c.] What graven image did they make? [Ans. A golden calf.] What was it in imitation'of? [Ans. The idols of the Egpytian nation.] What did they say when Aaron at their desire had made this idol? 4. [ Ans. These be thy gods, O Israel, which hrought thee out of the land of Egypt.] Did the Lord notice their proceedings? [Ans. Yes.] Was not the Lord very angry? [Ans. Yes.] Who pleaded for them? [Ahs. Moses.] Did the Lord spare them at his intercessiorr? [Ans. Yes.] What did Moses do when he came down from the mount and saw the calf, and the people dancing before it? 19. [Ans. He cast the Tables of Testimony out of his hands. and brake them.] Why did he do so [Ans. Because the people had.broken the Covenant.] How many people were slain that day for worshipping the golden calf? 28. [Ans. About three thousand men.] Who were on the Lord's side? [Ans. All the sons of Levi.] Did the Lord spare the people that were left when Moses prayed again for them? [Ans. Yes.] Did the Lord say their sins should go unpunished.? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction --The Israelites acted very wickedly in breaking their Covenant with God, and casting off their Mediator; ancd by doing so they exposed themselves to the just anger of God,, and cut themselves off from the hopes of forgiveness. But God, whom they had forsaken, would not readily forsake them. The Mediat6r they had despised, would not give them up; Moses interceded, and the Lord, being full of mercy and compassion, accepted his intercession; ot the people of Israel would. have been totally lost. From this Lesson we shbuld learn to reflect on the happihess of having a Mediator, and should be 116 thankful to God for sending his Son, our Lord Jesus Christ; to be the Mediator of the Christian covenant; through whom alone we can obtain remission of sins, aid be saved from everlasting death. Questions.---Do not those who call themselves Christians often forsake God, or break his commandments? [Ans. Yes.] Do Christians always pay due honour to their Mediator? [Ans. No.] What should we learn from this Lesson? [Ans. To reflect on the happiness of having a Mediator ] Can we obtain remission of our sins without a Mediator? [Ans. No.] Can we go to heaven if our sins are not remitted or put away? [Ans. No.] Who is our Mediator? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus. Christj LESSON LVIIL Read the whole Lesson, Explanatioi.--The Lord had resolved to pardon none but those who with contrite hearts should seek unto him. That every one of the Israelites might shew that he sought the Lord and wished to be reconciled to his offended God, Moses pitched the tabernacle at a distance from the camp; and, as a sign that God was willing to receive the penitent and contrite, the Cloudy Pillar stood at the door of the tabernacle. To teach 'the people to pay due honour to their Mediator, the Lord talked with Moses as a man talketh with his friend. As Israel was the first people, or nation, that the Lord had taken into covenant with himself, Moses did not fully understand the manner of the Lord's dealing; he therefore entreated to know the way of the Lord, thathe might find grace in his sight. Moses also, wished to behold the Lord in the full majesty of his glory/: this request was refused, because mortal eyes could not endure it; but the Lord promsied to. proclaim his name, and make his goodness pass before Moses. Suestion.--How were the people of Israel affected when they heard that the Lord would not go up in the midst of 'them? 5 [Ans. They mourned.} What did, the Lord require the people to do before he pardoned them? [,4ns. To humble themselves and return unto him.] What did they all do when they saw the cloudy pillar at the door of the tabernacle? 10. [Ans. Worshipped the Lord.] What did the Lord promise fien the people had humbled themselves, and Mosea had in-.... 117 terceded forthem? 14. [Ans.That his presence should go with them, and that he would give thepn rest.] What did Moses beseech the Lord to shelw him? 13. [Ans. The way of the Lord.] How came Moses not to know it? [Ins. Because the people of Israel were the first nation that were taken into covenant vith God.] What else did Moses beseech the Lord to shew him? 18. [Ans. His glory.] Did the Lord grant.this petition? [Ans. No ] Why not? [4ns. Because'no man can see God in his glorious majesty, and live.] What did the Lord promise to do? 19 [Ans. To make all his goodness pass before him, and to proclaim the name of the Lord.] sPRA-CTiCAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-In this Lesson the goodness and mercy of God are wonderfully displayed. We find when he threatened to destroy the people, it was only to bring them to a proper sense of their sin and danger, as a father threatens an undutiful child. In the New Testament our Lord Jesus Christ represents God as a most kind and tender father; we may therefore be certain he is as ready to pity and forgive Christians as he was to forgive the Israelites; but we must remember that God requires us, a$ he did the Israelites, to seek for pardon through our Mediator. Questions.--Did not God treat the Israelites with great kindness and compassion when they had offended against his holy laws? [Ans. Yes.] What may Christians then hope for when they repent and confess their sins? [Ans. Pardon.] Through whom as their Mediator must they seek it4 [Ans. Our Losd.Jesus Christ.] LESSON LIX. Read the-whole Lesson. Explanation.---The Lord proclaiming his name,and making his goodness pass before Moses, signified, describing his own di. vine character, and shewing the way of his debling with manAkind as sinners, which the wisest of mankind cannot know without divine revelation. As the people had humbled them. selves, and their Mediator had interceded for them, the Lord gave an immediate proof ofhis being merciful aidgracious, by renewing with the people, who had so greaily sinned agajpst 118 ihm, the Covenant he had formerly made with Abraham. As a, proof that the Lord had received the people of Israel into favour again, he restored to them the two tables of testimony containing the Ten Commandments. Besides the ten commandments the Lord gave many other laws and ordinances whlich related to the people of Israel only. Questions.-What did the Lord do when Moses went up into Mount Sinai? 5. [_,ns. The Lord descended in the cloud, and proclaimed the name of the Lord, and made all his goodness pass before Moses.] What covenant did the Lord renew? [ Ans. The covenant which he made with Abraham.] What did the Lord do to shew that he was reconciled to his people? [Ans. 'Ihe Lord gave Moses two tables of testimony like the first.] What. was written upon them? [Ans. The ten.commandnrents.] What did the Lord do to convince the people that he had conversed with Moses? 29. [Ans. The Lord made Moses' face to shine. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Every one should, like Moses, be desirous of knowing the way of the Lord, that he-may find grace in his sight. Though the Lord does not now appear and converse with any of the human race, his name and goodness are proclaimed in Scripture, so that the meanest person upon earth may know more of the ways of the Supreme Being, from a few short sentences, than all the wise and learned men that ever lived in the-world could discover without the aid of God's word. Let ts 1ih'tefore set a due value upon what the Lord has seen fit to reveal, and be truly thankful for the corfifort of knowing, that God is mercifial and gracious,long-suffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, keeping mercy for thousands, and forgiving iniquity, transgression, and sin; at the same time let us be fearful of breaking his commandments, since he will by no means clear the guilty, or pass over sin as if it had not been committed, but will certainly punish those who do not repent and seekito their Mediator to intercede for their pardon. Questions.-.W.What should every one be desirous of knowing? [Ans. Tbe way ofthe Lord.] Where is the Lord's name and goodness proclaimed? [Ans. In the Scriptures. What should we set a high value upon? [Ans. All that the Lord has seen fit to reveal,] What should we be fearful of doing? [.An. Of breaking God's commandments.] 119 "LESSON LX. Read to the end of verse 34. Explanation.---The Israelites had no occasion to kindlefires in their dwellings on the Sabbath, because their food was provided for them the day before by the goodness of the Lord. The different things which the people offered, the gold, the silver, precious stones, &c. were part of the spoil which they brought out of Egypt. We find, that the people offered them willingly, and that at this time both men and women were zealous for the honour of the Lord their God. From this account of their offerings it appears, that they came out of Egypt with great substance, as the Lord had promised. It is said, that God called Bezaleel and Aholiab, and filled them with the Spirit of God; by which is to be understood;,that God chose out these two men, and inspired them with skill in all manner of workmanship, so that without any human instruction in the various arts they were required to ex. ercise, they were able themselves to execute the different works appointed them in the most curious manner, and to direct others. questions.---What did Moses say in the name of the Lord, should be done to any one who should work on the Sabbathday? 2. [Ans. He should be put to death.] Where did the people get the gold and the silver, &c. of which they were required to present offerings to the Lord? [Ans. They received them from the Egyptians.] Did they make their offerings willingly? [Ans. Yes.] What did 'many of the women do? 25. [Ans. They spun blue, and purple, and fine linen.] Did the Lord choose out any men in particular to'do the curious works for the Ark and the Tabernacle? 30. [Ans. Yes; Bezaleel and Aholiab.] Was it not very wonderful that these men should, all at once, be capable of working to perfection in so many different arts [Ans. Yes.] Read from verse 34 to the end. Explanation.---During the first forty days that Moses was in the mount, the Lord shewed him patterns of every thing that was to be made; and that the different workmen might make every thing according to these patterns, they, as well as Bezaleel and Aholiab, were inspired with ivisdom from above; but Aholiab and Bezaleel were the master workpaen. The tabernacle.was to be the House of God, in whichdi vine service was to be performed, andat which the people were to'assemble for public worship. As the Israelites dwelt in tents, in the wilderpess, the house of the Lord was to be of the same construction, that it might be conveniently taken down and carried from place to place. It is not material to give you a minute description of the Tabernacle, as it was designed for the Israelites only. The Ark, or holy chest, was made for the Tables of Testimony. The covering of it was called the Mercy seat, because the Iord promised to commune with the Mediator of the people from thence. The form of these Cherubims is not described in Scripture. The Mercy seat. was a type or figure of Heaven, in which God shews his glory among the holy Angels. Questions.-Did the people bring enough of materials for the work of the Tabernacle? i Ans. Yes, much more than enough.] What was the tabernacle? [Ans. A kind of tent.] What was it to be? [Ans. The house of God.] What were the people to do in it? [dns. Assemble for public worship.] What was the ark? [Ans. A holy chest to hold the tables of testimony.] What was the covering of the ark called? [Ans. The Mercy seat.] Did Moses set up thei tabernacle when all the works were completed? [Ans. 9es ] What token did the Lord give that he approved the works? 34. [Ans. The cloud covered the tent of the congregation, and the glory of the Lord filled the tabernacle.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From this Lesson we learn, that it is agreeable to the will of the Lord that his people should assemble together in places set apart for the purpose, and join in public worship; we should therefore never neglect this duty, as is too much the custom of the present day. From the Lord's commanding the Israelites to keep the Seventh Day as a day of holy rest, we may learn to consider the observance of the Sabbath as a principal part Of the duty of those people who are in covenant with God. While the Israelites were in Egyptian bondage, it is likely they were deprived of this blessing. Questions.---How did the Lord shew that he required public worship? [Ans. By commanding the tabernacle to be made.] Are Christians required to worship God after the same manner as the Israelites did? [.lns. No.] Have they no occasion to join in public worship at all? [Ans. Yes.] What places havy we instead of ihe tabernacle? [Ans. Churches.] Here ends the second book of Moses called Exdduas." 121 LESSON LXI. Read to verse numbered 1. Erplanation.--This Lesson is composed from the eighth, ninth, and twenty-sixth chapters of the third Book of Mos* called Leviticus: this book is so called because it relates chiefly to the laws to be observed by the Levites and Priests in the Divine Service.. To consecrate any person or thing, signifies, to set it apart for the service of tho Lord. Every person or thing belonging to the Tabernacle, being consecrated to the Lord, was deemed an holy person or thing. The sacrifices consisted ofbulloclkaad, rams, and other beasts, which were slain and laid upon the altar; parts of these were burnt with fire, other parts were for the priests, and the rest for the people who offered them, and who made a feast of them in honour of the Lord, as the Lord himself ordained. The fire which came forth and consumed the sacrifices was holy fire, sent down from heaven by the Lor4 himself in token that he accepted the sacrifices. We find that a particular service was ordained by thOLord for the Tabernacle, and that an order of men were set apart.for the ministratinu of it. Questions.---Were the Israelites left to worsip God after their own fancies? [Ans. No.] Who ordained the sacrifics, &c.? [Ans. the Lord.] Ware the people left to choose the ministers of the Lord's housem [Ans. No.] Who ordained them? [Ans. The Lord. - Who were the first priests of the Tabernacle? [ACa. Aaron and his sons.] What did the Lord promise his petple if they obeyed his statutes and laws? tAns. Blessings.] What did the Lord threaten to send in case they disobeyed them? [Ans. Plagues.] Who declared these things to the people? [Ans. Moses.] What were the people of Is-. rael to be from that time?.[Ans. An holy nation., Were not the people of Israel at that time a great and honourible nation? [4ns. Yes.3 Read verse *umbered 1 to the end. Explanation.---In this account of the numberingof &e children of Israel, we sQe the wonderful increase of AIraham, Isaac, and Jacob's families, in the course of 210 years. The Levites was the tribe which descended from Levi, oin f to a 122 twelve sons of Jacob. The camp of Israel must have made a very beautiful appearance when the tents were all pitched in regular order round about the tabernacle Questions.-How many did the generation of Israel amount to? 19. [Ans. Six hundred and three thousand, five hundred and fifty.] How many did the family of Jacob consist of when he went into Egypt? [Ans. Three score and ten.] Who were the Levites? [Ans. The tribe of Levi.] Who was Levi? [Ans. One of Jacob's sons.] Were the Levites numbered with the rest of the Israelites? [Ans. No.] Why not? [Ans. Because theywere separated from the people for the work of the tabernacle. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The tabernacle, priesthood, and ordinances under the Mosiac law, were suited to the circumstances of God's people at that time, and were types and figures of better things to come;, they have been changed since the coming of our Saviour. The Israelites had great reason'to value their privileges and religious institutions; but Christians have still greater reason to value theirs: yet many who bear the name of Christians, think not of their privileges or the holy worship prescribed them; but give up their minds entirely to worldly vanities or wicked pursuits. This Lesson shews the truth of God's promises, and we should learn from it to believe all the promises in Scipture respecting a future state. Questions ---Had not the Israelites great reason to rejoice in having a religious service ordained by God himself, and a holy prie bhood? [Ans. Yes.] Have not Christians divine ordinances also? [Ans. Yes.] What promises did God make to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, concerning the number of their seed or posterity? {Ans. That they should be like the sands on the sea shore, or tvp stars in the heaven for multitude.] Was there any reasonf tohink this would be thecase befoeteGod made the promise? [Ans.No.J How old was Abrahamowfien Isaac was born? [Ans. An hundred years.] Was sot Starah old also? [Ans. Yes.] How many children had Ihsaa'- ahd.Rebekah? [Ans. Two.] Was there anygreat prospect that great nation would cope from either of these two sols? Ans. No.] How many sons had Jacob?' Ans. Twelhe.] Vhat was the number of his whole family when he went T.ifo, g pt? Ans, Threescore and ten persong..J How mardydld Se trikes amount to in the second year after they came 6tit of Egypt? [ Ins. Six hundred and three thousand, five hundred and fifty.] Does not this increase shew that God is faithful to his promises, and that he can bring the most unlikely things to pass? [Ans. Yes.] Cannot God as easily fulfil his promises concerning heavenly things, as those relating to earthly things? [Ans. Yes.] Have Christians any privileges belonging to them? [Ans. Yes.] To what do they relate? (Ans. To the kingdom of heaven.] Have Christians as pure a worship as the Israelites had? [Ans. Yes.] How are they taught to worship God? [Ans. Inspirit and in truth.] )o all Christians set a proper value upon their privileges? [Ans. No.] Whatdo many give up their minds to? [Ans. Worldly vanities and wicked pursuits.] Is it not very wrong to do so? [Anir Yes.] LESSON LXII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---When the children of Israel in Egypt first kept the passover, they eat it in haste; they could now keep the feast without any dread of the Egyptians. Every thing relating to the removing of the Tabernacle and the tribes, was ordained to preserve decorum, and prevent disputes. The prayers Which Moses used at the removing and resting of the Ark, reminded the people, that they stood in need at all times of the Divine protection. On the twentieth day of the second month, as we learn from another chapter, the Cloudy Pillar was taken up from the Tabernacle of the Testimony, and the children of Israel took their journey to the wilderness of Paran; while they abode there they offended the Lord by murmuring, and provoked him to send judgments upon them. Questions.---What feast did the children of Israel keep in the wilderness of Sinai at its appointed season? 2. [Ans. The Passover.] What was it in remembrance of? [Ans. The Lord's passing over the houses of the Israelites, when he slew the firstborn of the Egyptians.] What covered the Tabernacle by night and by day, when it was pitched in the wilderness? 15. [Ans. The Pillar of the Cloud.] By whose command did they rest or remove? [Ans. By the commandment of the Lord.] What were they to be called? [Ans. The Lord's people.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We learn from this Lesson, that the Israelites were required at all times to follow the Lord. Christians ar also required to follow the Lord, and they have in Ae Scrip G2 tures as sure a guide to heaven, as the children of Israel haa to Canaan in the Cloudy Pillar. If the Israelites rather chose to follow their own ways, than that which was pointed out to them by the Lord himself, they could have no hope of reaching the promised land; if Christians live agreeably to their own imagisations, and neglect the Scriptures, they will never find admittance into Heaven. Questions.---What had the Israelities for a guide towards Caraanaa [Ats. The Cloudy Pillar.] What have Christians for a guide to Heaven-? [Ans. The Scriptures.] Supposing the Israelites had turned their backs on the Cloudy Pillar, instead of following its movements, what would have been the consequence? [Ans. They would never have reached Canaan.] Suppose Christians neglect the Scriptures, what will be the consequence? [Ans. They will never enter Heaven.] LESSON LXIII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---The Lord commanded Moses to send men that they might see with their own eyes, that Canaan was a land flowing with milk and honey, and that the people might 'be encouraged to go to take possession of it. The report of the spies shewed tat they did not believe the Lord's promises concerning it. Questions.---How many men did the Lord command Moses to send to search the land of Canaan? 1. [Ans. One of every tribe.] How many tribes were there? [Anis. Twelve.] What nations did the spies say dwelt in the south part of Canaan? 29. [Ans. The Hittites, the Jebusites, the Amorites, and the Canaanites.] What did Caleb, one of the twelve spies, say? 30. [Ans. Let us go up at once and possess it, for we are well able to overcome it.] What did the others say? [Ans. We be not able to go up against this people, for they are stronger than we.] Who did they say they saw there? 31. [Ans. Giants.] Would they have been terrified at the thoughts of walled cities, armed men, and giants, if they had believed the promises of the Lord? [Ans. No.] Had not the Lord given the land of Canaan to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, for their seed after them? [Ans. Yes.] Did not the Lord say to Moses, when he commanded him to send men to search the land, that he gave it to the children of Israel? [ns. Yes.] What did Caleb shew by his endeavours to still the people? '.,,7F 125 [A s. That he trusted in the promises of God.] Had not tfil, Lord promised Abraham that he would drive out those very nations the spies were afraid of, and give the land to his seed? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instructiof.---As Christians we should learn from this Lessort to keep up in our minds a constant belief that God will certainly fulfil his promises; lest we should be led to think he will not put his servants in possess;on of the blessings of heaven. And we should always remember that, though we are not able to obtain these blessings by our own strength, or goodness, our blessed Saviour has supplied our defects and procured them for us; we have, therefore, only to follow in the way he has pointed out, and we need fear no enemies, however formidable. Questions.-.-Was not the Lbrd able to put his people Israel in possession of Canaan? [Ans. Yes.] Did he tell them they would be left to conquer the giants, and other powerful enemies, themselves? [Ans. No.J Are Christians required to: gain Heaven for themselves? [IAns. No.}, Who has gained it for them? [Ans. Christ.] What must all Christians do iin order to get possession of what Christ has gained for them? [Ans. Follow the way Christ has pointed out.] LESSON. LXIV. Read the whole Lesson, Erplanation.---The behaviour of the people of Israel after the report of the spies was open rebellion against God. Caleb and Joshua alone testified their faith in God's promises. The Lord's proposal to Moses to disinherit the people of Israel, and to make of Moses a greater and mightier nation than they, was made to try him, and to give him an opportunity of interceding for them, and the Lord spared the nation for Moses' sake, though he destroyed the ten wicked spies. Questions.---What sin were the Iraelites guilty of when they wished they had died in the land of Egypt, and said, Let us make us a captain, and let us return into Egypt? [Ans. Open rebellion against God.] Were they not very ungrateful thus to forget all the goodness of the Lord, and to disbelieve his promises? [Ans. Yes.] What is the defence of a people? [Ans. The blessing of God.] Did the congregation ofbIrwel 126 hearken to the admonition of Caleb and Joshua? 10. [Ans. No; they bade stone them with stones.] What appeared in the Tabernacle at this instant before all the people? [Ans. The glory of the Lord.] Do not you think they must have been struck with awe when they beheld the glory of the Lord? [ýAns. Yes.] For what purpose did the Lord make an offer to Moses to disinherit Israel? [AIns. To try him.] Did Moses desire to have the people destroyed that his own posterity might become a greater nation than they? 19. [Ans. No.] What did the Lord swear in his wrath? [Ans. That they should not enter into the land of Canaan.] What was to become of them? [Ans. They were to die in the wilderness.] What was to become of their children? 33. [4Ans. They were to wander forty years in the wilderness for their fathers' transgressions.] Were every one of that generation of Israelites to die in the wilderness? [Ans. All, excepting Caleb and Joshua.] Why were these men to be spared? [Ans. Because they were faithful to the Lord, and trusted in his word.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-The people of Israel had certainly powerful neneies to conquer, but the Lord had promised to fight for them. Christians have many spiritual enemies to stuggle with, but God has promised his grace to enable them to get the victory over them all; they should therefore take courage, and not give up Heaven, as the Israelites did Canaan, without doing their utmost to obtain it. Questions.---Should Christians be afraid to encounter their spiritual enemies? [Ans. No.] What are their spiritual enemies? [Ans. The world, the flesh, and the Devil.] Can they conquer these of themselves [Ans. No.] What will enable them to overcome these spiritual enemies? [Ans. The grace of God.] Has God promised to give his grace to those who strive to overcome their spiritual enemies? [Ans. Yes.] Did not Caleb and Joshua set an excellent example of faith and zeal? [Aps. Yes.] LESSON LXV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation. ---What is related in this Lesson happened in the fortieth year after the departure of the Israelites from Egypt at wJtch time they were advancing towards the laid of pro 127 mise. The greatest part of the people whe came out of Egypt were dead; this part of the history relates to their chidren, who were to enter Canaan at the end of forty years after the deliverance of the Israelites from the Egyptian bondage. We find this generation were murmurers like their fathers. Moses and Aaron committed a great offence; the first as Mediator, and the latter as High-Priest, should have paid regard to the honour of the Lord, instead of their own honour: the proper punishment for this offence certainly was, that they should not bring the people of Israel into the land of Canaan. But it is said, Aaron was gathered to his fathers; from whence we may judge that he went to that place of rest and peace provided for those who have lived good lives in the faith and fear of God. Questions.--To what place are the children of Israel said to have come? 1. [Ans. To the wilderness of Zin.] Were these the same Israelites who murmured at Rephidim? [Ans. No; their children.] What did the Lord say in respect to them, when he sware in his wrath, that their fathers should not enter into Canaan? [Ans. That they should enter in.] Did Aaron honour the Lord when he said, Ye rebels, must we bring water for ye out of the rock? [Ans. No.) Did Moses honour the Lord when he struck the rock r[Ans. No.] What did the Lord say to Moses and Aaron? 12. [Ans. That they should not bring the people into the land of Canaan.] Where did Aaron die? 27. [Ans. On Mount Hor.] Who was made high-priest in his stead? [Ans. Eleazer his son.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The sentence pronounced upon Moses and Aaron, who were upon the whole very faithful servants, should make us constantly attentive to maintain a steadfast faith and obedience upon all occasions. Question.---What should Christians maintain upon all occasions if they wish to escape punishment? [Ans. A steadfast faith and obedience.] LESSON LXVI, Read to ver. 12. Explanation..-The serpents are supposed to be called fiery serpents, because their bite occasioned pain like the burning of fire. The brazen serpent was set up in the wildernes to try 1 28 the fitth of the people, and that they might know it %as God who healed them. Those who, had faith in God's miercy, looked up to the brazcn serpent, and were healed..Questions.---Were not the people very wicked in speaking against God, and very ungrateful in speaking against Moses? [Ans. Yes.] How did they behave when God sent fiery serpents as a judgment upon them? [tnJs. They entreated Muses to pray for them.] For what purpoAse was the Brazen Serpent set up? [.7ins. To try the faith of the people.] What happened to those who looked up? '[ns. They were healed.] What was their looking up a sign of?, [Ans. That they believed they should be healed.] Who did the people conlquer after~his? C[ns. The Amorites.] Who were kings of the Amorites at that time? [Ins. Sihon and 0g.] Rend verse 12 to the end. Explanation.---It was shortly after the victories of the people of Israel over the Amorites, that they pitched their tents niear the mountains of Abarim. Moses relates, in the second chapter of Deuteronomy, that he prayed to the-Lord to permit him to go over Jordan, and see the good land that he had promised to the people; but the Lord did not see fit to grant his request, because he had dish.onoured him in the sight of the'people; however, the Lord graciously vouchsafed Moses a view of Canaan from the top of one of the mountains of Abarim, called in the Book of Deuteronomy Mount Pisgah,, MAoses, knew, that a people left by themselves without a Eulerciae like sheep hjavinig no shepherd; that is, theystray fromi their duty and run into mischief; therefore he wished that another Ruler mght be appointed before his death. The inhabitants -of the land of Canaan were all wicked idolaters; they had heard, that the Lord had delivered Israel out of Egypt,- and, they resolved to set themrselves against the ILord, and exalt their idols above him; and it was the will of the Lord, that thty should be'en-tirely driven out, and their idols destroyed by his own people. Q uestions.---Who did the Lord choose to skeceed Moses i 18. [Ins. Joshua, the son of Nun.] Wh.-at were the Israelites to do in respect to the inhabitants of Ctnaan?.52. [0ns. To drive them all out, and destroy their idols.] What did the Lord say the idolatrous nations should do to the Israelites if th&y did not drive them oqt? [Ans. Vex them in thý land.] WhaVdid the Lord say he would do in this case? [ins. Bring 'te~i4iplagues upon the ISraelites, which hes60'uld orberwisc bring upon the Heathen.j 129 PRACTICAL INSTIUCTION. Instruction.-This history ought to bring to our minds the words of our Lord Jesus Christ: As Moses lifted tip the brazen serpent in the wilderness, so must the Son ofMan be lifted up; that whoso believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life: and also what St. Paul saith, Let us not tempt Christ, as the Israelites tempted, and were destroyed by serpents. From Moses' earnest desire to enter the promised land, we are led to consider, how fervent our own desires should be to enter heaven. Questions.--How did the Israelites tempt God in the wilderness? [Ans. By murmuring and unbelief.] What does St. Paul caution Christians not to do? [Ans. Not to tempt Christ.} What is meant by tempting Christ? [Afs. Not believing and trusting in him as a Saviour.] Should Christians live in this world without any thoughts of Heaven [Ans. No.] Should it be a matter of indifference to us, whether we find admittance there or not after death? [Ans. No.] Do you think, that if M6ses had been indifferent respecting fteaven, he could so easily have resigned himself to the disappointment of not entering into Canaan? [Ans. No.] What should we maintain upon all occasions? [Ans. A steadfast faith.]. LESSON LXVII. Explanation.-This Lesson is taken from the fifth Book of Moses, called Deuteronomy; the word Deuteronomy signifies, a second law: the book is so called, because, that in it theLaws which God had given to his chosen people, after their coming out of Egypt, are repeated. It pleased God, that Moses should repeat these laws before his death, because those who had heard them,when they were first delivered,were dead in the wilderness. Besides these Laws, the Book of Deuteronomy contains some beautiful Exhortations of Moses to thepeople of Israel,which, though particularly addressed to them,. contain very useful instructiops for Christians also; Ibut we wil pass them over at present to ontinue the history. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--It appears from this Lessonr that the Iý rd had' evealed tb Moses all he intended to'do respecting th#people,.., '* * e 130 of Israel, and that Moses was resigned to the will of the Lord, in respect to his own disappointment in not being permitted to conduct them into the land of Canaan 3 all his concern seems to have been to make every preparation iu his power for Joshua, who was to succeed him as governor and leader of the people, and for their keeping God's commandments and ordinances. Every thing that Moses foretold concerning the people's forsaking God came exactly to pass. Questions.---What did Moses tell the people of Israel God would not permit him to do? 1. [Ans. Pass over Jordan with them.] Who did he say should go over with them and destroy the wicked nations that dwelt in Canaan? 3. [Ans. Joshua.] Who did he say would be with Joshua and the people, if they took courage and were not afraid as the wicked spies had been? 6. LAns. The Lord.] What did Moses do to prevent the law of God from being forgotten? 24. [Anis. Wrote it in a book.] What book contains this law at present? [Ans. The Bible.] Was the whole of the Bible written by Moses? [Ans. No; only five books.] What are the names of these five books? [Ans. Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, 'Numbers, and DeuteroVomy.] Where did Moses cause the Levites to put the Book of the Law, when he had written it? [Ans. In the side of the Ark of the Covenant of the Lord.] What purpose was it to serve in case of their rebellion against God? [Ins. As a witness against them.] What did Moses say he knew they would do after his death 29. [Ans. Utterly corrupt themselves, and turn aside from the way he had commanded them.] What did Moses say would happen to them in the latter days if they did so? [Ans. Evil.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We are to observe in this Lesson, that Moses, the Mediator of the Temporal Covenant, before he left the world, took care that future generations should be furnished With the written Law for their guide in the way of God's commandments. In like manner our Lord Jesus Christ has provided for the.onveyance of the Law of the Everlasting Co* venant to all generations, as long as the world shall last, by causing the Gospel to be writen. If Chrilstians stiidy this blessed Gospel with attebtion, and lve.aCtording to its Divine precepts, in Faith, and Charity,:-curageously.resisting their,spiritui eiilemies, the ILord will never fail them nor forsake tren bit'if they tui iasiefrQm the way in which they have 131 solemnly engaged themselves to walk, worse evils will befal them than were threatened to the Israelites, even eternal ones. We should therefore take warning from the exhortation of Moses, especially as a principal part of the law written by him is binding upon Christians also, Questions.-Is it not a happy thing to have a written Law to direct us in our duty? [I ns. Yes.] What Law have Christians to guide them? [Ans. The Gospel.] Who caused It to be written? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] Will the Lord be with those who keep it? [Ans. Yes.].What enemies should Christians resist with courage and without fear? [Ans. Their spiritual enemies.] Who are they? [ins. The Devil, the World, and the Flesh.] What evils will they bring upon themselves if they depart from the right way, and lead wicked lives? [4ns. Eternal ones.] Should not Christians then take warning by the exhortations of Moses? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON LXVIII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-As Moses was such a faithful friend and Mediator to the people of Iskael, it was doubtless a great comfort to him to have a view of the land they were soon to be put in possession of. As God took Moses, and did not leave him to be buried by his friends, we cannot doubt but that he was removed from this life into the Paradise of God. As a proof of tis, 'we are told in the New Testament, that two of the apostles Peter and John, beheld Moses talking with our Saviour at his transfiguration. The spirit of wisdom, which Joshua received when Moses laid'his hands upon him, was the gift of God, to qualify him for his office aS'sudb6sso6 to Moses. Questions.-'-Whe're did M8ses go to when he had finished his exhortations? I. [Ans. To thet6p of Pisgah.] What did he see from thence, IAns. The whble land of Canaan.] What happened to him after this 5. fAns. MOses died there.] What became of him? tAns. The Lord buried him.] How old was Moses when he died? [Ans. One hundred and twenty years.] Did he lose his sfrength, and did his faculties decay, as is usul in old age [Ans.n o. WWas hot this b won-' A&rfu civ-cnmstande As.Ys. v7i5,&weqe hpepeo l'srael at&hcted at his death? 8ý. [Ans..They'- "~eptý for' him thirty days.]. PRACTICAL INS5TRUCTION. Inistruction..--It is certainly our duty to bion'oir the memory of this hocly i-an, wvho was, the Deliverer and Laýwgiver of.the people of God, and a great prophe~t ý-aitl to re'verence the Law '%rhich he 14as.. left us. in writing aEesi'd *S' this, we, ought to0 follow the e'ainple of his virtues, and particularly, of his faith:, ze~aI, anid diligeci~e in'the service, of G~od; and his initegrity, meekness, patience, and char~ity, in his conduct toward i his fellow'-creatures. -Questionis--Do not you thiink we ought to honour the memiory of such a holy m~an as Moses? C,4ns'.-Yes.] Ought we not to rev ernce the Lav whichi he'recei* ed fromteouhf God, and "wrote by the comamand of God? [Ans. Yes.] What should we endeavour to follow? [Ans. The example of his virtues.] Instructioin.-We 'a.r'e no-w come to the conclusion of the five Books of Moses; the- last verses of this Lesson are supposed to have been added by Joshua. LESSONLFX E~xplanation.-The Book from whence thi6.a'an some of the' followipg ]Lesson's are taken is call~edThe Book of Joshua. I't thews ho the children of Israel conqu~ered Canaan under the f,6fidu'ct'6?1 Joshi~a, who was ordaineido6fGod to succeed Mos8es as leade'r'.d jic o*vernor of Israel. At t 7he time. the Lo6rd'cw c abruaded Joshua, to. go over Jordan, there was no bridge. by which thep peopeq CQul4-pasts -it,, neitheir were they provided with.*6 rv b', ts; and the ri:r.r, though not bro~d, was too, r~agd for them' to swimn over~ but at this time the people, as weir ais.k~u reposed entire confidence. in the word aid power ofAhe Lord. Byý the Israielites being coinxnanded to'prebaie victuals for themiselves, we may judge they 1,ad received. ipitimation that m''anna would cease. Questions.--,Was it an.easy thin -for'theý Israelites to pa," the Jordan.) 'zk.No. What-'di they rely ''.pon i [Ans. The wp-rd and vowar&6f tlbe Lord) "Who was to be* theit leader %wd goveraor 14n t~ 'roioni df~osei? )o n~ [Joulaun.] 133 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From the Lord's injunctions to Joshua, to meditate in the Book of the Law day and night, we may understand, that a diligent study of the Scriptures, with a view to make them the rules of our conduct, is the only way to secure our happiness. Questions.-What should we meditate upon day and night? [,ns. The Holy Scriptures.] SLESSON LXX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-After the death of Moses we do not read any more of the Cloudy Pillar's appearing. The Lord afterwards made his Presence visible in the Tabernacle upon the mercy-seat that covered the Ark. The Ark contained the Testimony of the Covenant between God and his people, written on two tables of stone; the Lord sending the Ark before them, and causing Jordan to divide as soon as the feet of the priests who bore the Ark were dipped in the water, sheived that the dividing of the waters was a miracle performed by the power of God.?Questions.-What did the Ark contain? [Ans. The Testimony of the Covenant between God and his people.] What was this Testimony? [Ans. The two Tables of the Law Written with the finger of God.] Did the miracle happen as the Lord foretold? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Israelites understand by this? [Ans. That the living God was'amongst them, and would drive the idolatrous nations from before them.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-As the Lord made the' passage through an' impetuous river safe and easy to the Israelites, so will he also conduct his faithful servants safely through death to the regions of eternal bliss. We should therefore take courage, and not be dismayed by any dangers which threateak us; for nothing can deprive us of aheavenly.in tace i we continw,faithfui ad obedient...:;,.., -. ' Questionss.,rNWha were the Israelite.s obiged to pa4hrough bdfore they could get to the land of CapaSt [ n4y. The River Jordan.J What must every Christian pass through 134 before he can get to Heaven? [Ans. Death.] Did the Lord. conduct the Israelites safely through the River Jordan? [Ans Yes. [What hope may Christians form from this miracle? [Ans. That God will bring them safely through death to the heavenly Canaan.] Who will God conduct safely to their heavenly inheritance? [Ans. All who are faithful and obedient.] LESSON LXXI. Read the whole Lesson, Explanation.-The Israelites passed over Jordan just forty years wanting five days after their departure from Egypt, four days before the annual solemnity of the Passover, on the very day on which the preparation for it began. In a chapter which is not among the Lessons, we are informed, that after the people of Israel had passed over Jordan, they encamped at Gilgal, and kept the Passover; and that the day after the passover, they eat of the old corn of the land of Canaan, and the day after that the manna ceased, from which time they had no more manna, but did eat of the fruit or produce of the land of Canaan. Questions.-What memorial did the people set up in Jordan? [Ans. Twelve stones.] What happened as soon as the priests who bore the ark came out of the river? 3. [Ans. The waters returned.] How long was it from the time of the people of Israel's leaving Egypt to their entering into the land of Canaan? [Ans. Forty years wanting four days ] How long was it from the time of their preparing to eat the passover in Egypt? [Ans. Exactly forty years.] What did they eat the day after the passover? [Ans. Leavened cakes made of the corn of the land.1 Was manna continued to them? [Ans. No; it ceased the next day.] What did they eat of afterwards? [Ans. Of the fruits of the land of Canaan.] PRACTICAL INSSTRVCT'lON. Instruction.-The last verse of this Lesson informs us of the use we are to make of this part of the history of the children of Israel, namely, to consider the works of the Lord and to learn to fear him. Even children may do this; and we find that the people of Israel were expressly commanded to make their clildren acquainted with the astonishing transaction in their d4ys; of coutse it was epected that children should pay proper regard to it. 135 Questions..--For what purpose did theLord work the miracle of dividing the waters of Jordan? 23. [Ans. That all the people of the earth might know the hand of the Lord, that it is mighty.] What were they to learn from this display of Almighty power? [Ans. To fear the Lord for ever.] Were the Israelites to make their children acquainted with the miracle? [Ans. Yes.] As the children were to be told of the miracle, do not you think they were required to learn from it to fear the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] Have not Christian children the same Lord God as the Israelites had? [lns. Yes.] Should not they also learn to fear him? [,ns.Yes.] LESSON LXXII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanationi.-Jericho was a city just opposite to the place where the Israelites passed the River Jordan, and the nearest for them to attack. It is related in a former chapter, that before Joshua set off with the people to go over Jordan, he sent two men to view the city of Jericho; these men were received into the house of a woman whose name was Rahab, who entertained them hospitably, because she had faith in the Lord; and she hid them from the men of the city when they were in search of them: in return for this kindness, the men made Rahab a solemp promise, that they would shew kindness to her and her father's house; and we here read, that Joshua sent the two men to make good their promise. Questions.-Do you not think the proceedings of the Israelites must have appeared very extraordinary to the people of Jericho? [Ans. Yes.] Must it not have been very astonishing to see the walls of the city fall down flat, without any visible means being used to demolish them? [Ans. Yes.] To whose glory did this victory redound? [Ans. To the glory of God.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From this Lesson we learn, that no adversary, however formidable, can stand against the power of the Lord, and that the strongest walls are no defence to those whom the Lord for their wickedness has devoted to destruction. Questions.-If the Lord has devoted aplace to destr tion, can menpreerve it? [Ans. No.] Whatisthe bestdf 136 for a city? [Ans. The favour of the Lord.] What cities will the Lord protect? [Ans. Religious ones.] What cities will he devote to destruction? [Ans. Wicked ones.] LESSON LXXIII. Read the whole Lesson. Ejxplanation.--In this Lesson we have a summary or short account of ail the kings whom Joshua and the Israelites vanquished. The speedy conquest of Canaan plainly shews, that the Lord was with his people, and convinces us of the truth of all tde promises God had made to the children of Israel by Moses; that their enemies should not be able to stand before them; and that he would give to his people the country and cities of the Canaanites to dwell in. Questions.---What should the knowledge that God is true to his promises lead us to do? [A/ns. To put our trust and confidence in him.] What should the destruction of the cities over which their kings reigned make every nation afiaid of? [Ans. Being wicked.] LESSON LXXIV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-In the chapters of the Book of Joshua which come betwixt the last Lesson and that which we are now going to consider, we have an account of Joshua's dividing the land of Canaan among the different tribes by lot, and it is very wonderful to think that each tribe gained, by lot, the very parts of Canaan which the Patriarch Jacob, before his death, prophesied they would inhabit;.with which the division of the land, that Moses had made by the command of theLcrd, also agreed. The exhortation of Joshua was like those which Moses, before his death, gave to die people. Questions.-How did Joshua divide the land of Canaan among the twelve tribes of Israel? [Ans. By Lot.] Had they driven out all the idolatrous nations at this time? [Ans. No., Did not Joshua tell the Israelites that the Lord would. driv| the ret, put if they would keep his Law? [Ans. Yes.] Diac ot Josh say a great deal in the name of the Lord to 137 encourage them to do this? [Ans. Yes.] What did Joshsu tell them the. Lord would not do if they should go back from serving him, and join with the heathen nations? [Ans. Not drive out the nations.] What did Joshua say these nations would be to them if they suffered them to remain? [Ans. Snares and traps, and scourges in their sides, and thorns in their eyes.] I-ow did Joshua know the Lord would- do these things to Israel? [Ans. The Lord revealed it to him.] What had failed of all that the Lord had before promised them! [Ans. Nothing.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Joshua's admonition to the Israelites shews us, that, keeping firmly to the service of God, and obeying his laws, is the only way to secure the happiness of a nation; and that on the contrary, disobedience and ungodliness deprive a nation of the divine blessing. This should lead every person to live a righteous life, that he may do his part towards brings ing the blessing of God upon the nation to which he belongs. Joshua reminded the Israelites, that not one thing had failed of all that the Lord God had promised. Christians should learn from this, to depend upon the promises made to them through Christ, which will be as surely fulfilled as those to the Israelites were. Joshua warned the Israelites of the evil they would bring upon themselves, if they broke their covenant with the Lord theirGod. Christians should take warnitng also, for great evils will befall them; if they forsake the Lord their Saviour they will perish everlastingly. Questions.---Is it not a sad thing for any one to help to bring down a curse upon his country? [Ans.'Yes.] What will happen to us if we forsake our God and Saviour? [Ans. we shall perish everlastingly,] S LESSON LXXV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---By the other side of the flood, ver. 2. was meant, the other side of the river Euphrates, where Mesopotamia was situated. In the following verses Joshua reminded the people of What the Lord had done for thenq( fromr the time of Abraham's being called out from amongst, idaters toservethq true and only God... Questioans.,h-What does Joshua remind the Israelitps f in 138 this Lesson. [Ans. Of the great things God had done for them.] How far does he go back? [Ans. To the days of Abraham.] Who did he admonish them to serve faithfully? [Ans. The Lord.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Christians, as well as Israelites, should make a deliberate choice; not, indeed, whether they will serve God or worship images, but whether they will keep tnre to the Christian covenant, and live according to God's holy will and commandments; or, whether they will set their affections upon the pomps and vanities of this life, and seek only how to gain worldly riches, honours, and pleasures. That excellent man Joshua was remarkable for his faithfulness to God. He remembered his Creator in the days of his youth, and obtained the divine blessing, which attended him through life. Every master of a family should take up the same pious resolution as he did to serve the Lord with his whole household. Eleazar also led a pious life, and died an honourable death. Christians should take example from these good men in resolving to testify their faith in God, and in doing their duty in that state of life unto which it shall please God to call them. Questions.-Are Christians required to make a deliberate choice who they will serve? [Ans. Yes.] Who will be happiest, do you think, those who make a serious resolution to lead a Christian life, or those who despise religion, and give themselves up to the world? [Ans. Those who resolve to lead a Christian life.] In what particulars should all Christians resolve to imitate the examples of Joshua and Eleazar? [Ans. In testifying their faith, and doing their duty.] LESSON LXXVI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---This Lesson is taken from the Book of Judges, so called, because it contains the history of the Israelites under the Judges, who were persons that God raised up, from time to time, to deliver them from their enemies, and to govern them. In the first chapter of the Book of Judges, which is not among these Lessons, we read, that God did not forsake his peopJ after the death of Joshua, but that he continued to subdue Jhe Canaanites before them. The generation which are said to have been gathered to their fathers, consisted of those 139 people who lived under Joshua's government. The word Baalim signifies, idols, or Heathen gods. Baal was an idol worshipped by the Moabites; Ashtaroth an idol of the Assyrians. From this Lesson we learn, how God dealt with the Israelites when they fell into idolatry, and when they turned from their evil ways; which was exactly according to the warning God had given to their forefathers so many years before, and which the Lord had caused to be written in the Book of the Law before the death of Moses. We have also in this Lesson an account of the nations which God saw fit to leave to prove Israel. The idols of the groves, which they are said to lhve wotshipped, were Heathen gods, to which superstitious rites were performed in groves set apart for the purpose. In some chapters, which are not among these Lessons, there is an account of the deliverance wrought for the Israelites by each of the judges. Questions.--Did God forsake the Israelites after the death of Joshua? [Ans. No.] What did God continue to do? [Ans. To subdue the Canaanites.] What happened when there arose another generation of Israelites after the death of Joshua? 10. [Ans.They did evil in the sight oftheLord, and servedBaalim.] What is meant by the word Baalim? [Ans. Idols, or Heathen gods.] What idols in particular did those worship who forsook the Lord? 13. [Ans. Baal and Ashtaroth.] Did the Israelites keep themselves separate fromsthose idolatrous nations that were left to prove them? [Ans. No.] Did the Israelites destroy their images, and cut. down their groves? [Ans. No.] How did God punish them for letting idols remain in the land he had given them, and for worshipping idols? [Ans. The Lord delivered them into the hands of their enemies.] Who did the Lord raise up to deliver them when they turned unto him? [Ans. Judges.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--As the behaviour of the Israelites, in forsaking the Lord to follow idols, must appear to us very ungrateful and wicked, Christians should resolve to keep faithful to their covenant, and to serve the Lord truly all the days of their lives. Questions.---Do not you think the Israelites were very ungrateful in forsaking the Lord to follow idols? [Ans. Yes.1 Are not Christians equally so, who forsake the worship of God to join in any kind of wickedness? [As. Yes.) jVhat should we resolve to do? [Ans. To serve God truly the days of our lives. 140 LESSON LXXVII Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---This Lesson is taken from the first Book of Samuel, and it gives an account of the birth of that prophet. Wherever the ark of theLord was fixed, all the men of Israel were required togo three timesa year at the great Festivals to offer sacrifices. The women of Israel thought it a great misfortune not to have children, as they were supposed not to have the blessing of the Lord. A Nazarite signified a person devoted to the Lord, and under a vow to observe an uncommon purity of life. The bullock was killed for a sacrifice. Questions.---Of whose birth doth this chapter give an account? [Ans. The Prophet Samuel.] What was his father's name? 1. [A4ns. Elkanah.] What was his mother's name? [Ans. Hannah.] What did Hannah vow to the Lord, if he would give her a man child? 11. [Ans. To give him to the Lord, and that he should be a Nazarite from his birth.) What did she mean by a man child? [As. A son.] Did the Lord give her a son? [Ans. Yes.] What did she name him? [Ans. Samuel.] What did Hannah do as soon as she hadweaned her little son? 24. [Ans. She brought the child to the house of the Lord at Shiloh.] What did little Samuel do? tAns. He worshipped the Lord.] Was not his early piety a sign that he had paid attention to the good instructions that had been given him? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-Hannah set an example of meekness and piety which is worthy of imitation. When she was in trouble she called upon the Lord, and he lent a gracious ear to her humble petition. When she was accused of a crime of which she was not guilty, she gave a mild and humble answer. The judgment which Eli, the high-priest, passed upon Hannah should be warning to us, never to judge hastily of our neighbours, or condemn them merely for some things which appear to us to be wrong; since, by doing so, we may chance to call actions criminal, which may be not only innoce t, but well pleasing to God.: estidns---Wbo should follow Hannah's example in prayingto earnestly to God? [Ans. All who are in trouble.] 141 Who should follow her example in giving a meek answer? [Ans. All Who are unjustly accused.] What should we take warning from Ell's behaviour to Hannah not to do [Ans. Not to judge hastily of our neighbours.] LESSON LXXVIII. Read the uwhole Lesson. Erplanation.---Sons of Belial, signify, wicked people. The linen ephod was one of the priestly garments., Eli reproved his sons mildly for their ill conduct, but he ought to have punished them, by putting them out of the ministry. Questions.---Were Eli's sons good men? [Ans. No.] Did Samuel follow their bad example? [Ans. No.J Who was he in favour with? [Ans. Both God and man.] What punishment did the Lord threaten to send upon Eli? [Ans. To cut off his family from the priesthood.] What was to be a sign of the Lord's doing so? 34. [Ans. That Hophni and Phineas, Eli's two sons, should both die in one day. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We learn from this Lesson, that it is the duty of parents to punish their children for their faults, and that, when they neglect to do so, they offend God; since this is the case, it must be the duty of children to submit to their parents, when they see fit to chastise or punish them:, if they would avoid punishment, let them do well, and there will be no occasion to inflict it. There is in this Lesson one text that demands particular attention, because it is a declaration from God himself; and it concerns all mankind: Those who honour me I will honour; and those who dishonour me shall be lightly regarded. Even children may honour God, by devoting themselves to his ser, vice in their early days, and by endeavouring to please him; and they dishonour God, when they break his Sabbati, take his name in vain, or do any kind of wickedness. YQuestions.--What is it the duty of children to do when their parents see fit to chastise them? [Ans. To submit.] How may children avoid chastisement? [Ans. By doing Whit tAy ought to do.] What text in this Lesson conceris every oni? 30. [Ans. Those who honour me I wilUhonour; nd thoe w10 141 dishonour me shall be lightly regarded.] Can children honour God? [Ans. Yes.] How can they do so? [Ans. By devoting themselves to him, and striving to please him. How do many children dishonour God? [Ans. By Sabbath-breaking and taking his name in vain.] LESSON LXXIX. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--While the sons of Eli were dishonouring God, Samuel was devoutly attending to his service; he honoured the Lord, and the Lord highly honoured him, for he called him to the office of a prophet in his early years. Samuel's backwardness to declare the sad tidings he had received, shews, that he had a very tender respect for Eli, and was unwilling to grieve him. The patient resignation of the unhappy father shews, that his heart acknowledged the power of God, and the justice of the sentence pronounced against his wicked sons. Shiloh was the place at which the house of the Lord, the tabernacle, was pitched in the days of Joshua, and where it had remained upwards of three hundred years. It must have been a very great comfort, as well as advantage, to the people of Israel to have an established prophet. Questiens.---Did the Lord often appear and speak to particular persons at that time as he formerly did to Abraham and the other patriarchs? [Ans. No.] Did the Lord speak to Samuel? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord reveal to Samuel? [Ans. That he was about to perform whit he had threatened to Eli's house.] What did Eli say when he heard the word of the Lord? 18. [Ans. It is the Lord, let him do what seemeth him good.] Did Samuel follow the example of Eli's wicked sons? [Ans. No.] Did he honour the Lord?.Ans. Yes,] Did the Lord honour him? [Ans. Yes.] How did the Lord honour him? [Ans. By calling him to the office of a prophet.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Jnstruction..-From God's making himself known to Sarel when he was very young we learn that the Lord delightb tdmanifest himself to those that fear him; and that he be* stows his spiritual gifts and graces on those who devote them' 143 selves to his service in their early years, though he does not make them prophets. We should also learn from this Lesson to be ready at all times to hearken to the word of the Lord whenever we hear or read it; and to speak even disagreeable truths without fear or shame when our duty requires it. Eli's example should teach those who are justly punished for their sins to submit with patience to the chastisements of the Almighty. Questions.---What will God bestow upon those who serve him in their early years? [Ans. His spiritual gifts and graces.] What should we be ready at all times to hearken to? [Ans. The word of the Lord.] Where are we to look for it? [Ans. In the Scriptures.] What should those do who are justly punished for their sins? [Ans. Submit with patience to the chastisements of God.] LESSON LXXX. Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.--The Law of God expressly commanded, that when the people were settled in Canaan the Ark should rest, that all might go up to it. It appears that Eli was conscious he had not done right in suffering the Ark of the Lord to be removed; but he yielded this matter, like others, to his wicked sons. When the Ark was taken, the glory of Israel was departed. Questions.---What was fulfilled by the taking of the Ark, and the other disastrous events that are related in this Lesson? [Ans. All that the Lord had threatened against Eli aiahis sons.] What departed from Israel when the Ark of the Lord was taken. [Ans. The glory of the Lord.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From the miserable deaths of Eli and his sons we learn, that the threatenings of the Lord are as surely executed as his promises are fulfilled. Eli's sons were punished for presumptuous sin; Eli himself for suffering them to dishonour God. Samuel, on the contrary, for honouring God was highly honoured; he was made the prophet of the,Lord, and was in favour with God and man.. Questions.---Are not the threatenings of G4 ~lasrdy 144 evWtel as hi promises are fulfilled? [A4ns. Yes.] What proof have we of this in the Lesson you have-been reading? [Ans. The miserable death of Eli and his sons.] LESSON LXXXI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-The House of Dagon was a temple in which that idol was worshipped. When the Philistines carried the Ark in thither, they insulted the Lord God of Israel; and what happened in respect to the image of Dagon, as well as the diseases which were sent upon the Philistines, were proofs that Dagon was a dead idol, and that the Lord God of Israel was the only true and Almighty God. Questions.--What was shewn by Dagon's being broken to pieces? [Ans. That he was a dead idol.] Why were the Philistines afflicted with diseases? [Ans. To punish them flor insulting the Lord.God of Israel.] Explanation.--As the Philistines humbled themselves!befre the Lord, he granted them the,sign they required.'It wa certainly a very remarkable circumstance, that cows, w hichl had calves shut up at home, should keep on travelling amiay from' their young ones, instead of returning back to them but it shewed the power of the Lord over brute creaturel. It was the positive command of the Lord, that none but Levites should touch the Ark, because they alone were set apart for'the service of thd tabernacle. The Bethshemites were punished for looking into it, in order to teach the Israelites to fear and reverence the Lord, and that they might not break the divine ordinances. Kirjath-jearim was in the road to Shiloh, but we do not read that the Ark was restored to its former place. After the death of Eli, there was no high-priest, nor any regular service il the tabernacle. Samuel was both judge and prophet. The absence of the Ark from the tabernacle was justly considered as a great misfortune by the Israelites i but they did not dare to remove it thither without the Lord's permistio~a and, while they had idols among them, the Lord woul8 not suffer them to remove it. When they had put away their idols, the Lord reetored the cities that hýad b@c0 t Ma frola thea^: - 145 Questions.--Did the Philistines humble themselves ee the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] What did their priests advise them to do? 3. [Ans. To send a trespass offering.] How came the Cows to travail with the Ark away from their young ones? [Ans. The power of the Lord made them.] Why did the Lord make these creatures do so? [Ans. Because the Philistines required it as a sign that the Lord had afflicted them.} What did Samuel advise the Israelites to do when the Ark was restored? [Ans To put away their idols, and serve the Lord only.] What did the Lord do for them when they had put away their idols, and resolved to serve him only? [Ans. The Lord delivered them out of the hands of the Philistines.]} PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From the judgments which God sent upon the Philistines we learn, that God will maintain his own ho. nour if men dishonour him; and that though he.sometimes suffers wicked people to follow their own imaginations, and to do things which seem to take from his glory, he at length exerts his power to the conffision of those that offend him, and to the honour of his holy name. This should make every one fearful of doing any thing to the dishonour of God. The Philistines themselves, however; at this time set a good example, by endeavouring to appetse the anger of God, in.stead of defying him as Pharaoh and the.Egyptians had done. From the Lord's delivering the Israelites out of the hand sof. the Philistines, after they had humbled themselves and put away their idols, we learn that God is always ready to forgive when sinners shew sincere repentance. Questions.---What may we learn from the judgments that were inflicted upon the Philistines for affronting the honour of God? [Ans. That God obliges his enemies to acknowledge his power.] What is God always ready to di whiý sinners shew sincere repentance? [Ins. To forgive them.J, LESSON LXXXII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---It was a great crime in the Israelites to demand a king, as the Lord himself vo0uhsafed tote their king,. Neither did they say, Giwei u. wis-e and k ing, * - 145 that shall rule us according to the -aw of God; but, Give us a king to judge us like all the nations. The Lord saw fit to punish them, by grauting their request; but, that they might see tiflir own folly in what they-asked, and understand, that their condition would not be mended by the change they required, the Lord directed Samuel to describe to them what sort of a governor a king like those who ruled over the heathein nations would be. Questions.--What were all other nations at that time? [.ds. Idolaters.] Was it not very foolish, as well as wicked, in the Israelites to desire to be on a ftoting with-idolatrous nations? [Ans, Yes.J Who was properly their king? [Ans. God.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--We learn from this Lesson, that when people are bent upon following their own will, rather than the Will of God, he permits them to do.o for their punishment. This should lead us to resolve to make the will of God the rule of all our actions; and we may know God's will by means of the Scriptures, as perfectly as if a prophet was sent to reveal it to us..Questions.---How does God frequently punish those who prefer their own will to his? [Ans. By permitting them to do what they desire.] What should this make us resolve to do? [Ans. To make the will of God the rule of our actions?] How can we know the Will of God? [Ans. From the Scriptutes.] LESSON LXXXIII. Read the whole Lesson. E rplanation.--The Lord did not leave the Israelites to chuse a kinh tor themselves, neither did Samuel appoint one from his own judgmerit, but waited for the Lord's direction, who called IStael his inheritance, and his own people' and their king captain of his inheritance, because he still vouchsafed to rule over them as their King, though they had rejected him. Questions.--Who did the Lord appoint to be king of Israel? [.Ins.Saul, the'son of Kish.] Who anointed him? [Ans. Samuel.] How came Saul to go to Samuel? [Ans. Ile went to inquire after his father's asses.]. PJIRA(CTICAL INSTRUCTION. Insuctioni.-.In this Lesson we have a remarkable instance of an over-ruling Providence, which disposes all things to the 147 accomplishment of the designs of God, in ways which men think not of; and it sbould teach us to believe in a particular Provideuce, which ordereth all events. Questions.--Did Saul expect tofind a kingdom when he was seeking his father's asses? CAns. No.];Did the Israelites expect that an obscure man of the tribe of Benjamin, which was the least of all the tribes, would be their king? Ans. No.] What may we learn from the circumstances which are related in this Lesson? [Ass. To believe in a particular Providence.] LESSON LXXXIV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---From the lot falling upon Saul, we have a farther, proof, that nothing happens by chance, but that all things are under the direction of the Almighty Ruler of the universe. The Spirit of the Lord was sent upon Saul to give him courage, and to enable him to do his duty as a king, which he could not otherwise have known, as he had always lived in a private station. - The reason Nahash desired to have the right eyes of the Israelites thrust out, was that they might not be able to fight either with bows and arrows, or with swords and shields. It is evident that Saul was inspired by the Lord, or he could not have conducted a battle so skilfully, having never been the least accustomed to war. Saul gave a proof of his moderation when he forgave those who had treated him so disrespectfully. Questions.--What did thelot filling upon Saul shew? [Ans. That the Lord.had chosen hinm. How came Saul to know how to act as a king? [Ans. The Spirit of the Lord came upon him.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From the Lord's sending his Spirit upon Saul, we may learn, that when God allots any one to any particular station, he grants him the necessary gifts for the discharge of the duties of it. Under.the Christian covenant, not only kinmg and tulers, but every private person, may have the help of God's Holy Spirit, to enable them to dotheir respective tuties) if they will pray for it with humility4 M '1 148 -QueStions..-- To whom will God grant the help of his Holy Spirit, toenable them to do their duty? [Ans. to all who pray for it with humility.] LESSON LXXXV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation ---Before the affair of the Amalekites, Saul had committed offences for which he had been reproved by SamueL In respect to the Amalekites, it was Saul's duty to fulfil the commandment of the Lord exactly: he acted the part of a hypocrite when he said to Samuel, Blessed be thou of the Lord; I have performed the commandment of the Lord. By these words Saul she wed, that he lad not fallen inadvertently into sin, but that his heart-was corrupt, and that he was not fit to lead the people out to war against the enemies of the Lord. Questions.--Did Saul go against the Amalekites as the Lord commanded? [Ans. Yes.] Did he utterly destroy them? [Ans. No.] Was it not very presumptuous in Saul to preserve what the Lord saw fit to devote to destruction? LAns. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRVCTION. itstruction.---Saul's conduct shews that the Spirit of the Lord does not force men to do their duty; their will is free, so that they may either follow the motions of the Holy Spirit or not; and that when they do' act contrary to them, they provoke God's anger. From Samuel's rebuke to Saul we learn, that we must obey all God's.commandments, without seeking for reasons for breaking them: we also learn, that God does not regard any outward homage which is paid.him, if it be not accompanied with obedience of-heart: and we farther learn, that God, who knows the heart, disregards and rejects those whose repentance is not sincere. This should lead us to Axamine our own hearts, before we entreAt God to pardon our sins. Questions.--What should always accompany the outward hoSmage we pay to God? [Ans. Obedienceof heart.] Does not God inow all hearts? [Ans. Yes.] How does God treat those who express sorrow, for sin with their lips, without,hayipg, it in their.earts? (Ans. God disregards and rejects them.] What shoul we do before we entreat God to pardon ear.irs I [Ans. Examine our own hearts.] 149 LESSON LXXXVI.;Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.---God preferred David to hiselder brothers, on account of the goodness of his heart. Though David was anointed, that he might act as the captain of the Lord's inheritance, in delivering the Israelites from their enemies, he wps not to take the throne till after Saul's death; for God saw fit that David should undergo a variety of trials before he was king; It is said in a chapter which is not among these Lessons, that an evil spirit from the Lord troubled Saul, bywhichis generally understood, that, instead of the comforts of the Holy Spirit, Saul, at times, was afflicted with the deepest melancholy, for which he could find no remedy but in music: and the Providence of God so ordered events, that David, by playing on his harp, was his comforter on these occasions. By going to Saul's court for this purpose, David had an opportunity of making his merits known. Questions.---Did Samuel know before he went which of the sons of Jesse he was to anoint? Ans. No.] How ma.ny of his sons did Jesse cause to pass before Samuel? [Ans. Seven.] Did the Lord choose any one of them? [ALns. No ] Who did the Lord command Samuel to anoint? [Ans. David, Jesse's youngest son.J What came upon David as soon as he was anointed? [Ans. The Spirit of the Lord.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Insiriction.-'-The instruction we receive from the Lord's choosing David in preference to all his brothers is, that God prefers piety and uprightness of heart to every qualificatidn,which the world is apt to admire: the poorest person upon earth may, on this account, be more estimable in the sight of God, than those who are admired in the world for the most shining qualities. This should teach us to attend to the. improvement of the heart above all things. Questions.---What does the Lord look at or approve? [Ats. The heart.] Is it not in the power of the poorest person updn earth-to be pious and upright in heart? [Ans. Yes.] What should every one, *hether rich or poor, attend to in thl Airst place?'['Ans. The improveient of the heart.1 1.50 LESSON LXXXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Lrplanatipn.---We find, that afterDavid had been wvithi Saul some time, he returned back to keep his father's sheep; this slhewed great humility and prudence. The giant Goliath was nearly thirteen feet high; hiis coat of mail weighed above an hundred and eighty-nine pounds, and the wv-eighit of his spear's head was upwards of twenty,-t-%-o pounds, so that he must have had prodigious strength to have been able to carry them. David's going to the camp appeared like accident, but there is no doubt it was so ordered by Divine providence. The diffiercnc between Saul and David in poilit of courage at this time, arose from one being forsaken of' the Lord, and tie other inspired by him. David took the sling and stones, instead of the armour, to sliew, that he confided entirely in the power of the Lord, who certainly inspired him with an assurance, that he wouldl enable him to overcome the Philistine(. Qoliath's speech showl s that hie was proud and arrbgant, and also an idolater. David's speech shews, that hie had an humble opilnion of himiself, and that hewas zealous for the honour of God; nor was his conifidence in vain in the Lord. Quest ions.---Who defied Jsrael when the Philistines wvere gathcred together against tihein? [Ans. Goliath of Giqth.l What was he? L.'t-.ns A mnighty giant.] How were' Saul and the Israelites aff~cted when they heard the giant's threats? 11. [Ars 'iheywere dismayed and greatly afraid.] Howwas David affected when he heard the 'threats of 'the giant? f /fns. He wished to figh~t hitm.)1 Whydid he wvish tofight him? 26. [lAs. Because the Giant defied! the armies of the living God.] What did Saul say to David when lie had expressed this confidence in the Lord'! 37. [117m. Go, andj-r the Lord be with thee.} IloW cainel- David to go agais.t a mighty giant with no, other weapoxis thani a sling and stones C ['hs. The Lord inspired him.].ow didl the giant regard Dvid? 41. [Ans. ie disdained him.] In whose natne did the giant curse Israel? 43. [.?Js. In the' namie of his gods.] In whose- namrie did David go against him? 45.. (Ans. Ini the nniie of the Lord of Hosts, the God of the. armies oif Israel.] Did David kill the giant? [Ans. Yes.] WN~hat didI the Philistines do as soon as they found tlxifpi champion wvas dcad? 51. [Ans. TJey fled.] "%Wat did 1)aLd (1o with the head of Goliath.? 54. [A4ns. He carried it to Jerusaleii.] Did David speak of himself as the Lordfs -Anointed when Saul asked him who lie was [A-ns. No.] What reply did hie make? 51. [Ans. I amn the son of t~ servant Jesse the Bethiehemite.] PR(ACTICAL INSTRU.CTION. IiiStrIc-tiofl.--From this Lesson wre learn, that God helps those that trust in himi, and muakes use of means wvhichi appear veiy wveik, to bringr dowxi the pride o)f the~wicked, and to destroy the powers, which s~emrt the most formidable. Q~iestion.s.-W--Wio does G~od help? [Ans. Fihose who trust in hiim.] What does God do to the wicked w~hen they set themselves up ag-ainist him? [-I-ns. Humble theyr pride.] What must you do- if you wvish for God's lie1) in any mnatte'r? [Ans. Trust in him.] LESSON LXXXVITI. Read the whole Lesspn. Explanation.--Jonathan was of a~vexy amiable disposition: rnost persoi:., in his situation would have regarded David.~is a dangerous rival, and would have hated him as Saul did. David suffiered a great deal of persecution from Saul, as is relat 'ed in somne chapters w,%hich 'are niot among these Lessons, and was obliged to flee fromn himi.I While hie lived in the cave of Adullam, David was joined.by at least four hundred persons, who put the use1ve under his command; and lhe had frequent opportunities of killing Saul, but he would not slay the Lord's anointed, though lIe "coul, d have gained possession of the kipgd1om immediately- by doing so.,Questions.ý---Whose friendiship did David gain by his goo~d conduict? Pins.,That of Jo'nathan, thle son of SaUI3.j Was Saul pleased with th 'e. honours that were paid to, David afjý.r the vic~tory? [I~ns. No.- Did he love David aft~erards? [Anj. No; 'he hated him. I Why was Saul called the Lord's anointed? [Ans. Because the Lord comnmand~ed Saaiudl to'an'oint,himi king)r- Whose death have we an accounut'of at the end oif this l.esson? [Ans. The prophet tamuel's.) Wereth Israel~ites sorry' whe'n he died?.[Ans. Yes.) PRACTICAL INSTRtSJCTI'g.' Itistr&'chion.---Sjul's, whole behaviour towardls David shews that hie. was an ar'tful, treacherous, and., (xAel mapi; ~utthe -suares'1lo laid for David turned to his own confusion. This 152 should make us fearfui of engaging in a wicked course of life, us we. may be certain of bringing mortification and sorrow upon ourselves by doing so. Questions.---What should we be fearfiull of engaging in? [Ans. A wicked course of life.] What do people certainly bring upon themselves by engaging in such a course? [Ans. Mortification and sorrow.] LESSON LXXXIX. Read the wzhole Lesson. Explanation.---Self-murder is a sign of a guilty conscience and a cowardly mind. It is said in the first Book of ChronifAes, that Saul died in this miserable manner, for his transgression which he committed against the Lord, and also for asking counsel of one that had a familiar spirit---the person meant was the witch of Endor; the chapter which contains an account of Saul's consulting her is not put among these Lessons, as it is too difficult for young people. QIestions.--ý-What became of Jonathan? rAns. The Philistines slew him in battle.] Who did the battle go in favour of, Saulor the Philistines? [Ans. The Philistines.] V Whaf did Saul desire his armour-bearer to do when the Philistines had wvoundedhlnm ý 4. [fAnqs. To draw his sword and thrust him through With it.] What did 3aul do when his armour-bearer refused,' {I!ns. Shul to&k a sword' aid fell upofi t.] Whit did the 9trmbur-bearer do' hen? 5. [Ans. He killed himself.] What did the Philistines do when theyr found the body df Saul and hs three sons amongst the slain? p. [Ais. They cut off his head and stripped,off his armour.] Where did they piblish his death? [Ans. In the house of their idols; and among their pdople.] What did they do with the bodies of him 'and his sons? 'Ans. Fastened theem to the wall of BethAhAn.] 'Who took them from thence and buried them? 1 1. [Anirs., T'hb inhabitarttst of Jabesh-Gilead.] How did they exprss 't ix toirow ~,(Aný. They tfasted 'seven days.] How tamn the people ofuJabeshiGileid to have such a respect for Saul? [Ans. BecAuse he -had iteivered them from Nahash, king of the An1pyqf1ites.J S ' PRACTICAL INSTRUC'tION. j *ilr c eon.- e 'finid that Saiil; who had begun his reign Swel, a e f, to A very mise6rble end; and that God's 153 threatenings against him were all put in execution: this should be a warning to those who have entered on a religious course of life, not to depart from it, for there are threatenings in God's word to all who do so, which will be as certainly fulfilled; this should make us resolve not only to begin well, but to end well. Questions.---Should not every person endeavour to begin his life well? [Ans.-,Yes.} Did not'God bless Saul while he continued to serve and obey him? [Ans. Yes.] Did not God threaten to cast him off if he forsook him? [Ans. Yes.] Was he not severely punished for his wickedness? [Ans Yes.J Who are threatened in Scripture with the loss of God's favour? [Ans. All who depart from goodness.] What should Saul's good beginning and bad ending make us resolve to do? AnEw. To begin and end well. ] LESSON XC. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---Jerusalem, onaccount of the residence of the Ark, was called the Holy City; it was also called Sion, and the city of David. The Ark was carrief to Jerdsalem with great solemnity; and David danced before it, because it was customary at that time to dance in religious processions. When Nathan the prophet advised Kiing David to build a House for the Ark, he spoke accordingto his own opinion but he gave up this opinioni when the Lord declared his will. Though David was not allowed the hononr of building the House of God, he had great promises made to him of a reward fow his zeal. - Questions.---Where did David remove the Ark of the Lord to? [Arsy. To Jerusalem.] Where was it placed? [Ans. In the Taternacle.] What was Jerusalen called? [Ans. The Holy City,.and Sion.] Why'did David dance before the Ark? [Ans. Because it was the custom to dance on such occasions.] What was DIavid desirous of doing? [Ans. To build a House for the Ark. ' What did he mean by saying the Ark dwelt. within curtains? [AnWs. That it was in the Tabernacle.)} Who adVised David to do all that was jn his heart? 3. f[Ans. Naihan the prophet:] Did Nathan speak the words of the Lord at thattime? [Ans. No his own opinion.J What did the Lord command Nathan to tell iavid?.....*. * 5...: "..:.. 154 -tjns. Not to build him a house.] Did not the Lord give hin great promises? [Ans. Yes.1 What did the Lord promise concerning David's kingdom? 161. [Ans. That it should be established for ever.] Did David serve the Lord with a faithful heart? [.InS. Yes.] In whom did he put his whole trust, when his enemies fought against him? [Ans. In the Lord.] Did he'subdue his enemiies? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICnL INSTRUCTION. Instru(ction.---David was chosen of the Lord to be ki11g over his people Israel, but was not put in possession of the.kingdom till he had been exercised with a variety of trials to prepare him for it: thus God deals with Christians; he graciously promises them in the Scriptures an inheritance in the kingdom of Heaven; but before they enter on the enjoyment of it, God exercises them in this world with. trials and misfortunes, which, under the protection of the Almighty, contribute to their everlasting felicity. Questions.---What has God graciously promised to Christians? [fns. An heavenly inheritance.]. What are they exposed to in this world? [Ans. Many trials and misfortunes.1J What are these designed for? [iins. To make them fit for Heaven.) What must they do if they wish to be settled in Mheir heavenly inheritances as David was in his kingdom? [Ans. Serve God with a faithful heart.] LESSON XCI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---It is sliocking to read that David" who was -so well acquainted with his duty, should be guilty of -such enormous crimes:, we cannot wonder that the Lord should be displeased with him, for occasioning the death of a brave officer, that he might have his wifee; but his penitence was very deep and sincere, therefore the Lord spared his life, but did not let him go unpunished. rhe sickness of his child must have been a. vry great affiction to David, and he certainly acted very properly in humbling himself before God under a cliastisement which he had so justly deserved; and he gave, a proof of his resignation to the will of God, when he moder-ated his grief after the child's death, and went to the house of the Lord. Yurstions.---Was not David guiliy of very great sins' 155 [11ns. Yes.] How did the Lord bring David to a sense of his wickedness) [Ans. the Lord sent the prophet Nathan fb make him pass sentence upon himself.] How did the prophet do this? [Ans. By the parable of a rich man who took a poor man's ewe-lamb.] W'hat did David say respecting tilhe man who had taken the poor man's lamb? 5. f Ans. That he should surely die.] What did Nathan say toDAvid'? 7.. CAns. Thou art the man.] I)id the Lord clear Dhvid frorft hi4 sin, and witkhold all punishment? [)Ans. No) thi Lord &Ay spared his life.] What was David to suffter notwithstandin*? [Ans. The evil which the Lord had threatened,to br'ing against him in his own house.] What wcrs to he the first i'f these evils? [Ans. The death of his child"] What reasoh'did David give for fasting and praying while the child *as alivw? 21. [Ans. Tlhat he hoped God would be graci6us to hiti, that the child might live.] What reason did David giV0 for leaving oft fasting and weeping when the child wsag &ead 23. [Ans. That he could not bring hhn back itgaini lInd Bathsheba another son afterwards? [Ans. Yes.] 'WhAt name did David give him? [Ans. Solomon.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---David was guilty of some of the most heinouis sins that it was possible for a humafi being to commit, and brought a most foul blot on his character; but no sooner 'tars he reminded of his sin, than he felt the deepest-penitence, and set an example of that humiliation and sorrow which every sinner ought to imitate. His behaviour in this respect svas agreeable to God's will-and commandments: and the nlerqy which the Lord shewed.to David, in sparing his life, teaches us, that God is merciful to sinners when they are truly i 4 for their sins, and resolve to amend theislives. Dad' W haviour after the death of his child may serve aan eximap14 to us upon the loss of any one whQ is dear to us Questions.---Who should imitats David's examr i u penitence? [Ans. All sinners.] Did he in this VPs't4z, act agreeable to God's will and commandments e Cs i What does the Lord's mercy td David in sparne hs teach us? [Ans. That God is mercifuil to sinners wýhen 6letr contrition is sincere.) What may 'ie learn fromna Da i ' resignation upon the death of his child? [(ns. How ( v upon the death of persons that are dear to wus.] Can yw Pbrp them ba l And No.] Should we wih to o we could? ~A4nis. No.j: 156 `LESSON: XCII, i a' Read- the wkoLe Lessor Exrplana~ipn-f-rDavid had seven s6ns; -Amnnon was the. eldest tf. th~omj A'PdAbsalomn was the third. Absalom -hated Am-,non because tie had- ill-treated -his sister Tamar; and-h-e gave. way to'hmtred till It. led himi to, contrive his brother's death.,ThIe propbhecy of Nath~an now begon to be fulfilled before-Da.,vid's eyeaý;. tha, sW.ard.wqs broughit~iatp. his house, and was.not like~ly to,depart~ftorp it. The gri~f which David felt for 14~ death of his eldest son must-have been greatly increased by t-hej hw~ghct4iat theILord permitte8 it p4rdly for the punishment,of h~is siji., -q'aest09a9;--ý-Whoijs said in this -Lesson to have hated his brother? 1,. ý[Ans. Absalom.] What was the name of the bro-. ther that he hated? I: [Anr. Amnnon;] How long did Absalom, bear resentment in his mi-ind against Amnon? [Ans,. Two full yearsZ.], What did A6salom's hatred of -his brothe'r lead him to do? [A1ns. To con trive his brother's death.] Was not David greatly afflicted At this - dreadful niews,?. tns. Yes.] What did David now find coming upon him from his own house? [Adns. Evil.].,Who foretol~d this? [A4ns.. Nathan the prophet.] FRACTIQ.AL INSTRUCTION. tnstruction..- -In thig Lesson we have another' instan'ce of,th6 danger of giving way to anger and rese'ntment. It also: Affims a 'very useful lesson to families in which there -are'cihil`7 Arst'who have difetierit ýfathers and mothers, as is sometimes thdi case,, wýhen husbaiids wvhose wives die, or wives who lose ther hsbadsmary a second -time; th'e children of those marri~re~s ýhonld'always unite together as brethren for "their mutu~f A!adiahtage;i any. ~1niong them cherish envy' and hatre-d 4heý,mu~t be unhappy. themselves,, and the causie of unhaPpindgs to theat, respective parents. In David's time it was the, ý'6tomn for. kin gs to have several wivyes at once..' ~ustions.---Does not this Lesson shew, that it I's very danýgeoA ogi1wart anger- and resentmnent? [Ans. Yes.] hosibrothers and -sisters-in-law qaelas MKn Da vid's SON. did a 4s N6.] Who will the~y make unahappy; if tey cheish eny and hatred. agaqinft each..other?. [Ans. Then~elves anla their parents.] 157 LESSON XCIII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--Absalom, after his return fromGeshur, dwelt two years in Jerusalem, banished from the presence of his king and father; but at length David was prevailed upon to receive him into favour again. When David pardoned Absalom, he doubtless thought he had repented of the crime he had been guilty of in killing his brother; but David was deceived, for no sooner was Absalom restored to his former situation, as the king's son, than he contrived a wicked plot to take away the life of his indulgent parent, that he tnight be king in his stead. It is said of Absalom, that there was no man in the kingdom to compare to him for beauty; and that he had remarkably fine hair, of which he was very vain. David wouldnot suffer the ark to be carried before him, because the tabernacle was at Jerusalem; and he was conscious, that, guilty as he was, he had no claim to the protection of God. Questions.---Did Absalom return to his duty after David received him into favour? [Ans. No.] What wicked design did he form? [Ans. To take away his father's life, that he might be king in his stead.] What was the name of David's counsellor who joined with Absalom? 12. [Ans. Ahithophel.] Whatwere the priests' names who were with David? 29. [Ans. Zadok and Abiathar.] Why would not David suffer the Ark to be carried with him? [Ans. Because he knew he' had bden a great sinner.] Whb went with Absalomn when he departed from Jerusalem? 10. [A. Two hundred meb.] Did they know of his design? [Ans. No; they went in the simplicity of their hearts.] How were the people affected when they saw the king fleeing from Jerusalem? 23. [Ans. They wept with a loud voice.] How did David go up to Mount Qlivet.? 30. [Ans. With his head covered and barefooted.] Do not you think it'mtst have been a very moving sight to see such a powerfil king humbled in 'this marinr? [fAns. Yes.] PRACTICAL. IKSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Absalom, at the. same time that he mpde far speeches, and promised to be the friend of the people, had tothing at heart but his qwn interest; he wanted to get the.n into his power: this is usually the case with those'wa'il a 158 any nation endeavour to set subjects against their king: civil war, or a war in which one part of a nation fights against the other, is one of the most dreadful things in the world, and all persons in every station should shut their ears against those who would entice them to depart from their lawful sovereign. When an artful man like Absalom forms a scheme to get the power into his own hands, even young persons may be made instrumental to his purpose, by joining with mobs to make disturbances and do mischief, which many 'prentice boys, and other foolish youths, have been led to do; every young person therefore should resolve not to be made a tool of fbr such bad purposes, but to fear God and honour the king. Questions.-Did not Absalom make very fine speeches to the people? [Ans. Yes.] Whose interest had he at heart, theirs or his own? [Ans. His own.] Against whom should every person in a nation shut their ears? [Ans. Against those who would persuade them to depart from their lawful sovereign.] What should every young person, as well as others, resolve?, [As. To fear God and honour the king.] LESSON XCIV. Real the whole Lesson. Explanation.---The charge which David gave to his captains concerning Absalom shews, that he had a very tender affection for his rebellious son. The hair of which Absalom was so proud, proved the cause of his death. David's excessive grief for the death of Absalom proceeded in part from his piety; it grieved him to the heart to-think that Absalom was eut off in the midst of his wickedness. Questions.---What charge did David give to his three generals concerning Absalom? 5. [rins. To deal gently with him for his sake.] Whose army got the better, David's or Absalom's? [Ans. David's ] How many of the men that joined with Absalom were slain? 7. [Ans. Twenty thousand.] Did Joab approve of David's tenderness to his rebellious son? [Ans. No.] What accident happened to Absalom? [Ans. he was caught by his hair and left hanging in an oak.] What did Joab do? [Ans. He killed him.] What was David's first inquiry when a messenger arrived from the battle? 32. [Ans. Is the young man Absalom safe?] What did he say when he 159 heard of his death? 33. [Ans. O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would God I had died for thee, O Absalom, my son, my son!] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The fate of Absalom should serve as a warning to all disobedient youths, who with unfeeling ingratitude do those things that are likely to bring down the grey hairs of their parents with sorrow to the grave, as well as those who rebel against their lawful sovereign;. for they may regard it as a certainty that God will punish them for their wickedness either in this world or the world to come. Questions.---Can undutiful children expect to go unpunished? [Ans No.] Will not God punish rebellious subjects also? [Ans. Yes.] Where will God punish them? [Ais. Either in this world or in the world to come. LESSON XCV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---Upon the death of Absalom, David was restored to his kingdom; what is related in this Lesson happened several years afterwards. The attempt of Ado-nijah to get the kingdom was another trial for David. Adonijah it is likely founded his pretensions upon his being much older than Solomon; but the Lord had determined that Solomon should be king after his father. David, by causing Solomon to be made king before his own death, prevented those disputes between his sons which, in all probability, would have divided the kingdom into violent parties, and occasioned much bloodshed afterwards. Adonijah fled to the altar, becausehe thought that veneration for that sacred place would prevent his being put to death. Questiows.---Which bf David's sons tried to get the kingdom for himself when his father was old? [Ans. Adonijah.] What did the king command Nathan the prophet, Zadok the priest, and Benaiah die scribe, to do? 34. [Ans. To anoint Solomon king.] Who anointed Solomon? 39. (Ans. Zadok the priest.] What did the people say when Solomon was proclaimed king? [Ans. God save king Solomon.] PRACTICAL,ISTRtCTIO. Instruction.--It must doubtless have been a very great Af 160 fliction to David, in his latter days, to meet with $uch ingratitude from a son; but he uttered Ino murmuring or complaint, for he saw the hand of the Lord still chastening him, in order that his penitence might continue to the last, that the world might know, from his example, what evils the Lord suffers to fall upon those who commit such crimes as David had been guilty of, and the behaviour whiclh God requires of those that offend against his holy laws. Question.---What may we learn from David's behaviour undei the chastening hand of God? [Ans. To submit without murmuring or repining to the chastisements of God.) LESSON XCVI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---To remove all jealousy from the minds of his other sons, and to prevent quarrels among his subjects, David took occasion to declare in a solemn assembly, that God himself had appointed Solomon to sit upon the throne in the king-,dom of the Lord, and to build the House of the Lord. Questions.---What reason did David give for his making Solomon king?.5. [Ans. That tihe Lord had chosen him.] What did David say he had had in his heart to do? -2. [,Ans. To build a house for the Ark.] What reason did he give for not building it? [Ans. That God had forbidden him.] What did the Lord say Solomon should do? ý. [Ans. Build the house of the Lord.] What did David say the Lord had promised to do if Solomon would be constant to the commandments of the Lord? 6. [Ens. To establish his kingdom for ever.] What.did David give to Solomon his son, in order that he might know how the house of the Lord should be built and furnished? [Ans. The patterns of every thing.] How came David by them.? [Ans. The Lord revealed to him how every thing was to be done.] F 'RACTICAL INS'TRUCTION. Instrctipn.-- The first and most important of all duties is, to fear God, and keep:his commandments; on this depends the: happiness of nations, and of every individual, as David represents to Solomon in these words-: The,Lord searcheth the heart, and understandeth all imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be f6und ofthee; if thouiforsake him, he 161 will cast thee off for ever. This should make us resolve to seelk the 1(ord, and serve him with'a perfect heart. 9uestions.---\Which is the first and miost impoitant of all duties? [LAns. To fear God, and keel his cominmandments.) What does the Lord search? [Aus. All hearts.]. What does thile Lord understand? [Ans. All imaginations of the thoughts.] Of whom will the Lord be found? [Ans. Of them that seek him.] Who will the Lord cast off for ever? [Alns. Those that forsake him.] What should you resolve to do then? [Ans. To seek the Lord, and serve hirti all my life with a perfect heart and a willing mind,] LESSON XCVII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---It must have been a very great saitisfactijon to David, to see his son Solomon established on the throne of the Lord as king, with the full consont of his ohili sons, and the kinigdom in general, and to see the principal people so zealous to prepare for the building the House of thb Lord. The sentiments of David's heart on this joyful occasion are. plainly seen in his excellent thanksgiving. Qicestions.---How long did king David reign over Israel? [Ans. Forty years.] What is said of his death ri'the last verse of this Lesson? [Z~ns. That he died full of days, richesi, and honour.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-David's thanksgiving in this Lesson is in many respects suitable to all humnan beings, especially those wh6i call themselves servarits of God. Beside this thanksgiving David has left us ani inriluable treasure in his Book of Psalms, which furnishes 4vout,worshippers with proper wor.ds to address to God, under the vari ous circumstances of human life, so that we have the greatest reasdn to honout the memory of David. Questions.---4ave not we all reason to adore, and praise, and thank God? *t(0s. Yes.): Do any of us possess any thing thit did not come from God? [Ans. No. Can we offer God any thing that we did not first receive front him? [Ans. No.]` Ai 'We hot 'll strangers add sojourners up ea*rth? tAns.; Yes.] Do -nt the days of every one of is ass __ _I_ I___I __~~___~_____~~_ __l__~__rr___l_ _ _ _________I_~______ 102 away like a shadow? [Ains. Yes.] Does not God try the heart of every humian creature? [Ans. Yes.] Do not we all stand in need of God's grace to incline us to goodness arid enable us to keel) hi3 commnandments? [Ans. Yes.] What has David left us that is invaluable? [ilus. The Book of Psiams.] What does this furinish t6 devout worshippers? [A-,s. Proper words to address to God.] Is it not a great Comfort to have such a help to devotion? [Ans. Yes-.] Ought we not to hold the memory of David i n b %11 cS t t lu nl Ii 1A oviding us with such a one? [kins. Yes.j IESSON XCVIII. Read the whole Lesson. E-rpianation.-1--he true God was at first worshipped in a Garden, and afterwards in G:ro'es and Hills, called High Places, or under Trees, set~apart for that holy purpose; but after a Tabernacle was made the Israelites were forbidden to offer ýsacrifices in groves or on high places, because it was become the practice of the Heathens to sacrifice to their idols in such places. God granted Solomon a peculiar favour when he gave him the liberty of asking what he would choose; Solomon on this occasion humbled himself as a little child,,which pleased the Lord, because, as King of Israel, Solomon had a strong temptation to pray for long life, great riches, and the death of his enemies. - The people of the east country and the Egyptians were renowned for what is usually called wisdom;j they spake proverbs, they composed songs, they discoursed of the nature of trees and plants, birds, beasts, fowls, and creeping thiucgs, and hs'hes: but the kniowledge of Solomon exceeded thueir's in every respect, for heMwi tLaught of God, and perfectly understood what the wisest people of the -ari &ould ond l in many instances guess at. 'Q jestions.---Whvat did Solomon ask for himself when the Lord left him to his choice? 6. [-41ns. Ap understanding heart.] What had Solomon gre'at temiptiationls to pray for? [?ls. Long life, riches, and the de'atd of his eInemies.].jJid the Lord grant the prayer of Solomqn?!Ans..1 es.j WJit did the Lord bestow upon im whichl he had ilot prayed1 for0 13. [Anis. Riches, and honour, and lopg life.] What'did ike Lord require him to do? [4ns.'lo wvalk in the.ýwNs 163 of the Lord, to keep his statutes, and obey his commandmients, qs D)avid his fasther had done.1 Were not the Israelites in a very prosperous and happy condition in Solomon's days.? [A4ns. 'es.] Was not Solomorn a very' great and powerftil king? [Azis. Yes.] Who is Solomion said to have excelled in wisdom? '29. [Ans. The childredn of the east, and the vise men of Egypt.] 'IHow came he to excel them? [A1ns. He was taught of God.] Who camie to hear his wisdomn? 34. [lins. People of all kingdoms and nations.] PRACTICAL INgTRUCT!OX. Instruction. -W\'e must observe, that Solomon prayed for an tinderstandiKg~ hbeart that hie miight know how to do his duty, not to set himiabove others in knowledce; and that the Iord was pleased with him, because hie offered his prayer with humility. Every young person should fiulow the example of 83olomon in this particular; and a very proper season for them to pray for an understandingr heart is, at the time they take upon themscl1ves the vowv made. in their names at their baptism, when they are confirmed in the p)rofession of the Christian faith. As the Lord was pleased with Solomon's- prayer, there can be no doubt but hie will be pleased with all who pray like him. Instea 'd of worldly riches an'd honours, and length of- days upon c arth, Christians have the promise of a crown of glory, and, everlasting life in -Heaven. Qiiestions.-FJor what purpose did SoIomob pray for an tindersuandina heart? [ -bis. That hie -might know how to do hig duty.] How came the Lord to be so pleased with his prayer? [Ans. Because hie offered it with humility]. What reward is promised to Christians instead of worldly riches and hotiours? [Ans. A crow'n of glory.] What is promised to them instead of length of -days upon earth? [.'Ins. Everlasting life ins HeaWen. LESSON XCIX. Read the whole Lesson. Ezplanation.---The place where the Temple was built was Miount Moriab, which was either a part of Mount Sion, or a smaller hill near it. There is a very particular account of the form and fashion and dimensions' of the Temple, an4 the ornaments of it, in the Bible;. by which we learn, that, ithugh it bure resemblwice to the Tabenracle of Mlvses, it was much 164 more magnificent and spacious, and of more durable materials, being built of stone and cedar trees. The Temple, like the Tabernacle, was designed as a repository for the Ark of the Covenant: it might properly be called the earthly palace of the Almighty King; and the Mercy-seat on the top of the Ark might be justly considered as his earthly throne. The Ark of the Lord was carried up to the Temple with all possible solemnity. Questions.-On what place was Solomon's temple built? [AIns. On Mount Moriah.] Do you remember any other remarkable circumstance relating to Mount Moriah? [A-ns. There Abraham offered Isaac.] Was not tile temple a most magnificent building? [Ans. Yes.] What token did the Lord give of his approving the work? 10. [Ans. The glory of the Lord filled the temple.] When was the saine token given? rAns. When the tabernacle was finished and dedicated.] Did the Lord faithfully perform the promise made to David, that Solomon his son should build a house to the name of the Lord? [Ant. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--As the Lord vouchsafed to command that a house should be built to his name, and afterwards shewed forth his glory in it, we may be certain, that God approves of his people erecting buildings for public worship, and calling them the House of God. But they should be solemnly dedicated to God, as the Lord ordained, and not used for any other purpose. Questions.-Should not every one delight-to go to the house of God? [Ans. Yes.] Can there be a greater honour upon earth, than to go to the house of God? [Ans. No.] Should any thing be said or done in the house of God that does not relate to his worship? [Ans. No.] Should people talk and trifle in the house of God? [Ans. No.] As there is an order of men set apart for the service of God, should we not reverence them on account of their holy office? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON C. Read the whole Lessotn. Explanation.-Solomon's prayer being very long, is not all inserted in these Lessoris, but it is a most excellent one, and shews' that his heart was at that time perfect with the Lord, 165 and filled with fervent piety. The Lord's appearing again to renew his promises and threatenings to Solomon and his people, shews, that God omits nothing which may tend to unite men to him, and confirm them in goodness. Questions.-Did not Solomon shew great piety and zeal? [Ans. Yes.] Wat did Solomon observe respecting the Lord's promises when he stood up and blessed the people? 55. (Ans. That there.had not failed one word of all his good promises which he promised by the hand of Moseq his servant ] 'What did the Lord promise by Moses respecting the people of Israel? [Ans. That he would bririg them into the land of Canaan and give them rest.] Was not this fulfilled? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord promise to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, respecting their seed and posterity? [Ans. That they should be a great nation.] Was not this. fulfilled? [Ans. Yes.] Has not the Lord shewn by his works among the Israelites, that he is God, that there is no other God besides him? [Ans. Yes.] In what state of mind did the people of Israel depart to their tents aftei" the feast of the-dedication of the temple? 66. [Ansi Joyful and glad of heart for all the goodness that the Lord had done for David his servant, and for Israel his people.] What promise did the Lord make to Solomon at Gibeon, in case he continued to walk before him in integrity of heart and uprightness? [Ans. To establish the kingdom with him.] What did the Lord threaten in case the people of Israel should forsake him and worship idols? [Ans. To cast them off.] What did Solomon do after the Ark was placed in a sanctuary of the house of the Lord? [Ans. He prayed that'the Lord-would graciously hear the supplications and prayers that hpguld be offered in his house.] Had not Solomon and the people of Israel the greatest encouragement to serve the Lord faithfully? [Ans. Yes.] Did not the Lord point out to Solomon the dangers of disobedience? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INMTRI.tRCTION. Instructiort.* From Solomon's prayer we learn wht sort of blessings it is right to pray for; and from his kneeling hen he prayed, we-should learn to use the humblest posture 'vfli we address ourselves to the great Almighty God, whom ihe heaven of heiaveM ca'nnot'iontain. We also leamr from Solomon's admonition to the people when he had, bleed thetgm, that we ought not only tb go to the house of God and offer our 166 prayers, but to walk in his statutes, and keep his commandments. We should particularly remark the words of the Lord which he spoke when he appeared to Solomon at Gibeon, as they shew us plainly that God lends a favourable ear to the supplications of his people when they assemble for public worship; that he is always ready to pour hisbenefits upon them while they fear And obey him; but that he deprives thamn of his blessings when they presumptuously offend him. Questions.-What posture should we use in prayer? [Ans. Kneeling.] What must we do besides going to the house of God, if we desire his blessing? [Ans. Keep God's commandments.] LESSON CI. Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.-Thle Heathen nations would have despised the Lord's chosen people, if they had not made a splendid figure. It pleased God, therefore, in a most wonderful manner, to raise the people of Israel by degrees, from a state of the most abject slavery, to the highest pitch of magnificence; and to make all the nations pay tribute and homage to the king of his appointment; by which means God proved himself to be, beyond dispute, King of kings, and Lord of lords. Questions.-Who came to visit King Solomon? [Ans. The Queen of Sheba.] Was not the Queen of Sheba astonished when she beheld. the order and magnificence of Solomon's household and kingdom? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord prove himself to be, by raising the king of his own appointment above all the kings upon. earth? [Ans. King of kings, and Lord of lords.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTIO4. Instruction.-The Queen of Sheba set an excellent example to the generation in which she lived, and our Saviour himself recommended it to the imitation of his followers, by saying to his disciples when the Jews despised him, The queen of the south shall rise up in judgment with this generation, and shall condemn it, for she came from the uttermost parts.of the earth to hiear.the wisdom of Solomon, and behold a greater than Soloron is here. Questions.-.Who has recommended the example of the 167 Queen of Sheba to the imitation of Christians? tAns. Our Saviour.] Who did our Saviour mean when he said, Behold a greater than Solomon is here? [Ans. Himself] Is not the Son of God, the Saviour of the world, infinitely greater than Solomon in all his glory? [Ans. Yes.] Was Solomon's wisdom worthy to be compared to the wisdom of Christ? [Ans. No.] Ought not every one who has heard of the fame of Christ, to be as desirous of knowing what he taught, as the Queen of Sheba was of hearing the wisdom of Solomon? [Ans. Yes.] What should those do who by means of the Scriptures know these things? [Ans. They should bless an4 glorify God.] LESSON CII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-Solomon married in the beginning of his reign the daughter of the king of Egypt, who we may conclude embraced the true religion, for he would not at that time havc taken a Heathen for his wife. It is very shocking to read of his departing from God in his old age. There were originally twelve tribes in Israel, but of the tribe of Benjamin there was in Solomon's time only a remnant, which was in a manner united with that ofJudah; the rest had been cut off for wickedness. Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, was a very imbitious man, arid probably had formed a design to get the kingdom for himself; this he could not have done if God had not given him the power, and a prophet was sent to him beforehand, that he might- not afterwards suppose he had gained dominion over the Lord's people by his own courage or abilities. Q 'tions.--Is it not shocking t&iread of the great wickedness of Solomon? [Ans. Yes.] What did the Lord say he would do on account of Solomon's worshipping idols` 11. [Ans. Rend the kingdom from him.] What did the Lord say he would do for the sake of David his faithful servant? 35. [Ans. Give one tribe to Solomon's son.] Who did the Lord choose to be king over the ten tribes that were to be rent from Solomon's son ' [Ans. Jeroboam, the son of Nebat] How ong did Solomon reign in Jerusalem? 42. [Ans. Forty years.] How was the kingdom of the Lord divided after the death of Solomon? [Ans. Into two kingdoms.] What were they called? [Ans. The kingdom of Israel and the kingdom of Ju. 168 S.C dah.] Who reigned over the kingdom of Israel? -[I7ns. Jeroboam, the son of Nebat.] Who reigned over Judah? [As. 1lehoboas\, the Son of Solomon.] SPRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instructioni.--As it is very plain from Solomon's history that neither understanding nor riches can, of themselves, give lasting happiness to the possessor, those to whom Providence has denied them should not repine at their lot; or envy those who are raised above them in this world, but should set their minds diligently to secure everlasting happiness in Hedven, by fearing God and keeping his commandments, which may be done in the lowest station of life as well as in the highest. Questions.---On whom will God bestow everlasting happiness? [Ans. On those who fear him and keep his commandments.] Cannot people in the lowest station do this? [Ans. Yes.] Should the poor and unlearned repine at their lot? [Ans. No.] Have they reason to envy others their learning and riches, while they have as great a chance, and probably a greater, of obtaining eternal bliss? [ins. No.] What must you do if you would have eternal happiness? [Ans. Fear God and keep his commandments.] LESSON CIII. Read the whole Lesson. * Explanation.---The kingdom of Israel consisted of the ten tribes of Reuben, Simeon, Levi,Dan, Naphtali, Gad, Asier, Issachar, Zebulon, and the half tribes of Ephraifih and Manasseh. We find that Jeroboam, the first of the kings of Israel, led the people into idolatry, by setting up two idols called golden calves, We frequently read of the sin of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who made Israel tosin; by which is meant his leadingihem into idolatry. SAt e-ithe kingdom of-Israel was divided, the Lord did not appear, as he had appeared to Solomon, but made his will known by! the mouths of prophets, holy men inspired by the Spirit of God. LESSON CIV., Read the whole Lesson.. Eaplanation.--All the kings mentioned in tlid Lesson, as well a those beford them, were idolaters, arid almost all of 169 " them perished miserably, murdering one another. Iii the days of Menahern they became tributary to Pul, kihg of Assyria; that is, they were obliged to pay this king money to prevail on him to withdraw his armies, which he brought against the land of Israel and, in the reign of Pekah, part of. the Israelites were carried away captive into the land of Assyria. All these things, and the approaching fall of the kingdom of Israel, were foretold by the prophets; but neither the kings nor the people regarded the prophets. Questions.---How many kings reigned over the ten tribes of Israel after the kingdom was divided? [Ans. Nineteen.] What was that kingdom called? [Ans. The kingdom of Israel.] What was the other division of Solomon's kingdom called? [Ans. The kingdom of Judah.J Who was the first king of Israel afer the kingdom was divided? [Ans. Jeroboam.] What sin did he lead the people into? [Ans. Idolatry.] What idols did he set up? [Ans."Two golden calves.] Were any of the nineteen kings of Israel good ones? [Ans. No.] What did they all do in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Evil.] LESSON CV. Read the whole Lesson. E::/xplanaion.---The Lord had raised up the king of Assyria to be his instrument in destroying wicked nations. The Israelites, on account of their idolatries, had been delivered into the poweyr of the king of Assyria, so as to become tributary to him; and the Lord had warned Hoshea by his prophets, not to make a confederacy with the king of Egypt: neither Hoshea nor his people would hearken to the prophets, but they forsook the Lord, and gave themselves up to the practice of all kinds of idolatry; on this account the Lord put an entire end to the kingdom of Israel, otherwise called the kingdom of the ten tribes, which was destroyed two hundred and fifty years after its separation from the kingdom of Judah. Questions.---Who was the nineteenth and last king of Israel? [Ans. Hoshea.] Who came against him? 3. [Ans. Shalmaneser, king of Assyria.] What had the Lord raised up the kingdom of Assyria to be? [Ans. The instrument cf his vengeance'upon wicked nations.] What did the king of Assyria do to Hoshea? [Ans. He took and cast him into prison.] What did he do to the people of Israel? [dAs. He carried.] them away captives into Assyria.] 170 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--Before the Lord sent these heavy judgments upon the king and people of Israel, he warned them many times by his prophets to turn from their e% il ways; but they rejected his statutes and his covenant, and worshipped idols, therefore the Lord was angry, and removed them out of their own land. This should serve as an admonition to Christians, who are in danger of judgments, even eternal ones, if they slight the promises and threatenings of the Lord, which are written in Scripture, and forsake their Redeemer. Questions.---What judgments are Christians in danger of if they slight the promises and threatenings of God? [Ans. Eternal ones.] Where are the promises and threatenings written? [Ans. In the Scriptures.] LESSON CVI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.---In this Lesson the history goes back to the death of Solomon, after which the kingdom of Israel was diTided into the two kingdoms of Israel and Judah. The kingdom of Judah consisted of the tribe of Judah and the remnant of the tribe of Benjamin. Questions.---How was the kingdom of Israel divided after the death of Solomon? [Ans. Into two kingdoms.] What were they called? [Ans. The kingdom of Israel and the kingdom of Judah.] How many tribes did the kingdom of Israel consist of? [Ans. Ten.] How many did that of Judah consist of? [Ans. Two.] Which were they? [Ans. Judah and Benjamin.] Who was the first king of Judah? [Ans. Rehoboam the son of Solomon.] Did he and his people do right in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. No; they.followed the abominations of the heathen nations ] Who was the second king of Judah? [Ans. Abiyah.] Was his heart perfect with the Lord as David's was? [Ans. No.] Who was the third king of Judah? [Ans. Asa.] Did he do that which was right in the sight of the Lord? [. ns. Yes.] What did he remove? [Ans. All the idols.] Who was the fourth king of Judah [Ans. Jehoshaphat.J Did he do that which was right in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] Who was the fifth king of Judah? lAns. Jehoram.] In whose ways did he walk? [Arns. In the 171 ways of the kings of Israel.] How came he to do so? [4An.. He had the daughter of wicked Ahab for his wife.] How did the Lord shew his displeasure against Jehoram? [Ans. The Lord stirred up against him the spirit of the Philistines and the Arabians] What did these enemies do? [Ains. They came to Judah and broke into it, and carried away all the king's substance, and his sons, and his wives.] What other punishment did the Lord inflict upon Jehoram? [Ans. The Lord smote him with an incurable disease, and he died.] For whose sake did the Lord spare the kingdom of Judah, when the kings and people were idolaters? [Ans. For David's sake.] LESSON CVII. Read the whole Lesson. Questions.---Who was the sixth king of Judah? [Ans. Ahaziah.] In whose ways did he walk? [A.ns. In'the ways of Ahab king of Israel.] Who was his counsellor in wickedness? [A4ns. His mother.] Who was she? [Ans. Athaliah, the daughter of Omri, king of Israel.] Who reigned over Judah after Ahaziah? [.4ns. His mother Athaliah.] How came she to reign? [Ains. She destroyed all the royal family of Judah.Was not one of them saved? [Ans. Yes, Joash the youngesto2 Who saved him? [Ans. Jehoshabeath his aunt.] Where Nwas Joash hid for six years? [A.ns. In the temple of the Lord.) What became of Athaliah? [Ans. She was slain.] Who was the eighth that reigned over Judah? [Ans. Joash.] Who helped him to get the kingdom? [Ains. Jehoiada the highpriest.] What wicked action did Joash commit after the death of Jehoiada? [ ns. He caused'the prophet Zechariah, the son of Jeboiada, to be slain.] Who was the ninth king that reigned over Judah? [Ans. Amaziah.] Did he serve the Lord? [Ans. Yes; but not with a perfect heart.] LESSON CVIIIL Read the whole Lesson. Questions.---Who was the tenth king of Judah? [Ans. Uzziah]- Did he do that which was right in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Yes, at first.] What did the Lord do wliJe 172 Uzziah sought him? [Ans. The Lord made him prosper.] What was he stricken with afterwards? f Ans. Leprosy.] For what crime was this disease sent upon him? [Ans. For doing that which the Lord had appointed to be done by the priests only.] Who was the eleventh king? [Ans. Jotham.] Did he do that which was right in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] What did he become.by the blessing of the Lord? [Ans. Mighty.] Who was the twelfth king? [Ans. Ahaz.] Was not Ahaz a very wicked king? [Ans. Yes.] In whose ways did he walk? [Ans. In the ways of the kings of Israel.] How did God shew his displeasure against him? [Ans. By delivering him into the hands of his enemies.] LESSON CIX. Read the whole Lesson. Questions.---Who was the thirteenth king of Judah? [ius. Hezekiah.] Did he do that which was right in the sight of the Lord? [Ams. Yes.] What is said of Hezekiah? 2. [Ans. That he wrought that which was good, and right; and truth, before the Lord his God.] Who defied the Lord God of Israel in the days of Hezekiah? 21. [Ans. Sennacherib, king of*Assyria.] Did the Lord deliver Hezekiah and the inhabitants of Judah into his hands? [Ans. No; the Lord saved them from all their enemies.] Who was the fourteenth king of Judah? [Ans. Manasseh.] What did he do? [Ans. He did evil in the sight of the Lord like the Heathens.] What did he set up in the house of God? 6. [Ans. A carved image.] How did the Lord shew his displeasure against Manasseh? 11. [Ans. The Lord delivered him into the hands of the king of Assyria, who bound him with fetters of brass, and carried him to Babylon.] What did he do in his affliction? [Ans. He humbled himself greatly.] What did the Lord do then? [Ans. The Lord brought him again to his kingdom.] Did he put away the idol out of the house of the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] Who was the fifteenth king of Judah? [Ans. Amon.] Did he do right in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. No; he sacrificed to.the carved images which Manasseh had made.] Did the Lord bless him? [Ans. No; he was slain by his own servants.] 173 LESSON CX. Read the whole Lesson. Questions.---Who was the sixteenth king of Judah? [Ans. Josiah.] Did he do that which was right in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Yes.] What did he do at Jerusalem? [Ans. Destroyed all the high places and idols.] What did he do at Bethel? 15. [Xns. He broke down the altar which Jeroboam, the son of Nebat, set up there, and burned the grove.] What did lie fulfil by doing so? [Ans. The prophecy that was spoken to Jeroboam.] Was it not a very remarkable circumstance, that a person should foretel, above three hundred years before Josiah was born, that he would destroy that altar? [Ans. Yes.] Was any other king of Judah like Josiah? [Ans. No.] Who was the seventeeth king of Judah? [Ans. Jehoahaz.] What did he do in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Evil.] How did the Lord punish him? [Ans. The Lord delivered him into the bands of Pharaoh-Necho, king of Egypt.] What became of him? [,ns. He died in Egypt.] Who was the eighteenth king of Judah? [1Ans. Jehoiakim.] What did he do in the sight of the Lord? [Ans. Evil.J Who did the Lord sufi'er to go against him? [Ans. Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon.] LESSON CXI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--The Lord would not totally destroy the people whom he had chosen to himself, though they had provoked him so greatly by their idolatry and wickedness, but he graiously resolved to preserve a remnant of Judah, the tribe to which David belonged, and in which the promised Saviour was to be born.] In order to preserve this chosen remnant, which consisted of those that had been faithful to him, the Lord ordained that they should be carried away into captivity, and then by his providence the Lord so ordained events, that they might live in peace and comfort among their conquerors, and spread the knowledge of the true God among the Heathens. The Lord also graciously vouchsafed to comfort his people during their captivity, by raising up prophets among them, who should from time to time foretel their return to their native land, and the blessings of the kingdom of the Messiah. S3 171 Daniel and his three friends were very faithful to the Lord, they abhorred all kinds of wickedness and idolatry. These four excellent youths were carried away captive in the reign of Jehoiakim, king of Israel, nineteen years after the destruction of Jerusalem by Nebuchadnezzar; by which means they escaped all the miseries tlat wee endured by those who remained in Jerusalem; and Daniel was afterwards a very great prophet, being inspired of the Lord to interpret dreams, and foretel many things which the Lord designed to bring to pass. Daniel and his friends regarded their portion of the king's meat as unclean, because it consisted of things which the law of Moses forbade the people of Israel to eat of, and because part of this meat was most commonly offered to idols. These pious young men set a powerful example of temperance, as well as piety, in abstaining from luxurious food for the sake of religion. Questions.---Did the Lord destroy all the people of Judah? [Ans. No; he preserved a remnant of them.] What tribe did king David belong to? [Ans. The tribe of Judah.] "What tribe was the promised Saviour to be born of? [Ans. The tribe of Judah.] What became of the remnant of Judah which,the Lord saved? [Ans. They were carried captives into Babylon.] Why did the Lord ordain that they should go into captivity? [Ans. That their lives might be preserved.] What was spread among the heathen nations by their means? [Ans. The knowledge of the true God.] Who in particular are named in this chapter as being favoured by the king of Babylon? 6. [4ns. Daniel, Hannaniah, Mishael, and Azariah.] What new names were given to them? [Ans. Belteshazzar, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.] What did these four youths refuse to do? [Ans. To eat of the king's meat, and drink of his wine.] Why did they do so? [Ans. Because those things were forbidden to the Israelites.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From the example of Daniel and his friends,.all young persons should learn a lesson of temperance, Those who are in humble life are seldom tempted with such things as Daniel and the others refused to eat of; but they may frequently be tempted to drink strong liquors, which cannot possibly do them any good, but may lead them on to be in time drunkards; they should therefore consider, that drunkenness is a sin expressly forbiddet by the Law of Godi and should I... 175 make a resolution not to indulge in any practice that leads to -it. We'find that God granted Daniel and his friends great bodily health, and extraordinary understanding, which, in their situation, were the blessings they particularly stood in need of; this shews, that God blesses those that fear him, and bestows his favours upon sober and pious persons. Questions.--What may all young persons learn from the example of Daniel and his three friends? [Ans. Temperance.] What are youths in humble life, those, for instance, who work in fields and gardens, or at mechanical trades, often tempted to do? [Ans. To drink strong liquors.] What may this practice lead them to? [Ans. To drunkenness.] Is not drunkenness as much forbidden to Christians as certain meats were to the Jews? [Ans. Yes.] What should every young man then take a resolution to do? [Ans. Not to indulge in any practice that leads to it.] LESSON CXII. Read the whole Lesson. Questions.--Who was the nineteenth king of Judah? [Ans. Jehoiachim.] What did he do in the sight of the Lord? [A.ns. Evil.] What did Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon, do in his days? [Ans. He came against Jerusalem, and besieged it.] What did the king of Babylon carry away at that time? 13. [Ans. The treasures of the house of the Lord and the king's house.] Who did he carry away captive? 14. [Ans. All the princes, and all the mighty men of valour.] How many did he carry away captive? [Ans. Ten thousand.] LESSON CXIII. Read the whole Lesson. Ecplanation.--The meaning of the expression, that Zedekiah stiffened his neck, is, that he grew more and more obstinate. The Lord, in his great mercy and compassion, had sent many messages to his people, both in Judah and Israel, by his prophets, which are to be found in the books of Isaiah, Jeremiah, and Ezeki; but we find the people of both kingdoms despised the word of God, and misused his prophets, till they provoked the Lord to execute his threatenings, and there 176 was no remedy; for he gave up first the kingdom of Israel, and afterwards that of Judah, with the holy city and temple, to destruction, because the kings and people had defiled and profaned them by their abominations, and none could deliver them out of the hand of the Lord. The destruction of the house of the Lord at Jerusalem was a just punishment upon the Israelites for their abominable wickedness in forsaking the Lord God, and worshipping idols. In the reign of Jehoiakim, Jeremiah foretold that the captivity of those who were carried away to Babylon would continue seventy years. This period of time is to be reckoned from the first captivity in the reign of Jehoiakim. Questions.---Did Zedekiah and the people of Judah humble themselves before God? [Ans. No] What had the Lord done in his infinite mercy and compassion? [Alns Sent his prophets to them.] What did the Lord do when they would not be reformed by his kindness and long-suffering? [Ans. 3The Lord executed his threatenings upon them.] What was done to Zedekiah? 6. [Ans. His eyes were put out, and he was bound with fetters of brass, and carried to Babylon.] Was there not a dreadful slaughter at the taking of Jerusalem? [Ans. Yes.] Who came to Jerusalem and burnt the house of the Lord? 9. [Ans. Nebuzar-adan, captain of the guard to iNebuchadnezzar.] What did the army of the Chaldees do? [Ans. They broke down the walls of Jerusalem.] What did Nebuzar-adan do with the people of Judah? 11. [Ans. Carried them away.] Did he leave none of them behind? [Ans. Yes; he left some of the poor of the lald to be vine-dressers arid husbandmen.] What had Jeremiah prophesied concerning the captivity of the Jews, the Babylonish captivity, as it is called? [Ans That it should continueseventy years.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction--It is very shocking to read of the miserable condition to which the people, whom the Lord had chosen to himself, were reduced; but their misery Was of their own seeking.--All that the Lord promised he fulfilled, and proved himself to be abundant in mercy and truth. When his people. departed from their duty, the Lord shewed that he was longsuffering, for he sent his prophets to -admonish, and call them to repentance; and if they did not hearkai to the prophets, he sent chastisements upon them. Whei 'they repented and turned unto him, the Lord shewed that he kept mercy for 177 thousands by forgiving their transgression and sin. When they utterly forsook him, and gave themselves up to the abominations of the Heathen, he put his threatenings into execution, but, in the midst of judgment he remembered mercy, and, for the sake of his faithful servants, Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and David, he preserved a remnant of Judah, and sent them into captivity, instead of cutting them off, that they might be brought to a sense of their duty, and, at the same time, spread the knowledge of the true God among the Heathen nations. For Christians God has done more than he did even for the Israelites. We should, therefore, take warning from the fate of the disobedient and rebellious Israelites. Questions.---Did not God fulfil all his promises to the Israelites? [.ns. Yes.] What should Christians believe from this? [Ans. That God will also fulfil his promises to Christians.] Did not God at length put his threatenings in execution against those who departed from his covenant? [Ans. Yes.] Have we not the greatest reason to think he will do the same to those who depart from the Christian Covenant? [Ans. Yes.] What should we resolve do then? [.Ans. To keep true to the Christian Covenant.] What should we pray for in order to enable us to do this? [Ans. The grace of God.] LESSON CXIV. Read the whole Lesson. E.planalion.--The prophet Jeremiah.had been sent from the Lord to the king and princes of Judah, to warn them of their approaching fate; but, instead of giving ear to his exhortation, they had abused tile Prophet, and used him with great cruelty, and he was in prison at the time Jerusalem was taken. But the wicked attempts of his enemies to ruin and destroy him, proved the means of making his real character known to Nebuchadnezzar, who most likely, on account of his predictions concerning him, resolved. to, preserve the prophet from the general destruction. The people who were left in the land of Judah had acjiance of being comfortable, but their desire was tagointoEgypt. Questio i.--Was not the providence of God displayed in the preservation; of Jeremiah? ~Ans. Yes.} Who was kind to him:? [Alns, The captain of the- guardJ;. Did he not also 178 shew great indulgence to the people who remained in the land? [Ans. Yes.] Did those people agree among themselves [Ans. No.] What did some of them do? [A.ns. They treacherously killed their governor.] What was this governor's name? [Ans. Gedaliah.] What did all the people, from the greatest to the least, entreat Jeremiah to do? [Ans. To make prayers and supplications for them to Almighty God.] What did they make a solemn vow to do? [Arns. To obey the word of the Lord.] LESSON CXV. Read the whole Lesson. Eplanation.--It appears from this Lesson that the people were not sincere when they made their vow, for their minds were fully bent upon going into Egypt. After making them a promise in the name of the Lord, of favour and protection in their own country, and warning them of the judgments that would be inflicted upon them in the land of Egypt, Jeremiah informed them that their hearts were open to the all-seeing eye of God; but neither promises nor threatenings had any effect upon them; they disbelieved the prophet, because the words of the Lord were contrary to their own inclinations. Questions.---Did the people obey the word of the Lord and remain in Judah? [Ans. No.] What did they do? [Ans. They went into Egypt.] Did not they shew that they had very wicked hearts in thus dissembling with the Lord, and disbelieving his prophet? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON CXVI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--What is here related happened eight years after the destruction of Jerusalem, at which time Nebuchadnezzar had made great conquests. The golden image which Nebuchadnezzar set up was, with its pedestal or stand, thirty yards in height: it is thought by some to have been an image of Bel, his chief idol; but others think it was an image of himself. Of this we may be certain, that it was an idol, and that he dishonoured God by setting it up. 179 Questions.---Were there any in the kingdom who did not obey the king's command to worship the golden image? 12. [Ans. Yes; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego.] What did Nebuchadnezzar do in his rage and fury, when those men told him they would not worship the golden image? [Ans. He ordered the furnace to be heated, seven times more than it was wont to be heated.] What did he command his mighty men to do then? [Ans. To bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and cast them into the burning fiery furnace.] What hapi pened to those who put them in? [Ans. The flames slew them.] Did not the same flames destroy Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego~ [Ans. No.] How came they not to be burnt? (Ans. God preserved them.] What did Nebuchadnez zar say to Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, when he found the fire had not hurt them? 26. [Ans. Ye servants of the living God, come forth, and come hither.] Did they come out unhuit? [Ans. Yes.] What did Nebuchadnezzar do when he saw that not so much as their hair was singed, and that the smell of fire was not upon them? 28. [Ans. He blessed God.] What decree did he make? [ Ans. That whosoever should speak against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and' Abednego, should be cut in pieces, and their houses should be made a dunghill.] What did the king do for Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego? [.ns, He promoted them in the province of Babylon.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--It is very plain from the latter part of the answer of Shadrach, Meshach, and Adednego, that their faith led them to hope for a recompence in another world, if the Lord did not see fit to save them from the death with which, Nebuchadnezzar had threatened them. We should learn, frorr.their example, to place a stedfast faith in God's mercy and goodness, and to resolve, on no.account, to be frightened from our duty to him by any dangers that may threaten us. questions.- What led Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego,. to take the choice of being burnt to death in a fiery furnace, rather than offend God by bowing down to an idol? [Ans. Their faith in God's mercy.] Do you think it possible for any one to be in greater danger of death than these men were? [Ans. No.] Did not God deliver them? [Ans. Yes.] Should we fear any danger then when we are practising our duty? [Ans. No.] Suppose God does not see fit to deliver his servants in this world, what may they hope for? [LAns. A re 180 coripence in the world to come.] Should we suffer any thing to frighten us from doing our duty? [Ans. No.] LESSON CXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--Nebuchadnezzar dreamed this dream thirtythree years after he dreamed one which was interpreted by Daniel, which is in the second chapter of the Book of Daniel, and which signified that Nebuchadnezzar should be the head of a great empire: this had been fulfilled for he had conquered the kingdoms of Judah, Egypt, Tyre, and Sidon, and others, as the Lord had foretold by his prophets that he should do. On which Nebuchadnezzar grew proud and arrogant, and imputed all his success to the might of his own power; and, instead of honouring God, who is the only giver of all victory, he thought of nothing but his own honour and majesty. When Daniel heard the king's dream he was astonished; for the interpretation was not yet revealed unto him; when it was revealed he was'troubled, because he was sorry the king had offended God. The instant Nebuchadnezzar spoke those haughty.words, concerning his ownpowerand majesty, he was deprived of his reason; and, as we may judge from his own words, he wandered about in solitary places till the appointed time for his chastisement was fulfilled, when his understanding was restored. Questions.--What did Nebuchadnezzar desire to make known to'all nations that dwelt in the earth? 1. [Ans. The signs and. wonders that the high God had wrought toward him.] What does he give an account of in the following part of the chapter? [Ans. Of his dream.] Was it not a very extraordinary dream? [Ans. Yes.] How was it fulfilled? 33. [Ans. Nebuchadnezzar was driven from men, and did eat grass as oxen.] How was he driven from, men? [Ans. He lost his understanding.] Was his.understanding restored to him? 34. [Ans. Yes.] What did. Nebuchadnezzar do as soon as his understanding was restored to him?: [.Ins. He blessed alld praised the Most High.] What was restored to Nebuchadniezzar as soon as he hadrecovered.hii reason? 35. [Ans. His kingdom.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. listruction.--We shouki learn from this Lesson to acknowledge,that the Most High ruleth over the kingdoms of men, and giveth them. to whomsoever he will; that the dominion of the SLord.ois ameverlasting,dominion; and that his kingdom is from generation to generation. That all the inhabitants of the earth, 181 are as nothing in comparison of the great Lord of all things,! who doeth according to his will in the armies of heaven, an& among the inhabitants of the earth; and none can stay hig hand, or;-y unto him, What doest thou? And the-eonsideration of the greatness and majesty of God, the king of Heaven, should lead us to praise and honour him. Questions.-What have we in this Lesson seen a wonderful instance of? [Ans. The power and majesty of God.] What should the consideration of the greatness of God2lead us to do? [Ats. To praise and honour him.] LESSON CXVIII. Read the whole Lesson. Erplanation.-Babylon had always been an idolatrous place, and as the empire increased in power, the Babylonians became more and more wicked, and the Lord designed to destroy Babylon as soon as fhe measure of its iniquity would be full, and to make use of the nation called the Medes, as the instrument of its destruction; all this was foretold by the prophet Jeremiah, twenty years before Jerusalem was destroyed by. Nebuchadnezzar. It was also foretold'by the prophet Isaiali, an hundred "and fifty years before, that Babylon should 'be taken by a prince of the name of Cyrus, who should.restore the remnant ofdhis people to their own land, at'the end of the seventy years captivity. We read in this Lesson, the manner in which the predictions relating to the downfal of Babylon were fulfilled. Questions.-Is it not wonderful to think that all future things are knowmn to God as, well as if they were present? [Arns. Yes.] How has God proved that he knows them? [Ans. By sending prophets to foretel them.] Who was prophesied of by name one hundred and fifty years before he was born? [Ans. Cyrus, prince of Persia.] What kihgdom, was he to, overthrow [Ans. Babylon.] What crime were the Babylonians guilty of, which provoked the Lord to destroy them? [Ans. Idolatry.] Explanation.-There were several kings of Babylon between Nebuchadnezzar and Belshazzar. Belshazzar.was both a weak and a wricked prince. Cyrus was renowned for wisdom, valour, and virtue; he was prinoe of Persia;. and Dariu4, kingg of the Medes, his uncle, being engaged in.a, war with a forMer king df Babylon, had sent for Cyrus-, and made him general of his army. Before thereign of Belshazzar, the Medes.. 182 and Persians, tnder the conduct of Cyrus, had gained a great part of the Assyrian empire; and at the time Belshazzar made his impious feast. the city of Babylon was besieged by Cyrus and his army. The measure of the wickedness of Babylon was now filled, and Cyrus, the instrument of Divine vengeance (though he knew not that he was so),was at hand to destroy it. Questions.-Who was Belshazzar? [Ans. The king of Babylon. J In what state was his principal city, when he made a feast and drank wine with his lords? [ "ns. It was besieged by Cyrus.J Who was Cyrus? [ Ins. The prince of Persia.] How came he to join with the Medes against the Babylonian empire? [ dns. He had been sent for by Darius, king of the Medes.] What did Belshazzr send for to make use of at his feast? 2. [ ins.The golden and silver vessels which Nebuchadnezzar had taken out of the temple of the Lord.] Who did he and his lords praise when they drank out of these sacred vessels?. 4. [Ans. Gods of gold and silver, iron, wood, and stone.] What wonderful prodigy happened in the same hour? [Ans. There came forth fingers of a man's hand and wrote upon the wall.] What did Daniel say was the meaning of the words, Mene, Tekel, Upharsin? 26. [Ans. That God had finished Belshazzar's kingdom, and given it to the Medes and Persians.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION, Instruction.-Belshazzar and his impious guests were guilty of a most presumptuous sin when they drank to their idols in the vessels of the Lord's house. It was an open affront to the Divine Majesty. The fear that fell upon him was the terror of the Lord, with which the hearts of the Oicked are often seized in the midst of their wickedness. This Lesson should teach u.s to reverence the Almighty. Questions.-What kind of a sin was Belshazzar guilty of? [Ans. Presumptuous sin.] Who did he openly insult when he drank to idols out of the holy vessels? [Ans. God Almighty.] What should thlis Jesson teach us? [Ans. To reverence the Almighty.] LESSON CXIX. Read the first verse. Explanation.-Cyrus had besieged Babylon two years,whea he heard a great festival was to be held there; and he thought this a very proper time for him to acconmphsh his purpose:.accordingly, while the king and his people were given up to S183 drunkenness, he contrived to break down a dam that was between the river and a famous canal, by which means he drained off Vie water, and marched with his army that way to the city,where he found the gates open; his soldiers advanced to the palace and slew the king; the inhabitants soon yielded to the conqueror, and Cyrus became master of the place. Darius the Mede, who was uncle to Cyrus, was called king during his life-time; but after his death, Cyrus governed the whole Persian empire, which Daniel, in his interpretation of Nebuchadnezzar's dream, foretold would rise upon the downfal of the Babylonian empire. Questions.-Was Babylon subdued? [Ans. Yes.] Who did the Lord send to subdue it? [Ans. Cyrus, prince of Persia, with Darius the Mede.] When was it subdued? [Ans. In the night when Belshazzar drank wine out of the vessels of the Lord's house.] What became of Belshazzar? [Ans. He was slain thet same night.] Who took the kingdom? [Ans. Darius the Mede.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-In the history of Belshazzar we see how God orders events for the punishment of wicked kings and nations. Nothing was more unlikely than the taking of the great city of Babylon, which was strongly fortified by nature and art; but it was the will of the Lord that the kingdom should be removed, and he inspired Cyrus, whom he had loig before ordained to be his instruiment on this wonderful business, with wisdom and power to effect it. This should lead us to reflect on the wonderful ways of Providence, in respect to God's casting down and setting up of kingdoms. Questions.-Is not this history of Belshazzar a very wonderful one? [A-is. Yes.] Cannot God bring any city or nation to destruction when he sees fit? [Ans. Yes.] What should this account of the taking of Babylon lead us to reflect on? [Ans. The wonderful ways of Providence.] Read from the end of verse I to the end of the chapter. Explanation.-It was in the absence of Cyrus,who was gone into Syria to settle some affairs, that Darius was prevailed upon by Daniel's enemies to put him into the den of liors; fromn which lie was so wonderfully delivered by the pow erand goodness of God, as his three friends had formerly been from the burning fiery furnace. About two years after Daniel was delivered from the lions'den Darius died, and Cyrus returned and took upon himself the government of the wholePersian empire. 184 Q9uestions.-How did Darius honour Daniel? 3. [,ins. He set him above the princes.] Why did he so? [A.is. Because an excellent spirit was in him.] What did the presidents and princes want to do whlen they persuaded Darius to make the decree? [Ans. To destroy Daniel.] What did Dai el continue to- do notwithstanding the decree? [.Ans. To pray to God.] What did his enemies prevail upon the king to do? [Ans. To put him into the lions' den.] Was he devoured by the lions? [Ais. No.] How came it to pass that he was not? 21. [Ans. God sent his angel and shut the lions' mouths, so that they did not hurt him.] Was not Darius very glad when he found that Daniel was preserved? [Ans. Yes.] What decree did he make then? 26. [Ans. That in every dominion of his kingdom men should tremble and fear before the God of Daniel.] Did Daniel prosper after this? [Ans. Yes.] What was the kingdom called afterwards? [ zns. The kingdom of Persia, PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-By continuing to pray to God, in defiance of the king's decree, Daniel set an excellent example of maintaining piety to God at the expense of ease, profit, honour,. andeven life itself; and his wonderful preservation affords usthe greatest encouragement to do so, as- it shews us, that good men have in the Almighty a faithful guardian, who will protect them in the hour of darkness, guide them through thevalley of death, and, in his own good time, make their righteousuess appear as clear as the noon day. Questions.-Are not those safe who have the Almighty for a guardian? [Ans. Yes.] Whose example must we follow if iwe desire to have God for a protector? [Ains. Daniel's.]. LESSON CXX. Read the whole Lessom. Explanation.-In this Lesson we see that Jeremiali's prophecy, concerning the-return of the Lord's people to their own land at the end of seventy years, was fulfilled; and Cyrus was the instrument, of the Lord's good- providence in thismatter, as Isaiah had predicted so many years before. It seemns that Cyrus knew of these: prophecies) and regarded: 185 them as a charge to rebuild the house of the Lord, and assistr the people in establishing themselves onice more in their own land. The persons who are named in this Lesson were the chief men of Judah, to whom the management of affairs was intrusted. Zerubbabel was grandson to Jehoiachim, king of Judah. Forty-two thousand was a great number, considering the slaughter there had been before, and at the destruction of Jerusalem; but it fell vastly short of the number of the ten tribes in the peaceful reign of Solomon. Their treasures also were much less than those which Solomon possessed for building and furnishing the first temple. It is supposed that some of every tribe, who had been carried away captive, took advantage of Cyrus's decree, as well as the remnant of the tribe of Judah; for he gave it in favour of the whole house of Israel. Questions.-What did the Prophets foretel concerning the captivity of God's people? [Anis. That it should continue seventy years.] What did Isaiah prophesy concerning Cyrus? [Ans. That he should say to Jerusalem, Thou shalt be built, and to the temple, Thy foundation shall be laid.] Is it not very wonderful to read of these prophecies and their completion? [Ans. Yes.] Does it not raise your notions concerning the greatness of God? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not very plain to you, that God governs all things both in heaven and earth? [Ans. Yes.] Explanation.-In consequence of Cyrus's decree the foundation of Jerusalem was laid, and, after a few months, the peo*pie set about rebuilding the temple, which occasioned greql joy in Israel; but some of the ancient men who had seen So0 lomon's temple wept aloud, from painful remembrance o# former prosperous times, and the dreadful changes that had happened through the sins of God's chosen people. The Samaritans desired to join in the work, but as they were not of the tribes of Israel, the people would not admit them this the Samaritans highly resented, and did all in their power to obstruct the buildings; and the temple was not finished at that time: but in the days of Darius Hystaspes, the Prophet Haggai was sent to encourage the people to proceed with the building. Questions.-Were the city and temple at Jerusalem completed in the days of Cyrus? [Ans. No; the Samaritans hindered the work for many years.] Who was sent to reprove the people for not finishing the Lord's house? [Ans. Haggai the prophet.] Did they set about it after this? [Ans. Yes.) Who was governor of Judea at this time? [Ans. Zerubbabel.] 186 LESSON CXXI. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.-Tatnai was governor of the land of Judea under the king of Persia; he thought it was not for the interest of his master, or himself, that Jerusalem should be rebuilt by the Jews, and he wished, on that account, to put a stop to it; but the providence of God over-ruled all that was undertaken contrary to his own decree. Questions.-Who wished to hinder the building of the city and temple? [Ans. Tatnai. ]' Who was he? [Ans. Governor of Judea Under the king of Persia.]- What did he write to desire Darius to do.? [Ans. To cause search to be made for the decree of Cyrus.] What is plainly seen in these things? [Ans. The providence of God.] LESSON CXXII. Read the wh'ole Lesson. Explanation.-The publishing of the king's decree completed the restoration of the Jewish state, from the destruction of which, by the burning of the city and temple by Nebuchadnezzar, was exactly seventy years, as the Prophet Jeremiah had foretold. The remnant of Israel were now in a much more honourable state than during their captivity, but it was very inferior to the former glory of the kingdom of Israel. They had now no king, yet the sceptre, or rule, remained, as the prophets had foretold, in the tribe of Judah, for Zerubbabel their governor was of the family of David; and the people had still prophets to direct and comfort them. The Prophet Haggal foretold, that the glory of the latter house should be greater than that of the former. This was fulfilled by our Lord Jesus Christ's teaching his divine doctrine in the temple at Jertsalem. Question.-What does the charge in the condition of he Jews shew? [Ans. The providence of God, and the care he takes of his people.] LESSON CXXIII. Explanation.--The request which Ezra, the scribe, made to Ahasuems was, that the Jews who were scattered in the pro 187 vinces of Persia might join their brethren in Judea. The Scripture informs us, that the whole company who went with Ezra were one thousand four hundred and ninety-six men, besides women and children: they consisted of a mixture of the ten tribes. Questions.---What became of the Jews that were scattered in the provinces of Persia? [/ns. They went up with Ezra the scribe to Judea.] Do not you think that the Jews who went with Ezra must have been very happy to join their brethren? [Ans. Yes.] What had Ezra prepared his own heart to do before he took the people with him to Jerusalem? 10. [Ans. To seek the Law of the Lord and do it, and to teach in Israel statutes and judgments.] What did Ezra bless and thank God for? [Ans. For putting it into the king's heart to beautify the house of the Lord at Jerusalem.] Would heathen princes, as those were who sent the Jews back, and gave them treasures, have thought of these things themselves? [Ans. No.] By what was every thing respecting the return of the Jews ordered? [Ans. By divine Providence.] Erplanation.--Some of the Jews who were settled in different provinces of Persia did not go back to Judea with Zerubbabel; but their continuance in the land of their captivity, when the Lord had delivered the remnant of his chosen' people, had nearly proved fatal to them; for a wicked man, named Haman, had prevailed upon the king to send forth a decree that all the Jews in his dominions should be put to death in one day; but this being known to Mordecai the Jew, whose niece Esther had been raised to the throne by the king's makiig her his wife, Mordecai' persuaded Esther to use her influence with the king to reverse this cruel decree. Esther happily prevailed, and wicked Haman was hanged on a gallows which he had prepared for Mordecai, and the Jews were delivered from the destruction intended for them; it was after this that Ezra did what is related in this Lesson. Questions.--Did all the Jews go up to Jerusalem when Cyrus gave them leave to return? [Ans. No.] What were ended at that time? [Ans. The seventy years captivity.] Should any of the Lord's people have remained in the land where they had been captives when the Lord had invited them back to rebuild Jerusalem and the temple? [Ans. No.] Were they not all like to perish by doing so? [Ans. Yes.] Who contrived their destruction? [Ans. Hamari.] Who prevailed upon the king to prevent it? [Ans. Queen Esther.] What 188 was her uncle's name? [Ans. Mordecai.] Of what nation were Mordecai and Esther? [Ans. Of the Jewish nation.] What became of wicked Haman? [Ans. He was hanged.] Where was he hanged? [Ans. On a gallows he had made for Mordecai.] LESSON CXXIV. Read the whole Lesson. Explanation.--Nehemiah was a Jew, whose ancestors had formerly been citizens of Jerusalem, but who, having obtained a settlement in the land of their captivity, chose to remain there: when Nehemiah heard that the Jews were in affliction, he partook of their grief, and was very earnest to obtain pardon for their sins, and their complete restoration. This good man set an excellent example of zeal for religion, and love for his country. Questions.---Who was Nehemiah? [Ans. A Jew.] What office did he hold under the king of Persia? [Ans. He was cup-bearer to him.] How was he affected when he heard that the wall of Jerusalem, which had been rebuilt, was broken down by their enemies, and the gates burnt? 4. [Ans. He wept, and fasted, and prayed.] What reason did he give to the king for looking sad? [Ans. That Jerusalem lay waste.] What request did he make to the king? [Ans. That he would send him to Jerusalem.] Did the king consent? [AIns. Yes.] Did Nehemiah cause the wall to be rebuilt, and the city secured? [Ans. Yes.] What did Nehemiah set an example of? [Ans. Of zeal for religion, and love of his country.]. Should not those who live where the true religion is established love their country? [Ans. Yes.] Should Christians. when they are obliged to live in foreign countries grow indifferent to the true religion? [Ans. No.] LESSON CXXV. Read the whole Lesson.. Explanation.---Before Ezra came to Jerusalem, the knowledge of God's word was in a manner lost; Ezra made it his particular business to produce a correct copy of the Holy Scriptures, which he divided into three parts, the Law, the Prophets, abd the Holy Writings. The scaffold, or pulpit, on which Ezra stood to read the Law, was erected in the largest street of the city, probably because the court of the temple was not capable of containing so great a inultitude. This was a very affecing ceremony to the Jews, and no won 189 der it caused their tears to flow. They had now the happiness of having the Word of God restored, which, as a punishment for neglect and contempt of it, had been justly withheld from their nation; and they had the satisfaction of hearing it read in a language which they understood. Such advantages are enjoyed in our country; the Scriptures are translated into English; they are constantly read in our churches; and every person has the liberty of reading them: yet how few are there who know how to prize this invaluable privilege 1 If they did so, they would be ready every time they heard or read the Bible, to bless the Lord, the Great God, who revealed the Scriptures for the instruction and comfort of htunan kind., Questions.---What did Ezra make it his particular business to do? [Ans. To produce a correct copy of the Holy Scriptures.] How did he divide it? [Ans. Into three parts.] What did he call them? [Ans. The Law, the Prophets; and the Holy Writings.] What did Ezra do when lie had collected the Scriptures? 5. [Ans. He opened the book in the sight of the people.] How did they behave? 5. [Ans. They all stood up.] What did they say when Ezra blessed the Lord God? 6. [Ans. They answered, Amen, amen, with lifted hands.] What other signs of reverence did they shew? [Ans. They bowed their heads and worshipped with their fices to the ground.] Was the New Testament written at that time? [Ans. No, not till long after.] Where were the Law, the Prophets, and the Holy Writings, contained? [Ans. In the Old Testament.] Have not we the very same Scriptures as the people of Israel had at that time? [Ans. Yes.] Are they not of equal value to us? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not a most comfortable thing to have the Scriptures in a language which is commonly spoken in this country? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not a great advanta.ge to hear the Scriptures read and explained? [Ans. Yes.] What return should we make for these great privileges? [Ans. We should bless the Lord, the great God.] Explanation.--After Ezra and the Levites had read and explained the Law, the people entered into a solemn Covenant, to walk in God's Laws which were given by Moses, the servant of the Lord, and to observe and do all the commandments of the Lord their God; and they never after worshipped idols: but though they kept themselves from idolatry, they corrupted the Law:of Moses, and did many bad things, for which the Lord punished them, by letting some of the wicked kings and princes who reigned over other nations 190 persecute them, and kill great numbers of then in battle; but at last, when their enemies wanted to force them to worship idols, and they refused to do so, God was pleased to raise up Mattathias and his sons, who were very good men, to deliver them; his sons were Joannan, Judas Maccabeus, Simon Eleazar, and Jonathan. Jadas Maccabeus, in particular, was a very valiant man, and he went forth to battle full of faith and confidence in God, protecting the faithful people of God, and putting those to the sword ~vho oppressed them. But at last God suffered the Romans, who were a powerful people, to conquer many nations, and among them the Jews; so Judea, the country belonging to them, was made a Roman province, and the Jews were obliged to pay a large sum of money every year to the Roman emperor, for leave to have a governor and laws of their own; and in this state they were in the time of Augustus Caesar, in whose reign our Lord Jesus Christ was born into the world. Questions.---Did the Jews fall into idolatry again after their return from captivity? [Ans. No.] What did they greatly corrupt? [Ans. The Law of Moses.] How did God punish them? [Ans. God suffered the heathens to persecute them.] What good man and his family did God raise up to deliver them when they refused to worship idols? [Ans. Mattath;as and his sons.] What was the name of one of them who was a great general? [Ans. Judas Maccabeus.] Who were permitted at last to conquer the Jews? [Ans. The Romans.] What was Judea made then? [Ans. A Roman province.] Had they a governor of their own then? [Ans. Yes.] Could they follow their own laws? [Ans. Yes.] Whose leave were they obliged to have to do so? [Ans. The Roman emperor's.] Did he not make them pay tribute to him? [Ans. Yes.] What Roman emperor reigned at the time our Lord Jesus Christ was born into the world? [Ans. Augusths Caesar.] What part of the Bible are all the Lessons you have had explained to you taken from?. [Ans. The Old Testament.] What other part of the Bible remains to be explained? [Ans. The New Testament.] Who wrote the Books of the Old Testament? [Ans. Moses, and the prophets, and other inspired writers.] What is meant by an inspired writer? [Ans. One who writes what the Holy Ghost puts into his mind.] END OF VOL I. T. 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FOR THE USE OF SCHOOLS AND FAMILIES. -FIFTH EDITION* By Mrs. TRIMMER." LONDON: PRINTED BY T. RENSLEYp SOLT COVRTp FItET MUT9, FOuR F. C. & 5. R15'lNGTON, NO.62, ST. PAUL'6js tJIuC1I,-yrmD;, AND J. HATCHARDo PICCADIIoLX. EXPLANATION OF SCRIPTURE LESSONS FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT, INSTRUCTION.-The Lessons in the Old Testament, which have been explained to yot, teach you to believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and Earth. From the Lessons in the New Testament, if you consider them attentively, you will be farther confirmed in your belief in God the Father; you will learn that the moft excellent of all Beings, whom we call God, is truly a heavenly Father; and you will also learn to believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord and Saviour, and in the Holy Ghoft, the Sanctifier and Comforter of the sinful race of Adam. To believe what is revealed in Scripture conrcerning God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, and the Salvation of Mankind, is the true Christian Faith. All the Articles of the Christian Faith, all the particulars which Christians are required to believe, are written in Scripture; and they are summed up together in the Apostles' Creed, which makes part of the Church Catechism, and of the Common Prayer. Questions.-In whom have you learned to believe from the Lessons taken out of the Old Testament? [Ans. In God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and Earth.] In whom besides God the Father Almighty are we required to believe? [Ans. In Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord, and in the Holy Ghost.] From what part of the Bible may we learn what is revealed concerning the Son of God and the Holy Ghost? [Ans. From the New Testament. I Where may we find all the Articles of the Christian Faith summed up together? [Ans. In the Apostles' Creed.] What does the Apostles' Creed make a part of? [Ans. The Church Catechism, and' the Common Prayer.] Repeat to me the Apostles' Creed? [Ans. I believe in God the Father Almighty, &c.] Do not you find that this Creed relates to God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost? [Ans. Yes.] The Lessons from the New Testament will confirm your belief of every Article of the Christian Faith. A 2 4 LESSON 1. Read.-the -whole Lesson. Instructionr.--In this Lesson we read that the birth of Johnt the B~aptist, the m Yessenger of'the Messiah, wlvas f'oretold by an angel. c-Zaeh~arias., to whomi the an~gel appeared, was a Jewish priest, who wvas p~erforming the (lutitec of his (AIce in] the 6 temnple at Jerusalerii. The words of the angel shewed that John was to be a very extraordinary personi; antither Elijalh in spirit and power, though not ini namec; but b'cauLSe the things wvhich the aige1 fbretohi were out of hel( commi-on couirse of human aiffairs, Zacharias doubted, and rtequ~ir(.d a sign to confirm his belief; hie accordingly had (a sign, whichl served at the samne time as.a pun-ishiment tbr his want of faith. W~e miay conclude thiat Zacharias informied his %wi1e' in -writing, of what had happene-d In the temiple-. questions..-Ahat king of Jndlea is named at the begrinDinky of this Lesson? [A.ns. 1-erod.] What people lived in the land of Judea? [.tins. T11he Jews.] Byr what tanies are the JewIs called in the books of Moses? [An:i. Israelitts, ani the Children 'of Israel.] What people were the Jews-, subject to in the days of Ilerod? [Ans. The Rorilans.] \Vhat rwas Za.charias? [An:s. A. Jewish priest.] Where was hie. wht'tt the angel came to him? [.ins. In the temiple W \here was thec lemple-? [Ains. At Jerusalemn.J Whose birth did the an el ioretel? [.Ans. John the Baptist's: ] XWhat was John the Baptist to be to Christ? [.tins.. j4he miessenger.] Did not thle, words of the angdl shiew that John was to be a %ser-Y ext raorditnary person? [tins. Yes.] W~ho was to haiVe O an gladness at his birth?.[Au:n. His fithier.] W hoesidies his bthe was o rjiec at it? [Ans. Mlany.] In wlnwe sigrht was John to be great? [An:. In the, sighlt of the Lord.1 WVhat was hie never to drink [An:. Winetnor strong drinkj J Xh' was he to 'be filled with from his, birth? [tF.ins. Thei 1 Juy Ghost,] Who was hie to turni to: the Lord their God i[tins. AdIany of thle Children of Israel.] Who was he to go before? [.Ans. The Lord.] What Lord? [Adn:. 'The Lord Chriqt.] In whose spirit and power was he to go? [tins. Thel spirit itpd powcr of ElAias.] WhD is meant by Elias? [Ans. Elijah the prophiet.] Was not Elijah the prophet very zealous for the boniour of God? [Ans. Yes.] What wicked king and queen' did Elijah reprove for their wvickedness? [1Ins. Ahiab aid Jtzebel.] Whecre dto we read of thiem? [ vs In the first book of Kings.] Who did he turn to the Lord when they worshlipped idols? [ANxs. The Israelites.] Did not 1 le angel foretel that John should be such a kind of p#e-rson as Elijah [Ans. Y'es.] D)id Zacharias believe the words of the an~gel? [A4ns. No.] -Why did lie not believe that hie anid his wiife should have, a son? [Ains. Because they were old.] 'What did he tequirc? [An11s.. A sign.] What (lid 11the angel say of himself? L.;s That hie wvas 'Gabriel who siood. in-the preCSence of God.] What sig-n did the angel tell Zacharias should hazppen because he wouldA not believe. his go, d tid*ingi? [(Ans. He should be dumb till his son was born ] Nkas hec struck dumb immediately? [,,Ins. Yrs ] 'Wer~e not the people greatly surprised when Zacha'rias camne out of the tremple? [Ans. Yesi.] Was n~ot Elizabeth velry gladI( whets hie. found she was to have such a son? [. 8'ns. Yeb.]I Did shie doubt the W_ ords of the angel? [Ans. No.] J PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. lnstrucidon.~-From the punishment of Zachzirias we should learn to give a ready' belief to whatever is revenled fromn God in any way, without desiring further proofs. Inthe~presen~t sta.te of the world we rmust n~ot exptct anigels to be stut from heaven with messages to sbecause all tha't ii itexessary for us to know is revealed i'n Scripture; wet -,,re 'therefore re*. quired to believe ithe Scriptures,. a Zachari,-ias wa~s reqtrired to believe the, angel. Very' few ierscntis corme up to tlie chiaratetr of Zacharias in vcrn e ti; yet hle was puuii-hedfr in.utbe-lief. 9uestions.-\Vhat shlould wie learni from the punishment of Zacharias? [Ans.*To belie-ve.A hat ever is revealed fi Orn God.] Are angels s.ent from heaven now to reveal thinog~fi-O God'? [AZs. No0.] 'How ar~e things-ievealed olr- made kn~wn to uis fromi, God? [A.By the Scriptures.] 'Is it not re'vealed~to 115 t'onceinfing Johin, int the p~ortiont of Scripiture w,%e hav'e bedh reading, that hit wa~s ordained of'God to prepa-re the peop~le- of Isradrl to receive Chr1ist? [Aps. Yes.], Should we not be guilty of as great a sin as Zachiarias %v ' s if wve -did n~ot believe~tlis? A 3 6 [Ans. Yes.] Why so? [Ans. Because it is revealed to us from God.] LESSON II. Rcad to verse 3g. Instruction.-The Virgin Mary was a young woman in mean circumstances, but sbo was notwithstanding of the family of king David, as was also Joseph, to whom she was under a promise of marriage. Joseph was by trade a carpenter. It must have greatly surprised Mary to be addressed by an angel from heaven as one who was highly favoured and blessed among women. This happened about six months after the appearance of the angel to Zacharias. It was foretold- by the prophet Isaiah, above seven hundred years before the birth of Christ, that a virgin should bear a son, and should call his name Immanuel, or God with us. The message of the angel to MIary shewed that she was the virgin to whom it related, and that the child she was to have would be the Son of God. We find, by part of the angel'smessage, that Jesus was to be the son of David as well as the Son of God. How he was the Son of God could be knownl only to God himself; but it is plain that he would be the son of David, by Mary's being of the family of David. What the angel foretold must have appeared very wonderful to the Virgin Mary, but when he told her these astonishing circumstances would be brought to pass by the miraculous power of God, and that with God nothing is impossible, she readily believed his words, and resigned herself to the divine will. Questions.-What did the angel say to comfort Mary? 30. [Ans. That she had found favour with God.] What did the angel foretel? 32. [As. That she shoIld bring forth a child, and call his name Jesus.] Whose son d d the angel say the son of the Virgin Mary should be called? [Ans. The Son of the Highest.] Who did he mean by the Highest? [Ans. God.] What did the angel say the Lord God would give to his Son? [Ans. The throne of his father David.] How long did he say he should reign over the house of Jacob? [Ans. For ever.j When did he say his kingdom should end? [Ans. Never.] Could this be an earthly kingdom? [Ans. No ] What king dom must it be then? [Ans. A heavenly kingdom.] Who is called the father of Jesus in the same verse in which he is styled the Son of the Highest? [Ans. David.] How couki he be the Son of God? [Ans. This is only known to God himself] How could he be the son of David? [Ass By having Mary for his mother.J How so? [Ans. She was of the family of David.J Was it not very wonderful to the Virgin Mary to hear the angel t lk of a child of whom she herself should be the mother, and who was to be at the same time the Son of God and the son of David? [Ans Yes.] When the angel told her that with God nothing is impossible, did she entertain any doubts? [Ans. No.] What did she say? 38. [Ans. Behold the handmaid of the Lord, be it unto me according to thy word.] Bead verse 3g to the end. Instruction.-Elizabeth spake by divine inspiration what the Holy Ghost put into her mind, for she had not heard from Mary of the angel's visit; and her words partly agreed with those of the angel this was very wunderful, and it must have given great comfort to Mary. We find from the beautiful hymn which Mary spake after she had heard Elizabeth's prophecy, that so far frorm being lifted up on account of her being assured that she was the blessed virgin who was to be the mother of our Lord Jesus Christ, she gave all the glory to God. Mary also testified her faith or belief, by declaring that she regarded what had been revealed to her by the angel, as the fulfilment of the ancient prophecies, made first to Abraham, and afterwards to his posterity the Israelites. Questions.-Where did Mary go to when the angel left her? 39. [Ans. To the house of Zacharias.]. Where was that? [Ans. In the hill country of Judea.] What did Elizabeth style Mary? 42. [Ans. The mother of her Lord.J What Lord did she mean! [Ans. The Lord Christ.] How came Elizabeth to address Mary in this manner? [Ans. She was inspired by the Holy Ghost.] Was Mary proud of the great honour and blessing bestowed upon her? Ans. No.] Who did her soul magnify? [An. The Lord.] In whom did her spirit rejoice? [Ans. In God her Saviour.] Who did she say would call her blessed? [Ans. All generations.] How long SA4 did Mary abide with Elizal;th? [Ans. About three months.] WVhere. did she go to then? [Ans..To her own house.] Where uas that i C[Ans. In Nazareth in Galilee.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-Upon this portion of Scripture the first two articles of the Apostles' Creed, i hiCle reitle to Jesus Christ, are fot;n:led, ramnely, that he was the Son of GodC, and that he wos conceiied by the Holy Ghost; and tIe are taught by Mary's example to believe them, because they are revealed fo101 heaven. We,in:ot comprehend the manner in which God pt-rtfrms his wonderful works, bht we imay believe in them niiotwi: hltinding; and if they are writen il Scripture, we may b- sure they are revealed from heavetis Many ages had pass:d away from the time that God first gave the promise of a Saviour to Abraham,-and nimany ages have passed since the angel was sent to the Virgin Mary, in all of which God has shewed mercy upon his faithful people frotli generation to generation; there is no doubt but that God will continue to do so till the end of the world: our care therefore should be to shew our faith by believing the pronises of the Gospel, and living as the scriptures direct us; then will every one have cause to say with Mary, My spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour; for it is impossible to believe in a Saviour without rejoicing. Quesfions.]-What articles of the Apostles' Creed are founded upon this portion of Scripture? [ins. The two first which relate to our Saviour.] Which are they? [1Ans. And in Jesus Christ his oply Son our Lord, who was conceived by the Holy Ghost.] What are we taught by Mary's example to do? [Ans. To believe in these articles.) Ought we not to believe all that is revealed from heaven? [Ans. Yes.] Who revealed what is written in this Lesson? [Ains. God.1 By whom did God revealit? [Ains. By the angel Gabriel.] LESSON II. Read to verse 25. Instruction.-Jo'seph, to whom Mary was to be married, is here called tire son of David, on account of his being 9 of the famijy of David: he was commanded to take Mary as hi wife, becauseit w-vas the will of God that Jesus should pass in the world as the son of Joseph, ar.d be known as the Son of God only to those to whom God should see fit to reveal him. To remove all his scruples, Joseph had a revelation fromn heaven, aoreeincy so exactl with that made before to the Virgin Ma~ry, that he could not possibly doubt th1e truth of What she related concerning the vision she herself had seen. The iiames Jesuis and Joshua are of the same import, and signify a Saviour. T'he children of Israel were, through the power of God, delivered from their enemies, 11nd put -in possession of Canaan, under the guidance of Joshua, as we reaid in the Old Testament; but mrwnkind were to have a greater deliverance througih Jesus Christ. They were to be saved from their sins. Sucstions.-Did.Joseph to whom TNIairy -was engyaged, marry her r' [/Is. Yes.] How came he to (o so;.Ib4s. The angel of the Lord appeared unto him' atid told hiim to take her to wife.] What did the angel call Josrph? 20. [Ans. The son of David.] Why did hit- call himn so? [A~s. Be~ cause he was of the family of king David.] Did not the angel reveal the sam-e things to Joseph as had been beftCre revealed to*Mary? [Ans. Yes.] What prophet was it who foretold that a v ir'iu shouild bear a son, and call his namnie Immanuel? [,-ns. Isaiah.] 'What does the Evanrgelist St. Matthew say is the meaning of the word Immanutl? [Ans. God with us.] ire'ad verse 25 to th~e etul. Instruction. -3Ve have here an account of the fulfilment of the promise of God sent to Zacharias in the temple- by the angel Gabriel. It was customnary for the Jews to name their children at the time they were cir1cumucised, as Christian1s name theirs at their baptism.' As soon as Zacharias sheu'ed his faith, by directing the child to be namied John instead 6f Zacharias, the punishment which had bcen inflicted for his want of faiK') was removed. Elizabeth nppears to have had a firm faith in the proinises of God from the first. The prophecy which Zacharias spake, as- soon as, he had recovered his speecl, related to th0 Messiah, orClhi t, and( to his Mes,.senger, who was to prepare the way before him. The the mer part of the prophecy signified that Christ would deliverhbis peopl6 from their S-Piritubal enemie;, and bring thenm salvation, according t God's promises made so long before to-.tA-braiianm; A- 5 10 and the latter part of Zacharias's prophecy signified, that his son, whom he had named John, should go before the Lord Christ to prepare his people to receive him, by telling them that God would forgive their sins, and grant them salvation through the divine Person who would shortly appear in the world. By those who sat in darkness and the shadow of death, were meant sinners without hope of salvation, who had nothing to expect after this life but everlasting death. The light that was to be given them was the knowledge of salvation. The way of peace signified the way that leads to everlasting life. It is said of John, that he waxed strong in spirit, which signifies that he was filled with the Holy Ghost as the angel had foretold, by means of which he had a knowledge of spiritual and divine things beyond his years. His being in the deserts signifies that he led a retired life, till he was called forth to appear as the prophet of the Lord. Questions.--Was the promise of God made to Zacharias in the temple, that he and Elizabeth should have a son in their old age, fulfilled? [Ans. Yes.] Why did he name him John? [Ans. Because the angel said he should be called John.) What did Zacharias shew by naming his son John? [Ans. His faith. What happened to Zacharias as soon as he had written that his son should be called John? [Ans. His tongue was loosed.] Were not those who were present greatly astonished? [Ans. Yes.] What did those who heard of this wonderful event say? 66. [Ans. What manner of child shall this be?] Iid not these words signify that they thought John would be an extraordinary person? [Ans. Yes.] Did'not Elizabeth shew her faith from the first?. [Ans. Yes.] What happened to Zacharias as soon as he had praised God? [Ans. He was filled with the Holy Ghost, and prophesied.] What did he speak when be was filled with the Holy Ghost? [Ans. A prophecy.] What did Zacharias say his child should be called? 76. [Ans. The prophet of the Lord.] What did he say John would do as the prophet of the Lord? [Ans: Go before him to prepare his ways.] What did Zacharias say John would give knowledge of? 77. [Ans. Salvation.] To whom was he to give it? [Ans. To those who sat in darkness and the shadow of death.] Who were they? [Ans. Sinners who had no knowledge of salvation.) What was meant by the light John was to bring? 79. [Ans. The knowledge of salvation and everlasting life.. What is meant by the way of peace? [Ans. The way ofeverlasting life,] What did John wax strong t1 in? [As., The Spirit.] What Spirit? [Ans. The Holy Spirit.] Where did he live? [Ans. In the deserts.] PRACTICAL INSTBUCTION. Instruction.-In this Lesson we have two remakkable instances of faith: one in Joseph the husband of Mary; the other in Zacharias: and we find that, in consequence of their faith, they did the things they were commanded to do. The faith of these good men would have been very imperfect if it had not produced obedience. Christians should learn from each of them to believe and obey; they should also learn from Zacharias to be thankful for the blessings and mercies bestowed upon them, but more particularly for the blessing of salvation. Questions.--What did Joseph believe, because it was revealed to him from God in a dream? [Ans. That Mary would be the mother of the promised Saviour.] What did he do in consequence of this? [Ans. Took Mary for his wife as the Lord commanded.] What did Zacharias believe at last? [Ans. That his son would be the prophet of the Lord.] What did he do in consequence of this belief? [Ans. He named him John.] Who should imitate these good men in faith and obedience? [Anm. All Christians.] What else should they learn from this account of Zacharias? [Ans. To be thankful to God for all blessings.] For what blessings in particular should they be thankful? [Ans. For the blessings of salvation.] LESSON IV. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.-At the time of our Saviour's birth, all nations were under the Romans. The Roman empire, which consisted of a great many kingdoms, was then at the height of its glory, and Caesar Augustus ruled over it; he was called the emperor. Augustus being proud of ruling oder all nations, resolved to take account of his subjects, and gave orders that they should all go to the cities their families at first belonged to, in order to have their names enrolled, and to be taxed. Joseph and Mary being of the house of David, went to Bethlehem, the city of David. It was foretold' by the prophet Micah, (chap. v. ver. 2.) seven hundred years before Christ came into the world, that h< &1hould be born at Bethlehem in Judea. At the time when the angel appeared to Mary to foretel the birth of Jesus nothing was more unlikely than that the child she was to have should be. born at Bethlehem, for she lived at Naza'reth 5 but God, who knows every thing, past, prcsent, and to come, knowing that Mary would go to Bethlehem at that p;irticular time, inspired the prophet many years before to forttel this circumstance, that it might serve with others to prove that Jesus was the Christ. The Jews expectedl that their promised Messiah would be an earthly prince, coming in great power and splendour to subdue their enemies, deliver theni from the Romans, and set them above all theother nations of the earth; but wve here read that Jesus, the great Imniilannel, the Son of the Highest, the Saviourof the world, was born in the lowest condition of poverty. But though the Saviour of the world was born in such a mean place as a stable, angels were employed to biing the glad tidings of his bit~ih to poor shepherds, who wvere perfirmitg the duties of their calling. The hymn of the angels shew's, that these benevolent beings considered the birth Qfa -'Redeemer as an, event Which would redound to thle glory of God, and the peace and happiness of mankind. questions.-Who was Czespr Augustus? [Ans. The Roman emperor.] What nations were in subjeetion~to the Roman i at the titne of our Saviour-'s birth? [ns. All natious.l W hat decree-did Caesar Angugtus send out? [Ans. That all the w%-orld should be taxed.] What did all the subj~ects of his empire do in con'sequcncie of this decree? [Ans. Go to their own city.] To what cily did Joseph and Mary go? [Ais. To Bethlehem.] Why did t'hey go there? [Ans. Because they were of the Iouses-,ind lineage of David.] Which of the anoieul prophets foretold that the Messiah would be born in Bethleh em? CAns. Mlicah.3 How could lie foretel this circumstance? [Ans. IUh was in~pircd by the Holy Ghost.] Was Jesus born at tietfilebehii? [4ins. Yes.] What does this prophecy and its fulfilmentshew? [,Ans. That Jesus was the Ghrimt.) In what niainDer did theJc\is expect the promised Messiarl tocotnfc? [Ans:In great power and splendour.] From Nvhat ene-mies did they expect to be delivere, d by him? [Ans. From the Romans.], What kind of kingdoii'djd they expect bhir! to'ectablish, an) heavenly 6r.'ap earthly. one.? -[,4is. An earthly kingdom.],By whom w';sthe bi:s 6f Christ -first Cade known, [Ani. ýy the Angel Qtlth~e Iqrd.] TQ'whonl did the aagel declare- i [Amns. To shepherds watching their 13 focks by night.] What did the angel say he brought theiM and all people? 9. [Ans. Good tidings of great joy.] What were these good tidings 11. [Ans. That a Snviour was born.] Who did the angel say was the Saviour? [Ans. Christ the Lord.] Where were the shepherds to look for the infant Saviour? [Ans. In the city of David.] WVhat city was called the city of David? [Ans. Bethlehem.] By what sigris were the shepherds to know the holy child? [As. He was wrapped in swaddling clothes and lying in a manger.] Who appeared suddenly when the angel had delivered his glad tidings? [Ans. 'A multitude of the heavenly host.] Who were they? [Ans. Angels] What did they do? 13. [Aps. Praise God.] What did they s 'y? [Ans. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good-will toward men.] Where did the shepherds go to after the angels left them? [Ans. To Bethlehem.] Who did they find there? [Ans. Joseph, and Njary, and the babe.] What babe? [Ains. Tesus.], Where 'Was the. holy babe laid? 1Ans. In a manger,] Did the.SlhýPberds tell of what they had seen? [Ans. Yes.] Were nt tthose who hlt eard' what they related greatly surprised? [AýsA'es.J What did Mary do? 18. [Ans. Sfi pondered them in' her heart.] 'lWhkat did the sthepbeds do when they returned from seeing Jssll? [Adis! They g.lorifled and prai-ed God.] What did they praT*S& God for? [Abns. All the things which they had heard and seen.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-By means of th is portion of Scripture the same things are made known to us as weeic made known to the she1qb i we are therefore called uponkto believe what was revealeB by the angel to the shepherds, namely, that Jesus Christ was boin of the Virgin Mary, that he was Christ the Lord, and that he came as a Saviour, to bring peace-oh earth and good-will to meti, and that God might bC ghlifited i hini. We are told that Mary not 6nly believed; but f+, p6tdered the'e things in hei r heart, comparitig thern, a~ wetrnYi'supLpose, W'ith the mess-ge of the angelf and with-thtb abcit prdphcies, and by dA!irz.Sb `ahe strengthened hetfaithi:- In this we should imitate the blessed virgin, not cOntentitg ourselves with a slight reading, or merely with the hearing of the word of truthb, but- by meditating upon it, and layingup in.our heart 11t hstrruction it conveys.,We should abo initatý thi shephbtds 'by glbrifyitig God for the otniderfit thit s he has geaclously made kfir wr o.os.e 14 From this portion of Scripture persons in lowly stations should learn to be contented with their lot; the thought that the Saviour of the world was born in a state of poverty, should prevent any one from murmuring, 6ecause God may not have seen fit to place him among the rich and great. Ques ions.-Are the same things made known to us as were revealed to the shepherds? [Ans. Yes. How are they made known? [.Ans. In the Scriptures.] What are we called upon to do then? [Ans To believe them.] Who was Christ born of? [Ans. The Virgin Mary ] What do you believe him to be? [Ans. Christ the Lord.] Why do you believe him to be so? [Ans. Because an angel from heaven called him so.] Whose Son did the angel Gabriel tell the Virgin Mary her child should be called? [Ans. The Son of the Highest.] Do not the words of the angel to the shepherds agree with those of Gabriel'to the Virgin Mary? [Ans. Yes.] What tras Christ sent into the world to bring? [Ans. Peace on earth, good-will to men.] How was he to bring them peace and good-will? [Ans. By being a Saviour to them.] Who was to be glorified in him? [Ans. God.] What should we do besides believing these things? [Ans. Ponder them in our hearts.] Who did so? [Ans. The Virgin Mary.] Can people expect to improve or be the better for the Scriptures merely by reading them, or hearing them read, if they think no more about them? [Ans. No.] What article of the Apostles' Creed is founded upon the history we here have of our Saviour's birth? [Ans. That he was born of the Virgin Mary.] LESSON V. Read the whole Lesson. Intruction.-As our Saviour was in his human nature an Israelite, he was circumcised on the eighth day, according to the commandment of God to Abraham. Joseph and Mary shewed their belief in what had been revealed to them concerning this wonderful child, by naming him Jesus, which signified a Saviour. By the law of Moses every mother was required to present her first-born son to the Lord, and to offer a sacrifice according to her circumstances; if she could afford it, a lamb; if in poverty, two turtle doves, or young pigeons. The meanest of these sacrifices was offered when the Son of the Highest was presented in the temple. At the time our Saviour was born, those persons who believed in the prophecies of the Old Testament, expected the Consolation oflsrael, that is, the 15 Messiah, or Christ, to come into the world. Simeon was one of those devout persons; and Anna the prophetess was another. Though it had been revealed to Simeon that he should see the Messiah before he died, he would never have thought of himself that the little child presented by a poor woman like the Virgin Mary was the Messiah. But upon his taking the holy infant in his arms, Simeon was inspired to speak a prophecy concerning him, which signified that Jesus would not only bring salvation to the people of Israel, but to the heathen, or Gentiles, also. What Simeon said to the Virgin Mary, verse 34, 3.5, signified that many would be persecuted for believing in Christ; that his doctrine would meet with great oppAsition; that the Virgin Mary would have great sorrow on account of his sufferings; and that he would try the sincerity of men's hearts. It was revealed to Anna also that Jesus was the Christ. Questions.--What name did Mary and Joseph give the Holy Infant? [Ans. Jesus.] Why did they call him Jesus? [Ans. Because the angel had said he should be so named.] How came it to pass that Simeon went to the Temple at that particular instant? [Ans. It was put into his mind by the Holy Ghost.] Who did he expect to find in the Temple? [Ans. The Lord's Christ.] What did Simeon mean by saying his eyes had seen God's salvation? [Ans. That he had seen the Lord's Christ.] For whom did he say this salvation was provided? 30. [Ans. All people.] What were all the people of the world, who were not of the house of Israel, called? [Ans. Gentiles.] What did Simeon mean by saying Christ should be a light to lighten the Gentiles? [Ans. That he would bring the knowledge of salvation to the heathen ] How was Jesus to be the glory of his people Israel? [Ans. By being born among them.] Who entered the Temple as soon as Simeon had ended his prophecy? 36. [Ans. Anna, a prophetess.] What did she give thanks for? [Ans. For being blest with the sight of the Saviour.) To whom did she speak of this? 38. [Ans. To those who looked -for redemption in Israel.] What do you suppose she told them [Ans. That the Saviour was born, and that she had seen him.] Where did Joseph and Mary go to after Jesus had been presented in the Temple? [Ans. To Nazareth in Galilee.] What is Christ said to have waxed strong in? 39. [Ans. la Spirit,] What is he said to have been filled with? [Ans. Wisdom.' What was upon him? (Avs. The Grace of God.] 16 -PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. lnstruction.-AlI true Christians ma-y now depart in peace "whenever it shall please God to call them out of this world, for they have seen the salvation of God. They have had convincing proofs from Scripture that God has sent a Saviour to redeem mankind; they know that Christ, was the glory of his people Israel, thougi mcany of the Jews have rejected him, and all who remain of the nation now disown him; and many nations besides our own, who were long in heathen darkness, can bear testimony that Christ has been a light to lighten the Gentiles. We also know from Scripture that every other part of Simeon's prophecy came to pass. We should imitate the examples of Simeon and Anna, by readily believing Jesus to be the Christ, anid in declaring this belief publicly; which those of the Church of England have frequent opportunities ot doing, by joining with their fellow,-christianis in repeating the Creeds appointed as part of the public service of the church, and by applying to themselves the words of Sin ~eon's hymn. questions.-C/as Simeon afraid or ashamied to acknowledge C.hrist as the Saviour because he appeared to himn as the son of a poor woman? [-Ans. No] W"Vas Anna willing to own Jesus as the Redeemer of Irael [ib[ils. Yes.] In what should all Christians follow the examples of these pious persons? [Anr. In believing in Christ and owning him for a Saviour.] What opportunities have they of doing this publicly? [Ans. By joining in repeating tie Creeds at cliurch, and Sinieon's hymn.]) Who may depart in peace out of this world? -[Ans. All good Christians.] What reason have they to do so? lAns. They have seen the salvation of God.] Whcre have they seen it? [Ans.' In the Scriptures.] Is it not plain fromn the Scriptures that God has sent a Saviour to redeem mankind?,[ns. Yes.) LESSON VI.. JRead to-'verc.13. Instruction.- It was foretold by the ancient prophets, that the Messiah shohid be king of the Jews, and God had pronisedto the Patriarchs, that in hin all the families of the earth -.should be blessed; and it pleased God to give notice of his birth when it happened both to Jews and Gentiles.* In this *0 1By the.Gentiles, are meant the beather nation-C, who all of th;fl worshipped false gds. 17 Lesson we read bow! the birth of the Saviour was firtt made 'known to the Gentiles. The Herod here mentioned was called [erod tbe Great'; he was not of the family of David, but had been made king of* Judea by the Roman emperor,. Augustus 'sar, to whom he paid tribute. irerod was a very wicked man; the wise men were Gentiles, and are suprposed to have come frorn the same country as the qudeen'of Sh91ýba, who visited king Solomou. It seems that they had been inspired by the Holy Ghost to follow the Star, which they were taught by divine inspiration would conduct tbem to the'presence of a new-born king of the Jews, and in con - sequence of this the-y took a long journey into Judta., H6rod knew tha~t he wis not born king of the Jews, and -h6t he was not 'the person mieant: the inquiries he made of the 'wise men were 'not with a view of paying homage to the newburn king, but witth a design of destroying him. When the wise men saw the star appearing again, their faith in what God had' before made known to them was confirmed. The gifts they offered to the infant Jesus' were' such as were usually presented to kingsg and shewed that they regarded him as a king, though they found him in a m'ean habitation. 'Questions. - Who was foretold by the ancient prophets as king of the Jews? - [Ans. The Messiah.] Who were to -be blessed through him? ClAns. All nations.] What wer6 the people of all nations, excepting the Jews, at the time our Saviour- was born? LAJn. Gentiles.] What wvete they in repect to religion? Cns. Heathens.] Did the hoeathehs worship God'? rAns. No.] What did they worship? [Ans. False gods.] What did Simeon foretelconcerning onr Saviourwhen lie took( him in hig arms i tIhe Temple?- [Ans.' That he would be a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of his- people Israel.)I Was Chritt's birth nIrade known to both- Jews' tnd Gentiles? [dus. Yes.] How wasý it made known to the-Jew s? [Ans. By the shepherds'to wh6m'the'*ngeR appeared.] 19y whom was it first mad* known to the Geritiles? CAths. bpy the Wise men of the east.] Who was the"'Hiro'd here meintioned:? [dns. Herod the Great.]' 'Was4 hibof the family of.'Paivid? [Ansi No.] 'Wbd hal mIde hIi m'king'ofJuqea? fAn.` 'The Iormin.'emperor.] How came the Roma'n em'eror to have power to set up a king of the Jews"? [.47W, He had conqneied them.] Were the wise men who came fr-om the east to.erusalem Jews?. [A4ns. No.] 'WIVhat were they then? t.ns. Gentiles.] FOr what' purpose didl tbey say they *ennt to Jerusalem? 1, [Ant.' To worship hi m who was born king of the Jews.] 18 Who did Herod gather together? [Ans. The chief priests and scribes.] What did he demand of them? [An. Where Christ should be born,] What place did they name? [Ans. Bethlehem of Judea.] What reason had they to believe that Christ would be born at Bethlehem? [Ans. Because it was foretold by the prophet Micah.] Where did Herod send the wise men to? [Ans. To Bethlehem.] What did be desire them to do when they had found the new-born kiog of the Jews? [Ans. To bring him word that he might go and worship him also.] Did Herod mean to do so? [Ans. No.] What did the wise men behold when they arrived at Bethlehem? [Ans. The star which they saw in the east.] Were they not greatly rejoiced? [Ans. Yes.] What did the wise men do when they came into the house where Jesus and his mother were? 11. [Anm. Fell down and worshipped him.] -What gifts did they present to him? [Ans. Gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.] Why did they present these kind of things? [Ams. Because it was usual to offer them to kings.] What did they acknowledge Christ to be, by offering these to him? [Ans. A king.) Did the wise men go back to Herod as he bad desired? [An. No, they went back to their own country another way.] How came they to do so? [Ant They were warned of God in a dream.].ead verse 13 to the end. Instruction.-God knew what was in the wicked heart of Herod, and defeated his purpose. Joseph in all things obeyed the commands of God respecting the holy infant, of whom he was supposed by the world to be the father. Very soon after the departure of Jesus into Egypt, Herod died a most miserable death, and his kingdom was divided among his three sons, Archelaus, Philip, and Herod Antipas. Archelaus was a cruel tyrant. Herod Antipas, who reigned after him, was a prince of a milder dispostion, and Nazareth was under his government. Questions.-What besides warning the wise men did God do, in order to defeat the wicked design which Herod bad formed in his. heart? [Ans. Sent his angel to warn Joseph in a dream to flee into Egypt,] What did Joseph do in consequence of this dream? [Ans. Hetook the young child and his mother by night, and departed into Egypt.] What did Herod do when he found he was mocked of the wise men? [Ans. He sent and slew all the children of Bethlehem.] What happened to Herod soon after he gavP this cruel command? [Ans. He died in great agonie.] jDid not the angel of the Lord appear 19 to Joseph again after Herod's death? [Ans. Yes.] What did Joseph do then? [Ans. He arose, and took the young child and his mother, and came into the land af Israel.] Did he go back to Bethlehem? [Ans. No ] Why not? [Ans. He was afraid of Archelaus, because he was a very cruel man.] Where did Joseph go to? [Ans. To Galilee.] What part of Galilee did Joseph go to? [/ns. Nazareth.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Jnstruction.-.-We should learn from this Lesson to ackpowledge Jesus Christ as the Messiah, the king of the Jews, foretold by the ancient prophets; and to pay homage to him. as such. The eastern sages opened their treasures, and presented to the Holy Infant gold, frankincense, and myrrh. Such gifts as these the rich and great only can afford, nor does Christ require them now either from Jews or Gentiles; the hum. blest Christian will find acceptance with the Redeemer of the world, who now reignsin heaven, if be will worship him in faith and sincerity, and offer the tribute of gratitude and love. It is very shocking to read of the massacre of so many in. nocent babes; but as they were innocent, and were put to death on account of the Saviour of the world, there is nodoubt but that they found in the kingdom of heaven a rich reward for their short sufferings in this world. The church has ap, pointed a day to be kept in commemoration of their death, which is called The Innocents' Day, and there is-a Collect for it in the Common Prayer Book, Questions.--What do we particularly learn from this Lesson? (Ans. That Jesus Christ was the Messiah, the king of the Jews.] What have the wise men of the east taught us? [(A.. To pay homage to him.J How did they pay homage to Jesus? [Ans. They worshipped him and presented gifts.] What must Christians do if they wish to find acceptance with Christ [As. Worship him.] What homage must they offer? Ans. Gratitude and love.J Are not such offerings as these in every one's power? [Ans. Yes.] On whose account were the infants of Bethlehem put to. death i [Ans. Oi our Saviour's.] NWhere did they go to after death?. Ans. Heaven.] What is the day called which is kept in commemoration of the death of these children? [Ans. The Innocents' Day.] LESSON VII. Read the whole Lesson. Instru-ttion.---The Jevish children were usually taken to lerusalem at twelve years of age, anrd at thiirteen they were examined before the Masters of the synagogue, and confirmed by the do(.tors of the lav in the principles of the Jewish religion. Jesus offered himself to the Jewish doctors a year sooner than the usual tiine. It must have bfen very astonishing to the Jewish doctors to find a child of twelve years old, who* had not had even the common means of instruction, capable of holding discourse wiih them; and we may be certain this extraordinary knowledge. came from God, and it was a strong proof that Jesus was the Son of God. The w'isdom he iticreased in was heavenly wisdom, such as the Spirit of God alone can give. From his increasing in stature, we may be assured our Lord had a human nature;j and from his being in favour with God and man, we mc.y be certain that his conduct was righteous and amiable; that he was not only free from those vices and- faults to which young persons are too often addicted, but that he was perfiectly righteous in the sight of God; and that his conduct in all things was such as to render him pleasing to people of all ages and conditions. By his Father's business, ver. 49, our Saviour certainly meant -the work of God, which he was then doing. Questions.,--To what plac'd~id Joseph and Mary take Jesus when he was twelve years ld? [Ans. To Jerusalem.] Did le return with the company with whom he. went to the passover?, Ans. No.] Where did his mother find him when she went back -to Jerusalern? [Ans. In the Temple.] What did the doctors think of his understanding and answers? [Ans. They were astonished.) Could Joseph and Mary afford to give Jesus a learned education? [Ans. No.] Do you think it likely that a poor carpenter and his wife were capable of in'structing him, so as to enable him to discourse with learned divines? rAns. No.] By whom was Jesus taught' then? [d4ns. By his heavenly Father.) 'Did Jesus return with his ýmother after he had undergone his: examination from the doctors? [Ans. Yes.] Where did they go to? [A41ns. To.Nazareth.] WVhat was his extraordinary understanding a proof of'? [Ad~ns. That he was the Son of God.] 'What is le said to have increased in? 52. [,Ans. In wisdom And in staturee, and in favour with God and mnn.] What wisdom did he increase in? [A4ns. H1-eavenly wisdom.] W'hat must our Saviour have been to render him pleasing to God? iAns. Righteous. What must he have been to have gained the favour- of men? [Ans. Pleasing-in his behaviour.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Ivstruction.---This Lesson should be carefully studied by all young Christian.s as an example for their own conduct, (or ine prinýipa1 end of our Lord's coining into the world in our natuire mas, to set a pattern of every virtue. Fromn the example of their Redeemer young- persons may learn to prepare theinsCIves for examiiation betorte they be confirmed, and not to go about their heavenly Father's business, wiihout being informed of the princilples of religion, as is loo oftv n the caise, when the bishop of' a diocese holds a confhrmation. They cannot, it is true, txpect this knowledge to be imparted to their minds in the same manner it was to our Saviour, but there are ministers fo go to, and books to read, from whence all that is requisite may be learnt, if God in his grace qnd' goodness open threir winds by the [Ioly Spirit to understand them, whichi he will undoubtedly do, if they are willing to receive divine truths. We find frorm this Lesson that Jesus also set an example of obedience to parents. He staid bt-hind at Jerus:ilem, In obedience to the will of his heavenlyFather; but having fulfilled that, lie returned with his nrmther, and became subj~ct to her and his supposed father, Joseph, who might be considered as a kind of fatherino-law. Our Saviour increased irs u isdoni as lie increascpd in stature. It should be the endeavour f-every young person to do the same; there are few whp have not opport~unit ies of learnir g to read, which they should carefullh improve, because religious knowledge is niow revealed in the Scriptures, and thow who cannot read lose a very great advantage; but they are not given up to total ignorance, for all may gain religious knowledoe by hearing the Scriptures read and explained, if they\will listen attentively. It should also be the desire of all young persons to be in fiivour with God and man; in order to increase in the favour of God, they muut improve in relfgion, and inorder to increase in the favo'ur ot man their conduct must be regular and engaging. The Virgin Mary set an example which ought to be followed by all w4o read this portion of Scriptuire:-She kept these sayings in her heart. Questions.---What was one principal end of our Saviour's coming into the world? [Ans. To set a pattern of every virtue.] To whom did he s.t a pattern by going to the doctors to be examined? [Ans. To young persons.] Did he go to them ignorant and unprepared? [Ans. No.] Do those imitate their Saviour who go to the bishop to be confirmed without understanding the principles of religion? [Ans. No.] To whom should young people go to be examined before they are confirmed? [Ans. To ministers.] What may they expect God will do in his grace and goodness, if they desire and take pains to learn divine truths? [Ans. Open their minds to understand them.] Of what else did our Saviour set an example? [Ans. Of obedience to parents.] How did he do so? [Ans. He went down with Joseph and Mary, and was subject to them.] In what light might Joseph be considered? [Ans. As a father-in-law to Christ.] Should not young Christians be obedient to their mothers? FAns, Yes.] Should not those who have fathers and mothers-in-law be subject to them? [Ans. Yes.] What is our Lord said to have increased in? [Ans. Wisdom ard stature.] What is meant by increasing in stature? [Ans. Growing up towards man's estate.] What is meant by increasing in wisdom? [Ans. Gaining more and more knowledge of religion.] Should not every young person endeavour to do the same? [Ans. Yes.] Can any young person be in favour either with God or man, who is a liar, a profane swearer, undutiful to parents, a sabbath-breaker, unwilling to receive instruction, or rude and uncivil in his behaviour? [Ans. No.] Who will you be unlike if you are guilty of these things? [Ans. Our Saviour.] What must you do in order to increase in the favour of God? [Ans. Improve in religion.] What-must you do in order to increase in the favour of men? [Ans. Lead.a good life, and be engaging in my behaviourJ In what respect did the mother of Jesus set an example which all Christians should follow? [Ans. She kept these sayings in her heart.] LESSON VIII. Read to verse 7. Instruction.---Tiberius Caesar was the Roman emperor who reigned after Augustus Caesar. Pontius Pilate was a Roman governor set over the Jews, Tetrarchs were Jewish governors who governed particular provinces. The word of the Lord which came to John in the wilderness, signified an imme 23 diate command fromn God to go forth and preach the Baptism of Repentance for the remission of sins; or to call upon the people to repent of their sins, and be baptized,.that they might be pardoned and received as members of the kingdom of heaven, the kingdom of Christ, which John declared was at hand. John called himself the voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight, because he was the person prophesied of by Isaiah, chap. xl. ver. 3. In his dress and manner of living John was very like the ancient prophets, and he came as the angel Gabriel foretold, in the spirit and power of Elijah; for he was inspired of God, and sent on a divine errand to the people of Israel, as Elijah was in his day, as we read in the book of Kings, and he executed his commission with fidelity and zeal. His garment was as plain and simple as possible, and his food such as would merely satisfy hunger. The locusts he fed on, were a kind of large grasshoppers, and the honey such as he found in the rocks, made by wild bees. In every particular, John answered the description which the ancient prophets had given of the messenger of the Messiah; and we see what was meant by preparing the way of the Lord, and making his paths straight, namely, preparing the minds of the people for the doctrine of Christ, and calling them to repentance and baptism. Questions.--What is said, to have come to John the son of Zacharias in the wilderness? [Ans. The word of the Lord.] What is tobe understood here by the word of the Lord? [Ans. A command from God.] What is to be understood by repentance l Ans. Sorrow for sin, and'purpose of amendment of life.) What is meant by remission of sins? (Ans. God's granting free pardon, without punishment.] What particular reason did John give for calling upon the people to repent? [Ans. That the kingdom of heaven was at hand.] What kingdom did he mean? [,Ans. Christ's kingdom.] How was the messenger of the Lord to prepare the way before him ( Ans. By calling the people to repentance and baptism.] Who aid John resemble in his outward appearance and manner of life? (Ans. The ancient ptophets.] Did great numbers of people come to John's baptisn? [Ans. Yes.) How did he baptize them? [Ans. He washed them with water in the river Jordan.] What did those do who were baptized? [ds. They confessed their sins.] What was baptism a token of to them? [Ans. That they should be cleansed from their sins.] What prophet did John say prophesied concerning his preaching in fi4 the wi!derness? [An,. Esaias.], What is this prophet called in the Old Testament? [Ans. Isaiah.] What king's.reign did Isaiah live in? [ins. Hezekiah's.] Read verse 7 to 10, Instruction.--The Pharisees were a sect of the Jews who were stuict observers of the ceremonials of the law of Moses, such as keeping the sabbath, and other holy days, offering sacrifices, and so on; but they had many superstitious practices, and they greatly neglected works of charity and mercy. The Sadducues were another sect of the Jews, that did not believe in the immortality of the soul, the resurrection of the dead, or the existence of angels or spirits. The Pharisees and'Sadducees agreed in calling themselves the children of Abraham, because as Jews they came from Abraham. The Baptist called them a generation of vipers, because they were very mischievous and spiteful, though they carried a fair outside. By the wrath to come, the Baptist meant the judgments which God had threatened to send upon those who should oppose the gospel of his Son. By fruits meet for repentance, he meant belief in God's mercy, and sincere purposes of amendment of life. He intimated to both Pharisees and Sadducees that God could raise up truer children of Abraham from the stones of the street than they were, who had stony hearts; for none are, in the sight of God, children of Abraham, but those who resemble him in faith and obedience. Questions.--What were the Pharisees? [Ans. A sect of the Jews. I What were they strict observers of? [Ans. The cererponials of the law of MQses.] What did they neglect? [Ans. Works of charity and mercy.] What were the Sadducees? [4ns. Another sect of the Jews.] What did they not believe? [Ans. The immortality of the soul, the resurrection of the dead, and the existence of angels and spirits.] In what particular did the Pharisees and Sadducees agree?, [4ns. In calling themselves the children of Abraham.] Why didthey do so.i [Ans. Because they all came from Abraham.] What did John the Baptist call them? [Ans. A generation of vipers.) Why did he call them so? [Ans. Because they were mischievous and spiteful, though they carried a fair outside.] What did he tell them they must bring forth if they wished to escape from the wrath to come? [Ans. Fruits meet for repentance.] What are they? [Ans:Belief in God's mercy, and sincere purposes of amendment of life.] Did the Baptist tell the Pharisees they should be received into the kingdom of heaven because they called Abraham their father? [Ans. No.] Who are the children of Abraham in the sight of God? [Ans Those who like Abraham believe and obey God,] Read verse to to the endt of verse 12. Instruction.---By the axe being laid to the root of the tree, the Baptist meant that all the wicked unbelieving Jews would be cut off from the kingdom of heaven. By He who was mightier than himself, the Baptist meant the Messiah. By the'baptism of the Holy Ghost, he meant the sending the Holy Ghost into the soul, to cleanse it from the defilement of sin; and John's baptism of water was an outward and visible s;gn of this inward cleansing. In the 12th verse the Baptist compares our Saviour to a husbandman cleansing his wheat. A fan is an instrument used to cleanse wheat in a threshing floor; it is here put for the power of Christ. The floor signified the world. The garner, or granary, heaven. The wheat, good people; the chaff, wicked ones. The unquenchable fire, hell. Questions.-Who did the Baptist mean by one mighti * than himself? 11. [Ans. The Messiah.] What did he mean by saying the Messiah would baptize them with the Holy Ghost and with fire? [.4ns. That he would send the Holy Spirit to cleanse their souls from the defilement of sin.] To whom did the Baptist compare our Saviour? 12. [Ans. To a Imsbandman cleansing his wheat.] What was meant by the fan which the Baptist said the Messiah had in his hand? [Ans. The divine power of Christ.] What was signified by his floor? [Ans. The world.] What by the wheat? [Ans. Good people.] What by the chaff? [Ans. The wicked.] What was meant by his garner? [Ans. Heaven.] What by the unquenclmble fire? [Ans. Hell-fire. Read verse L0 following 12 to the end. Instruction.--By the people were meant the common wQrking people. John's answer to their question signified, thit'Aey should be kind and good-natured, and ready to help.each other's necessities. The Publicans, mentioned in tb* 12th verse, were tax-gatherers. These men were despised by their countrymen in general, because they collected for the Romans the taxes which the Jews were obliged to pay. The Baptit did not require them to quit their profession, but merely ti act with a strict regard to honesty; neither did John tell the soldiers, who asked him the same, question, that theymuast lay down their arms; he merely admonished them tob!. merciful, and just, and contented. PAaT II. a 926 Questions.-What did the common people say to John the Baptist? 10. [Ans. What shall we do then?] What did the Baptist's ansver signify? [Ans. That they should be kind and good-natured.] What were the Publicans who came to John? 12. [Ans. Tax-gatherers for the Romans.] Were they respected by their countrymen, the Jews? [Ans. No; they were despised.] What questions did the Publicans ask [Ans. Master, what shall we do?] What did the Baptist reply? [Ans. Exact no more than that which is appointed ye.] Did the Baptist despise them for being Publicans? [Ans. No.] What answer did he give to the soldiers? [Ans. Do violence to no man, nettaer accuse any.,falsely, and be content with your wages. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--In this Lesson we read that the predictions of the ancient prophets, as well as those of the angel Gabriel, and Zacharias, relating to the forerunner of the Messiah, were all fulfilled in John the Baptist; for he came as the messenger of the Lord, to prepare his way before him. He drank neither wine nor strong drink. He turned many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. He came in the spirit and power of Elijah. He gave knowledge of Salvation to the people, by the remission of sins; and he was truly the prophet of the Lord, for he foretold what the Lord would do when he should appear. Christians should therefore believe that John was the messenger and prophet of the Messiah, inspired by the Holy Ghost, and should pay great attention to his doctrine. John the Baptist, as the prophet of the Lord, preached the Baptism of Repentance for the remission of sins; we should therefore believe that God will of his tender mercy grant remission of sins to those who truly repent and are baptized, which is a most comfortable doctrine. From the Baptist's discourse we find that the Baptism of water was not sufficient for those who were to be received into the kingdom of heaven; they were also to be baptized with the Holy Ghost. The waterof Baptism is the outward and visible sign the baptism of the Holy Ghost is the inward and spiritual grace, by which God, through Christ, cleanses the soul from the defilement of sin. How this is done, God only knows; but we must believe that it is done, because it is revealed in Scripture. We also learn from the discourses of John the Baptist, that there is a heaven and a hell; that good people will be received into heaven, and the wicked condemned to everlasting torments thb should make us very Carefl how we live in this world. p27 Questions.---What doctrine did John preach? Ans. The baptism of repentance for the remission of sins.] What is remission of sins? [ ins. Pardon, and taking away punishment.] Is not the doctrine of remission of sins such as should be received with gladness and gratitude? [Ans. Yes.] What is required of us besides repentance, for the remission of sins? I[Ans. Baptism.] Did John say that the baptism of water was sufficient for those who were to be received into the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. No.] What else was requisite? [Ans. The baptism of the Holy Ghost.] What is the water of baptism? [Ans. The outward and visible sign.] What is the baptism of the Holy Ghost? [Ans. The inward arid spiritual grace.] What do we learn from the discourse of John the Baptist concerning a future state of rewards and punishments? [Ans. That there is a heaven and a hell.] Who will be received into heaven? [Ans. The good.] Where will the wicked be condemned to? [Ans. Hell.] What will they suffer, there? [.ins. Everlasting torments.] LESSON IX. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--The time was now come for our Lord to enter on his ministry, or to act as the Messiah; and as it was the *ill of his feavenly Father that he should be baptized with water before he began to preach the gospel, he came to John, from a distant place, to be baptized of him. The Baptist refused at first to baptize our Lord, because he lknew that the Messiah had no sins to repent of; John also knew that he himself stood in need of the baptism of the Holy Ghost from the Messiah. The Spirit of God descended visibly upon Jesus, under the appearance of a bright light, as is supposed, falling gently down upon his head, like the hovering of a dove. To fulfil all righteousness, sigrifies to do the will of God in all tlings. Questions.---Had Jesus any sins to repent of? (Ans. No.] Why did he go to John? [Ans. Because he knew that itwas the will of the Father he should be baptized.] Did John baptize him immediatly? 14. [Ans. No.] What reason did John give for not complying with our Lord's request? (Ans. I have need to be baptized of thee; and comest thou to me?] What kind of baptism did the Baptist stand in need of from Christ? [Ans. The baptism of the Holy Ghost.] What reason did our Lord give for desiring to be baptized by John? 15. [Ans. Suffer it td be so now, for thus it becometh us to fufil all rjghteousness.] What is fulfilling all righteousness? [Af. Doing the will of God in all things.] Did John baptize our Saviour when he had said this? [Ans. Yes.] What extraordinary thing was seen as soon as Jesus came out of the water? 10. [Ans. Lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and.i hting upon him.] What was heard at the same time? 17 Ans. Lo, a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved; on, in whom I am well pleased.] From whom did this voice come? [Ans. From God the Father.] Does not this declaration shew that Jesus, in respect to his divine nature, was the Son of the Highest, as the angel Gabriel called him? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--In this Lesson we have a farther confirmation of the truth of the first article of the Apostles' Creed, relating to God the Son, namely, I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord; and a stronger proof we could not have, for God the Father Almighty declared him, by a voice from heaven, to be his Son, and shewed that he was the Messiah, or Christ, by sending the Holy Ghost visibly upon him..We also learn from the words of God the Father Almighty, that Christ, at the time of his baptism, was free from sin. We should therefore receive these divine truths as coming from God, and believe them upon his divine word. In every thing our Lord did as Man, he set an example to mankind. As Man he was baptized; from which we learn, that all who call themselves Christians should be baptized with water; -and you will read soon, that before he left the world, our Lord commanded his apostles to baptize all nations. Questions.:'-WJich of the articles of the Apostles' Creed is confirmed by this Lesson? [.,ns. And in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord.] Do you believe Jesus Christ to be really and truly the Son of God? [fAils. Yes.] Why do you believe so? [Ans. Because God the Father Almighty called him so.] Do you believe Jesus to be truly the Messiah or Christ? [Ans. Yes.] Why do you believe so? Ans.. Because the Holy Ghost came upon him visibly.] Do you believe that Jesus was fiee from sin when he was baptized? [Ans. Yes.] Why do you believe so? [Ans. Because God called him his beloved Son, in whom he was well pleased.] To whom did our Lord, as Man, or in his human nature, set an example? [Ans. To mankind.] In what nature was he baptized, his divine or his human nature? [Ans. His human nature.] What should we learn from this1? [.Ans. Ihat-all Christians should be baptized with water,] 29 LESSON X Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--The meaning of the expression, Jesus was led by the Spirit, is, that he then followed the desire with which he was inspired by the Holy Ghost to do the will of God, and fulfil all righteousness; he could not fulfil all righteousness, without going into the wilderness to be tempted of the devil, because God had ordained that the Messiah should willingly submit to temptation, that he might overcome the devil, and set an example of resisting him. Our Lord must have been miraculously sustained without food for forty days, or his human nature could not have endured so long a fast. The devil appears to have known that Jesus was the Christ, and he suited his temptations accordingly, in hopes of hindering the salvation of mankind. By the holy city, was meant Jerusalem. The high mountain to the top of which the devil is said to have led our Saviour, most probably made a part of the desert or wilderness in-which he was tempted. What the devil oflfered to our Lord, if he would fall down and worship him, was not in his power to give; and our Lord's answer shew, that if the devil really had all the kingdoms of the world at his disposal, he would not have run the hazard of losing a heavenly kingdom, by worshipping and serving him instead of God. We find that when the devil was commanded by Christ to be gone, he fled away instantly; this shews that our Lord had had power over the devil. After our Lord had resisted the temptations of the devil, his heavenly Father sent his holy Angels to minister to him as the Son of God; and, we have reason to think, they brought him food to satisfy his hunger; he could then eat, without acting contrary to the word of God the Father. Questions.---What was Jesus filled with after the Spirit descended upon him? 1. [Ans. The Holy Ghost.] Where did he go to when he came out of the river Jordan? [A4ns. He was led by the Spirit into the wilderness.] What Spirit? [Ans. The Holy Spirit.] What is meant by his being led by the Spirit? [Ans. That he followed the desire which the Holy Spirit inspired.] What was this desire? [lns. To do the will of God, and fulfil all righteousness.], How long did our Saviour fast in the wilderness? [Ans. Forty days and forty nights.] What happened to him there? [Ans. He was ar hungred.] Did the devil come to our Lord in the widerness~ 30 [Ans. Yes.] What did he say to him? 3. [Ans. If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.] What did he want to persuade our Lord to think? [Ans. That he was not the Son of God ] What did he want him to do? [Ans. To try whether he were so or not.] What did our Lord say to him? 4. [Ans. It is written, Alan shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.] Did hot this answer shew that our Lord put his whole trust in the word of God? [Ans. Yes.] To what city is the devil said to have taken our Lord? 5. [Ans. To the holy city.] What city was meant by the holy city? [Ans. Jerusalem.] Why was Jerusalem called the holy city? [Ans. Because the temple of the Lord was in it.] Who first built the temple at Jerusalem? [Ans. Solomon.] What made the temple holy at first? [Ans. God shewed his glory in it.] What did the devil want to persuade our Lord to do? 6. [Ans. To cast himself down from the top of the temple.] For what purpose? [Ans. To shew that he was the Son of God.] What did our Lord say to him? 7. [Ans. It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.] To what place did the devil take our Saviour then? 6. [Ans. An exceeding high mountain.] What is he said to have shewn him there? fAns. All the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them.] What desire did the devil wish to raise in the mind of our Lord by shewing him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them? [Ans. A desire to reign over all the kingdoms of the earth.] Upon what condition did the devil promise these kingdoms? [Ans. That Jesus would fall down and worship him.] What reply did our Lord make? 10. [Ans. Get thee hence, Satan; for it is written, Thou shalt Worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.] Did not this shew that he would not have worshipped Satan if he could have given him all the kingdoms of the world, and the glory of them? [Ans. Yes.] What did the devil do when Christ said, Get thee hence, Satan? [Ans. He left him.] What does this shew? [Ans. That our Lord had power over the devil.] 'Who are said to have come and ministered unto him, after the devil was gone? [Ans. Angels.] Why did Angels minister unto him? [Ans. Because he was the Son of God.] PRACTICAL IATRUCTIONInstruction.-From this Lesson we learn that there really is a wicked being called the Devil, who wants to be worshipped and served instead of God j that he tempts mankind, by set 31 ting before them the pomps and vanities of the world, instead of the joys and treasures of a heavenly kingdom; and that he would destroy them if he could. It was this wicked being who deceived our first parents, and brought death upon them and all mankind; and he tried to deceive our Redeemer also, in order to hinder our salvation; but Christ resisted his temptations, and overcame him, by which he proved himself to be the promised seed of the woman who was to bruise the serpent's head. The devil has been the tempter of mankind from the beginning of the world, and he will continue to be so to the end of it: we may know we are tempted of the devil, if we find in our hearts a desire to work any kind of wickedness, or if we think of God contrary to what the Scriptures teach concerning him; and we may know we' have the Spirit of God, if we find in our hearts a desire to do the will of God, and obtain eternal life in heaven; and we are led by the Spirit when we act according to these good desires. Those who have been taken into the Christian covenant are bound to renounce the devil and all his works, and to worship and serve the Lord their God only and if they keep to their part of the covenant; God will assuredly keep his part, and regard them as his children, for Jesus Christ's sake. It is not required of us to imitate our Saviour by abstaining entirely from food for forty days and forty nights, but as fasting occasionally is good both for the body and the soul, and the church has set apart the season of Lent in commemorati6n of our Saviour's fasting in the wilderness, we should observe it, according to the rules of our church, as a time of particular humiliation and abstinence. Questions.-What do wVe learn from this Lesson respecting. the devil? [Ans. That there is a devil, and that he wants to be worshipped instead of God.] What else do we learn about the devil? [Ans. That he tempts mankind.] How does he tempt them? [Ans. By setting before them the pomps and vanities of the world instead of the joys of hea'en.] What would the devil do if he could? {[Ans. Destroy mahkind.] Who did the devil deceive in the beginning of the world? [Ans. Adam and Eve.] What did he bring upon them and all mankind? [Ans. Death.] What did he want to hinder when he tempted Christ? [An. The silvation of mankind,] How did he try to hinder it? [Ans. By tempting our Saviour.]. If our Saviour had yielded to his temptation, what would he have committed? [Ans. Sin.] Would he have 329 fillfilled.all righteousness? [Ans. No.] What did our Lord prove himself to be, by overcoming the temptations of the devil? [Ans. The promised seed of the woman, who was to bruise the serpent's head.] Where is this promised seed-spoken of? [ ins. In the third chapter of Genesis.] To whom has the devil been a tempter from the beginning of the world? [Ans. To mankind.] How long will he continue so? [Ans. To-the end of the world.] For what purpose are mankind exposed to the temptation of the devil? [lAns. To try their faith and obedience.] How may we know when we are temptted by the devil? FAns. When we have a desire to do any kind of wickedness.] How may we know that we have the Spirit of God? [Ais. WVhen we have a desire to do the. will of God, and obtain eternal life.] When may we be said to be led by the Spirit? [Ans. When we follow these good deiesires.] Who has set us an example of being led by the Spirit? [Ans. Our Saviour.] What are all who have been taken into the Christian covenant bound to renounce? [Ans. The devil and all his works.] Who are they bound to serxe? [Ans. The Lord their God.] In what light will God regard them for Christ's sake if they do so? [Ans. As his children.] Which is best, to partake of the pomps and vanities of this life, or to have an eternal inheritance in the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. To have an eternal inheritance.] Ought you not then to-keep to the promise and vow made in your name at your baptism? [Ans. Yes.] How long did our Saviour fast in the wilderness? [Ans. Forty days and forty nights.] Are we required to abstain entirely from food for so long a time? (Ans. No.] Is there any season set apart in commemoration of our Saviour's fasting? [Ans. Yes, Lent.] What should we make Lent to ourselves? [Ans. A time of humiliation and abstinence.] LESSON XI. Read to verse 15. Instruction.-By the Word is meant the same divine Being who, in the Old Testament, is called the Lord God. We may know that the Lord God, and the Word of whom St. John speaks, mean the same Being, because the same acts are ascribed to both. In Genesis he is sometimes called God, and sometimes the Lord God. In the Old Testament we read, that fite Lord God appeared and conversed with men, and taught them to know their Creator, and to serve him. It is here said, that the Word was the light of man: by which is 33 to be understood that religious knowledge came to mankind through him: for light, in the scripture sense, means religious knowlefdge. The light of relig'ous knowledge shined in the world by means of the Lord God, from the creation; but a great part of mankind, through the temptations of the devil, lost the benefit of it, and fell into darkness, or ignorance, of true religion, by forsaking the Lord God, and following their own imaginations. In the beginning of the world, the Lord God:ppeared upon earth in a bright and glorious form, the form of the Son of God. When the Lord withheld his glory, he spake to the world by the mouths of the prophets, and they foretold that he would come to redeem mankind. And we learn, from the New Testament, that at the very time, and in the manner foretold by the prophets, that the Redeemer should come, the Lord God laid aside the glory which he had before the world was, and took our nature upon him, and appeared. in the likeness of man; or, as it is expressed in this Lesson, the Word was made flesh and dwelt among us; and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only-begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth. Remember then, that the Lord God, the Word, and the Son of God, are only different titles for Him by whom all things were created, and from whom all knowledge of God has been given to mankind. Questions.-W\ho is meant by the Word in this Lesson? [Ans. The'Lord God.] Who is spoken of as the Creator in the Old Testament? [Ans. The Lord God.] What is meant by light in scripture language? [Ans. Religious knowledge.] What is meant by darkness? [Ans. Ignorance of religion. How came the heathens to fall into this darkness? [Ans. By following their own imaginations.] What did they do then? [Ans. They worshipped idols.] How came the Israelites, who were the chosen people of God, to fall into this darkness?] Ans. They forsook the Lord, and. followed idols.] Did the Lord God appear visibly to mankind in the beginning of the world? [ Ans. Yes.] In what form did he appear? [Az.s In the form of the Son of God.] What did he shew forth from the mercy-seat, in the tabernacle and the ' temple? [,ns. His glory.] Where else was the glory of the Lord. seen? [Ans. In the cloudy pillar that went before the Israelites.] Where was the glory of the Lord seen in dreadful majesty? [Ans. On the top of Mount Sinai.] By whom did the Lord speak when he no longer shewed forth his' glor? [Ans. By h5s prophets.] What did they foretel concerning 4im? [Ans. That he would come and redeem' manB 5 34 kind.] Did the Lord come according to the prophets? [Ans. Yes.] What did he then lay aside? [Ans. The glory which he had before the world was.] What did he take upon him? [Ans. Our nature.] In wlose likeness did he then appear? [Ans. In the likeness of man.] Who appeared in the likeness of man? [Ans. The Lord God.] By what name was the Lord called in his human nature? [Ans. Jesus Christ.] What does the evangelist call him? [Ans. The Word.] Read from verse 15 to the end. Explanation.-Many of the Jews supposed John to be himself the Messiah; others thought he was Elias, or that prophet who- was foretold by Moses in the 18th chapter of Deuteronomy; but John confessed he was nothing more than the forerunner of the Messiah, spoken of by Isaiah the prophet, and who was to give notice of his approach, and point him out to the world when he should appear. And John executed his commission most faithfully, though he had reason to think he should give great offence to the Jewish teachers. Questions.-What did John the Baptist come to do besides baptizing people unto repentance, and giving notice of the coming of the Messiah? [Ans. To bear witness that Jesus was Christ.] Which of the two was born into the world first, John, the son of Zacharias, or Jesus, the Son of the Virgin Mary? [Ans. John.] Why,did John say then, verse 15, that Jesus was before him? [Ans. Because Jesus was the eternal Son of God.] To whom did John the Baptist bear this testimony? [Ans. To Priests and Levites who came from Jerusalem.] Of what sect were they? [Ans. Of the Pharisees.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-We have in this Lesson the testirmony of two.witnesses, John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, who wrote the Gospel from which this Lesson is taken, that Christ was really and truly the Lord God, who laid aside his glory and took our nature upon him, and appeared on earth as a Man, that he might bring us eternal life; and this should lead us to pay honour to Christ as the only Son of God, by whom the world and all things were made; and from whom all knowledge of divine things proceeds. If we thus belieye in Christ, we shall be reckoned the Children of God for his sake. Questions.--What should we believe Christ to be? [Ans. The Lord God.] What did he lay aside? [Ans. His glory.) What did he take upon hini? [Ans. Our nature.] How did he appear upon earth when he had taken our nature? [Ans. As Man.] Who bore witness to Christ as the Son of God? [Ans. John the Baptist.] Who wrote the gospel from which this Lesson is taken? [Ans. St. John the Evangelist.j For what purpose was John the Baptist sent to bear witness that He was come who was to be a light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of his people Israel 7. [Ans. That all men through him might believe.] Has his testimony come down to us? [Ans. Yes.] What should we do then? [Ans. Believe it.] What did God give those who received the Lord power to become? 12. [Ans. Sons of God.], LESSON XII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--By the Lamb of God the Baptist meant the Redeemer, who was represented in the Jewish sacrifices by a lamb without blemish; for the Redeemer alone could take away sin, by giving up his life for the Redemption of mankind. All that the Baptist knew of Christ was revealed to him from heaven; for though Mary the mother of Jesus, and Elizabeth the mother of John were cousins, John did not know that Jesus was the Messiah till he came to him to be baptized. John the Baptist took every opportunity of bearing testimony to Jesus. His disciples were persons who followed him to hear his doctrine. The word Messiah signifies, Christ, the anointed of God. The word Cephas has the same mean. ing as Peter; it signifies a stone, or rock. Our Lord gave this appellation to Simon, because he knew he would lay the foundation of his Church, by being the first to preach the gospel after him; and that he would do it with firmness, and suffer nothing to get the better of his constancy.. He called Nathanael ant Israelite indeed, in whom was no guile; because he knew him to be a man of an upright character. Nathanael thought that the Messiah was not to come out of Galilee, because he could not recollect any prophecy which foretold that he would do so; but no sooner did he hear our Lord's discourse, than he gave up his prejudice. The Son of Man was one of the titles given by the prophets to the Messiah, particularly by Daniel. Questions.-What did John say when he saw Jesus coming to him? 29. [Ans.Behold the Lamb of God which talieth away the sin of the world.) Who did he mean by the Laib of God? 36 [Ans. The Redeemer of the world.] What was used in the Jewish sacrifices to represent the Redeemer of the world before the coming of Christ? [Ans'. A lamb without blemish.] How was the Redeemer to take away the sins of mankind? [Ans. By laying down his life for them.] Did the Baptist know before, that Jesus was the Messiah? [Ans. No.] What did John know concerning him? [Ans. That he would be made manifest to Israel.] What is being made manifest? [Ans. Made known.] What other record did John bear? 32. [Ans. That he saw the Spirit of God descending upon him.] How did John know that this was a sign that Christ was the Messiah? 33. [bAns. God revealed it to him.] What further record did John bear? 34. [Ans. That Jesus was the Son of God.] To whom did John, the next day, speak of Jesus? 37. [Ans. To two of his own disciples.] What were the names of the first men who followed Jesus? 40. [Ans. Andrew, Peter, Philip, and Nathanael.] What did Andrew say to his brother Simon? [Ans. We have found the Messiah.] What is the meaning of the words Messiah and Christ? [.4ns. The anointed of God] What did our Lord say Simon should be called? 42. [Ans. Cephas.] What is the meaning of this word? [Ans. A stone, or rock.] What did our Lord say of Nathanael? 47. [Ans. Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile.] What did Nathanael acknowledge our Lord to be? 49. [Ans. The Son of God.] What else did Nathanael acknowledge Jesus to be? [Ans. The king 6f Israel.] What did our Lord tell Nathanael he should see hereafter? 51. [Ans. The Angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of Man.] Who besides Nathanael will see this? [Ans. All mankind.] Who did our Lord mean by the Son of Man? [Ans. The Messiah.] Which of the prophets calls the Messiah the Sohnof Man? [IAns. Daniel.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. SInstruction.--The disciples of John believed Jesus to be the Lamb of God, because the Baptist declared that it had been revealed to him from heaven that he was so. 'he testimony of John is c6me down to is, and we should follow the example of his disciples in believing it. Our Lord commended Nathanael for the sincerity of his heart. This should make us desirous of being like him. These good men, to whom our Lord was first made known as the Messiah, willingly acknowledged him as such; and our Saviour was pleased with (hem: He will be pleased with us if we do the same. 37 Questions.-In what particular should we follow the example of John's two disciples? [Ans. In believing Jesus to be the Christ.] For what did our Lord commend Nathanael? [Ans. For the sincerity of his heart.] What should this make us desirous of? [4Ans. Of being like Nathanael.] Was our Lord pleased with those who owned him to be the Messiah? [Ans. Yes.] Have not we reason to think he will be pleased with us for doing the same? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XIII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--Synagogues were places of public worship among the Jews, like our churches, only that the service was Jewish instead of Christian. In order to prove himself to be the Messiah, the Son of God, our Lord wrought many miracles; the first of them was that which is recorded in thip Lesson: and it was such as proved him to be, according to his divine nature, the Word, by whom all things were made. Our Lord's words to his mother, Woman, what have I to do with thee? signified that she was not to direct him when to perform miracles. The wine was a liberal gift to the newmarried couple. Questions.-Where did our Lord return to after he left John the Baptist? [Ans. Into Galilee.] What did he do there? [Ans; He taught in their synagogues.) What were synagogues? [Ans. Places of public worship among the Jews ] How was our Lord received in Galilee? [Ans. He was glorified of all.] What did our Lord do to prove himself to be the Messiah, the Son of God? [Ans. He wrought miracles ] What was the first miracle he wrought? I. [Ans. He turned water into wine.] Where did he perform it? [Ans. At a marriage-feast in Cana of Galilee.] Who alone can change the nature of any thing? [Jns. The Creator. What did our Saviour prove himself to be, by turning water into wine? [Ans. The Word,.by whom God made all things.J What did our Lord say to his mother when she told him there was no wine? 3. [Ans. Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not.yet come.] What did this mean [Ans. That she was not to direct him when to perform miracles.] Does not this prove that it is very wrong to worship the Virgin iMary? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From our Lord's going to a marriage-feast, we may learn that Christians may, on proper occasions, indulge 38 in innocent cheerfulness. We find that, in the beginning of his ministry, our Saviour was glorified of all; and when we read an account of his wonderful works, we should glorify him in our hearts. Questions.-What do you believe our Saviour to be, from changing water into wine? [Ans. The Son of God.] What should you do in your heart? [Ans. Glorify him.] LESSON XIV. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.-There were seven readers in each synagogue on the sabbath day, one a priest, another a Levite, the rest Israelites of that congregation. Our Lord, taking the office of one of these readers, read the Lesson for the day, which was part of the 61 st chapter of the prophecy of Isaiah. When our Lord had read it, he sat down, as the custom was, to expound it, and applied it to himself; which was, in fact, proclaiming himself to be the Messiah. But his countrymen would not receive.him as such, because they supposed him to be like themselves, a mere man, though he had given proofs, by miracles, an account of which must have reached Nazareth, that he was possessed of divine power. What our Lord said concerning the widow of Sarepta, and Ndaman the Syrian, signified that these strangers were preferred to the Israelites, because they had more faith in the power of the Lord than the Israelites had. The prediction alluded to, verse 15, is in the gth chapter of the prophecy of Isaiah; it signified that the Messiah should dwell among the people of Zebulon and Naphtali, and instruct them himself in the truths of the Gospel. Our Lord preached the doctrine of repentance, and gave notice that the kingdom of heaven was about to be established, as John the Baptist had done before him. Questions.--What portion of Scripture did our Lord read in the synagogue? 16. [Ans. Part of the prophecy of Isaiah.] What did our Lord say when he sat down to expound this portion of Scripture? 18. [Ans. This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.] In whom was it(fulfilled? [Ans. In Christ.] Was the Spirit of the Lord upon him? [Ans. Yes.] When was he anointed with the Holy Spirit? [Ans. After he was baptized.] Did the people of Nazareth acknowledge Jesus to be the Messiah? [Ans. No.] Why not? 21. [Ans. Because they thought him the son of Joseph.] Where do we read of Elijah and the widow of Sarepta, or, as the name is in 39 the Bible, Zarephath? [Ans. 1st Book of Kings, chap. xvii.] Why were the widow of Sarepta, and Naaman the Syrian, in the days of Elijah and Elisha, preferred tothe distressed widows atnd lepers of Israel? [Ans. Because they had more faith in the power of the Lord.] How did the widow of Sarepta shew her faith in the Lord? [Ans. By making a cake for Elijah when she had only a little meal and oil left.] How did the Lord reward her? [Ans. By multiplying her oil and meal.] How did Naaman the Syrian shew his faith? [Ans. By washing in the riverJordan.] How was his faith rewarded? [Ans. He was cured of his leprosy.] Where do we read about Naaman the Syrian? [Ans. 2d Book of Kings, chap. v.] Were not the people of Nazareth very angry at our Lord's Intimating that he should prefer strangers to such of his own countrymen as had no faith in him? [Ans. Yes.] What did they try to do? [Ans. To kill him. ] Where did he go to live after this? [Ans. In Capernaum.] What did he fulfil by doing so? [Ans. A prophecy of Isaiah.] What was meant, verse 16, by the words darkness, and the shadow of death? [Ans. Ignorance of the truth.] What was meant by light? [Ans. The knowledge of the Gospel.] What did our Lord say when he began to preach? [Ans. Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.] 17. Who preached this doctrine before him? [Ans. John the Baptist.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--We should learn, from this portion of Scripture, to pay due honour to our Saviour. The way to honour our Saviour, is to believe him to be the Messiah, the Son of God: to be willing to learn his doctrine, and thankful to him for the Gospel. Questions.--What should we learn from this Lesson? [Ans. To pay due honour to our Saviour.] Suppose we were to dishonour him as the people of Nazareth did, what might we expect? [Ans. That he would withdraw his grace from us.] LESSON XV. Read to the end of verse 44. Instruction.---Before the coming of Christ,-the devil and his angels had greater power than they have had since; they used then to enter into the bodies of people, and torment them in a dreadful manner; but the Son of God had pgwer to cast them out: and we find, ýy this Lesson, that the devils knew Jesus -to be the Messiah, and were sensible that they 40 could not withstand his power. Diseases in general are not cured by human art without medicines and casting ut devils is far beyond the power of man. Questions.--What miracle have we an account of in the beginning of this Lessor? [Ans. Of Christ's casting out'a devil.] Do not you think it must have been a dreadful thing to be possessed with a devil? [Ans. Yes.] What did the man who was possessed with the devil call our Saviour? 34. [Ans. The Holy One of God.] Who did he mean by the Holy One of God? [Ans. The Messiah.] How did our Lord cast out the devil? [Ans. By his word.] What did this shew? [Ans. That he had jnower over the devil.] Were not those who saw the mfiracle astonished at it? [Ans. Yes.] What miracle do we re2d of, verse 38,39? [Ans. Christ's curing Simon's wvife's mother of a great fever.] Is not a great fever a very dangerous disease? [Ans. Yes.] -low did our Lord cure Simon's wife's mother? [Ans He stood over her, and rebuked the fever.] What did she do immediately? '[A.is. Arose andn inistered unto them.] Did our Lord cure any other sick people? [Ans. Yes.] Were they all ill of fevers? 40. [Ans. No, of divers diseases.] Are there not many others diseases besides fevers? [Ans. Yes.] What diseases can ycu name? [Ans. Consumption, dropsy, rheumatism, gout, and many others.] How did our Saviour at this time heal those who were afflicted with various diseases? [.Ins. IHe laid his handis on every one of them.] Where did our Lord preach? [Ans. In the synagoghes of Galilee. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---In the Old Testament w'e read of many miracles, which are said to have been wrought by the hands of different persons, particularly by those of Moses; but these acted only as the ministers of hle Lord; they did not pretend to have any power of their own to work miracles. But Jesns Christ had this power in himself, which shewed that he was the Lord. If he had not been God as well as man, le could not have wrought minracles. We may take example from these miracles, though they were above the power of man, for th.ey were also acts of kindness and compassion. Our Saviour employed his power to do good; and we may do the same, as far as our power goes. 1 here is another particular in which we may follow our Lord's exwmple'; namely, in attending public worship oni tle'Sabbath-day.. Questions--Did MIoses work miracles by his own power? [Anw. No. Py whoSe power were the plagues of Egypt wrought, when Moses lifted up his rod? [Ans. By the power 41 of the Lord God.] By whose power did our Saviour cast out devils, heal diseases, and cause the miraculous draught of fishes? [Ans. By hisown power.] What did he prove himself to be by these miracles? [Ans. The Lord God.] Is it in the power of human beings to work miracles? ['Ins. No.] Can any human creature cure diseases with a word or a touch? [Ans. No.] Cannot we be kind to the sick? [Ans. Yes.] Whose example shall we follow if we are kind to sick people, and do what we can to cure them? [ Ans. Our Saviour's.] Do not you think our Saviour will be pleased with those who follow his example? [Ans. Yes.] In what other particular may we imitate our Saviour? [Ans. By going to public worship on the Sabbath-day. Read from verse 44 to the end. Instruction.--The ships, into one of which our Saviour entered, were small fishing vessels. Simon Peter entreated Jesus to depart from him, because he thought himself unworthy to be in his holy presence. Our Lord's words, Fear not, henceforth thou shalt catch men, signified that Peter should afterwards convert great multitudes of people to Christianity. Peter and his companions forsook all, and followed Christ. No one could be of the number of Christ's chosen disciples, at that time, without giving up his employment; because he required that they should attend him, to see the manner of his life and his miracles, and also to hear his doctrine, that they might bear testimony to them after his resurrection. Question'.--Was it likely that, after having been toiling all night, Peter and his companiops should at once catch such multitudes of fish as almost to sink their vessels? [Ans. No.] What did Christ prove by this miracle? [Ans. That he could do all things.] What did our Lord mean by telling Peter that henceforth he should catch men? [/ins. That Peter should convert great numbers of people to Christianity.] What did Simon, Andrew, James, and John do, when they brought their ships to land? 11. [Ans. They forsook all' and followed him.] Where did our Lord go to? [.Ans Throuighout all Galilee.] What did he do in different places? [4Ans. Preach the Gospel, and heal the sick.] Did his fame reach to other places? [Ans. Yes.] Was he followed by many peo. ple? [Ans. Yes.] Did he perform many miraculous cures? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--Simon Peter has left ui a good example, in his teadiness to do what our. Lord required, at a time when he must have been quite tired with working all night: this 42 readiness proceeedefrom*his faith; he believed Christ to be the Messiah, and he thought it his duty to obey his commands. Questions.---What was it that made Simon Peter so ready to let down his net at the word of Christ, when he had been toiling'all night to no purpose? ['ins. His faith.] Who did he believe our Saviour to be? [Ans. The Christ.] Had he seen and conversed with our Lord before? [Ans. Yes.] Who first told him of Christ? [Ans His brother Andrew.] Who told Andrew? [Ans. John the Baptist.] For what purpose did Christ require his chosen disciples to forsake all, and follow him? CAns. That they might be witnesses to his life and doctrine after his resurrection.] What did they shew by forsaking all, and following him? [Ans. That they believed in him.] In what respect can we follow their example? [Ans. In believing in Christ, and obeying his word.] LESSON XVI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---The Passover was a great festival among the Jews, kept by the commandment of the Lord, in comme' moration of his passing over the houses of the Israelites when he slew the first-born of Egypt. Our Saviour went up to Jerusalem to keep it, because, as the Messiah. he was ordained to fulfil the whole law. The sect of the Pharisees was the strictest sect among the Jews. Nicodemus was a Pharisee and a member of the great council. He went to our Saviour by night, because he was fearful he should be blamed for going, if it was known. Rabbi,, signifies master; by calling our Lord Rabbi, Nicodemus testified great respect for him. Nicodefius was convinced by our Lord's miracles that he was a teacher sent from God; but that was not sufficient. Our Lord solemnly declared, that no one could gain admittance into the kingdom of heaven without being born again; meaning, without doubt, that every child of Adam must be born of God in the Sacrament of Baptism, by means of Water and the Holy Spirit; for, when any one is baptized with water for the remission of sins, he is born again in a spiritual sense; he has a principle of spiritual life communicated to him, and he becomes a child of God; God cleanses him from the defilement of original sin by his Holy Spirit, owns him as his child, receives him into his family, and provides an inheritance for him inthe kingdom of heaven. Nicodemus, though a learned doctor of the law, knew not these things, because 43 they lhad not at that time been revealed to him, neither could any man have discovered them; but our Lord knew them for' a certainty, because they were heavenly things, and he was in heaven before he came down to earth. What our Lord said, verse 14, signified that he should be crucified, and that as those who had been bitten by the fiery serpents were cured when they looked up with faith in God's word to the brazen serpent in the wilderness, so those that looked up to Christ with faith in him as a crucified Redeemer should be cured of their spiritual diseases; or cleansed from their sins, and saved from eternal death. Our Lord knew that some to whom the doctrine of a crucified Saviour would be preached would reject it, because they would rather choose to continue in their sins; while others would gladly receive it, because they would know they were doing the will of God. Questions.-For what purpose did oux Saviour go to Jerusalem? [Ans. To keep the Passover.] What was the Passover kept in remembrance of? [Ans. The Lord's passing over the houses of the Israelites when the first-born of Egypt were killed.] Why did our Lord go to the Passover? [Ans. To fulfil the law.] Who came to Jesus by night? fAns. Nicodemus, a ruler of the Jews.] W hy did he go by night? [Ans. Because he thought he should be blamed if he was seen to go.] Who did he think would blame him? LAns. The Jews.] Whose child is every human creature that comes into the world? [Ans. The child of Adam.] What nature hashe as the child of Adam? [Ans. A' sinful corrupt nature.] Is such a one fit for the kingdom of heaven, in which there is nothing but holiness and perfection? [Ans. No.] What must every one that is born into the world do, then, before he can enter into the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. Be born again.] How does our Saviour say he must be born? [Ans. Of water, and of the Spirit?] HoW can any one be born of water and the Holy Spirit? [Ans. By the Sacrament of Baptism.] Whose work is it, by which a child of Adam is cleansed from sin, saved from eternal death, and made a child of God? [Ans. 'God's work.] Can we understand the manner of it? [,As. No.] Could Nicodemus have found out of himself, that a man must be born again of water, and of the Spirit, before he can enter into the kingdom of heaven? (Ans. No.] Why could he not have found out these things? [Ans. Becaise they are heavenly things.] Who could know them for a certainty? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] How could he know them Ans. Because he was in heaven beforehe came down to earth.] 44 Who did our Lord say God, in his great love, gave to the world! 16. [AIns. His only-begotten Son.] For what purpose did God give his Son to the word? [Ans. That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.] Who did our Lord say is not condemned to eternal death? 18! Ans. He that believeth in the Son of God.! Who did he say is condemned? [Ans. lHethat believeth not.] For what reason did our Lord say, some will not believe in the Son of God? 19. [Ans. Because they love darkness better than light.] What darkness? [Ans. Spiritual darkness.] What is spiritual darkness? [Ans. Not knowing about salvation through Christ.] What reason did our Lord give for some people's loving darkness better than light? 1i. [Ans. Because their deeds were evil.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--As children of Adam we were all born in sin; but as Christians, baptized in our infancy, we have htd a new birth uito righteousness, we have been made children of God, and inheritors of the kingdom of heaven; but we must remember, that when we became so, a solemn promise and vow was made on our parts, if we desire to continue the children of God, and to be put in possession of our heavenly inheritance, we must live as becomes the children of God; that is, as those who seek for glory and immortality, preferring the interests of our souls to the satisfying of our rarnal appetites. And as God sent his Son into the world for our redemption, we must believe in a crucified Saviour, and place ail our hopes of salvation on his merits and atonement. Questions.---What were you born in as' the children of Adam? [/Ins. Sin.] What were you made at your baptism? [Ans. A child of God,and an inheritor of the kingdom of heaven.] What did your godfathers and godmothers promise and vow in your name at your baptism? [/Ins. Three things, 1st, that I should renounce, &c.] Ought not a child of God to renounce the devil; or, in other woids, to resolve not to be led aay byhis femptations, or be his servant? [Ans. Yes.] Should a child of God prefer the pomps and vanity of this world to the joys and blessings (o the kingdom of God? [Ans. No.] Should not a child of God believe what our heavenly Father has revealed by Jesus Christ? [Ans. Ycs.] Should not a child of God keep his Heavenly Father's holy will and commandments, and walk in the same unto his life's end? [Ans. Yes.] Can any one expect to be reckoned a child of God who leaves off living according to his holy will and commandments? [Ans. No.] 45 LESSON XVII. Read the whole Lessort Instruction.-Those who followed our Savioui- and John thb Baptist, to learn their doctrine, were called disciples; the wbrd disciple, signifies a scholar. John's disciples did not like to see others following a new teacher. John set them right, by bearing testimony that Jesus was greater than himself, nay, greater thani all the prophets; because they were only occasionally inspired, but Jesus had always the Holy Spirit in him. In rcspect to himself, the Baptist said he was t'ery ilferior to the Son of God, and must now yield to him' John's discourse concerning Christ as the Son of God, agreed exactly with our Lord's discourse with Nicodemus. What John theBaptist said, he spoke by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Quiestions.-Did John the Baptist encourage his disciples when they were displeased at seeing others follow Christ? [Anis. No.] Who did he mean by RIe that cometh from heaven? [Ans. The Son of God.] What great difference was there between the Prophets and our Saviour in respect to the Holy Spirit? [Ans. They were inspired sometimes, our Lord always had the Holy Spirit abiding in him.] Which was the greatest, our Saviour or John the Baptist? [Ans. Our Saviour.].What did John the Baptist say of Christ, verse 34? [Ans. The Father loveth his Son, and hath given all things into his hand.] What did John say he that believeth in the Son of God has? 36. [Ans. Everlasting life.] What does he say he that believeth not shall not see? [Ar, Life.] What life shall he not see? [Ans. Everlasting life.] What does the Baptist say shall remain on such an one? [Ans. The wrath of God.] What is meant by the wrath of God remaining on him? [Ans. He is not in the way of salvation. Do you not observe a perfect agreement betwixt our Lord's discourse with Nicodemnus, and John's di.course with his disciples? [Ans. Yes] How did John the Baptist know what he taught his disciples? [Ans. By the" inspiration of the Holy Spirit.] Who did John the Baptist reprove? [Ans. Herod.] VWhat did he reprove 'him for? [Ans. For marrying his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils he had done.] What. evil did Herod add to those he had done before? [4ns. He shut up Johh in prison.] Was not this a very wicked act [. "ns. Yes.] rRACTICAL INSTRUCTrON. Instruction.---,We have in this Lesson the testjinyyofJohn the Baptist to many important truths. Johncame int% the 46 world not only as the messenger of the Lord to prepare his way before him, but he was sent from God to bear witness that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of God, the Saviour of the world. We should therefore consider well what the Baptist has declared concerning Christ; and we should believe it as a truth revealed from heaven. Questions.---What was John the Baptist to the Messiah besides his forerunner? [Ans. His witness.] Who ordained him to bear witness of Christ? [Ans. God.] Ought we not to believe what was said by a witness ordained of God? [Ans. Yes,] Ought we not to be very attentive to truths revealed from heaven? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not very comfortable to know, that by believing in the Son of God we may have ever'lasting life? [Ans. Yes.] What will believing in Christ lead us to do? [Ans. The will of God.] Can any one be saved merely by professing to believe in Christ? [Ans. No.] LESSON XVIII. Read to verse 31. Instruction.---The nearest way to Galilee from Judea was through the province of Samaria. The Samaritans professed to serve God, and to abhor idols; but there was great hatred betwixt them and the Jews, on account of the different opinions which each maintained. The Samaritans disbelieved the writings of the prophets, and kept to the Book of Moses only; they asserted that God was to be worshipped in the most solemn manner on mount Gerizim, as well at Jerusalem; while the Jews contended that Jerusalem was the only place for the great sacrifices of the law. Both Jews and Samaritans agreed in expecting a Messiah. The well at which our Lord rested was called Jacob's, because it formerly belonged to that patriarch. By liing water, our Lord meant the principle of spiritual life proceeding from the Spirit of God. The Jews certainly were better instructed than the Samaritans respecting the worship of God, and salvation was to be of the Jews, because the Saviour was, according to his human nature, to be of their nation; but neither Jews nor Samaritans at that time knew how to worship the Father in spirit and in truth, or according to that spiritural worship which Christ came to teach and establish; nor can any one so worship the Father without the help of the Holy Spirit. As the Samaritan woman expressed her belief in the promise of a 47 Messiah, and a desire to be taught by him, our Lord revealed himself to her. Questions.-Where did our Lord go to when he left Judea? [Ans. To Samaria.] On what account was it that the Jews had no dealings with the Samaritans? [ns. Because they maintained ditierent religious opinions.] What did our Lord mean by the gift of God, which he called living water? 10. [Ans. The principle of spiritual life, which proceeds from the Spirit of God.] What did the woman say when our Lord told her the circumstances of her life? 19. [Ans. Sir; I perceive that thou art a prophet.] What mountain did she mean? [Ans. Mount Gerizim.] How was salvation to come of the Jews? 21. [Ans. The Saviour was to be born among them.] How did our Lord say the Father is to be worshipped? 23. [Ans. In spirit and in truth.] What is to be understood by worshipping in spirit and in truth? [Ans. With a spiritual worship such as Christ has taught.] Who did Jesus tell the woman he was? [Ans. The Messiah.] Where did the woman go to when our Saviout told her he was the Christ? [Ans. Into the city.] What city? [/ins. Samaria.J What did she say to the people when she returned thither? 28. (Ans. Come, see a man who has told me all things that ever I did; is not this the Christ?] Why did she speak of him as a mere man? [Ans. Because she did not know Christ was the Son of God.I Did any of the people of Samaria go with the woman? Ans. Yes.] Read verse 31 to the end. Instruction.---Our Lord's words, My Meat is to do the will of him that sent me, signified that he had a much stronger desire to do the will of God than to satisfy his bodily appetites. In ver. 35 to 39, our Lord compared the happy effects of his preaching the gospel to a plentiful harvest, and encouraged his disciples to labour earnestly in the good work which he had happily begun. Questions.--What did our Lord say when his disciples pressed him to take nourishment? 31. [Ans. I have meat to eat that ye know not of.] Whdt did our Lord say was his meat, or that which was better to him than food? ver. 34. [Ans. To do the will of God.] To what did our Lord compare the happy effects of his preaching when he saw great numbers of the Samaritans coming to hear him? 35. [Ans. To a plentiful harvest.] Did many of the Samaritans believe him to be the Messiah from what the woman told them? Ans. Yes.] What request did they make to our Lord when they came to him? [Ans. That he would tarrywith them.] How long did he stay with them? [Ans. Two days.] 48 SPRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. " Instruction.---We should learn from this Lesson to set a due value on the gift of the Holy Ghost, as it leads to everlasting life. But we must remember that we can no way obtain or keep this heavenly gift but-through Christ; therefore we must pray to God through him daily, to impart and continue to us this inestimable gift. When we pray for the gift of the Holy Spirit, or for any mercy or favour, we must pray' to the Father in spirit and in truth, not with our lips only, but with our hearts; and the Spirit of God will then open our minds to understand the Word of God, and will help our infirmities, and keep up In our hearts a constant desire to do the will of God. The work which our Saviour, as the Messiah, was appointed to do, was to preach the gospel, to set an example of a holy life, and to die for the sins of the world; and we find that he would on no account neglect this work.:We should take example from our blessed Lord, and consider what our heavenly Father requires of us in our respective stations and relations. Whatever is a part of our duty to God or Man, is the work of our heavenly Father. Questions.-What should we learn from this Lesson to set a high value upon? [.Ans. The g;ft of the Holy Spirit.] What does it lead to? [Ans. Everlasting life.] Through whom only can we obtain the gift of the Holy Spirit? [Ans. Through Christ.] What must we do if we wish to have it? [Ans. Pray for it.] How must we pray? [Ans. In spirit and in truth.] What work had our Lord to do as the Messiah? [Ans. To preach the gospel, to set an example of a holy life, and to die for the sins of the world.] How can we follow our Lord's blessed example? [Ans. By doing the work of our heavenly Father.] What is our work? [ANs. Whatever is a part of our duty to God or man.] LESSON XIX. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---The nobleman who came to our Lord was a person belonging to Herod's household, supposed to have been Chuza, his steward, whose wife was afterwards a constant follorei'ofouir Saviour. The curing a person who was at the point of dath, without even seeing him, was a wonderful miracle, and:proved our Saviour to be truly the Son of God. tif s upposed that the Pharisets and doctors of the law who 49 resorted to our Lord.upon this occasion came withithe view of finding something for which they might bring an accusation against him. The houses common among the Jews consisted of one story only, with a flat roof, in which was a door or lattice. The bed of the poor paralytic man was probably in a kind of carpet. Blasphemy is the sin of speaking against God. If our Saviour had been a mere man, it would have been blasphemy in him to pretend to forgive sins; but, as the Son of God, our Saviour had power to do it. If he had not been the Son of God, he could not have cured the man of his palsy, by only speaking to him! it was therefore as easy to him to do the one as the other; and our Lord proved to all who were present that he had power to forgive sins, by enabling a poor wretch'who was brought into his presence by four people to take up his own bed and walk home with it. Questions.--What remarkable miracle did our Saviour work at Cana of Galilee, besides that of turning water into wine? [Ans. He cured a nobleman's sonwhowas sick at Capernaum.] Was the young man very ill? [Ans. Yes.] Did our Lord go to him? [Ans. No.] What did he say to the nobleman? [Ans. Go thy way, thy son liveth.] What happened instantly? [Ans. The fever left him. What miracle besides is recorded in this Lesson? [Ans. A man cured of the palsy.] Was he able to walk to our Saviour? [Ans. No.] How did those who brought him contrive to ylace him before Christ? [Ans. They let him down through the oof.] What did our Lord say when he saw, their faith? 20. [Ans. Man, thy sins be forgiven thee.] Who were sitting by when the paralytic man was brought in? 17. [Ans. Pharisees and doctors of the law.] What did they say when our Lord told the man his sins were forgiven? 20. [Ans. Who is this which speaketh blasphemies? Who can forgive sins but God alone 1 j ' What is blasphemy? [Ans. Speaking against God.] Did our Lord know what passed in the hearts of the Scribes and' Pharisees? 22. [Ans. Yes.] Is it not as far, beyond the power ofman to cure the palsy by a word as to forgive sins-' [Ans. Yes.] What reason did our Lord give for saying to the man, thy sins be forgiven thee? 24. [Ans. That they might know the Son of Man hath power on earti 'to'forgive sitls.] What did our Lord do to convince thero he had:power #to forgive sins? [Ans. He saidunto the sick of the palsy, I say unto thee, arise, and take up. thy couch, and go unto thine house.] What did the man do before themr all? 25 [As. He took up his bed, and departed to his house.) What did PART It. c 50 those who beheld the miracle say? [Ans. We have seen strange things to-day.] Who did they glorify? [Ans. God.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The two miracles recorded in this Lesson, and our Saviour's taking upon himself to forgive sins, should help to confirm our faith in him as the Son of God. Questions.---What should the account we have here of our Lord's curing the nobleman's son without seeing him, and restoring the paralytic man, establish? [.-ns. Our faith.] What is meant by establishing our faith? [Ans. Fixing our belief in Christ as the Son of God.] If we Consider them properly, can we do otherwise than believe Jesus to be the Son of God? [Ans. No:] What is another proof of this great truth? [Ans. Our Lord's knowing the hearts of the Scribes and Pharisees.] What should this Lesson help- to confirm? [Ans. Our faith in Christ as the Son of God.] LESSON XX. Read to the end of verse 13. Astruction.-Matthew was a Publican, and he was receiv-..ig the tribute money at the time our Saviour called him. The Jews held all the Publicans in great contempt, but our Lord shewed that he did not regard the office but the disposition of men. It was common with the Jews to call those sinners who kept company with the Publicans; and probably they might, in general, be persons of bad character; but they were bjects of compassion to our blessed Redeemer, because many.of them erred for want. of knowledge; the common people were not properly instructed by the Scribes and Pharisees. Our Saviour preferred mercy to sacrifice, therefore he encouraged those to come to him who were neglected by the Jewish teachers; he to whom all hearts were open, knew, that many of these would sincerely repent, and gladly receive the gospel; he therefore preferred them to those persons who thought themselves so righteous as not to stand in need of forgiveness. The words which our Lord desired& the Pharisees to go and learn the meaning of, are in the prophecy of Hosea. Questions.---Who did our Lord call from the receipt of 51 custom? [Ans. Matthew.] 9., By what other, name wat Matthew known? [Ans. Levi.] What was Matthew? [Ans. A Publican.] What were the Publicans? [Ans. Tax-gatherers for the Romans.] What did the Jews call those who kept company with them? [Ans. Sinners.] Did Matthew follow our Lord? [Ans. Yes.] Who did he invite to the feast he made? 10. [Ans. Publicans and sinners.] 11. Who took offence at our Lord's sitting down with publicans and sinners? 12. [Ans. The Pharisees.] Why did our Lord admit such persons into his company? 13. [Ans. Because he preferred mercy to sacrifice.] Why were those whom the Jews called sinners objects of Christ's mercy? [Ans. Because they were. not well instructed.] Who neglected them? [Ans. The Scribes and Pharisees.] What were the Scribes and Pharisees to the people? [Ans. Teachers.] What did the Scribes and Pharisees prefer -to.mercy? [Ans. Sacrifices.] Ver. 1 follouing 13, to 13. Instruction.---The Pharisees were continually watching our Lord, that they might find something to accuse him of. They were such strict observers of the Sabbath-day that they thought it a sin even to eat a few ears of corn before the service of the day was over; our hord justified what his disciples had done, and he also declared that He, as the Messiah, was Lord of the Sabbath-day; and that it was his pleasure to permit works of mercy to be wrought upon it; and soon after our Lord set his followers the example of doing so by curing a man in the synagogue, and again referred to the words of Hosea concerning mercy and sacrifice. Our Saviour shewed by his observations upon the conduct of the Jews towards animals on the Sabbath-day, how very absurd it was in them to find fault with him for relieving the misery of a human being on that day our Saviour'withdrew himself from the Pharisees because the time was not yet come for his delivering himrn self into their hands. By the quietness, as well as mercy which accompanied all his actions, our Lord proved himself to be. the Messiah prophesied of in the words taken:by the Evangelist, in the 19th and following verses, from the prophecy of Isaiah: Questions.---What did our Lord say when the Jews found fault with him for suffering his disciples to eat the ers of corn. 6. [Ans. In this place is one greater'tap t the teAle. Who did he mean? [Ans. 'imself.] Who' did he mean'b c2 52 the Son of Man, the Lord of the Sabbath? [Ans. Himself.] Who did he shew himself to be by calling himself Lord of the Sabbath? [Ans. The Lord God.] How did the Lo;d God shew himself to be the Lord of the Sabbath after the creation? [Ans. He blessed and sanctified the seventh day?] What questions did the Jews ask our Lord with a design to accuse him? 9. [Ans Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbathday?] What did our Lord tell them they would do on the Sabbath-day? 11. [Ans. Lift a sheep out of a pit.] What did our Lord tell them it was lawful to do on the Sabbathday? 12. [Ans. Well.] What good act did our lord do then? 13. [Ans. Cured the man who had a withered hand.] Is it possible for any human being to restore a hand, or any member, that is withered and dried up? rAns. No.J Who did. Christ prove himself to be by this miracle? [Ans. The Lord God.] Were the Pharisees convinced by it? [Ans. No.] What did they do? 14. rAns. Went out and held a council how they might destroy him.] Why did our Lord withdraw himself, and charge the multitudes not to make him known? [Ans. Because the time was not yet come for delivering himself into their hands.] What did our Lotd fulfil by his quiet behaviour and merciful actions? Ans. T1he prophecy of Isaiah.] What prophecy? [Ans. He shall not strive nor cry, neither shall any one hear his voice in the streets.) Read verse 13 to the end. Instruction.---The twelve chosen disciples mentioned in these verses were those who were called Apostles. These were his familiar companions, his particular ministers. His friends, as they are here called, certainly had no idea that Jesus was the Christ. Questions.---How many disciples did our Lord choose from the rest? Ans. Twelve.] What were they to do? 14. [Ans. To be with him, and to go forth to preach.] What are the twelve called? Ans. The Apostles.] What did his friends mean when they said " he was beside himself?" [Ans. That they thought he was out of his senses.] Would they have said this had they believed him to be the Christ? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-We should learn from this Lesson not to hold any of our fellow-creatures in contempt, but to do all that is in our power to bring those who are ignorant to a:know 53 ledge of their duty. And from odr Lord's answer to the Pharisees' question, ver. 12, we are taugh! to consider sins as the diseases of the soul, and our Saviour as the great Spiritual Physician, who alone can cure them: no. human creature is free from sin, -therefore all stand in need of a Saviour; and we should remember, that our Lord required of all who desired to be healed by him of their spiritual diseases to repent: to those who sincerely repent he is ever ready to shew mercy. From our Lord's discourse with the Pharisees we learn that acts of mercy ought to be performed on the Sabbath-day; but we learn also, that public worship is not to be neglected. People who are inclined to do acts of mercy, may in general find sufficient time for them, without neglecting religious duties; before and after the service of the day, they may visit and comfort the sick and afflicted, or read to the blind and ignorant; and in cases of particular distress, they may even stay away from public worship, to lend their aid; nay, they may and ought to take care of the beasts that work for them all the week, by feeding and giving them water; but evcry Christian should lay down this'rule for his conduct, not to do on the Sabbath-day, what may be let alone till the morrow. Our Saviour and his disciples passed through a corn-field oh the Sabbath-day, but it was it the way to a synagogue; anAd Christians who live in cities, or who are confined to work all the week, may doubtless indulge themselves with fresh air: and exercise on the Lord's day, provided they go to churchl,. and avoid all improper behaviour and. discourse, and employ the rest of their time in reading the Scriptures,-and other religious books; but neither the example of Christ nor his disciples justify those who make the Sabbath a day of idleness, riot, and drunkenness. Questions.--Should we hold any of our fellow-creatures in contempt A [Ans. No.] What should we try to do in respect to those who are ignorant of their duty? [Ans. To bring,. them to the knowledge of it.] In what character does our Lord represent himself? 12. [Ans. As physician of the soul.]. What are the diseases of the soul? [Ans. Sins.] Is not the soul like to perish for ever if these diseases are not cured? [Ans. Yes.] Who can cure them? [Ans. Christ.] How does Christ cure the diseases of the soul? [Ans. By for. giving sins.] What does our Saviour require all to do who would be forgiven? [Ans. Repent.] What works may be done on the Sabbath-day? [Ans. Acts of mercy, piety, and necessity.1 Is there not time enough on Sundays fot this,: 54 without staying away from church? [Ans. Yes.] To what place was our Saviour going with his disciples when they passed through a corn-field? [Ans. To the synagogue.] Did his disciples.gather the corW to carry home with them, or throw the ears about wastefilly? [Ans. No.] Did they spend the Sabbath-day in idle amusements? [Ans. No.] Do you think it can be right in any who call themselves Christians to be Sabbath-breakers, and to do mischief in corn-fields? [Ans. No.] Are there not churches in every parish? [Ans. Yes.] Cannot those who go out of town on Sundays, for fresh air and exercise, or to see their friends and relations, contrive to go to church? [Ans. Yes.] How should the Sabbath evenings be passed? [Ans. In reading the Scriptures, and other religious books.] LESSON XXI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.-It was foretold by the prophet Isaiah, that the Messiah should make the blind to see and the dumb to speak; therefore, when our Saviour cured the blind and dumb man who was possessed with a devil, the people thought he must be the Messiah; but the malice of the Pharisees imputed this miracle to the power of the prince of the devils, by whom they said Jesus himself was possessed. Had they made use of -their reason they would have known this could not be the case, for the devil would scarcely act against himself. Our -Lord called the Pharisees vipers, because they resembled that old serpent the devil in malice and wickedness. John the Baptist called them so before., The Pharisees required a sign from Jesus that he was the Messiah. He had given them signs sufficient to convince them that he was both the Son of Man and the Son of God, if they had not hardened their hearts iagainst him.' The sign of the prophet Jonah related to our Saviour's resurrection from the dead. What our Lord said concerning an unclean spirit, verse 43 to 46, related to the Jews, who went on from one degree of wickedness to another, till at last they put their Messiah to death. Questions.---What prophet foretold that the Messiah should make the blind to see, and the lame to walk [Ans. Isaiah.] What did the people say when they saw our Saviour do these things? 23. [Ans. Is not this the Son of David?] Who did they 55 mean by the Son of David? [Ans. The Messiah.] What did the Pharisees say of the miracle? 24. [Ans. This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.] Did our Saviour hear them say this? 25. [Ans. No.] Did he know their thoughts? [Ans. Yes.] What did this prove him to be? [Ans. The Son of God.] Was it not very foolish as well as wicked in the Pharisees to say that our Saviour cast out devils through the power of the prince of the devils? [Ans. Yes.] Could it be supposed that Satan would act against himself? [Ans. No.] Why did our Saviour call the Pharisees a generation of vipers? 34. [Ans. Because they were like that old serpent the devil.] In what. were they like him? [Ans. In malice and wickedness.] What are meant by idle words? 36. [Ans. Wicked words.] What sign did our Lord give to the Pharisees? 39. [Ains. The sign of the prophet Jonah.] Who was Jonah? [Ans. The prophet whom God sent to the Ninevites.] What was Jonah commanded to say to the Ninevites? [Ans. Yet forty days and Nineveh shall be destroyed.] What was Nineveh? [Any. A great city.] Did Jonah obey God at first? [ins. No; hle took ship to go to another place.] How did God punish him? [.ns. He was cast into the sea and-,swxtowed by a abh.] D)it he come ou,ofit alive? [AIns. Yes.] How lo1 g \vs Pe i4 the fish? [Ans. Three days and three nights.) How could the prophet Jonah be a sign of the Messiah? [Ans. Becaus~ Christ was to be in the earth three days and come out alive, as Jonah did out of the fish.] Did Jonah go and. preach to the Ninevites wheQ God comipande4 aim a second time? (Ans. Yes.] Where io 4we read, about J.onLh? [Ans. In the, Old Testameat.] Why wyere the peole of Nhiiweeh better than the Jews to whom our Saviour preached? [Ans. Because they.epented at the preaching of Jonah. ] Who did our Lord meap when he said, Behold, one greater than Jonah is here? 41. [1Ans. Himself.] Who beside the people of Nineveh did our Lord say should rise in judgment against the wicked Jews? 42. [Ans. The queen of the south.] Who was she? [Ans. Thp queen of Sheba.] Why was she better than they? [Ani. Because she came from the uttermost part of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon.] Where do we read about the queep of Sheba? [Ans. In the first book of Kings, chap. x.] Who was the greatest, our Saviour or king Solomon? [Ans. Our Saviour.] Who came to our Saviour whilst he was talking to the Pharisees? 46. [.Ans. His mother and his biethren. Who did our Lord say he would love as his brother, hissister 56 and mother? 50. [Ans. Those who should do the will of his Father which is in heaven.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--We should learn from this Lesson to ascribe our Lord's miracles to that divine power which he had as the Son of God; and as we are to give an account for every idle word we speak, we should be very careful not to speak any words but such as we know are agreeable to God's holy wil and commandments. The latter part of this Lesson is very comfortable. We find that our blessed Lord regards, as his near relations, all who do the will of his Father who is in heaven. This surely is great encouragement to a life of holiness and obedience. Questions.--To what should we ascribe our Lord's miracles? [Ans. To Divine Power.] What is meant by Divine Power? [Ans. The Power of God.] If any one has a good heart, what things, that is, what words and actions will he bring forth? [Ans. Good ones.] If he has a bad heart, what things will he then bring forth? [Ans. Bad ones.] Should not we take care then what thoughts and desires we suffer to remain in our hearts? [Ans. Yes.] Who will cleanse our hearts if we pray to God? [Ans. The Holy Spirit.] What shall we keep from if we follow his godly motions? [Ans. Bad words and, actions.] What shall we escape? [Ans. Condemnation at the last day.] Should we not be very careful not to say bad words of any kind, as we shall be called to account for them? [Ans. Yes.] Do not you think those persons will be put to great confusion at the last day, who shall be accused of having uttered, perhaps, thousands and thousands of oaths, falsehoods, and unkind expressions of various kinds, in the course of their lives? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not a common case, that those who willingly enter upon a wicked course of life, go on from one degree of wickedness to another? [Ans. Yes.] Who leads theni on? [Ans. The devilj] Who will our Lord Jesus Christ love and own as his near relations? [Ans. Whosoever 'shall do the will of his Father which is in heaven.]. Is it not a most high honour to be loved and owned as relations by the Son of God, the Saviour of the world? [Ans. Yes.] What kind of a life must you lead in order to be reckoned by Christ among his brethren t [Ans. A life of holiness and obedience., 57 LESSON XXII. Read to verse 13. Instruction.-This Lesson is-part of that excellent discourse called our Lord's Sermon on the Mount; in which he shewed, that the kingdom which he came to establish was very different from the kingdoms of this world.. Our Lord began his discourse with blessings.; and these blessings were designed for all his disciples to the end of the world. The poor in spirit, are persons of humble lowly minds, who are willing to receive the doctrines of Christ; and wlo are more desirous of doing their duty, than of possessing great wealth. Those that mourn, are persons who are truly penitent for their sins. The meek, are persons of gentle; peaceable dispositions, who submit, without murmuring, to whatever it pleases God toi inflict upon them. Those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, are they whoearnestly desire to be righteous in the sight of God, and who prefer the good of their souls to all that this world can give. The merciful, are those who feel compassion for the miseries of others, are ready to help their necessities, and would not willingly give pain to the smallest living creature. The pure in heart, are those who avoid all sinful pleasures, because they draw the mind from religion an d who desire to know God, and to serve him according to his holy will -and commandments. The peace-makers, are those who endeavour to live in. peace with all mankind, and to make up quarrels and differences betwixt others. Those who are persecuted for righteousness sake, are those who are ill-treated, reviled.and persecuted for the sake of religion. Questions.-What is this Lesson a part of T [Ans. Otr Saviour's Sermon on-the Mount.] With what did our Lord begin his-discourse? [Ans. With blessings.] How should Christians be in spirit? [Ans. Poor.] Are those poor in, spirit who think themselves, tocr wise to need instruction? [Ans. No.] Are those poor inr-spirit who are proud and arrogant in, a high station, or discontented in a state of poverty [Ans. No.] What blessing did our Saviour pronounce on the poor in spirit? 3. [Ans. Theirs is the.kingdom of heavenm]I Which, is most to be desired, richesv honours, and, pleasures, in this life, or an. eternal inheritane: in the kingdom- of heaven? [AIns. An:eternal inheritance.]. What must we be in order to obtain it. [Ant. Phor in spirit.]. What blessing is promaised to those that mourn? 4, [Ans. They shalL be comforted&c 5. is Does this blessing belong to those who grieve and fret because they do not possess all they wish for upon earth? [Ans. No.] Does it belong to those who murmur when it pleases God to afflict them? [Ans. No.] For what sort of mourners was it designed? [tins. For those who mourn for their sins.] What blessing did our Saviour pronounce upon the meek? 5. [Ans. They shall inherit the earth.] Are those persons meek who put themselves in a passion for the least word of reproach that is given them, and return ill language? [Ans. No.] Are those meek wxho desire to take revenge for the injuries done them? [Ans. No.] Who are the meek? [Ans. People who are mild and peaceable.] Who have most comfort and peace in this world, passionate or meek people? [Ans. Meek people.] What blessing did our Saviour pronounce on those that hunger and thirst after righteousness? 6. [Ans. They shall be filled.] Can those be said to hunger and thirst after righteousness who are indifferent whether they are in favour with God or not; who are always seeking after the pleasures of this life, without caring what becomes of their souls? [Ans. No.] What is meant by hungering and thirsting after righteousness? [Ans. To de-.sire very much to be righteous.] What blessing is promised to those who have this earnest desire? [Ans. That they shall be filled.] What is meant by their being filled with righteousness? [,Ins. They will be counted as righteous for Christ's sake.] What blessing did our Saviour pronounce on the merciful? 7.. [Ans. They shall obtain mercy.] Are those Smerciful who have no feeling for the sick and afflicted? [Ans. No.] Ake those merciful who are severe and unforgiving? [Ans. No.] Are those merciful who work poor beasts too hard, and neglect to feed them; or who torment any dumb creatures, [Ans. No.] Who are the merciful? [/ns. Those who feel compassion for the miseries of others, and are ready to help them.] Do we not all stand in need of the mercy of God? [Ans. Yes.] If God did not shew mercy to us, what would become of the very best of us? [Ans. We should be miserable for ever.] Whatblessing did our Saviour pronounce on the pure in heart? 8. [Ans. They shall see God.] Who are the pure in heart? [Ans. Those who devote their hearts to God, and keep from indulging sinful desires.] Who are the peace-makers? [Ans. Those that try to make up quarrels.] How are they to be blessed? [.4ns.They will be called the children of God.], What blessing did ouf Saviour pronounce on those, who are persecuted for righteousness sake? 59 10. [Ans. Great is their reward in heaven.] Did not many of those to whom our Lord first addressed this discourse suffer afterwards for righteousness sake? [Ans. Yes.] Should not every Christian resolve to suffer every kind of persecution if called upon to do so for the sake of his religion? [Ans. Yes.] Should the fear of suffering make any one afraid of doing his duty in any respect? [Ans. No.] What thought will encourage us to bear sufferings for righteousness sake? [Ans. Of a great reward in heaven.] Read verse 13 to 27. Instruction.-What our Lord said concerning.salt that had lost its savour, and letting their light shine before men, signified that Christians would be of no value in the sight of God if they did not lead holy lives and that it would not be sufficient to believe the gospel themselves, unless they set a good example to others. Lest our Lord's hearers should think he came to overturn entirely what Moses had taught, he declared that, on the contrary, he came to fulfil the whole law. By breaking the commandments, may be understood resolving not to obey them. The laws of God, given from Mqunt Sinai, had been greatly corrupted by the Scribes and Pharisees; our Saviour shewed, that some of the commandments ought to be carried far beyond the sense given to them by the Jewish teachers: to be angry with our brother without a cause, signifies, to bear malice or hatred in the heart, against any of our fellow-creatures, for which there can be no just cause. The word Raca, signifies an empty, worthless fellow; Pool, in Scripture language, signifies an exceeding wicked person. The 22d verse shews, that there will be dilierent degrees of punishment, according to the degree of guilt. By going to the altar, may be understood, worshipping God in his house. God himself is the enemy, or adversary,.of those who act contrary to his holy will and commandments, as those certainly do who presume to come to him with hatred and malice ifh the heart against any one; for in his sight they are murderers. The prison Into which those will be vast, who die at enmity with God, is hell from whence no one can be delivdred, because no one can possiblypay the debt of sin himself. Questions.-How were our Lord's disciples to let their light shine before men? [Ans. By taching the gospel, and setting a good example.] What did our Lord say he was not come to destroy but to fulfil? 17. [Ans. The law and the prophets.] What law? [Ans. The law of Moses.] What 60 prophets? [Ans. The writings of the ancient prophets.] Who had greatly corrupted the law? [Ans. The Scribes and Pharisees.] Who did they consider as the only murderers? [Ans. Those who kill by violence.] Who did our Saviour reckon as murderers? 22.,[Ans. Those who harbour malice and hatred in their hearts, and hurt others in word or deed.] What is meant by the word Raca? [Ans. Worthless fellow.] What is meant by the word- Fool in Scripture language? [Ans. An exceedingly wicked person.] What is to-be understood by the expression, going to the altar? 23. [Ans. Worshipping God in his. house.] To whom is God an enemy? [.4ns. To those who live contrary to his commandments.] What prison is that into which those will be cast who die at enmity with God? 26. [Ans. Hell.] What is the debt which those who die without being pardoned can never pay? [Ans. The debt of sin.] Is not the earth greatly corrupted by wickedness at this tirhe? [Ans. Yes.] Who are the salt of the earth that are to keep it from being as much corrupted'as it was before Noah's flood [Ans. Good Christians.]- "When may this salt be said to have lost its savour, or saltness? [Ans. When Christians lead wicked lives.] Are not all Christians bound to shew that the religion they profess is really most excellent? [Ans. Yes.] How can they do this? [Ans. By doing good works before men.] Why should Christians let their light shine before men? 16. [Ans. That men may glorify their Father who is in heaven.] Is it right for Christians to call names, or to speak evil of their fellow-creatures? [Ans. No.] May you not do great injury by this means? [Ans. Yes.] Suppose you should,, by evil speaking, deprive any one of his livelihood, and prevent himi from maintaining his family, would not this be a sort of murder? [Ans. Yes.] Is anyperson fit to worship God, whose heart harbours malice and hatred? [Ans.No.] What does our Saviour say a Christian must do before he presumes to offer his gift, that is, his prayers, to God? 23. [Ans. Be reconciled to his brother.] Can we expect God will hearken to our prayers if we do not do so? [Ans. No.] Whose pardon should we endeavour to obtain before we die? [tAns. God's.] What will. become of us if we die in our, sins?ý [Ans. We shall be miserable for ever.] For whose sake shall we be pardoned if we repent of our sins? [An. Christ's.] Read verse 27 to -the end.*. Instruction;---The first of these verses relatesdto the seventh commandment, which conceras. the duty of husbands and wives. To cut off the hand or the foot, signifies to give urp every thing, however dear or valuable, rather than offend God. The 34th, and following verses, forbid the taking God's name in vain, which was a crime very much practised among the Jews; who thought that, provided they did not take a solemn oath to God himself, they might swear by heaven, and by Jerusalem. By yea, yea; and nay, nay; we may understand, the merely saying that a thing is, or is not so, without using oaths toconfirm the assertion. Instead of returning injury for injury, our Lord recommended to his disciples, in the 39th and following verses, to be willing to bear and forbear; and rather to give and lend to others, than to take any thing from them by violence. Questions.--To which of the ten.commandments do the 27th; and 28th verses relate? [Ains. To the seventh.] What is the seventh commandment? [Ans. Thou shalt not commit adultery.] What is meant in the 30th verse, by cutting off the hand or the foot, and plucking out the right eye? [Ans. Parting with what is most dear to us.] To which of the ten commandments do the 33, 34, 35 verses relate? [Ans. The third.] What is the third commandment? [Ans. Thou shalt not take the name of the Lord thy God in vain; fdr the Lord will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain.] What is to be understood by saying yea, yea, and nay, nay [Ans. Not to make use of oaths but on solemn occasions, Instruction.---From this part of our Lord's sermon on the mount, we should learn to renounce all the sinful lusts of the flesh, and to deny ourselves every indulgence that is contrary to God's commandments. We should also learn to keep from common swearing, not to go to law for trifles, but to be kind and good-natured on all occasions; and, instead of indulging aspirit of revenge, we should imitate the goodness of God by returning good for evir. Questions.---Can those people be properly called Christians who swear in common conversation? [,ns. No.] Can those people expect to be believed for their oath who cannot be be-. lieved on their word? [Ats. No.] Is it right for Christians to return evil for evil? 38. [Ans. No.]' Should Christians refuse to give and lend, when it is-in their'power, to help their neighbours?:. [Ans. No.] ShouldCChristians hate theirenemies?[Ans. No.]. What does our. Saviour exhortthem to. doM- 43. [a. 'Love-:their enemie bless themthat cursethemj, and pray. for those that despitefully use them and persecute them.] Why are Christians to do this? -5. rFAns. That they mnay he the childrein of their Father which is in heaven.] On whom does God cause the sun to rise? [Ilzs. On the evil and on the good.] On whom (does he send rain? [Amns. On the just, and on the unjust.] Hate we reason to expect a reward from God for loving them. which love us, and for being kind to our friends and relations? 46. [AJzs. No. What does our Lord require us to be? 48. [his. Perfect, even as our Father which is in heaven is perfect.] What is to be understood by this expression? [Ans. To imitate the goodness of God as far as we are able.] LESSON XXIII. Read to veirse 19. Instruction.---Alms signify charitable gifts of all kinds.. I-Typocrites are fale pretcnders to piety and ciharity. By vain repetitions, we may uniderstand, saying the same words ovNer and over again. The most excellent formn of prayer in this Lesson is called the Lord's Prayer, because our Lord -taughit it to his disciples. To hallow God's name, signifies, to praise, and adoreo and worship God, as the greatest of adi beings. TYhy kingdom come, signifies, may righlteousniess oversjz.ýcad the world, till,Christ reigns in all heartg, and all people become inheritors of the kingdom of heaven. God's xwill is done in heaven cheerfully, and from a real love to God; and so it ought to be done 6n earth. By daily bre-id, is mea-nt, every thing we really stand in need of, both for our nDodics and our souls. By our debts or trespasses, are mcant, the offences we commit, from day to day, against the commaiidmients of God, by which we contract a dQbt of sin we never can pay. By our debtors, are meant, such of our fellow-creatures a1s offend us in any manner. Lead us n6t into temnptatjon, but deliver us Iiom evil, means, conduct us safely through the temptations and dangers of this world. Thine is the kingdom. the power, and the glory, for ever and ever, is an acknowledgment that God Jis aboveall, glorious in majesty and power. To be forgiven of,God,, signifies, to have all our sins freely pardoned. To forgive others, signifies, to root out all malicious aud reven& U1 thoughts from our hearts.a 63 One principal end of prayer is to obtain the forgiveness of our sins, which our Lord here teaches us to hope for, provided we pray as we ought to do. But it is certainly very unreasonable to expect pardon for our. own trespassesand sins, if we are not ready to forgive those who have trespassed against us. From our Lord's giving directions concerning fasting, we may learn that Christians are required to fast occasionally, but that they must do it in a manner directly opposite to that of hypocrites. No mere outward observances can be approved in the sight of God, who requires every religious duty to be performed with sincerity of heart. Questions.---What does our Lord say we should not give to gain the praises of men? i. [Ans. Our alms.] What is the only reward those must expect who do charitable actions with this view? [Ans. Glory of men.] From whom may those expect a reward who bestow charitable gifts in a secret manner, as our Saviour directs? [Ans. Our Father who is in heaven.] What reward are those people to expect who say their prayers to be seen of men? 5. [ Ins. The praises of men.J How must we pray if we would gain a reward from our heavenly Father? 6. [Ans. In secret.] How will God reward those who pray in secret? [Ans. Openly.] Are we never to pray in public? [Ans. Yes; at church, with our Fellow-Christians.] What are Christians never to use in prayer? 7. [Ans. Vain repetitions.] Is it not a great happiness and advantage to have a prayer mrade for our use by the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] Have we such a prayer? Ans. Yes.] What prayer is it? [Ans. The Loid's prayer.] Ought we not to make frequent use of it? [Ans. Yes.] What is one principal end of prayer? [Ans. To obtain pardon from God.] What must we constantly remember to do before we pray God to forgive us our trespasses? 14. [Ans. Forgive others.] Do people fast acceptably in the sight of God, who mourn outwardly, without being truly penitent for their sins? 17. [Ans. No.] Does fasting consist merely in abstaining from food? [Ans, No.] What does it chiefly consist in? [Ans. Mortifying the body and afflicting the soul.] How do we know that it is the duty of Christians to fast? (Ans. Our Sayiour has taught us that it is.] Did not our Lord himself fast? [Ans. Yes.] SRead verse 19. to the end. Instruction.---The treasures of heaven are, eternal life, and all the joys and blessings of the world above. We lay up these 64 for ourselves when we believe in Christ, and do those thilngy which he has taught and commanded. By mammon is meant what are usually-called riches. By taking no thought, we are to understand no anxious thought beyond the present day, that will make us distrust the care and providence of God. By the righteousness of God, is meant that righteousness which comes by faith in God's mercy through Christ.-We cannot see heavenly treasures with our eyes, but we may see them by faith; for, by the help of the Holy Spirit in reading the Scriptures, we may be as fully convinced that there are such treasures for us in heaven, as we are of the reality of any thing we see with our eyes. But where there is a want of faith, there is spiritual -darkness. The thought that heavenly treasures are to be ob-. tained by us, should fill us with hope; and surely we ought to prefer them to all the trifles of this life. We may begin to, enjoy the riches of heaven upon earth, if we study the word. of God, pray for the help of his Holy Spirit, and trust in his divine promises; but we must remember, that God requires our hearts to be set upon the.treasures of heaven, and weaned fiom covetous desires; and also that we lay aside anxious cares, and trust to his goodness; but we must not suppose that our Lord meant to encourage us in idleness, by what he said of the fowls of the' air, and the lilies of the field. Though the birds do not' toil and spin, they work notwithstanding, and some part of mankind must sow and reap, and gather into barns, and others must spin, or there would soon be a want of some of the necessaries of life; but, from- our Saviour's words, those whose lot it is to toil-and' spiny are encouraged towork with cheerfulness,-trusting in the blessing of Providence from day to day. This world is intended as a state of trial, and we must each- of us bear our share of evil; but if we: maintain a firm trust in God, and cast our care upon him, we shall find that no more evil will be. allotted for each day, than we shall be enabled to bear. Questions.--Where does our-Saviour direct us to lay up treasures? 20: [Ans. In heaven.] What are the treasures of heaven? [Ans. Eternal life, and the blessings of the world above.] What is meant by mammon? 24. [Ans, Earthly riches;] What are we to understand by taking no thought? 25. [Ans. No anxious thought.] What is the righteousness of God that we are to seek? 32-:. [A.ss The:righteousness which comes by faith-ir. God's mercy through Christ Jesus.], Is- it not very comfotable. to.iow: that we may-lay up:treasuredin heaven? 65 [Ans. Yes.] Can we do this if we set our mindg upon th'riches of this world? [Ans. No.J What are the treasuresupon earth subject to? [Ans. To be spoiled or stolen.] Are the treasures of heaven subjectto these accidents? [Ans. No.} Where does our Saviour say our hearts will be? 21. [Ans. Where our-treasure is.] Where should our hearts be? [Ans. In heaven.] Can they be placed'upon the riches of this lifeand heavenly riches at the same time'?' [Ans. No.] Is it not very true that God provides for those creatures who cannot db what mankind can towards their own maintenance? [Ais. Yes.] Is there not the greatest reason to hope, ther, that God will help those to whom he Has given reason and strength, when they practise the various arts of honest industry? [Ans. Yes.] What are we to seek in the first place? [Ans. The kingdom of God and.is righteousness.] What wiltlien be added unto us? 32. [Ans. All other things we stand in need of.] What must every one of us bear in this state of trial? [Ans. Otur portidto of evil.] How much evil are we required to bear each day? [Ans. The evil of that day.] Should we add to this by looking forward to the evil of the morrow? [Ans. No.] Why not? [Ans. Because sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof] Why does God allot all human creatures a certain portion of evil?,[4ns. Because itis good for them.j Does God ever sendinhore at once than people can bear? [Ans. No.] How is it that some people are quite overcome with grief and sorrow? [Ans, They add to the evil God permits by fretting and fears.l LESSON XXIV. Read to verse 13. Inst)ruction.--.-This Lesson contains the conclusion of our Lord's Sermon on the Mount. 'The word translated mote,means some very small trifling thing, and it stands here for a slight fault in the character of our neighbour- the word beam, stands for a very great-fault in our own. By that which is holy we may understand religious discourse; and by dogs, are meant wicked, profane persons. By the words ask, seek, and knock, are meant.fervent prayer. Verse 12 is called our Saviour's golden rule. It is named by him the law and the prophets, because whatever is written' in-the law of Moses andr 66 the prophets, concerning our duty to our fellow-creatures, is comprehended in it. Questions.---What is meant by a mote in our brother's eye? 3. [Ans. A trifling fault in his character.] What is meant by the beam in our own eye? [Ans. A great fault in our own character.] What is meant by that which is holy? 6. [Ans. Religious discourse.] Who are meant by dogs? [An7s. Wicked profane persons.] What is meant by the words ask, seek, and knock? 7. [Ans. Fervent prayer.] Will God hearken to such prayer? [Ans. Yes.] What will God give to those who ask him? [Ans. Good things.] What is the 12th verse called? [Ans. Our Lord's golden rule.] What are the words of it? [Ans. Whatsoever ye would that men should do unto you, do ye so unto them.] Why does our Saviour call this short rule the law and the prophets? [Ans. Because all that was written by Moses and the prophets concerning our duty to our fellow-creatures is contained in it.] Read verse 13 to the end. Instruction.--.By the strait gate and the narrow way, is meant a religious course of life; by the wide gate and broad way which leadeth to destruction, is meant a course of wickedness. By false prophets, are to he understood those teachers who speak against the doctrines of Christianity and a holy life, or who pretend to be inspired when they are not so. By saying Pord, Lord, is meant professing to be Christians. By that day, is meant the day of judgment.' There was a great difference betwixt the teaching of our Saviour and that of the Scribes; they only explained the law according to the authority of the fathers, but Christ spake by his own authority, Verily, verily, I say unto you. Questions.---What is meant by the strait gate and the narow 'Way that leadeth unto life.? [fas. A religious course of life.] What is meant by the wide gate and broad way that leadeth to destruction? [Ans. A wicked course of life.] Who are meant by-false prophets? [Ans. Those who seak against the doctrines of Christianity and a holy life, or who pretend to be inspired when they are not so.] What is to be understood by saying Lord, Lord? [Anrs. Pretending to be Christians.] What is meant by that day? [Ans. The day of judgment.] How did the Scribes teh? [Ans. By the authority of the fathers.] How did our Saviour teach? [Ans. By his own authority.] What expression did he frequently use? [Ans. Verily, Verily, I say unto you.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---In the beginning of this Lesson we are instructed not to pass severe censures on others, but to correct our own faults, and to be prudent in our discourse upon religious subjects. In the 7th, and following verses, we are encouraged to pray fervently to God, and to put the same kind of trust in him as we should in a tender earthly parent. Nothing can be more comfortable than the assurances here given by our blessed Saviour, that our prayers, if offered with fervency and perseverance, will be heard. They may not be granted immediately, or just in the way we desire, but we certainly shall have good things, what is best for us, if we pray as our Saviour has taught us, and if we are ready to do unto others as we would they should do unto us. In order to know how to follow our Saviour s golden rule, we should think within ourselves what we should reasonably wish to have done by others, supposing they were in our places, and we in theirs. The Christian course is compared to a strait gate and a narrow way, because there are greater restraints in it than in a course of wickedness; but Christianity restrains us from no one good thing, but only from what would in the end'be hurtful. A wicked course, on the contrary, takes off all restraint, but it.certainly ends in destruction, without timely repentance. From the 21st, and foll lowing verses, we learn, that our Lord will not, at the last day, own any as his disciples merely for faith, unless, in their works, they have followed his blessed example: it is notsufficient that they are Christians by profession. Neither will any be reckoned wise, whatever their reputation for wisdom may have been, who have not embraced his doctrines, and made them the rules of their lives. Questions.---Who will judge us at the last day? [Ans. Christ.] What should we do instead of judging hardly of others? [Ans. Correct our own faults.] What may we expect our heavenly Father to give us if we pray to him? [Ans. Good things.) What are meant by good things? [Ans. What is best fdr us.] Howshould we pray for them? [Ans. As our Sfviour has taught us.] What should we be ready to do unto our fellow-creatures? [Ans. As we would they should do unto us.] How may we kniow in what manner we" can prac 68 tise-oar Saviour's golden rule? [Ans. By supposing ourselves. in the place of others.] Do not all people like to be treated with kindness and civility? [Ans. Yes.] Do not all like to. be dealt honestly with [Ans. Yes.] Do not all desire to have truth told them? [Ans. Yes.1 Do not parents like their children to be dutiful? [Ans. Yes,] Do not teachers like their-scholars to be obedient and diligent? [Ans. Yes.] Do not brothers and sisters desire the rest to be affectionate and obliging? [Ans. Yesj Do not those who confer benefits like to have a return of gratitude? [Ans. Yes.] To what will a religious course lead us? [Ans. To eternal life.] To what does a course of wickedness lead? [Ans. To destruction.] Will every one that calls himself a Christian be admitted into the kingdom of heaven at the day of judgment? [Ans. No.] What will our Lord say to many of those who pretended to be his disciples? 23. [Ans. I never knew ye; depart from me, ye workers of iniquity.] Who will our Lord reckon wise? 24. [Ans. Those that hear his sayings and do them.] Who will he reckon foolish? 26. [Ans. Those who hear his sayings. and do them not.) Have not you, even in the short compass of a few lessons, heard many of our Lord's sayings? [Ans. Yes.] What will our Saviour say to you at the judgment-day, if you have not lived according.to them?. 23, [Ans. Depart from me.] How were the people who heard our Lord's doctrine affected with it? 28. [Ans. They were astonished.] What expression did our Saviour frequently use to shew that he had authority to preach the gospel? [Ans. Verily, verily, I say unto you.] LESSON XXV. Read to verse 5. Instruction.--By a leper, is meant a person afflicted with a loathsome disease called the leprosy; every leper amongst the Jews was reckoned unclean, and was obliged to live in a house by himself, and was not permitted to mix with others, even in places of public worship. Whoever was cured of the leprosy, was obliged to shew himself to the priest before he could be received again, into society. Questions.---What is a leper? [Ans. One.who has the leprosy.] How did. our Lord heal the leper who came to him2 69 -Ans. By a word.] Was not this wonderful? [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord prove himself to be by this miracle? [Ans. The Son of God.,1 For what purpose was the leper to go to the priest? [Ans. To shew that he was healed.] Read verse 5 to the end. Instruction.-A centurion was an officer in the Roman army, who had the command over an hundred men. The comparison which the centurion made, when our Lord offered to go and heal his servant, signified, that he believed Christ could as easily command away diseases, as he could command his soldiers By those who should come from the east and west, our Lord;neant people of the gentile nations who-should become Christians. The centurion was one of these. The children of the kingdom were people of the Jewish nation. Questions.--Who came to our Lord after he had healed the leper? [Ans. A centurion.] What was a centurion? [Ans. A Roman officer who commanded an hundred men.] What did the centurion beseech our Lord to do? 5 [Ans. To cure his servant of the palsy.] Did he bring the man with him? [Ans. No ] What did our Lord offer to do? [Ans. To go and heal him.] Did the centurion accept our Lord's offer? [Ans. No.] Why not? 8. [Ans. He did not think himself worthy that Christ should go under his roof.J What did he beseech our Lord to do? 9. [Ans. To speak the word only, and his servant should be healed.] Was not our Lord greatly pleased with the centurion's faith? [Ans. Yes.] What did he say to him? 13. [Ans. Go thy way, and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto,thee.] When was his servant healed? 13. 'Ans. That selfsame hour.] What miracle did our Lord perform the next day at Nain? [Ans. He raised the widow's son to life.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-We should particularly remark in this Lesson; that our Lord performed his miracles by his own power. When he healed the leper, he said, I will, be thou clean. When he cured the centurion's servant, he spake the word only, and he was healed; the widow's son was restored to life, only by his saying, Young man, I say unto thee'arise. These circumstances proved that he was the Son of God. We should likewise observe, that each of these miracles was an act of be* 70 nevolence, which we may imitate in some degree. Though we cannot heal the leper, we may do much to comfort those who are afflicted with various diseases. Though we cannot raise the dead, we may give consolation to the widow; and if we do these things for Christ's sake we shall certainly please God. Both the leper and the centurion gave strong proofs of their faith. The one by saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make me clean; the other by saying, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof; but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. We shall imitate these good persons, in some measure, if we believe what is here related; andif our lives be agreeable to our faith, we shall be among the number of those from the east and from the west, who will be admitted into the kingdom of heaven. Questions.--By whose power did our Saviour perform these wonderful miracles? [Ans. By his own power.] What did they prove him to be? [Ans. The Son of God.] In what respect can we imitate the example given by our Saviour in this Lesson? [Ans. In being kind to sick people, and in comforting the widow.] Who shall we please, if we do these things for Christ's sake? [Ans. God.] What did the leper and the centurion shew by their applying to our Saviour? [ Ans. Their faith.] How may we imitate them? [Ans. By believing what is related concerning our Lord's miracles.] What may we then hope for? [Ans. To sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.] LESSON XXVI. Read the whole Lesson..nstruction.---From the beginning of this Lesson we learn, that the Son of God, when he took our nature upon him, submitted to a state of the lowest poverty; he had not upon earth a place which could be called his home. From our Lord's words, Why are ye fearful, 0 ye oif little faith? it appears that, though they called upon him to save them, his disciples did not think he could do so. The case of the poor man, who was afflicted by a legion of devils, was truly deplorable, and nothing but divine power could deliver him. Their desire to enter into the swine, shews that devils delight to torment; and the manner in which the swine were affected,shews that to be possessed with devils, rmade a dreadful change is i 71 whatever creature was so possessed. Our Lord would not suffer the man who was delivered from the devils to follow him, because he was not of "the number of those he had chosen for his constant companions; but he sent him home, that his friends might rejoice with him on his miraculous recovery. Questions.---What condition of life was the Son of God in when he was upon earth? [Ins. A state of poverty.] What did our Lord say to the Scribe, who said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest? 19. [Ans. The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man hath not where to lay his head ] What miracle did our Lord work when he was in a ship with his disciples? [7Ans. He stilled a tempest.] What did his disciples say to him when they awoke him out of his sleep? 25. [Aris. Lord save us, we perish.] What did our Lord do then? [Ans. He arose and rebuked the wind.] What did he say to the sea? [Ans. Peace, be thee still.] - What happened immediately? [dns. The wind ceased, and there was a great calm.] What did he say to his disciples when they shewed fear? 40. [Ans. Why are ye so fearful? How is it that ye have no faith?] Who met our Lord in the country of the Gadarenes? [Ans. A man with an unclean spirit. Was he not very furious? [Ans. Yes.] Was he tormenited by more than one devil [(Ans. Yes, by a legion.] What did the devils beseech our Lord to let them do, when he commanded them to come out of the man? 11. [AIns. To enter into a herd of swine.] What became of the swine? [Ans. They ran furiously into the sea and were drowned.] How many were there of them? [Ans. Two thousand.] Did the poor man perfectly recover as soon as the devils were gone out of him? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--By our Lord's submitting to live upon earth in mean and indigent circumstances, he put honour upon a state of poverty; which should keep the rich from depising the poor, and the poor from murmuring at their condition. By our Lord's words to his disciples, Why are ye so fearful? How'is it fhat ye have no faith? all Christians are instructed to have such a constant faith or belief in. their Saviour, as shall keep them from desponding fears. And the wonders related of his power in this Lesson, will help to streogthen their faith, if properly coAsidered. Our Saviow proved himself to b, Gfod 72 as wU as man, by stilling the tempest, and delivering the demoniac: this should make us believe that he can deliver us out of the greatest dangers, and defend us from the power of evil spirits. And we should be very thankful to our Lord for preventing devils from tormenting us as they did the poor man we have just read of. Questions.--What/did our Lord put upon a state of poverty, by submitting to be in mean circumstances in respect to earthly things? [Ans. Honour.] Should the rich ever despise the poor for their poverty? [Ans. No.] Should the poor murmur because God has placed them in a low condition? [Ans. No.] What should our Lord's questions to his disciples teach us to keep in our minds always? [Ans. A constant faith in our Saviour.] What did our Lord prove himself to be, ly stilling the tempest and curing the demoniac? [Ans. The Son of God.] Cannot the Saviour, who could do these miracles, deliver us from all dangers, and defend us against the power and malice of evil spirits? [Ans. Yes.] Do we ever hear now of people's being possessed with devils, as in former times? [Ans. No.] Who defends us from them? [Ans. Our Saviour.] What should we be for this blessing? JAns. Thankful.] LESSON XXVII. Read the whole Lesson. "Instruction.---Jairus, who came to Christ in behalf of his daughter, was a ruler of one of the Jewish synagogues. The poor woman who touched the hem of his garment was in humble circumstances; but she and the blind man also had faith iu Christ. Our Lord commanded these people not to talk of his miracles, because he chose to proceed quietly to the end of his ministry, according to Isaiah's prophecy. Questions.---What did Jairus, the ruler of the synagogue, beseech our Lord to do? [(Ans. To go to his house and cure his daughter.] What state was she in? [Ans. She lay dying.] What did a poor woman in the crowd do to get cured? [Ans. She touched the hem of Christ's garment.] Was she cured [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord say to her when she 'came trembling before him? 48. [Ans. Daughter, be of good comfort, thy faith hath made thee whole, go in peace.] What did our Lord say to Jairus, when his servants told him his daughter was dead? 49:; Fi [Arns. Believe.only, and she sht3all * made whole.) Who did our-Lord take into the room with him? 51. [iAns. Peter, and Jaiies, and John, and the parelits of the damsel.] Whiht did he db as soon as he carne where. Jairn's's daruLliter was lyinicg? (dM5. Ile took her by the hand, and called, saying, Damsel, I say unto thee arise.] Did she-com* to lit, and-arise, and walk? [Ains. YeS.j How old was shel C? ns. 'Twelve years.] Were not Iber paretits, and out Lord's disciples greatly astonished? [bs. Yes. ' "Why did our Lord charge them to tell no man? f Ans. Becamwe he -did tiot-choaseit should -be talked of at that time.] Who followed our Lord when he returned from Jairts's house? 27. [Ans. Two blind men.] W7hat did they say to him? (Ans. Thdu Son of Iavid, have mercy on us.] Who did they miean lby the Son of David) [Ans. The 'Messiah.] What question did our Lord ask them? f 4ns. Believe.e tehat I -am able to do this?] What aniser did they return.)?llts. Yea, Lord.] D)id our Lord give them sight? [.4ns. Yes.] Who was brolght to our Lord after the blind i-ieiq were departed? 32. [11fns. A' dumib mani polssessed'-witl a devil.] Did our Lord cast out the devil? [zhis. Yes.] What,4id the dupib mian do then? [-A0s. Speak.] What (lid th&ý Pharisecs say? [Ans. I-le casteth out devils through the prince of the dqN-ils.] Where did our Sa~'iour o C to tlien 5. [kid. Abouta ll the cities-and villages.j WhRt Ii& fhe do'in these? l `[d. 'Preach'the gospel.] What else did our i,olrd do?, [idis. Iffaled every sickness and disease' amongtir the IRople. PRACTICAL. INSTRIUCTION. I1struction.---Al the perious named in tJiis Lesson believed in Christ, that is, they believed our Lord was able to heal diseases, to restore the dead to life, and give sight to the blind, by his own power, therefore he cured them all; and if we believe in Christ, and showv by our repentance that we sin. cerely desire to be delivered fr-omn our spiritual diseases, we may assure ourselves that our Lord will heal our souls. Q uestions.---Could any human creature have cured the woman who had been diseased twelve years? [Ans. No I How do we know thisi 4-. [Ans. She had spent all her livinig upon physicians.] Was there any virtue in our Saviour's garments to cure diseases? [A-s. No.] How came tLr woman to be PART H. D 74 tured -when she touched them? [Ans. She believed;n Christ.] Could any human being restore Jairus's daughter -to life?.Ans. No.] How came she to be restored to life? {Ans. Her father believed in Christ.] Could any human being bhave given sight to the blind men? [Ans. No.] How came our Saviour to give them sight? [Ans. They believed in him.] How cane our Lord to cast out the -devil, and give speech to the dumb? [Ans. Those who brought the man believed in Christ.] Does our Lord cure bodily diseases now in a miracuJous way? [Ans. No.] What diseases are we certain our Lord will cure? [Ans. Spiritual diseases.] What are they? [Ans. The diseases Of the soul.] What occasion -our souls to be in dangerof'everlasting death? [Ans. Our sins.] What must we do if we would be cured of our spiritual diseases? [Ans. Repent of.our sins.] How w31 our Lord cure us if we do so? [Ans. He will pardon our sins.] LESSON XXVIII. BRead to verse 16. Instruction.---By our Lord's giving power to hi apostles to cast out. devils, and heal all manner of diseases, through his name, he proved himself to be the Son of God. The disciples were commanded to go.-only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel; meaing those of the Jewish nation who were neglected by their own teachers, the Scribes and Pharisees; because salvation was to be first offered to the Jews, and afterwards tp the Gentiles. The apostles were to preach the same doctrine as our Saviour did; and, upon their using his name, the same kinds of miracles were to be wrought, to prove the truth of their doctrine, and to shew that they were really sent by him. Without these miracles, a set of poor unlearned men, like the apostles, would have been despised. It was a custom with the Jews, when they returned to their own land from any Gentile country, to shake off the dust from their feet. Our Lord commanded his disciples to shew tile same mark of contempt to wicked Jews. The Jewish cities Which treated the messengers of the Messiah with contempt, were worse than Sodom and Gomorrah, because they sinned.against more light and greater favour. Questions.-.-Who did our Lord call to him? [Ans. lil 75 twelve disciples.] What twelve disciples? [Ans. His apos. tles.] What did our Lord give them power to do in order to prove the truth of their doctrine? [Ans. Cast out devils and cure all manner of diseases.] Who were meant by the lost sheep of the house of Israel? 6. [Ans. The Jews who were neglected by their teachers.] Why were the apostles to preach the gospel to them in preference to the Gentiles? [Ans. Because salvation was to be offered first to the Jews.] Why so? [Ans. Because they were the chosen people of God.] 'Why did our Lord say, that it would be more tolerable for the land of Sodom and of Gomorrah, at the day of judgment, than for such Jewish cities as would not receive his apostles? [Ans. Because those cities would sin against greater light and favour.] Read verse 16 to the end. Instruction.---These verses related to the treatment which the apostles would meet with after our Lord's departure fiom earth. He foretold these circumstances beforehand, that they might not be disheartened afterwards when they were persecuted. From our Lord's words, 29, we learn that the providence of God reaches even to those creatures which are looked upon as of little value in the sight of men. By coming to send a sword upon earth, our Lord meant to foretel, that although he was the Prince of Peace, wicked men would make his doctrine the occasion of much bloodshed; and that the nearest relations would often differ about it so as even to hate one another. All this our Lord said as prophecies, not by way of approbation. To take up the cross and follow Christ, signifies, to be contented to bear all kinds of sufferings rather than give up being a Christian. Questions.---Why did our Lord tell his apostles so long beforehand what they must suffer for his sake? [Ans. That they might not be disheartened afterwards.] What is meant by taking up the cross and following Christ? [Ans. Bearing afflictions patiently for his sake.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. 'Instruction.-.-Though this discourse was principally'designed for our Lord's apostles, there are several things in it which concern all Christians. From our Lord's directiuns D 2 76 his apostles-coneerm7ing the houses they should abide in, -we may learn, that Christians should not miake frienidiships and intima-.cies wkith those who are the declared eiienmies of religicon; and, bly the 'heavy, y xinishiment threaitened to those whjlo should refhs~ to rrceh'e the apostles, Christians ar.e instructed to treat ehe -ministers of Christ with respcct. Iro1*ni our Lord's words, Fe:ar rot those wvhich kill the body, but are not aIble to kill th e soul; but- r.ther fear himi w.-ho is ab~le to destroy both soul and body in hell; all Ch'ristians are inistructed to fear G od ralther than man, and. to take care of their souls. From whliat -ur Lord said, concrining tle splarroms and thie hairs of our twads, we learn that God directs all things, so that no triflillg vircunmstanwe can happen wNithout his pernii,.--sion; tlhis shculd lead us to pray for God's p~rotecttionl, and trust in his p1rovidence. WVhat our lord said, about conl fessing and dlerying him, should mnake us resolve to iliew, by all ourV IX words andl actiops, that we are C(hristianis; this is cOnfessin g bimi, n1d)( leadiagi wicked lives is denying him. Though Clnist;Irt*, in gwisrul, do not suff-er great persecution, every one Ias his cross; sonfie sorrow or calamity to bear almost conntLnually. T'hiis w~e unusthbear with patience, or we cannot be the disciI)les of him who, when he spake the wiords here wVritten, had resolveed aciually to thkc up his cross, to hear till the evils allotted to his huimanity, and to submit at last to the agonies of a crucifixion. W,"e find, from the last verse of this Lesson, thirt there-is a reward provided for every kc-ind action w-e do for Clhrist's sake; even for the. giving a cup of cold water. Wrhat this reward is we are not told; but we may be certain it greaitly exceeds the value of the gifts we have to bestow. Questions.--AVhat may we learn frohn our Saviour's direction to his apostles, not to abide wvith unworthy pleople? [.As., -Not to form friCi)(lShils -with the enemies of Christ.] What nayv wve learn from his threatenings to those who should not reei-ive the apostles.? [Ans. That-we should treat the ministers of Chriat with respect.] 'Can ilaen destroy our souls and bodies i41 hell? Ans. No.] Who czcn do so? J. Ans. God ] Should we not then fear God rather than man? (Ans. Yes.] Supp-ose,afy person should desire you to do a wAicked action, such as stealing or killing, for instance, and threaten to murder you if you did not do it, should you do it? [.. ns. No.] \\l bn iot? [Ans. Because God has coImmanded us not to do wicrkdnessij Can thr wicked hurt us without God's'permission? [Ans. No.] How do we know this? i ' o. [?rms. Our 77 Saviour has said, the very hairs of our head are all numbered]i Whart should the thoughts of God's providence lead us to d&? [Ans. To pray for his protection.] What is confesusiu Christ before men? [(Ans. Shewing, by our words and actions, that we are Christians?] What is denying Christ bethre menr; [Ans. Pretending to be Christians, and' leading ungodly lives,] Wkho will Christ own at the last day [Ans. Those who confess him.] Who will he deny? fAns. Those who deny him.] Are Christians in general exposed to persecution, to bear cruel torments, and be put to death, for believkig in Christ? fAns. No.] In what respect has every Christiaii his cross to bear? [Ains. lie has- some sorrow and calamity to bear.] Hiow must he bear it, in order to obey our Lord's command of taking up the cross and following him f[Ans. Patiently.] What had our Lord resolved to do himself, when he spake these words? [Ans. To take up his cross.] What was his cross? [Ans. To be crucified.] Has not every person, even the poorest, opportunities of duing kind offices lor others for Christ's sake? [Ans. Yes.] What will he gain if he da them? [ dns. A disciple's reward.1 Who. will bestow it upon him? L[Ans. Christ.} LESSON XXIX. Read to verse 20, Instruction.-It was not for his own information that the Baptist sent his disciples to Jesus, but that they miglit be couvinced themselves that Jesus was the Christ. It was foretold by the prophet Isaiah, that the MIessiah should open the eyes of'the blind, unstop the ears of the deaf, cause the hune man to leap as an hart, and make the tongue of the dumb. to sing. Instead of answering the question of John's disciples, our Saviour performed many mIjracles before their eyes; and then gently rebuked them, for having doubted before that he was the Messiah, when they must have heard so from the Baptist. The testimony given by outr Saviour to John the Baptist was very honourable. It signified that he was steady in his principles, and an enemy to luxury. John was the messenger and witness of the Messiah, hlie who was to corte in the spirit and power of Elias. In these respects John was greater than all the prophets before him but his office was still less honourable than that of the preachers of the gospel. There was a very striking difference betwixt the character of Jesus and John. Our Lord was gentle and social, mixing with men; John was rigid and austere, preaching in a wilderness; but the Pharisees were resolved to find fault with both. Questions.--What question did John's disciples ask? 2. [Ans. Art thou be that should come, or do we look for another '] Who did they mean? [Ans. The Messiah.] What did our Lord do in the room of answering this question? [Ans. He performed many miracles.] Did not our Saviour plai;ly prove himself to be the Messiah by doing these things? [Ans. Yes.] Did not our Lord bear very honourable testimony to the character of John the Baptist? [Ans. Yes.] What did John the Baptist eat? [Ans. Locusts and wild honey.] What did he wear? [Ans. A garment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle.] Where did he live? [Ans. In the wilderness.] What did the Pharisees say of him? 18. [Ans. That he had a devil.] Did not our Saviour come in a different way? [Ans. Yes.] What did they say of him? [Ans. Behold a man gluttonous, and a wine-bibber, a friend of publicans, and sinners.] Did those who were truly wise, that is, religious, say so? [Ans. No.] Read verse 20 to the end. Instruction.-Our Lord had dwelt in the cities of Chorazin andc Bethsaida, and had performed many miracles in them. Tyre and Sidon were once famous cities, but had been given up to destruction on account of the wickedness of the people who inhabited them. By the wise and prudent, our Lord meant those who were wise in their own conceit, and despised his doctrine. By babes, those who were humble, and willing to be taught. It is very plain, from the 27th verse, that Jesus is truly the Son of God. By the heavy laden, may be understood, all who feel their sins and sorrows a burden to them. By taking his yoke, our Lord meant choosing him for their master. Questions.--Upon what cities did our Lord denounce woes? 21. [Ans. Chorazin and Bethsaida.] Who did our Lord say should be preferred before the people of those cities at the day of judgment? [ ns. Tyre and Sidon, Sodom and Gomorrah.] 23. Why should it be more tolerable for the latter at the 79 day of judgment than for the former? [Ans. Because our Saviour preached in Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum.3 What were the people of Tyre; and Sidon, and Sodom? [Gas. Heathens.] Who did our Lord mean by the wise and prudent? 24. [Ans. Those who were wise in their own conceit.],Who did he mean by babes? [Ans. Those who were humble and willing to be taught.] Who did he mean by the heavy laden? 28. [Ans. All who felt their sins and sorrows a burden, and wished to be eased.] What did our Lord mean by taking his yoke upon them? [Ans. Choosing him for their master.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Anstructibn.--This Lesson teaches us to honour the memory of John the Baptist, and to regard him as the Messenger of the Lord, the prophet who was to come in the spirit and power of Elias; and it particularly instructs us to believe in Christ as the Messiah, on account of his miracles; and not to think unworthily of him because he mixed in the world, and condescended to the customs of it in common affairs, but to regard him, notwithstanding his humble appearance in our nature, as the only begotten Son of God. From our Lord's words, 25, we find that divine thiigs are often hidden fromrx' those who fancy themselves very wise people; and that others, who in respect to what the world dalls wisdom, are,. ignorant as babes, have a good understanding of what has been revealed from heaven; this difference arises from the one having the help of the Holy Spirit, the other not. The invitation with which our Saviour ended his discourse is very comfortable. Whoever reflects on the number of his sis, must find them a burden too heavy f6r him to bear; and sore row often presses hard upon every human being; but if we' will go to Christ, and take his yoke upon us, that is, ifwe'witf learn Christ's doctrine and follow his example, we shall soon. find rest unto our su; for the prac4iceof Christian duties iI easy and pleasanto the meek and humble. Questions.---What should we learn from our Lord's discourse concerning John the 1aptist [Ans. To honour his memory.] What was John the Baptist? [AnJ. The messenger f the Lord and the Elias who was to come.] Hw6v came.olia to be in prison at that time? [Ans. Herod had. put him there.1 What should we learn from our Lord's vtorking miracles before John's discipl" 1) [AIns. TFo bel'ieve hmto be the IMessiah.] Should we think Christ less th-.an the Son of God becanse he conformned to thle. customis of the world? [ins. No.] W~as it not a wonderfuil condes-cens ion in the Son of God to eat with ptublicans and sinners? [zAns. YLes.1 Whlat makes the difference betw%,ixt those eur Lord styles wise and prudent, and those hie calls babes? [Aas. One have the help of the Holy Spirit, the other have it not.] On whomn does God bestow the gift of the Holy Spirit;L[4ns. On the humible-minded.] Who alorue can know Grod theý Father p-erfectly? 217. [I4ns. The Son1.] Who alon01e can knIow the Son pi~rfcctly? [..,Ins. The Father.] 1has niot the S~on of God revealed many things concerning himself and the F~ather: in the Scriptures? [.Ilns. Yes.] Should not %% e believe hisi word Vm[As. Yes.] What,as, our L.ord's gracious invitation? 2:3. [Idns. Comne unto mie, all ye thlat labour and are hieavy laden, and I will, give you re~st. T1ake my yoke upon. yo.)u and1 le-arn of m-e, for I am Meek anid lowly -in. heart, and ye, shall fiud rest unto your souls.] What is meant by groing to Christ?, [,4ns. Seeking salvation through him ] What, will those- who do.so soon find? [zins. Rest unto *their souls.] Which have the roost comfortabre lives, (10 you think, those who live in a couirse of sin, 4) tiose who Iiv lie oo %hr's tians? [Ansa. Those who live like pood Christianis.) LESSON XXX. R~ead Mhe whole Lesson. 4lnsfrurtlhn.--A paratile.signifie aln inst-ruct~ive s;tory. It wss otur Lord's custom to teatch spi Iritual things by comparifig them to such earthly things as his hvearers were acquainted with. Mist men understand the nature of sowhing, and the *4itrerence that groUnld often rmak's in the, future hatv-est, according( as it is neglected or wtell chltivated. The, expres~sion) Who hath ears to hear', 10t hiii'hýar, signified that the para,,)e had a' spiritnial m~eaning whpich. nionie.ou~d pe.rc~ivho but thfose wbo'ere well 41ispostAd. The, fl'ter s(oQhe, Uniu'dom of hea~ve'n, are those thinigs which never could hav~e tieeni khown tinless Chirisj had revealed tUhem. By wvhosoeveri h -%h, -e m' understand.those who believe in* Christ;,and'hi e' ~i dsr kniow' his doctrine; miid Iy wvhosoever hath not, wse ma' i\ ~rde'r" 9T stand those who -will not own Christ nor beleve hiis doctrine, T(N the first our Lord promises abundance, or a greatt increlse, of spiritual knowledge; to the others he threatens- the loss of thosae advantages which they possess. The expressicorts, Seeing they see not, and hearing they hear not, neither do they. uderstand, signify, that those \vho set themselves against the doctrine of Christ, do not perceive, or understand, the spiritual sen~se of it; some, fo(r instance, wh 'o,heard this parable, thourght that our Saviour wias merely telling a story of a sower, and the ill success he had writh the greatest part of his seed'.. The Jews set themnselves agyainst the )roplhet Isaiah in the samemanlainer, When he was sent to call them to repentance, and he was inspired to say of them what our Saviour repeated, which imtiplied, that b)oth the ancient Jews and those who opposed our Lord's doctrine were condemnied to hardness of heart anld sp)tritu;il dlarkness as a judgment upon them. The disciples of Christ, onl the contrary, had their untderstandings enligtened by the' Spirit of God. The p1rophlets aixd1 righteouus mien who desired to see wrhat Christ's disciples saw, and to hear. tile thingoi they heard, were those of formier times, who l-t~; lieved' that a Saviour would come. Our Lord explained the parable of the sower to his disciples, by shewing- tile ditffr-- ent NNxlws in 'which those to whionm thle word of the kingdom, that is, the gospel, is preachcd, receive it, and profit by it. Those who understand it not, are thos& who see and see not,. hear and hear not; the wicked one is the devil. The frait*swhich those who receive the word* into an honest and goodt heart bring forth, are faith, repentance, and good works. Quzestwon&ý.--Wlat is a parable? [wns. An instructive.: stoty.J Is there not usually-a na uch' better crop in a field' when the groutmd; has- been properly manire(I before the seed waCN soenw? (his. Yes.) Wh-at did our Saviou; say whenr ha had -ended the Varable? 7. [A4ns. Who hiath ears to hear let hiri hear.] What did lie shew by this'! [ifns. That the parable had a spiritual i-eaning.] Who ti he mean by those who had ears to hear? [tins. Those who were well disp osed.] What are-the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven? [.A4is. The,. things which Christ rev.ealed.] What judgment was sent upon the Jews of old for not hearkeninog to theý propliats? [rs.'i.. They were condemned. to hardness of hevrt and spiritual davkness.j. Who were the prophets an*d righteous men that hadl desired to see aad hear what Christ's discipli-s did.? (lns. Those who lived.in former times, antbelievvd tbata Saviuur would come.. Did out-Lord exptain, the parable of the Sowiar Di 82 to his disciples? [Ans. Yes.] Who do you think he meant by the Sower? [Ans. Himself.] What was the seed? [Ans. The Gospel.] Do all persons receive and improve alike? [.Ans. No.] Who is meant by the wicked one, that catcheth the seed out of the heart? [Ans. The devil.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--The spiritual instruction to be learnt from the Parable of the Sower is, that the grace of God is necessary to enable us to understand the doctrine of Christ, and that it will be given in great abundance to those who improve by it, but will be taken away from those who do not endeavour to improve. We shall never bring forth good fruits if we hear the word of God carelessly, and do not pray for God's grace to help us to understand it; for the temptations of the devil will draw us into all kinds of wickedness. But if, on the contrary, we pray to God to give us his grace, that we may always think those things that be right, and by his merciful guidance may perform the same, we shall bring forth the fruits of an holy life and conversation here, and the more glorious fruits of eternal life and happiness hereafter: but without the grace of God we can do nothing. Questions.---What is necessary in order to enable us to understand the gospel of Christ? [Ans. The grace of God.] How does God reward thdse who pray for the help of his grace and improve it? [Ans. By giving them more abundance.] How does God punish those who despise the help of his Holy Spirit? [Ans. He takes it away from them.] What shall we have in this world if we pray for God's grace, and live as the gospel directs us? [ ins. A holy life and conversation.3 What shall we have in the next world? [Ans. Eternal life and happiness.] LESSON XXXI, Read the whole Lesson nstruction.-The parable of the.tares is explained by our Saviour himself. That of the grain of mustard-seed related to 'the wonderful increase of the gospel, by the preaching of the apostles. That of the leaven, signified that the religion of Christ would make its way all over the world, insensibly. The dieciples could not of thwmelyes undestand the parabl of the tares, for it related to things that had been kept secret,' some of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, which Christ came to reveal. The parables of the treasure hid in the field and the pearl of great price are designed to shew us that nothing in this world can be so valuable to us as salvation, and that we should take the greatest pains to know the religion of Christ, that we may obtain salvation. And the parable of the net was designed, like that of the tares, to shew the difference that will be made betwixt the good and the wicked. at the end of the world. Questions.--What is meant in these parables by the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. Christ's religion.] What is it compared to in the first parable in this Lesson? [Ans. To a man who sowed good seed in his field.) What is it compared to in the second? 31. [hIns. To a grain of mustard-seed.] What is it coippared to in the third? 33. [Ans. To leaven. Why did our Lord speak unto the people in parables? [Ans. Because the prophets foretold he would do so.] Did our Lord's disciples. understand- the parable of the tares when he delivered. it? [Ans. No.] Why did they not? 35, [Ans. Because it related to things that had been kept secret from the foundAtion of the world.] Who came to reveal them? [Ans. Our Saviour, Christ.] Who did our Lord sayhe meant by the man who sowed good seed? 37. [Ans. The Son of Man.] What is the field? [Ans. The world.] Who are the good seed? [Ans. Good people.] Who are the tares? [Ans/. Wicked people.] Whois the enemy that sowed tares? 39. [Ans. The devil.) What is the harvest? [Ans. The end of: the world.) Who are the reapers.? [Ans. The angels.) What will they do at the end of the world? [Ans. Separate the good from the bad.] What fire will the wicked be cast into? 40. [Ans. Hell fire.] What will the righteous do then? 43. [Ans. Shine forth as the sut' the kingdom of their Father.] Where is that? [Ans. Iif even.] What is meant by the treasure hid in the field? 40.. [Ans. Salvation.] What is meant by the pearl of greht price? 45. [Ans. Salvation.] What is the field in which this inestimable treasure. may be found by those who will earnestly seek for it? [Ais. Christ's religion.] What does the, parable of the net that was cast ihto the sea shew? 47. [Ans. The difference there will be betwixt the good and the wicked in the world to come.} What did our Saviour do when he returned back to his own country?.3. [Ans. Taught in their synagogues.: Wmere not those who heard him astonished at his widom? [Ani. Yeij 84 Did they acknowledge him to be the Shii of God? [AnT.. No.] Did our Lord perform many mighty works in his own country? [Ans. No.3 Why not? 58. [Ans. Because of their unbelief. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-WVhe fiud from this Lesson, that there is corl-tinal enmity betwixt the seed of the woman, our blessed Saviour, and the seed of the devil. That Christ sows good seed, or religrion and goodness, and the devil sows tares, or wickedness. We should therefore be constantly upon our guard agcrainst our grteat spiritual enemy, and pray to God to deliver us from the evil which the devil woild bring upon Ps. God never fails to deliver those who pray tb him, ancd lse their best endeavours, for he regArds them is his children; but there are great i;numbers of people in tile world who yield their minds to the devil, and so becomie his children; these wicked persons greatly distress and injure the gx)od part of inailkind, in respect to the affatrs of this litfe: but we le'arn from this Lesson, that there is another w-orld, in which a final separtiion will be made betwixt the wicked and tile good, when one will receive a glorious reward irn heaven, and the other will be Consigncd to a place of everlasting torment. Questions.-What did the Lord God say when he passed sentence upon the serpent after the filt [Ans. I x ill put en mity between thee and the womain, and betwixt thy seel and her seed; itf shall bruise thy head, and thou sh4At bruise his heel.] Does it not appear, from our Saviour's explanation of this parable; that there is einmity betwixt Ilim and the devil? [Ans. Yes.] What does Chlrist plant in the world? [Ans. Religion and goohdess ] What does the devil put into men's hearts? [Atis. Wickedness.] Can wve keep oarselves from his temptation by our owni strength? [Ant. No.] What must we pray to God to deliver us from? [Ans. Evil.] Are there not great Ilumbers of wicked people in the world? [Ans. Yes.] Do rnot they often hurt *and vex the good? [Ans. Yes.] Would it nut be a dreadftil thing if the wicked were to be mixed with the good to all eternity-? [Ans. Yes.] When willbey be separateýP [Ans. At tie eind of he world.] Where will the righteous go lo then? [An?. To heaven.3 Will riot the joys of heaven reward them greatry for the evils they have suffered from the wicked for a few yeats C Ans. Yes.J Hyow \ill the wicked be after they kleae. 85 this- world? [.AXs. 'l"ormncrted for ever.] Is it worth whjile, for the sake of any thing that can'be gained by wvickednesýs, to run t.be chance of beincr miserable to allI eternity [And. No.] Is niot salvation of infiaitely greater value than earthly treasures? FAns. Yes.] LESSON XXXII. Read the it-hole Lcsscon. Instruction --Fromi this account of Herod, w' see how the de. vil drix es m-len on from one sin to another N% hen they once y' ield to 1%is tempijt;ations. At first Hlerod had great rev-erence for.Juhn the Baptist, and heard him gladly, but he certainly did not bring tfoith frnits meet for repentance; insteadl of doing so, he marrieda a w.onlan against the lawvs of the land; then he put the Baptist into prison fol' telling hini of his ftilt; then hle took a raish oath; and at last, to please a wicýed woman, he put a gIood mian to death. But there was a monitor within him wvhich le. could not destroy-une who was always accusing hinM, and filling him with terror-his owncoisciel)ce. I Herod wtiS of thle sect of the Sadducees, who did not believe in the resurrection of the dead, yet he thought John the Baptist was rise, and hie was afraid. John's eneAlies did not prosper in the- World, for Herodl was soon after driven out of his. kingdom, and his wicked wife and daughter with him.- -Death is an evil to none but thewicked; John the Baptist had donewbat he camec into the world for, namely, to pivpare the-wa 'y for the MNiessiah, and to bear witness that Jesus was he;., and Goo, after having tried his faith and patience, spw fit to remove him to a better- world, and suffered Herod to put him to death, that John migeht enter into the kingdom of heaven, and te. ceive the great rewai'd promised by our Saviour in his sermon onl the mount to those who should be persecuted for righteousness sake. Q rtestths.-Did our Lord admit women angoiio the number of his disciples? [. -ns. Yes.] What woumen are mentioned here byi fame? 2. [Ans. Mary TMagdalene, Joanna, and Snsanina.) Whbat did Herod say to his servant's tvhen he heard,of the fame of Jesus? (fAs. This is Joha-the Baptist; he is risen from the deqd, therefore mighty, works..do shew forth themselves'in him.] Was it, not a very cruel action in Herod to p11( an' innocent man to death?- [Ans. Yes.]. Was. not Herodias a very wicked wonan? [A[i6, Yes.). Did.-Herod4Wod 86 his wife, and her daughter, prosper in the world? [Ans. No.1 What became of them? [Ans. They were driven out of the kingdom.] What sect was Herod of? [Ans. The Sadducees.] Did this sect believe in the resurrection of the dead? [Ans. No.] What made Herod think that John was risen from the dead? [Ans. His conscience.] What was done with the body of John the Baptist after he was beheaded? 11. [Ans. His disciples buried it.] Where did our Lord go to after he heard of John's death? [Ans. He departed thence by ship into a desert place.] What did the people do when they heard of it? [Ans. They followed him on foot out of the cities.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From the example of Herod we should learn to guard against the first temptation, that the devil may not get power over us; and we should strive to do good rather than evil, that we may have a quiet conscience, for a wounded conscience is the greatest torment any one can have; it makes life uncomfortable, and death dreadful. John the Baptist, though he endured many hardships, and was put to a violent deith at last, was to be envied rather than Herod, for he had that inward peace which God always gives to his faithful servants when they suffer unjustly; and he gained that glorious reward which our Saviour promised to those who are persecuted for righteousness sake. Questions.---What should Herod's example make us resolve not to yield to? [Ans. The first temptation.] What does the devil do when people yield to his temptations? [Ans.-Lead them on from sin to sin.] What rendered Herod's life miserable in the midst of all his grandeur? [Ans. A troubled conscience.] What does God bestow upon his faithful servants in the midst of their sufferings? [Ans. His peace.] What hope had John to comfort him at-his death? [Ans. The hope of a great reward.] What did our Saviour say, in his sermon on the mount, respecting those who should suffer for righteousness sake? [Ans. Great is their reward in heaven.] Is death an evil to the good? [Ans. No.] Which was the happiest, John who was killed, or Herod who lived with a troubled conscience? [Ans. John,]" Had Herod, and Herodias and her daughter, reason to think they should be received into heaven for their bad actions? [Ans. No.] Which should we be nmot careful about, to preserve our lives, or to keep agod aconcience? Ans. To keep a good conscience.,. 87r LESSON XXXIII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--It was a custom among the Jews, for servants to wash the feet of guests with water, and anoint their heads with perfumed oil. Simon, by omitting these tokens of respect, shewed that he had no reverence for our Lord. Simon would not acknowledge Christ to be a prophet, but our Lord proved himself to be more than a prophet, by answering to his thoughts. The parable which our Lord addressed to the Pharisee was designed to shew him, that the woman he despised, however bad her former life might have been, would receive God's pardon sooner than himself, because she loved and honoured God, and he was of an unforgiving temper. How comfortable must our Saviour's words have been to the poor penitent Questions.--Why did the woman wash our Lord's-feet with tears, wipe them with her hair, and anoint them with precious ointment? Ans. To shew how she loved and honoured him.] Did the Pharisee honour him? [Ans. No.) Did out Lord know his thoughts? [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord do when he saw that Simon did not believe he was a prophet? [Ans. He spake a parable to him.] What was it about? 41. [Ans. A creditor and two debtors.] Who did our Lord mean by the creditor? [ Ains. God.] Who did he mean by the two debtors? [Ans. The woman and the Pharisee.] What did our Lord design to teach him by this parable? [Ans. That the woman would be pardoned sooner than himself.] Why so? [Ans. Because he was of an unforgiving temper.] Which of the two loved our Saviour most? [Ans. The woman.] What did our Lord say to the woman? 47. [Ans. Thy sins are forgiven.] Did he"say the same to the Pharisee? [Ans. No.] What else did our Lord say to the woman? [Ans. Thy faith hath saved thee; go in peace.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From our Lord's parable, and his discotimre after it, we learn that when.we sin, we run in debt to God, because we do not pay him what we owe him and that, by our daily offences, this debt mounts up very high; that it*is. impossible for us to pay our debt to God, but that God.-for gives those who are penitent, and if God did not forgie sip updn repentance, we should be cast into the worst of prion. Hell, from which wve could'-never get fie. Since God is sC forgiving to us, we certainly ought to be ready to forgive one another. * Queslons.---Do we rot owe God love and obedience [?n1. Yes.] hy should we love Grod? [wlhs. Because all good things comne from him.] Why should we obey him? [Ans. Because he is our Creator and Governor.] WVhat do we do when we neither love God nor keep hiis commandm enits as we oughVt to do? (2ns. Run in debt to God.] Do we not all 9tftend more less? [AiJs. Yes.] Can we pay this delbt [A.ns. No.] \V~hat woulid becomie of us if God would not forgive us [?CAns. Wv'e should be wiserable for- ever.1 Can any of' our feltowv-servants. thiat is, our fellow-creatures, owe uis as. w uclh as we ow$ to God? [ulus. No). iCan we expect Gj'rod to forgive us, if we are hard-hearted to our fellow- creatures? [,Ans. No.] What wvill God do, instead of forgiving our sins, if we are hard-hearted and unforgiviing to others? L_,4us. 4 (ast us into hell.] LESSON XXXIV. Read the whole Lesson. Iestruction.---Our Lord went up to Jerusalem at the great fesitivals, in order to fuilfil the law of Moses. The J2'vs asked the impotent man, Who had cured him? only that they might bring an accusation against our Lord for performing the cureon the Sabbath-day. Our Lord's discourse with the Jews, when they wanwted to kill himi for curing a man on the Sabbath-day, shewed that they were greatly mistaken in thinking that acts of incrcy were not to be done on the Sabbathday, especially by the Son of God, who, in doing them, acked like God the Father, whose providence and mercy are con stantly at work. What our Lord said concerning God the Father and himself, shews that he is truly the Son of God that he has power to quicken, or to give a principle of eternal life, to whomsoever he 'will; and that lie is to be honoured as God., In the latter part of his discourse, our Lord justly reproved the Jews for not receiving him as the Messiah, the Son of God, andr appealed to the writings of Mloses, inwhich they might fid things relating to him. Questions.---Why di4 our* Saviour go. to Jerusalerwat the feasts?, [Ans. To fulfil the law of Moses. 1) What mira'cle did be perform at the Pool of Bethesda? fjJ.ns. He cured an impotent man.] How long had this poor man been in a weak and helpless condition? 5. [Ans. Thirty and eight years.] I-low did our Saviour cure him? [Ains. I-fe said, Take up thy bed anddwalk.] W\Vhat did the Jews say. to the man when they saw himi carrying his bed?.10. [AIns. It is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.] Why did the Jews ask the man, Who bade him take up his bed? [Ai is. Because they wanted to accuse Jesus.] What did the Jews seek to do?, [tns. To slay Jesus.] Does not God continue his wxorks of Arercy on the Sabbathday, as wrell as on week days? [tins. Yes.] What would become of us if God did not do so.? [Ains. We should perish.] lDid not our Saviour act as becamie the Son of God, by doing the same kind of wvorks as God the Father? [ Ans. Yes.] Could any lbut the Son ot God, wvho had life ini himself, and who is one wi"h the Father, have done such miracles as our Saviour did? [wins. No.] WVrhat else did oui Lord say testified of him? 3!. [4nv. 'fhe Scriptures.] Were not the Jewvs very obstinate and wicked in not owning r, the Son of God, when they had all this evidence that he was so? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL IN8TRUCTION. Istrucl ion-- As 'we are required to imitate God, and follow the example of our Saviour in every thing we can, we should learn, from this Lesson, to do acts of mercy upon the Sabbathdlay; but we should particularly remark, that our L.ord did not cure the man in the time which was usual for Jewish worshippers to be at their -public devotions; he ýappears to have been in hig way to the Temple; and he afterwards mlet the man in that sacred place, and gave him advice for the good of his soul. Wv'e should pay very particular attention to our Lord's words respecting his divine nature. As the Father loveth the Son, wve ought to love him also. As the Son quickeneth whom he will, we should pray to him to quicken, or givespiritual life to us. As the Father has committed all julgment to the Son, we should believe that he will be the judge of the quick and (ead. And we should honour the Son even as we honour the Father, because such is the will of th*e Father: and if we wvouild have everlasting life, we must believe in the S&n;- thalt is, we niust believe all that Christ has here declared of himselft Then we ghall be among those who arere'doetned fi-om deatlh; and' put in ihe..way of salvation. The hour will certainly come;i wi hen the dead shall hear the voice of the Son, of God,a ad come to life, and after that to judgment; We shotild therefore endeavour to prepare ourselves for his coming. q,11ejtions.----What should Nve learu from or: Lord's curing 90 -the impotent man, and his discourse with the Jews-concerning it? [Ans. To do acts of mercy on the Sabbath-day.] Did our Lord cure the man in the time of divine service in the temple? [Ans. No.] What did he say to the man when he met him afterwards in the temple? [Ans. Go, and sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon thee.] Are not these words a warning to all who have suffered for their sins? [Ans. Yes.] Should we not pay great attention to our Saviour's owna words? [Ans. Yes.] Ought not we to believe that he is really and truly the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] Should we not love him? [Ans. Yes.] Should we not honour him? [Ans. Yes.]: How should we honour him? 23. [Ans. Even as we honour the Father.) What is meant by that? [Ans. To honour him as God.] Can we truly honour the Father if we do not honour the Son? [Ans. No.] Did not our Lord's miracles prove him to be the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] Did not Moses write of him? [Ans. Yes.] What should we believe then? [Ans. That Jesus is the Son of God.] What should we search in order to confirm our faith? [Ans. The Scriptures.] LESSON XXXV. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---In the days of Elisha an hundred men were fed with twenty loaves; but there was this remarkable difference betwixt our Saviour and the prophet: Elisha only declared that the Lord had said the men should eat and be satisfled, and should leave some of the bread; but our Saviour, by his own blessing, multiplied the small stock of provisions which the apostles produced, and thus proved himself to be the same Lord who multiplied the loaves according to his word by Elisha. By the prophet who was to come, the Jews meant the Messiah. By walking on the sea, our Lord shewed his power over nature. Peter could not have trodden upon the rough waves, without the miraculous support of our Saviour, which was withheld for a moment to try his faith. All who saw this miracle acknowledged Christ to be the Son of God. It could not be owing to any virtue in the clothes our Lord wore, but on account of the faith of those who touched his garments, that, they were cured of their diseases. Questions.-What miracle have we an account of at the beginning ot this Lesson? [Ans. Of our Lord's feeding five thousand with five loaves, and a few small fishes.] Was it wot a most wonderful one? [Ans. Yes.] By whose power did our 91 Saviour multiply the five loaves and the five fishes? rAns. -By his own power.] Who did he prove himself to be by this? [Ans. The Lord God,] Could any but the Lord God, by whom all things were created, multiply bread and fishes in this manner? [Ans. No.] What did our Lord command his disciples to do after the multitude was satisfied? 12. [Ans. Gather up the fragments, that nothing might be lost.] How many baskets full were there? [Ans. Twelve.] What did the men who saw the miracle of the loaves and fishes say? 14. [Ans. This is of a truth that prophet that should come into the world.] Who did they mean? [Ans. The Messiah.] What other miracle do we here read of in this Lesson? 24. [Ans. Our Lord's walking upon the sea.] Who desired to walk to him upon the water?. [Ans. Peter.] Did he do so? [Ans. Yes.] Who made him able to do so? [Ans. Christ.] Was not Peter afraid when he saw the wind boisterous? [Ans. Yes.] What did he say when he was beginning to sink? 30. [Ans. Lord, save me.] What did Jesus do then? 31. [Ans. Stretched forth his hand, and caught him. J What did our Lord say to him? [Ans. 0 thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?] What happened as soon as our Saviour went into the ship? [Ans. The wind ceased.] Was there any virtue in our Lord's garments which made the diseased desirous to touch them? [Ans. No.] What did those people shew by desiring to touch them? [Ans. Their faith in Christ.] Were they cured? [,Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From our Saviour's compassion for the multitude the rich are instructed to pity the poor, and help their necessities; and the poor should take particular notice, that those: whom our Saviour fed, were persons who came far and near to receive instruction from him, not those who were rude and clamorous, insisting to be fed; and that the loaves he multiplied were barley loaves; stich as he himself and his disciples fed upon. This should lead the poor to attend to their duty in the first place, not doubting but that they will be fed by some means or other; and to keep from murmuring when there is occasion for-them to eat an inferior kind of bread. And every one, whether rich or poor, should take notice, that our Saviour commanded the fragments, or broken pieces, to be gathered up, that nothing should be lost. Indeed it is very sidful to waste any thing that is good for food. We frequently read that our Saviour retired to pray. In this particular we may, and ought to itnitate him. Simon Peter was always readly to undertake any thing to shew his faith, but his resolution was alpt to fail him in times of great danger. This is the case with most Christians; but they should learn, from this Lesson, never to forget that their Saviour is at hand to help and deliver them, if they call upon himi. Questions.-What should the rich learn from our Lord's feeding -the multitude? t4-ns. To pity and help the poo0.1 What kind of bread did our Saviour and his apostles eat? [Ans. Barley bread.] Is it not a wicked thing for poor perbons to murmur at eating barley loaves in times of scarcity? [Ans. Yes.) What should we all learn from our Saviour's ordering the fragments to be gathered up? [Ans. Not to waste any thing that is good for food.] As our Saviour, whIo had no sin, retired to pray, ought not we, who have numberless sins, to do so very often? i Ans. Yes.] When we are in perils by sea or Land, what should wVe remember? [Ans. That Christ is near at hand.] What should we do when we findour strength and courage fail? [Ans. Call upon our Saviour.] Should wve not think of his words to Peter? [eins. Yes.] WhVhdt did our Lord prove himself to be, by walking on the waves, and stilling the tempest? LAns. The Son of God.] Should not we worship him as such? [Ans. Yes.] Was not our Lord's curing those who touched the hem of his garment a frirther proof that he was the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XXXVI. Read the wphole Lesson. Jnstruetion.--Iri this divine discourse our Lord taught the people, by comparing spiritual things with things that werefamiliar to them. IHe knew that many who followed him to that place, went with tile hope that he would continue to feed tlem by miracles; but he told them he came into the world for a mnuch higher purpose, namely, to give them spiritual food. Our Lord called himself the true bread from heaven, because thrduigh him. eternal life was to be given to mankind. Our Lord's words respecting eating his flesh and drinking his blood, related to tile Holy Sacrament, whriich he designed to oidain as a means whereby those who should brtieve in him might have their souls strengthened and refreshed with spiritual life by the grace of God. through Him. Some of our -Lord's disciples took offence at his discourse'conceraing eating his flesh and drinking his blood, because tUey did nqt uinderstand the spi ritual meaning of it. Peter, on the'contrary, believing that Christ was the Son of the living God, readily confessed that lie had the words of eternal life. Our Lord's words concerning the disciples who believed not, and Judas Iscariot, shewed that he knew all hearts. Questions.-Why did the people follow our Lord to the place he retired to? 2). [Ans. Because they had been fed with the loaves.] What did our Lord mean by the meat that perisheth? 27. [dns. Victuals and drink.] What did he mean by the meat which endureth unto everlasting life? [Ans. Eternal salvation.] Who did he say would give this meat? [Ans. The Son of Man.] Who is that? [Anls. Christ.] What is meant by working the works of God? 28. [ ns. Doing the will of God.] What sign did the Jews require of Christ? 30. [ Ins. Bread from heaven.] Why did they require this sign in particular? 31. [ ins. Because their fathers ate manna in the desert.] Did Moses give them that bread? [Ais. No.],Who gave it them? [Ans. God. What did our Lord mean by the true bread tron heaven? [Ans. He who came from, heaven to give life to the world.] Who is that? [Ans. Christ.] What did our Lord mean by saying, that those who came to him should never hunger or thirst? 34. [Ans. Trat they should be satisfied.] What hunger and thirst did our Lord mean? [Ans. A hunger and thirst after righteousness.] What will they be satisfied with? [Ans. Salvation.] Did the Jews, to whom our Lord said he came down fion heaven, believe him? 41. [Ans..No.) What did our Lord say he would give ýfr the life of the world i 5 1. [Ans. His flesh.] What did our Lord's words respecting eating his flesh and drinking his blood'relate to? [Ans. IThe Holy Sacrament.] What Sacrament? [Ans. The Lord's Supper.] Why did some of our Lord's disciples take offence at his discourse concerning eating his flesh and drinking his blood? 59. [.Ans. Because they did not understand the spiritual meaning of it?] Did Simon Peter take offence at them? (68. [Ans. No.] What did he profess to believe Christ to have? [Ans. The words of eternal life.] Why did he believe so? [Ans. Because he believed, and was sure that Jesus was the Christ, the Son of the living God.] What do our Lordcs words concerning the disciples who believed not, and Judas Iscariot, shew? 70. [Ans. That he knew all hearts ] What did he mean by saying that Jula was a devil? [Ans. That he had a wicked heart.] 94 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From our Saviout's admonition to those ý ho followed him with the hope of being fed by miracles, we should learn to prefer the life of the soul to that of the body, and not to take up religion for the sake of worldly gain. Our -Saviour's words, verse 36, Him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out, and I will raise him up at the last day, should encourage us to look up to him as the Saviour. From our Saviour's words concerning eating his flesh and drinking his blood, we may learn that it is as necessary to our salvation to partake of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, as of Baptism. Simon Peter has left us a most excellent example to all Christians. He considered Christ as the Son of the living God, and believed every word concerning eternal life, though he could no more understand, at that time, what our Saviour meant by eating his flesh and drinking his blood, than those who went back from Christ;' but he was fully persuaded in his own mind, that those who leave Christ must be in a miserable condition, for they can find no other Saviour. Questions.---Should any one take up religion for worldly gain? Ans. No.] Is it right for poor persons to go to church only for the sake of getting loaves of bread, or any other things that are given away there? [Ans. No.] Is not the doing so labouring for the meat that perisheth? [Ans. Yes.- What shouldall, whether rich or poor, labour for? [Ans. The meat that endureth unto everlasting life.] What is that? [Ans. Salvation.) Do not our Saviour's own words plainly shew that all Christians ought to partake of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper? [Ans. Yes.] Who teaches us what we must do to be saved? [Ans. Christ.] Ought we not to do "what he has taught us, in order to obtain eternal life? [Ans. Yes.] Suppose we turn away from Christ, can we find another Saviour? [Ans. No.]' Shall we not be miserable creatures if we forsake our only Saviour? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XXXVII, Read to verse 21. Instruction.--The Scribes and Pharisees here mentioned had followed our Saviour eighty or an hundred miles in order to watch him, that they might find some pretence for bringing an accusation against him. By the traditions of theelders they meant the doctrines of learned men of-former days, who re 95 commended great strictness in regard to the ýoutward cerems. nies of the law of Moses, among which was the frequent washing of hands. These very Scribes and Pharisees taught the people to break the commandments of God, by telling them that they might refuse to help their aged parents if they would give their money to the Treasury of the Temple. Our Lord taught his disciples to purify their hearts, instead of.placing religion in mere outward ceremonies. Questions.--What did the Pharisees prefer to the commandments of God-? [Ans. The traditions of the elders.] Read from verse 2 to the end. Instruction.-The poor woman who followed our Saviour was a heathen, yet she had a strong faith in the power of Christs and it was to afford her the opportunity of shewing this faith that our Lord at first appeared not to attend to her, and afterwards spoke to her as the Jews were accustomed to_:addres heathens, whom they considered as no better than dogs: it is plain from our Lord's kind answer to the woman, that he was far from regarding her in this despicable light. The multitude on whom our Lord took compassion did not consist of those people who had followed him in hopes of being fed with bread from heaven, but of those who shewed their faith by coming from distant places to bring a number of distressed persons to him, and who staid with him till their own stock of provisions was spent, and who glorifid God for the miracles they had seen. It is probable that there were eight or nine thousand at least fed by this miracle, fr women and children usually compose the largest part of a multitude. Questions.-Was the woman of Canaan a Jew? 21. [Ans. No, she was a heathen.) What did she shew by calling our Lord the Son of David, and beseeching him tq cast a devilout of her daughter? [Ans. Her faith.] Who did our Lord meaw by the lost sheep of the house of Israel? 14ns. The Jews.] In "what light did the Jews regard the heathensw [Ans. As no better than dogs.] Did our Saviour look upon this poor woman In that light? [Ans. No.) Why then did he say to her. It is not meet to take the children's bread and cast itinto dogs? 25. [Ans. That she might shew her great faith.] Did not her answer express great humility also? [Ans. Yes.) What did our Lord say to her? 28. [Ans. 0 woman! great is thy faith; be it unto thee even as thou wilt.] Was her daughter cured? [.Ans. Yes:] Was the multitude fed by our Saviour the same as we read of in the Lesson before this? [Ans,. Noj What did 96 tllse people come-for? [Anis. To bring lpeople that %ývnted to be cured.] W~hat did they sheow, by bringing them) [ilus. Th'leir- Thith.] How)%N Longo did they Stay wvith 011i44? [Aus1,. Thllre e d a),s.] -What did lie do in ordler to fi,-ed themn? [A4is. Fie njultip]lied the loav-es and fishies. j Hlov miiany loaves and fishes were there?ý 35. [.JIns. Seven loaves and a few little fishes.] How man-y wvere probably fed by this miracle? [Ans. Eio-ht or nine thousand.] Wh'lat did it prove our Lord to be? [A1s. The Son of God] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From our Lord's rebukingr the Scribes anld Phiarisees, wve should leami to coi!%oder the wickedness of hoInourin~y God with the Mouth wxhile the heart is far from himi; and that we are to follow the Scriptures in preference to-,aly doctrines of men. And fr-om our Lord's discourse concerning wa%,-shing of -hands, wve should learn to purtyý ou1r 'hexAe'firoiip those things which defile and corrupt them.-Fromn our a viotir's great kindniess to the Canaaniitishl wvoman, and to thio.e who came to be healed, we learn., that those whvo comne to him hie will in no wTsise cast out; not that we are to expect-ou~r Savio'ur to do exactly tie same things for us that hle di'a for those, w-ho' follo w*d hirti when upon1I elarth; 'but )he viril ce-rtainly do thatttkl'vich W besitf~i nur'sotls, if -we have a t~u& fai-th IIn l'04n. Fromn bt lusmf`Conparrston t. the multitud'e, NvP shoyld" learn to*do %#hat"W' ei-'an afford -inl.- ordebr to fieed the hngiy 'es OVpeci~lytho~e \irho fUlos Christ. QuestionsA&-Whaft ihould w.ýefolloW ingt 6ad of the do'ctrine's of men?- [jAns. Th*w comimandment~s of 'God.] Does ý7od approve of gift be~iekwied under the pretence of hotiouring 'him., when 'Ariy-of -his e~omninandments- are broken by doing so? Tilns. NO.)0'WhiOV of th~e teni cotaniandmebti, did our Lord, by this3 disC44se;' teocl Christians to observe? 6. C. [Ins. T'he fift.) ha~ is hat - 4ns. H4onour thy fatheri and thy mo tlier, 8ýc.] By whi~t name -doe'!ýour Saviour call those people who honour y6d? with tfrir lips while their hearts, are far fromn him? 7. (fibis.'Hypocrites.] What does hie say such persons do in vain? [Ans Worship God.] Should not our worship to God bp always"F offered with sio1cerity and truth.?!il.Yes.] Whati thinigs does our Lpr~f say defile a manl? 19. (dns. EviJ thotights,, murders,-adulteiries", fornicationls, thefts, false witness, blasphemie's.] Should we not keep from all these? [Ans. 'Yes.) What did our Lord sheW by his kindness 'to' the Canaanitish woman, and to those who came to be healed? [Ans. That those who come to him he will in no wise cast out.] Are we to expect him to perform miracles for us? [Ans. No.] What may we expect if we have a true faith in our Saviour? [Ans. That he will do that which is best for our souls.] What should we learn from our Lord's great compassion upon the multitude? [1Ans. To feed the hungry.] As the Son of God had such compassion upon sinful men, oight not sinners to have compassion one for another? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XXXVIII. Read the u'hole Lesson. Instruction.--The Pharisees and Sadducees might as easily have known by his miracles and doctrine that our Saviour was the Messiah, as they could know by the appearance of the sky what kind of weather it would be. Our Lord called the Jewf an adulterous generation, because they had'broken their covenant with God, by rejecting the true Messiah. Our Saviour's disciples often mistook his words, because they did not consider the spiritual meaning of them; they had not at that time received the gift of the Holy Spirit, to understand all mysteries. Our Lord put questions to his disciples, to give them an opportunity of professing their faith. Our Lord's words, verse 18, signified, that Peter should be the first to preach the gospel after his resurrection. Our Lord foretold his sufferings, that his disciples might know afterwards that nothing happened to him but what was ordained-of the Father; and that he willingly undertook the redemption of mankind. Peter's zeal led him into an error, and our Lord rebuked him, because in this instance he spake as Satan himself might have done. Our Lord's address to his disciples shewed that they were to expect persecution, but that they should have a glorious reward at the end of the world. There are still various opinions in-the world concerning Christ, but none can be right except that which Peter professed; we should therefore abide by it. Our Saviour's words, 26, 27, should lead us to reflect seriously and frequently upon the value of our souls, and the reward of the righteous. Questions.-.Was not every miracle our Lord wrought a sign from heaven? { Ans. Yes.] Was not every discourse in which he revealed things which men could not have discovered t PART 11. E 98 sign from heaven? [4ns. Yes.] What did our Lord mern by the leaven of the Pharasees and Sadducees? 12. [Ans. TIheir false doctrine.] Did our Lord's disciples understand the spiritual meaning of his discourse? [tins. No.] Why did they not? [Ans. Because they had not received the gift of the Holy Spirit, to understand all mysteries.] Why did our Lord qpestion his disciples 15. [Ans. To prove their faith.] Who thewed the greatest faith? 16. [Ans. Simon Peter.] What did he confess our Lord to be? [Ans. the Son of the living God.] What is understood by our Lord's words, Thou art Peter, and on this rock I will build my church? 18. [Ans. That Peter should be the first to preach the gospel.] Why did our Lord call Peter Satan when he said, Be it far from thee, Lord; this shall not be unto thee? 22. [Ans. Because Peter spake against the will of God.] Did our Lord inform his disciples that they must expect to meet with persecutions also? 24. [Ans. -Yes] What did. he tell them he would do at the end of the ',orld?.27. [Ans. Come in the glory of his Father with his Sangels, and reward every man according to his works.] Can any opinion of Christ be right excepting that which Simon Peter professed? [Ans. No.] What was that? 16. [Ans. Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.] Why may we be certain that this is the right? [Ans. Because God the Father revealedit from heaven.] Are not our immortal souls of great value? [Ans. Yes.] What is meant by losing the soul? L[,ns. Making it miserable for ever.]. How is the soul lost? [Ans. By. wickedness.] Can any thing, or even the world itself, make any one amends for the loss of his soul? [Ans. No.]. Will not the soul that is lost be in misery for everlasting ages after the world is at an end? [Ans. Yes.J Is there not xa glorious reward for the righteous? [.4ns. Yes.] When will they receive it? [Ans. When the Son of Man shall come in the glory of the Father, and all the holy angels with him.] When will that be? [Ans. At the end of the world.] LESSON XXXIX. Reaa to verse 14. Instruction.---Our Lord's transfiguration was an earnest of his future glory. The appearance of Moses and Elias plainly proved that good people live after they leave this world. This.ighit must, have been.truly glorous and wonderful. Peter 991 desired to mal;ce three tabernacles on the mount,in hopes-the lor ions vision would be frequently seen, as the glory of the Lord had formtlerlyv been. Our Lord comnimanded his apostkls to keepI) this miatter secret, because hlie knew that the report of itwouicl only increase the malice of the Jews, uland the time was not yet come for his delivering himself into their hands..Qustions.---I)o nlot you thitnk it must have been very wondertfil to behold the transfiguration of our blessed Saviour )[Ans. Yes.]' Was it not plain from this circumstance that he was really and truly the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] Who were seen talking with him? 4. [Ans. Moses and Elijah.] What was seen while Peter was desiring to make three tabernacles upon the mountain? 5. [Ans. A bright cloud overshadowed them.] What was heard? [Ins. A voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.] Were not the three apostles now convinced that Jesus was truly the Christ, the Son of the living God? [Ans, Yes.] Did not our Saviour again tell his disciples that Joln the Baptist was the Elijah foretold by the prophets as hi* forerunner? 12. [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 14 to the end. Instruction.---It seems the apostles failed of performing the miracle on the poor lunatick through want of faith. they did not themselves believe that on their commanding the devil in the name of Christ he would come out. The tribute-money was an otfbring towards public worshipat the Temple at Jerusalem, which wvas paid by the men of the Jewish nation every year, amounting to about fifteen pence of our money. Our Lord; as the Son of God, had a right to refuse paying this trin )ute, yet, for example's sake, he chose to do it. The miracle he wrought to supply the money wvas likely to increase the faith of Peter, who was a fisherman. It is supposed that the fish had by some means or other swallowed this.piece of money, w-hicA wasa stater, in value about three shillings. Questions,;--Was nqt the poor child who was brought to our S&viour i' a miserable coidition? tAns. Yes.) HIad not our Lord conmissionned his apostes to cast out ddvils in his name,? [Ans. Yes.] Was hb not dispdleased with them for.not doing it? 20. (Ans. Yes.] Whdt shoula they hyve done before they commanded the devil, in the namr of Christ, to go out of tie child? [Ans. Fasted and prayett] What was the" tributenioney? [Ans. An ofterin to the:teUP4le.] Ia o Ld, 0 e] 'a4~or 100 who was the Son of God, any occasiqn to pay this? [_A.,.i No.] Was it not very wonderful that our Lord should know that a fish had a piece of money in his mouth, and shoukl direct that fish to. be caught? [Ans. Yes PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From our Lord's glorious appearance at his transfiguration, and by the declaration of God the Father, we may be certain that he was truly the Son of God, and as such we should adore and worship him. He is not at present visible to our eyes, for he now sitteth in heaven at the right hand of God the Father Almighty; butwe shall behold him at the last day coming in glory, not with Moses and Elias only, but with thousands and ten thousands of angels. In the mean time, if we continue faithful, he will graciously inspire us with courage and fortitude, as he did his apostles when they lay trembling on the earth before him, so. that we may enjoy peace in this world, and behold him with joy hereafter.--l hough we are eat endued with miraculous powers like the aposlles, we may overcome the devil, if, in time of temptation, we use the same means as our Lord recommended to his apostles, fasting and prayer, accompanied with faith in the power of our Saviour to deliver.us. From our Lord's paying. tribute we are instrticted to pay with cheerfulness the rates appointed for the support of public worship..From our Lord's sending Peter to catch a fish, we learn that, in times of necessity, people should work at their respective callings in order to get money. If Peter had not found money in the fish, he might have gained some.by selling what he caught. It is plain that our Lord renounced the pomps and vanities of this world, for he chose a state of poverty, though he could have commanded the greatest riches. Questions.---May we,not be sure, from the account here given of our Saviour's transfiguration, that he is truly the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] What should we do then? [Ans. Adore and worship him.] Where is he now? [Ans. In heaven, at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.] When shall we behold him in glory? [Ans. At the last day.] Who will attend him? [Ans. Thousands and ten thousands of angels.] Was not our Saviour very kind to his disciples when they were overcome by his glorious appearance? [Ans. Yes.] What will he inspire us with if we continue faithful to him? sAs. Courage and fortitude.] What shall we thn enjoy in 101 rhis world? [Ans. Peace.] How shall we behold him wheu' he comes in glory? [Ans. With joy.] What should we do when we want to get the better of the temptations of the devil? [Ans. Fast and pray.] What should we learn from our Lord's paying tribute? [Ans. To pay church-rates willingly.] What should we learni from our Lord's sending Peter to catch a fish? [Ans. To work at our calling in times of necessity.] Could not our Lord have obtained great riches if he had chosen to do so? [Ans. Yes.] Why did he not? [A.ns. He had renounced the pomps and vanities of the world,] LESSON XL. Read to verse 21. Instruction.-By recommending a little'hildto the imitation. of his disciples, our Lord instructed them to be willing to be taught and governed like children of good dispositions, and at the same time he shewed his love and tenderness for children, and all who resemble them, in being willing to be taught and governed. By offending one of these little ones, may beý unso derstood doing any thing to injure them. By cutting off the hand or the foot, and plucking out the eye, may be understood putting ourselves to any pain or difficulty to get rid of wicked desires and bad habits. Offences will come, because, accordsing to the present state of the world, in which the wicked are mixed with.the good, the wicked will try to injure the good. From our Lord's own words it is plain, that there is a place of torment provided for the wicked after death, and that the misery of it will be everlasting. From the 11th verse we may think that when good children die, they become angels, and are admitted into the presence of God the Father Almighty, Questions.--Did not our Lord shew great tenderness towards little children? [Ans. Yes.] What may we understand by cutting off our hand or our foot, and plucking out our eye? 46. [Ans. Putting ourselves to any pain or ditficulty in order to get rid of wicked desires and bad habits.] What does our Lord say must need come? 7. [Ans. Offences.] Why mnusi offences come? [Ans. Because the wicked are mixed with the good.] Will it be so in the next world? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-..From our Lord's proposing a little child as I 0ý pattern to, his disciples,.we are taufoit to consider humility, or tn hunibI4ý mind, as the ground-,&ork of the Christian religionl: without this virtue wve cannot be the children of God, aindl if wýe are not children of Good, wýve cannot be inheritors of' the kingdom of heaven. By cur Lord's words concerning oflluces, we are warned of the danger of doingr ty thing to inljUre gCOOd people, especially children. Arnd hi desirii~ his disciples to cut off a hanHCzd or a foot, wOe aile a(imonisihd to part -With our darling vices, rather than run the l"~'irn of being miserable P'olr.ever.. And. byl what our Lord say s of hell, wNe 'use wvarned not to indulge orrselves in the practicer L (any wvickedness, lest we bring everlasting misery upon ourserdv.es. Questions.-Wahat virtwe is ih(ý gi ounid w1 -Nk of the Christian rtligion [Ains. Humility.] Can,my wie k ai-n the doctrines of Chriqt, who is. proud and abov e being t iight? [Aiis. No.] Lan any one be. 'the child of God, wx~ho* thinks highly of him-,self; and meanly -of his fellow-creatu res? [Aus No.] F'ot whbom has God provi'ded an ihhleritance in the kiligdom of hea" yen? tAns. For his children.3 D)oes noet- our L.o.'rd denounce.xwoe, or heavy judgments, against those who injure good peo-ple? [A4ns. Yes.]).Ought not this-to keep us from doing so I fAns. Yes.1 rTo what does our Lord compare the torments of liell)? 48. [Ans. To a worm that never dieth, and a fire that is never quenched.] Would-you not think it dreadful to have *worm coptinually gnawing you within, while a fire was corP. linually burning you without'' [Ans. Yes.] Would -not you,think it dreadful to have a troubled conscience, and the severes't -pains which can possibly be felt without a mom ent's ea.se? (. nS: Yes.]- Would not you think it dreadful to he banished fori ever from the presence of God in heaven, and to lose all hope iof salvation? [AAs. Yes.) Wduld not you think it. drepndful to dwell for ever with devils? [Ains. Yes.] Who ivil1 be cast into hell? [Ans. The wicked.] How may you escape all this?.Ans. By being good.j Rtead verse 21 to the end. Instruction.---The parable which our Lord apnke to Peter, wherr he a ' isked him how oft he ought to ftiwgive hik brother,was designed to shew how much greater the offencs are wNhich' we commit against God, than those that our fellow.--creatiures commit against us. Ten thousand talents of the moccney in use at that time among the JewNs, auiiounted to seventy-two ra1il -103 lions of pounds of our money; an) hum' red pence wvas no more than three pouinds two shillings and sixlpence. Que-.stions. --What answer did our Lord make to Peter whben he- 'mtik wk him, Lord, how oft shall1 ml; brother sin agrainst Me and I forgive him? till seven times? [vm1s. I say n~ot till seven times, buti till seventy times sevEvi.] "22. Is not the king in the p~arablIe represented asvery mercifull? [A4ns. Yes-] Is not the servant described as very cruel? [Ans.- Yes.] Who do you snpI),O-se to be mneant by the king? [Ans. God.) Who do yo*u understand to be- meant. by the king's servants?[A1ns. Mlaiiki1nd.] What (lid the king in. the parable do to the serv-ant who w%ýould n1ot forg'ive7 his fellow?ý 32. (A4ns. Delivered him to the tormnentors]1 Who does our Lcrd say his heavenly Father wxill serv7ein like manner? 3:5. [,,Is. Every one -who will not from his heart forg~ve his brother his trespasses.] Who are meant by our brothers.? [Ans. Our- fellow -creatiures.] PRACTICAL ZINSTRUCTION..Tn~struction-- -Our Lord's Parable concerning forgiveness should teach us to consider the great mercy--of God towards us. W~e owe him perfect obedlience, but-we-cprnmit nutuft berless offences against his holy laws. for which we can make.jbimn no satisfaction-; we cannot prssibly pay our- debt of sin. Instead of~ punishing us, as we ju~stly deserve, God. graciouisly pardonis us for. Christ's, sake ýWhenl we repe*nt-;.,sxiyly then we ought, to be;,eady to. forgive ~the -offences of our fMloy,, Creatures. Qu~~n--- Do we not all owye to God pect obedience.~ [Ans. Yes.] Do w~e -pay. this-- ['vs - No.] Do we not very piFte~n jofend agaainst God' holy lawms 0.[Ahs. YVs.J Can wvv pay our debt of sill'i [ Aný N.o]) Wxhat do we jilstly deselrv* for our sins? 1uas Punishmnent.. 3 WN'at does. God do whopl we truly repent and impniir hiis. foroiiveness?, [Ans. Ptirdo *1 us.] Shouhid we, be i-nirciftnl to our. 1ello w-cr~eat tres??[Ads N,,.] Iflow w ill God punishlius if -we ooq not finrgive therr. that trespass igaiinst us- [Ans. He will deliverxus to-the tors Ilientfors. 3N~ Wilol 1,,e the. torinentors of the, wicl-,edlhpre after? [,Ins The kev'il in hils nii els 1 Who did our SavioU say in his sernmon on the mount *x,111.obtain mnercy?.i Ans. Th Mercifuil.] Can unmn)erci tbil ix,-.ple exl-ecct to obitain i~t.? [4nw No.] -Who shall weý be likC ill $0nIA degreCe if we arte nwci1 ful.? [,Ins. God.] 104 LESSON XLI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---The principal design of this parable was to shew that the Gentiles, though newly called into covenant with God, should enjoy as great privileges as the Jews, who had long been called the people of God. The vineyard signifies the kingdom of heaven, which begins upon earth. Those first hired were the Jews, those last hired the Gentiles. To be called, signifies to be put in the way of salvation; to be chosen, signifies to be'put in possession of eternal happiness. Some people, who live in a course of sin, encourage themselves to think from this parable, that, provided they repent at the last, they shall be upon an equal footing in the next world with those who have led Christian lives from their infancy; but no such doctrine was ever taught by our Saviour. Every person who is received into the Christian covenant by baptism is called; he is invited to partake of the blessings of the kingdom of heaven; and he is required to live according to his Christian profession, and not to trust to a late repentance, for no one can tell whether, after a life of.wickedness, he shall be inclined to repent, or whether God will grant him time for amendment of life; we should, therefore, strive from the first to be among the few that are chosen. Questions.---To what does our Lord in this Lesson compare the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. To an householder hiring labourers into his vineyard.] Who are meant by those first hired? [Ans. The Jews.] Who are meant by those last hired?. '[Ans. The Gentiles.] What is meant by being called? 16. [Anis. Being put in the way of salvation.] What is meant by being chosen? [Ans. Being put In possession of eternal happiness.] Can any one tell he shall live to repent? '[Ans. No.] Can any one tell he shall have grace for repentance? [Ans. No.1} What should we strive for from the first? [Ans. To-be among the few that are chosen.] How should we do this? [Ans. By living good lives.] Instruction.---Our Lord's disciples had taken so strong a notion that the kingdom of the Messiah would be an earthly one, that they did not comprehend his meaning when he talked of suffering and rising again. Zebedee's children were 105 James and John' Our Saviour's address to these apostles was designed to check their ambition, and prepare them for suffering for the sake of his religion. Questions.---Who were Zebedee's children? [Ans. James and John.] What kingdom did their mother suppose Christ would have? 21. [Ans. An earthly kingdom.] Did not out Lord tell his apostles that they were quite mistaken? [Ans. Yes.] Were not the other ten apostles very angry that James and John should desire to be set up above them? [Ans. Yes.] Did not Christ tell them all, that they must be contented to be ministers and servants, instead of great folks? 26. [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord say of himself? 28. [Ans. That he came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---From our Lord's reproof to James and Joh*t we should learn to carry our thoughts to a heavenly kingdom; to be contented in any state and condition of life into wh4ic it may please God to call us, and be more desirous of helping the necessities of others, than of gaining the highest honours and dignities this world affords. Questions.---Which do you think we should be most desitr ous of, honours, and dignities in this world, or to be good Christians? [Ans. To be good Christians.] As our 'Saviour has put'such honour upon a state of poverty, should the ricl despise the poor, or the poor be ashamed of their condition?. [Ans. No.] As our Saviour condescended to cor;e.tqservm mankind, what should Christians be ready to do? ~nw. 'T serve one another?] LESSON XLII'* Read to verse 37. Initruction.-After all, the miracles our Saviour had wroughtK it appears very strange that the Jews would not own him as the Messiah; but they had resolved.not to receive him from the first, and they were in spiritual darkness. -By our Lord's bre thren we are to understand some of his mother'srfelations. Questions.-- Why did not our Lord declare himself dpenly to be the Messiah as his brethren advised him'n? 6. [fAts Be cause histimerwas-not yet comne.] How might the Jews bhav known himto be the Christ, if they had not set themselves E5 ag~int~hi?.[Jits.. B 3y his %vvrk s.] Were they not greatly siirprisedl thiat ani unlearned man shi.ould preach suich dloctrine'. [Ans. Yes.] Mlight they, not ha3ve kniowni him by his doctrineto be the 'Soni of God [This. `Ycs.] W hat vern wi`cked thing did the Jews say of our Lord? 1. [t's. That lie had. a, devil.] Did not Ithey pretend to kn~ow who Jesus was 'f[gIns. V es.] Whose Ison did. they take hi~m for? [Ailis. Josep~h's.] WN.,hose son Was he? [Ains. GodIs.] React verse 37 to the end. Instretction.---The thir-st whbich our Saviour promised ý0 4uenchi wa's certainly the thirst after righteousness. The rivetrs of li'ving water, -signified the gifts, -of the- Holy Spirit, wh0ichi true behievers were to receive.-If the Jews had searched the prophecies, they 'would have, -found that, it was foretold by isoiah, chiap ix, ver. I1, '.2., that th~e Gospel was to be preached Questions \X hat did the Ph.i'isce do. when The efyn that some of the "Aoe.1!e believed iin Jesus? 4r As.Te tried to take him.] W~hat didl o-Ur!_:ord 4 ean by staxvint(, that in a little. while they should see hiAn.hol o inlii 33..[Ans. That he should g'o to hecaven.] What thirst dlid hie p oris'e to 'quench? [n The thirst. after righteousness.] hbit "was the livi~ng water that he- promised at this tim'e ' ~vAs. The gift of the Hioly- Spiri~.] Did the people at the n ast. gree in opinion concerningr him? [Ans'. No.] Did the' officers who were sent, take Christ to the, Pharisees [fs -No.] What reas'on did they give for- not doinlg* so 46. [Atns. N~evP_"T21 ro sAke ais th is- nm.t ] Did any of time Tew,, ish ruet belie've. in him? 50. [Ants. None lbut X; ixlterus.] Were not thje oth~er-s v ery an1gry with Nicodemus for speaking in fa% our of our Lord? [Ans. Yes.] rRA1QT1CAL INSTRUCTION. In.Ft'rut-tion. --Our Saviour left the world, -n. be saik hie should, Am'd he is noW vin hea'ven; it Ns ill therefore' b'ehin va~in f6'r zrn'y blie to seek for- him upon earth;but if we "thirsf after ii" htq.i ousmi~%Wena~oto him in spirit, a nd lie Will gaive us of that livimg wvat~r hidhe' oftierced to t~he Je'wýs at fhe'feast'of taber'. nach's;, iarneiy*, the Holy Spirit, io comifor-t.and streng~tke'n uil.r XQivestions.-I~ic oumr L.0ord n away to -a plac wNhe~re, the Jews th~at kejectedl- him, could not fitid hi'm? [Anms. Yesj Mth~it place wias t~haHt; tds.-H iehe.] Hibw -cain we t,ot .107 him [Ans.. In spirit.]. What wvill he give to those who hunger and thirst after righteousness? [Ains. The Holy Sýirit.j IDid not our Saviour speak as no man ever spake? [AnK. Yes.] Could any lan give salvation, and the Holy Spirit, as our Saviour offred to do? [4ns. ~No.] Whlat did lie proVe himself to be by promising these things? [Ans. The Son- f God.] Should not we honour him as such [tAns. Yes.] LESSON XMLII. Read to vorise 12. lnstruction.---The crime whichli the woman had committed was punished with death by the Jewish law. -Instead of takint her to the proper court to be tried for this oftfence, tLe Jews brought her to otr Lord, hoping he would do sometli ng for wVhich they could accuse him. If our Lord had condeined the woman, they would have informed agiainst him to 'the Roman governor; if he had acquitted her, they would have complained to the rulers of the Jews. Our Lord did not ses fit to do either, for he did not come into the world to try causes, but to teach righteousness, and purchase redemption for mankind. No method could so-well disaplpoinlt the malice, of his enemies as that which he took. His injunction to the woman, Ga, and sin no more, shewed that he did not mean to justify her crime. WVhen the woman and her accusers W ere gone, our Lord explained to the people who were left in the Temple why he did not choose to act as a judge in human affthirs; it was beneath him to do so. Questions.---Why did the Jews bring the woman who was taken in adultery to our Saviour? [Ans. That they might accuse -himi.] What did he reply, vwh'ii they continued asking him what he said to her offence? 17. [Ans He that i1 without sin, let him first cast a stone at her.] What did they do? g. [Ans. They all went out one by one.] Whait did he say to the woman when he disnlissed her? 11. [(Ans. Go, and sin no more.) Read verse 12 to the end. Instruction.--The Jews did not understand our SaiourTsdiQ course, because they expected that the Messiah wbuld cornr ato earth as a great prince. Our Lord told them they would dii in their sin uinless theywould own 'him andhesigtdie 108 them, thl if it had not been for the hardness and impenitence of their hearts he would have taught them many things. Questions.---Did the Jews understand our Lord's discourse? [Ans. No. ] How did they expect the Messiah to come upon earth? [Ans. As a great prince.] Had they a heavenly disposition? [Ans. No, an earthly one.] What did our Lord tell them they would do if they did not believe in him? 21. (Ans. Die in their sins.] Could they expect to be saved by,Christ if they would not believe in him? [Ans. No.] When did our Lord say they would know him to be the Christ, and that the Father had sent him? 28. [Ans. When they had lifted him up.] What did our Lord mean by his being lifted up? [Ans. Being crucified.] Did any believe in him from his discourse? [Ans. Yes, many.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--Though our Saviour is in heaven, he still sends light to us; it shines in every page of the Gospel, that blessed Gospel from which we may learn what Christ has done for us, and what we must do ourselves; but if we do not believe in our Saviour, we shall not perceive this light, it will be hidden from us as it was from the Jews, the Holy Spirit will be taken away from us, and then our minds will be in spiritual darkness. Questions.---Which is the worst state we can possibly be in upon earth? [Ans. Spiritual darkness.] Does our Saviour still continue to give the light of salvation to the world? [Ans. Yes.] Where is it to be found? [Ans. In the Gospel.] How may it be found there? [Ans. By diligent study, with the help of the Holy Spirit.] What may we learn from the Gospel? [Ans. What Christ has done for us, and what we must do.] Shall we perceive these things; if we set ourselves against Christ? [ins. No.] What does our Saviour say of those who will not believe when it is made known to them that he is the Christ, the Son of God?.21. [Ans. They shall die in their sins.] Would it not be a dreadful thing to die in our sins without any knowledge or hope of salvation? [Ans. Yes.j What must we faithfully believe if we would avoid this? [Ans. That Christ is the Son of God and our only Saviour.] What gracious words of our Lord should we carefully remember? 12. [.dns. He that followeth me, shall not walk in da*tkess, but shall have thelight of life.] 109 LESSON XLIV. Read the whole Lesson. finstrtrction.--The unbelieving Jews were proud of being the children of Abraham; but our Lord shewed that they were more properly the children of Satal, and slaves to sin. None are the children of Abraham in a spiritual sense but those who like him do such works as proceed from a true faith, neither are any others the people of God. The death, which our Saviour said those should never see who kept his saying, was the death of the soul, everlasting misery in hell. Our Lord's words, ver. 56 and 58, shew that he was in being before Abraham, and that he was the Lord God who appeared to Moses in the burning bush. If the Jews had properly understood their own Scriptures, they would not have mistaken our Saviour's words. Questions.-What were the unbelieving Jews proud of? [Ans. Of being the children of Abraham.] Were those worthy to be called the children of faithful Abraham who wished to take away the life of the promised seed? [Ans. No.] Whose children were they? 44. [Ans. The children of the devil.] Why would they not believe our Saviour? [Ans. Because he told them the truth.] Could they prove any sin against our Saviour? [Ans. No.] Would they not have been glad to have done it if they could? [Ans. Yes.] Why would they not believe the words of God? 46(. [Ans. Because they were not of God.] How were they not of God? [Ans. Not the true people of God.J What hindered their being so? [Ans. Their wickedness and unbelief.] What death did our Lord mean those should never see who kept his sayings? [Ans. The death of the soul.] What is the death of the soul? [Ans. Everlasting misery in hell.] Were not the wicked Jews enraged at his making himself greater than Abraham and the prophets who were dead? 53. [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord say of himself? 58 [Ans Before Abraham was, I am.] By what name did the Lorc God, who appeared in the burning bush, command Moses t( declare him to the Israelites? [Ans. I am.] What did our Sa viour declare himself to be by saying I am, instead of I was [Ans. The Lord God.] Did the Jews own him as such? [An. No.] Did they hurt him? [Ans. No.] How could he pal through the midst of his enemies without their seeing him [Ans. He hid himself from their sight.] 1 10 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION'. Instru'tion.--XWe should learn fiom this discourse to honour our Saviour in his Divine nature as the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; we should also learn from it to be disciples indeed, not by profession only; and we should honour 'Jesus Christ as the Lord God, besides whom there is no Saviour. The doctrine of Christ is certainly not of human invention; it came immediately from God the Father to mankind, through his only Son our Lord, who, as Man, has left us a perfect pattern of every virtue. Questions.--In what light should we regard our Saviour from his saying, Befbre Abraham was, I am? [4Ans. As the Lord God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob.] What kind of disciples should we strive to be? [Ans. Disciples indeed.] Are those disciples indeed who do not love their Saviour? [Ans. No.] Are those disciples indeed who do not strive to follow his blessed example? [4ns. No.] Are those disciples indeed who seldom think of his words? [Ans. No.] How should wVe honour our Saviour? [Ans. As the Lord God.! Is there any other Saviour besides him? [Ans. No.] What would become of every one of us if there were no Saviour? [tAns. We should perish. Is the doctriae of Christ of human invention? [Ans. No.] From whom did it come? [Ans. From God the Father.] Through whom did it come? [Ans. God the Son.] LESSON XLV. Read to verse 38. Instruction.--The person here called a lawyer, was a scribe, one of those whose business it was to study the law of Moses, and explain it to the people. Our Lord told the scribe he had answered right; for if a man could do his duty to God and his neighbour perfectly, he would have eternal life as a reward. But the Jews had very narrow notions ii respect to those who were to be reckoned neighbours; they owned none as such but those of their own nation, and as to the Samari*tans, they hated them. Two pence, the sum which the good Samaritan left, amounted to about four shillings. Questions--What was the lawyer who questioned our Saviour? [Ans. One of the scribes.1 Who did the Jews regard .1- 11 as their neigqhbours? [Anis. Those of their own nation.3 Did they reckon the Samnaritans as neighbours? [dAns. No, they hated them.] When the scribe said to our Saviour, Wh1o is niy neighbour? wh1It did our Lord do1 [Ans. He spakea parable.] What -was it about? [Ans. A poor man w\ho fell among thieves.] What did they do to him? [Ans. They stripped him of his raimnent, and wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead.] Who had compassion on himi? [Ans. A certain Samniaritan.] What was the poor man, a Jew, or a Samaritan? [lns. A Jew.] Was not the Samaritan very charitable to the poor man? [eAns. Yes.] Were his own countrymen, the priest and Levite, as charitable? [Ans. No.3 Wrhben our Saviour had ended his parable, what question did he put to the scribe? 30. [Ans. Which of these was neighbour to hiicn that fell among thieves?1 What. reply did the scribe make? [Ans. He that shewed mercy to him.] What did our Saviour say then? [Ans. Go, and do thou likewise.] Read verse 38 to the end. Instruction.---The two sisters, Martha and. Mary, had each a high esteem for our Lord, but they shewed it in different ways.. Martha was desirous to give himi a good entertainment; Mary, to hearken to his instructigns. Our Saviour cared not for earthly feasts; his meat and drink was to do the will of his Fatherj and he made this visit with a design to give txhose he honoured with his friendship spiritual instruction". The one thinrg needtul is religiofi. Questions.--Who did our Lord visit at Bethany? [Ans. Martha and Mary.] What did Mary do? [Ans. She sat at Jesus's feet.] Wrhy did 'she sit tllhere [Ans. To learn his doctrine.] Did Martha do the same? [Ans. No.] Why did sFe not? [dns. She was preparing a feast for our Saviour.] ho9 did our Lord say had chosen the better part? [Ans, 'ary.] PRACTICAL INSThUCTION. Inslruction.---All human creatures. that ever came int& th world have, in one way or other, acted contrary to God's law.s and' consequently they have all stood in need of a Saviou' 'We 'must therefore, after we have done our best, trust in th inerits 6f our Iedeemer, and not in our own righteousnes f6r salvation; but in order to shew that we have a regard I 4j;. ' 112 God's commandmentsp we must try to do our duty to God and our neighbour as well as we can; and we must remember, that every human creature to whom we have opportunities of shewing kindness and compassion is to be considered as our neighbour. Our Lord reproved Martha because her civility was greater than her piety, and he commended Mary because she laid businessaside for the sake of improvement in religion. From hence we should learn, that religion should be the principal thing with us, and that worldly cares should yield to it. Our Lord did not forbid all hospitality, for he sometimes went to feasts himself; but in this Lesson he gave an excellent rule for people of evey condition, namely, not to cumber themselves with much serving, but to remember the one thing needfil, or, in other words, not to waste that time in entertaining company which ought to be spent in improving the mind in religion. Questions.---What should we try to do? (Ans. Our duty.] In what does the duty of man consist? [Ans. In the love of God, and the love of our neighbour.] How should we love God? [Ans. With all our heart, with all our soul, with all our mind, and with all our strength.] How should we love our neighbour? [Ans. As ourselves.] Who is our neighbour? [Ans. Every human creature.] Are people who come from foreign countries our neighbours? [Ans. Yes.] What is the one thing needful? [Ans. Religion.] What should give way to it [/Ans, All worldly cares.] Should we waste that time in entertaining company which ought to be spent in improving our minds in religion? j Ans. No.] LESSON XLVI. Read to veise 32. Instruction.--Our Lord refused to, decide the dispute b;.,e twixt the two brethren, because such affairs were beneath his notice; but he took occasion from it to warn his hearers against covetousness, and to exhort them to a dependance on God. Questions.--Did our Lord come into the world to be a judge and a divider of worldly inheritances~, [As. No.] To what inheritances did all his 'doctrine relate? [Ans.. Heavenly enes.] What did he warn those to beware of who were pre-. sent when the two brethren desired him to. sttle their dis-- pute? -14. [1ns. Covetousness.] What did he say a man's life 113 does not consist in " [Ans. The abundance of the things that he possesseth.] Can riches lengthen the life of any one? [Ans. No.] How did our Saviour shew this [Ans. By a parable.], What did God reckon him who depended upon a long life because lie had great possesions? 19. [Ans. A fool.] What was required of him that very night? [tAn. His soul.] Read verse 32 to the end. Instruction.---The little flock to whom our Lord addressed' his discourse, were those among his hearers who believed in him. What he said respecting selling all they had, related. chiefly to the early times of Christianity, when it was necessary to do so in order to make a common purse; but our: Lord's admonition concerning watchfulness, was designed for all his disciples to the end of the world. To have their loins girded, aud their lights burning, signified, to be ready to do their duty. Every person who comes into the world has something to do, and some things committed to his charge, which he will be called to account for. We find from this parable, that it is expected we should be kind to all our fellow-creatures. To be beaten with stripes, signifies, to be severely punished. We find that all who are negligent will be punished,. more or less, according to their knowledge of their duty. Questions.-Would not any master have reason to be very angry if he should find his servants not ready to attend himn upon his return home? [Ans. Yes.] Who. is our Lord and Master? tAns. Jesus Christ.] When will he come to call us to account? [Ans. At the last day.] How will that servant be whom our Lord shall at his coming find watching, that is, doing his duty? 43. [Ans. Blessed.] What will be done to that servant who makeg no preparation for his Lord's coming, but gives himself up tp drunkenness and wickedness, and uses his fellow-servants ill? 46., [Ans. He will have hisportion with unbelievers.] What will be done to that servant who knew his Lord's will and did it not? 47. [Ans. He will be beaten with many stripes.] What will be done to him who knew not his Lord's will, but who did things worthy of stripes, or things which his own conscience told him were wrong? 48. [Ans. He will be beaten with few stripes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---As covetous desires are so apt to occasion quarrels and disputes, and to draw the mind from God aril religion, we should use ourselves to reflect on the uncertainty 114 6f all earthly possessions, and live like those whio have a treasure in heaven. 9u.xtions.-AIri not all earthly possessions very -uncertain? [Ans. Yes.-] Are not thlosie peoplIe very foolish and presurptuous who talk of enjoying the goods of this life fe r many years [ A[is.: Yes.] Can any one of us tell from day to day that his soul will not be required of himn? [Ans. No.] Can Wre take our goods with us when we leave this world? [ 4ns, No.] Does it not often happen that people who have great abundance of the things of this life are suddenly silatched away, and obliged to leave all behind them? [Ans. Yes.] Is this the case wNithi those who lay up treasures in heaven? [Alns. No..] Where should we lay up treasure then? [Ans. In heaven.] How can we do so? [Ans. By being good Christians.] What are the treasures of heaven? [Ans. Etcrxnal life and happiness.] Instruction.-. Every good Chiristian may apply to himiself our Saviour's comfortable words, Fear riot, little flock, it is your Father's good pieasure to give you the kingdom; and how delightful it is to such persons to think that God will not only grant them admission into heaven, but t.hat he will take pleasure in doing it! If circumstances render it necessary, we had hinch better sell and give away all our -worldly possessions, than lcse hea~enly treasures for the sake of them; but this is Qnly requir-ed in times of persecution. It is very dangerous 1t defer doing. our Lord's will to a future time, we should thore~ 'fre with all diligence discharge the duties of our several calir. ings, that we may like good servahits, w'ho have every thing ready for their master's reception, welconme our blessed Ie4eenmer w%'ith joy when hie'. comes again, a4nd be received by him with kindness. Questions.-Wbat should - o do rather than lose heavenli treasures? LA.ns. Vart with all we have.] 'Is not life very uncertain? F4Ans. Yes.] Can we tell that we shall live evetl another day or houri?[ins. No.] In what state should we always live then? [zins. A state of watchLfulness.] Will it not be dreadful to us to be unprepared for standing before tOe judgmeu't seat of Christ? [A ns. Yes.] Is it not very datigmrous to put off the doing ouir duty from time to time? [Ans. Yes.] Who sliall we welcome with joy if we know v e have. endeavoured to (10 our duty? [Ans Our heavenly ML~ster.1 How will he receive us? E.Jas. 'With kindness.). '115 LESSON XL1VII. head to verse 10. Lil,.ifiecimn.-IT. ider thie parable of the. barren' fig-tree, oitV Lord represented God's -deahDgs xvith sinners; God spares them, anjd orants therm tmnle for repentance, but if they do not repenit, hie at Last cuts them olE From our Lord's answer to thioseW- wh+o told bin. iof he Galileans whomii Pilate had cruelly put to death, -we are instru(,cted not to deal out the judgmepits of Goid, but to amieiid ou)ýr own li%-es. TFhe parable of. the hari ren figr-tree should teach us the danger of putting oft' repentallte fr~omn timle to time.?L'stionS.---Is it not likely that thiere were Some good Ipeoq pie amiong those whom Pilate slew, and upon wx~hom the tower of Silomini f~ll? [Ains. Yes.]. What did our.Lord represent m-ider the parable oif the barren fig-tree?. [A1his.. God's dealings with sinners.] Do not we often see the lives of wicked people prolonged from y'ear to year? [.Asts. Yes.] What doe's God do at last.? [4ns. God cuts them!L off.] What should we learn firoim our Lord's answer concerning the Galileans? j ons. Not to deal out God's judgmients.] What should the para. ble of the barren fig-tree teach us? [Au1zs. The great danger.4f putting off repentance.] Read verse 10 to 23. Iristriect on.--The poor woma n who went to public worship while under stch iniinfirmity set a good example, wvhich, bught to make those ashamed whio stay from chnurch for every trifling illness. B'y going thither she obtained a cure and all sincere worshippers may he certain of finding a cure also; not indeed for their bodily diseases, but for those of thb soul; they wNvill be absolved from their sins. It was not fronva' regard to God and religion, but from malice to our Sas'-iour; that the Pharisee wNas so angry at the cure; if he had been a good 'ran hie could not but have rejoiced at the deliverance of a fellow -crewiture fiom such a dreadful malady. -Our Lor4 repr-oved hypocrisy ws&ith the greatest severity. Qurestwons. - On wv hat day of the week did our Saviour cure tile poor inlirm w\oman 10. [Aiis. On the sabbath.] 'Who ~'S,Ilryv at h~is do~ino'; Was ytbsdi so? 14. [Ass. The ruler of the syna' gogue.] What lid urn' Lord call himi, for pretending great' Veal fo(r religion wh.-ben his heart wxas full of ' malice?.15. [/Ins. An hypocr-ite.] \Vhat shoul(d -we learn firom the p)OOr woman S goi19 AtG the temple when -she could not even lift hesstslft-pU.? [Ans. Not to stay from church for slight illness.] What cure may all who repent and beliete the Gospel expect? [Ans. A. cure for their souls.] How will their souls be cured? [Ans They will be absolved from their sins;.] Read verse 23 to the end. Ilstruction,--The question which one of our Lord's disciples put to him, verse 23, he did not answer, because it was not a proper one. By the strait gate our Lord meant the appointed way of salvation, of which good works is a principal part. This is the gate which leads to heaven; it is called strait, because it confines people to certain rules of faith and practice. It is open to all whilst they are in this world, if they will repent, believe, and obey; but it will certainly be shut against those who do not strive to enter in, by conforming to the rules of the Gospel 5 which was the case with many of the Jews, who pretended to be the true children of Abraham, but did not follow his example. Those who told our Lord that Herod would kilYhim, were desirous of sending, him away from the place where he was preaching; but our Lord had no reason to feardHerod, forno man had -power to hurt him, unless he deliiered'himself into- his hands; and our Lord knew that it was the will of the Father he should suffer at Jerusalem. Questions.-Why did not our Saviour answer the question which was put torhim? [Ans. Because it was not a proper one.] What did he mean by the strait gate? 23. [Aas. The appointed way of salvation.] Where does this gate lead to? IAns. Heaven.] Who will it be shut against? [Ans. The workers of iniquity;] What, is meant by, iniquity? [Ans.. Wickedness.] Who are those who will be received into the kingdom of heaven from the east and from the west? 29. [Ans. Gentiles,] Why did the Pharisees threaten our Lord with Herod? 31. [Ans. That they might frighten him away.] Had our Lord cause to fear any man? [Ans. No.] Why not? [Ans. Because none could hurt him unless he delivered himself into their handa.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From our Lord's discourse we should learn not to amuse ourselves with curious questions concerning the number of persons who will finally be admitted into the kingdom ofheaven, but to endeavour to secure our own salvation; Questions.---Where should we strive to enter in at? 23. [Ans, The.strait gate.] Has not our Lord shewna u in the 117;Gospel what die strait gate is, that leadeth unto the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. Yes.] Is it sufficient for us to desire to enter in? [,Ins. No., Is it enough if we profess to believe in Christ? [.ins. No.] What kind of works must vwe perform if we vwould be received into heaven hereafter? [I.ns. Good works.] What will our Lord say to all the workers of iniquity when they beg for admittance? 27. [Ans. Depart from me, I never knew ye.] Will it not be dreadfill to receive this sentence from our heavenly Judge? [Ans. Yes.] To whom is the strait gate open? [Ans. To all that strive to enter in.] When must they strive? [Ans. Whilst they live in this world.] Will it ever be opened to them when it is once shut-? [. ns. No.] Will. not the Gospel be offered again in the other world to those who have refused it in this 1 [Ans. No.] LESSON XLVHII. Jicad to verse' 5. Instruction,--- he first parable in this Lessonwas designed to recommend to Christians the practice of humility; the othet panable represents the grace and mercy of God under the Gospel, the guests first'invited were the Jews, those from the highways and hedgesxwere the heathens of different nations. Questions.---What did our Lord do at the house of one df the Pharisees on the-sabbath-day? 2. [Ans. Cured a man of the dropsy.] Who watched our Lord? [Ans. The Pharisees.] Could they say with truth that it was not as lawful to heal i man, as to save the life of a beast? [mns. No.] Is performing a miracle like the Work men do? [Ans. No.] Whose work is it to perform miracles? [Ans. God's -work.] 'Read verse 25 to the end. Instruction.-Our Lord knew that his first disciples w6uld frequently be called upon to part from their nearest relations, and even to lay down their lives for the Gospel; he therefore admonished his hearers to consider, whether if they took up his religion they couldkeep to it in caie of persecution. By the comparison of salt that has lost its savour, our Lord shewed that a Christian without sincerity is good for nothing. Question.--To what did our Lord compare a Christiat with. cut sincerity?-: [Ans.' To salt that has flot it savour.J 11 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-From our Lord's advice to those who were with him at the house of the Pharisee we learn, that even in worldly affairs it is best to be humble and modest in our behaviour; but his words also shew that to be humble is the way to heaven. We further learn from this Lesson that it is the duty of the rich to feed the poor. The parable of a great supper shewed the great provision God Bad made for the salvation of both Jews and Gentiles. This parable is also applied to that holy feast, the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper; firofn which many who call themselves Christians stay away for the slightest reasons. Some are kept away by groundless fears; others because they do not like to set about repentance; others because they are ignorant; but our blessed Saviour will not reject any on account of their being poor and ignorant; all who are humble and penitent are sure to find a welcome at his holy table. Questions.---Which is, best in respect to our worldly affairs, to be proud or to be humble? [Ans. Humble.] What does our Saviour say? 11. [Ans. He that exalteth himself shall be abased, and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.] Which is best, to spend money in expensive entertainments, or to fee~i the poor?.[Ans. Feed the poor.] Who were the guests first invited to the great supper in the parable? [Ans. The Jews.] What was meant by the great supper? [Ans. Salvation through:Christ.] Who were invited when the Jews refused to accept of the gospel? [Ans. The Gentiles.] Did not vast numbers of the Jews refuse the invitation of their Lord? [Ans. Yes.] Who were meant by those from the streets and lanes of the city? [An. The ignorant heathens.] To what great feast are all, Christians invited? [lns. The Lord's supper.] Need any be afraid to go to the Lord's table because they are poor or ignorant? [Ans. No.] Did our Saviour when on earth send any away from him for these reasons? [Ans. No.] Has ýoot he baid,.,that those who come to him he will in no wise, ast out?.[ns, Yes.] Should not Christians always lead good lves? [LAns. Yes.] LESSON XLIX. S'... Read to verse II, SInstruction.-ln these three parables our Lord spake after the manner of nnme in order to. shtw the proud Pharisees, that if 6L 119 they even were as righteous as they pretended to be, they should not d.'spise repentant sinners. But the Scribes and Pharisees were very far firom being righteous in the sight of God; they had no faith in the Saviour, and they were very uncharitable to those who were less strict than themselves in the ceretnonials of religion. The parables of the lost sheep and the piece of money shew the great care which God takes to bring sinners to repentance, and the delight he has in their conversion. Questions.---Were the Scribes and Pharisees as righteous. a$ they pretended to be? [Ans. No.] Suppose they had beeti so, should they have despised repentant sinners? [dns. No.1 What parable did our Lord first speak to them, to shew them thlat they should not? [Ans. The parable of the lost sheep.] What does this shew? [.Ans. God's care to bring sinners to iepentance ] What other parable did our Lord speak-? [Ans. The parable of the piece of money.] Had not this the same meaning? [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 11 to the end Inst rurcion.---In: this parable God the Father is represented under the similitude of a man who had two sons.. By the elder son we may understand those who have kept God's holy laws; the younger, those who have turned their backs upon religion, and led profligate lives. The first enjoy the constant favour of God; the latter, when they sincerely repent, are kindly received: nay, we find that the compassion of out heavenly.Father is directed towards them as soon as their hearts -are humnbled, and they are desirous to return into the way of righteousness.. Questions.--Who may we understand to be represented unp der tle character of a Father in this Lesson? [Ans. God.] Who,may we understand by the elder son? [Ans. Those who Jhaye kept God's commandments.] 'Who may we understand by the prodigal Son? [,Ans. Those who have turned their lbacks upon God and religion.] Suppose these people repent, yhi!at is God ready to do? [Ans. To have compassion upon them.} PRACTICAL, INSTRUCTION. Instruction..--From these three parables we find that those persons are far from having a heavenly temper, who are severe against repentant sinners, since even God the Father and -the Holy Angels delight in their conversion. In imitatidn of ~God and angels, Christians should do all they can to persuade 120 sinners to return to their duty; and those who are great sinneri,themselves should make haste to return into the paths of holiness. But we must be careful not to suppose, from our Lord'i words, verse 7 and 10, that it is best to lead wicked lives, that we may by repentance please God better than if we had never sinned; ibr as the man who had lost his sheep, and the woman who had lost her piece of money,, had doubtless an equal value for the rest, so are all faithful servants Ahighly esteemed in the sight of God, though in his great goodness he delights that one who was in danger of eternal death is brought back amongst them. Questions.--WVho delights in the conversion of a sinner? 10. [Ans. God and angels.] Have those persons a heavenly temper who despise repentant sinners? [. ins. No.] What should good Christians try to do? [Ans. To bring sinners to repentance.] What should those who have departed from God and their duty, make haste to do? [Ans To return into the way of holiness.] Are we to think, then, that God values sinners above the righteous, because he takes delight in their conversion? [Ans. No.] Instruction.---From the history of the prodigal son, all the children, of God should learn to keep in their Father's house, that is, to walk in God's holy will and commandments, as was promised for them when they were taken into God's family; y doing so they will avoid great misery and shame. But if they have unhappily spent their portion of good things in riotous living, and slighted the privileges of the children of God, they should, like the prodigal, make a resolution to return and humbly confess their transgressions. They may be sure of a kind and gracious reception if their penitence be sincere. And those, who are conscious that they have lived as the children of God ought to do, should learn from this parable to rejoice that God is ready to receive a penitent child; for God's kindness to repentant sinners will be no injury to the faithful. Questions.- What should all the children of God learn from the history of the prodigal son? [Ans. To keep in their Father's house.J What is meant by keeping in their Father's house? [Ans. Walking in God's holy will and commandments.] Are not all Christians the adopted children of God? [Ani. Yes,] When are they adopted or taken into God's family? [An. When they are baptized.] What will they escape by abiding in their Father's house? [Ans. Misery and shame.] But supposing that any one has lived a wicked life, and despised the 121 privilege of a child of God, the love and favour of his heavenly Father, and his eternal inheritance, what should he learn froti the prodigal? 21. [Ans. To arise and go to his Father, and say, I have sinned agaiinst heaven and before thee, and ari no more worthy to be called thy son.], Will God receive him if he does so? iAIns. Yes.] Is not God represented in the parable as the kindest of fathers? [Ans. Yes.] Which is best to have, always the love of our heavenly Father, or to suffer great distress, and then to.be forgiven? [Ans. To have always the love of our heavenly Father.] But is it not very comfortable to sinners to have hopes of pardon thus given them? [Ans. Yes.] Are not all mankind like the prodigal son in some deglee [Ans. Yes.] Why so? [.Ans. Because all are sinners.] LESSON L. Read to verse 19. Instruction.-The children of this world are those people whe attend to their worldly concerns, without any regard to a future state. The children of light are those who, from the light of the gospel, look for an eternal inheritance in the heavens. The unjust steward, who was one of the children of this world, was careful to provide for himself before he was turned out of his stewardship. Iti this respect he was wiser than many of the children of light. The steward lessened the debts of his lord's debtors, that they might receive him into their houses; by this means he provided for himself, so that he might neither be obliged to dig or to beg. His lord conmendedhim as one that had done wisely for himself, though he had defrauded his employer, but he could not give him the character of a just steward. Questions.--What parable have you been reading? (Ans. The parable of the unjust steward.] To what purpose did this steward take off-the debts of those who were indebted to'his lord? 4. [Ans. That when he failed they might rpceive him into their houses.] What did his lord say to this? 8, [Ans. He commended him because he had done wisely J For whom had he done wisely, his lord or himself,? [Ais. Himself.] What remark does our Saviour make upon this actioi? '.' PART II. F f ~ns. The children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.] Who are meant by the children of this world? [4izs. Thiose who think only of their worldly -concerlls.] Who are the children of light? [A4ns. Those wyvho look for an eternal inheritance. 1 Wthat is the rammnon of rnrighteousness? [AJns. WlrNldly riches.] What is meant by everlasting habitations? [Ans. Hleaven.] Rcid verse 19 to the end. Instruction -Abrahamn's bosom was expression in use amiong the Jews, signifying 'the paradi.,, of hjappy spirits in a sepacate state. It was no sin in the rich lman to wear purple and fine linen, for he could adlbrd it; but whil~e he fared.sumnptuously hie should have taken more care nf a poor miseralble fellow-creature, than t., let himi lie at his gate tfr the dog-s to lick his sores. The rich man appears to have been not only uncharitable, b"L an unbeliev-er. Qutest io ns.-WýVas not the rich nian hard-hearted to let the Poor man lie in that miserable state at his door? [Ii-s. Yes.] Was n1ot there a great difference between these two people ufter death? [,Ilns. Yes.] What became of the beggar? 22. [Ans. He was carried by angels to Akbraham's bosom.] Where is that?. [Aits The paradise of(4 happy souls.] WVhat becamie.of'th-e rich man? ) 3. [Ants. He died.] Where did his soul go to? [As. To hell.]..1ICTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instructiom.-Iromi the parable of the unjust steward, we Shoulid learn to provide against the time when we shall be called np)0on to give an account of our stewardship; but we must remember that "-e have a veiry different Lord to deal with, and a very different lhabitation to seek; we must therefore make a veq different use of the mammon of unrighteousness; and wNe miust also remienmber that we cannot serve two masters: wve, 'cannot $et our hearts at once-on earthly and heavenly riches; we carmot be at once the servants of God atnd of the devil. Questiomcv.---Xihat should the parable of the un~just steward tpach us to prosyide against? [Ans. The time when we biiust ive -account of our stewardship.] When will that be. jAns. At the end of the world.] What habitations will the children of Iight desire to be received into? 9. [ANS. Everlasting hab*b0 123 tations.] Where are they to be found? [Ais. In heaven.] What must we do in order to be received into everlasting habitations? ).. [lns. Make to ourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness.] ow can we do this? [Ans, By making a good use of the things of this world. j Can we expect to be received into heaven for doing such things as the unjust steward did? [A.4s. No.] Was he faithful in that which was another man's? [ns. No.] Could he expect to have true riches trusted to him? [4Ans. No.] What may we understand by true riches? [Ans. Heavenly treasures.] Can any person serve God and mammon at the same time? [Ans. No.] Can we be the servants of God and of the devil at the same time? [Ans. No.] Do you understand now that the children of this world are no otherwise wiser than the children of light, than as the former take better care to provide for themselves according to their own principles? [Ans. Yes.] Instruction.---From the latter part of this we may learn, that a man may be very rich and great in this world, without possessing the favour of God; that there is a future state in which the wicked will be punished, and the gdJ- rewarded. We also learn, that it is impossible for those who are condemned to hell ever to get to heaven; that those who once get to heaven are in no danger of being sent from it and that it is much better to be prepared for eternity, than to enjoy all the riches, honours, and pleasures, this world can aftford. We should take warning by the fate of the rich man in this parable, and believe what Moses and the prophets, and other inspired writers, have taughtconcerning a future state, and be thankful for the light we have in the Word of God, and the help of the Holy Spirit, without desiring more. Questions.---May not a man be very rich and great without enjoying the favour of God? [Ans. Yes. J Will not the wicked be punished and the good rewarded in the next world? [Ans. Yes.] How long will the wicked remain in hell? [Ans. For ever.] How long will the good remain in heaven? [Ans. For ever.] Which will be best, to enjoy pleasures, riches, and honours, in this life for a little while, or to be happy to all eternity? [Ans. To be happy to all eternity.] Have we not tlhe writings of Moses and the prophets in the Bible? [Ans. Yes.] What should we do then? [Ans. Study them.] H-as not one come also from the dead to teach us? [Ans. Yes; our Saviour.] 124 LESSON LI. Read to verse 20. Instruction..---The ten poor leprous men here mentioned probably lived together for the sake of company, for they were not suffered to live with others. They had faith in our Saviour so as to believe he could cure them, but one only out of the ten seems to have thought any further about him, or the mercy they had received, and that one was of the nation:which the Jews abhorred. This circumstance was noticed by.our Lord. Questions.-.-Were not the nine lepers very ungrateful to go on without thankfulness for the great mercy they.had received? [Ans. Yes.] Areý we not all too apt to be unthankfil to God for the mercies he bestows upon us? [A/ns. Yes.].W hat should the example of the Samaritan leper teach us to do when we have recovered #om sickness? fAns. To give thalks and glory to God.].Read from verse 20 to the end. Instruction.---Our Lord's answer to the Pharisees contained a prophecy relating to his coming, first. invisibly, to destroy.Jerusalem; and afterwards visibly, to bring in. his glorious kingdom; the first has been fulfilled, as the other certainly will be, and whenever it happens it will be, sudden and un-,expected. Question.---When were these things partly fhlfillcd which our Saviour foretold concerning his coming? [Ans. When -Jerusalem was destroyed.]. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-As all concerning the destruction of Jerusalem -came exactly to pass, we maybe sure death and judgment will be as sudden; we should therefore keep ourselves constantly preparedfor it, that we may be ready to stand before our Lord with a good conscience. Lot's wife is held out as a warning Sto those who do not believe God will do as lie threatens. She.did not believe Sodom and Gomorrah would be destroyed. Questions. -Who were destroyed suddenly in Noah's days "because they did not believe God's threatenings? [Ans. All the P9Q5 people of the earth excepting Noah and his family.] Wh'o wertosuddenly dest-royed b~y fire aud.* brijmstone fromi heaven? [A4ns. The people of SodoIin and-. Gomuorrah.] WVhat womn. is.,hedd Out here-as a warning to us? [Ans. Lots Swifie.] Ijow was she. ptip ished for un *belief? [zlins. She was turned into 4 pillar of salt.]. What will be as: unexpected as these. judgrments? [/In~s.. The end.of the wAorld,.]. Wha shoul d we..do then? L/Jns. Keep ourselves, prepared r.]If you should know fur a.certainty thiat yourSaviour would comne this night in the clo'uds wxith all his hioly. angels, would not you set about prepa4ng for. his,co'm`ing-) [Ans. Yes.].What would you. do? C Ans'. Repent o~f y Iour sins.] lWould not you also resolve and promnise to. lead a gq-od life? [Ans.. Yes.],How. should you alwa YS liv7e, in order to he prepared for death~and your Saviour'&, iý'oniing? [An47s. a good. life.] LESSON LII' Read -to verso' 35. Iistunction.-4.o pray always, and. not t -o faint, sigziiifies. to fie ready to pray at all, times. By. Gpd-'s, elect are.,mearst -his faithi*fulI serva-ats If ani unjust judge would grant the petitio of a Pei-son fir wihom he had-no pity, we may be certaii~itha.God, whose compassion, know.As n~o bgunds,.will grant.the -prayer. 6f his'fai'thful people, who. call upon. him, -though. hle mnay.40t see fit tQ do. it-immnediately. The. Pharisee. in the other pa..rable wazs full of 'Spiritual, pr~ide.;. hie tlxoughti that because he avoided th~e sinis,'and pqrformed, thle.act hie muentioned, he was asi b_ "as'-he tqe4ed to. be, a~nd.ý he jiudged, uncharitably of his oegb ur'; the IPublican ba'd a deep. sense of hig own unworthiness as a sinner, and bad no hopes but in -the mpr~ey of God. He wasl juslified, or* accepted of God as a just person, in preference to the Pharisee. As: we. all- stand in need of divine mnercy, we should imitate the humility of `t 'le Publican,1' and not~iik~e!the proud,:Phurkiee; boast.of -bui good d&ds'to Grod; *for: int his -Sight.=i tnaft living isju-stified by his own' Work - but: God will:-iegard the -humfble- tmd PenitenDt, `s jtst persdis for the Isake;, iof. -egut Christ@'., Neither'shotfld We despise oter~s,..s.lhe Pharisee did,* -for thlg' is- 'pxitecos'tray-t (Spirit -bfCthristiarfity. Quetio~u-..4hat st-e d ~op~veast our fain'tihg, oi 'ýbi*gIdisheurten-ed, because otur prayers -are'not- hhmzediately' 126 granted? [Ans. Trust in God's promises.] If we thus pray and trust, what may we be certain God will do? [Ans. Help and protect us.] What does our Saviour say of the Publican? 14. [Ans. That he was justified rather than the Pharisee.] Why was one who owned himself a sinner preferred to one who did so many good deeds? [Ans. Becaus e he humbled himself before God.] Are not all mankind sinners? [Ans. Yes.] Is it right for any one to boast of his goods deeds to God? [ ns. No.] Can any one say with truth, I am a just person, I have no sin? [Ans. No.1 Who will God regard as just persons? [Ans. The humble and penitent.] For whose, sake will he regard them as such? [Ans. For Jesus Christ's sake.] Should we despise others, because we fancy ourselves more righteous thin them? [Ans. No.] Read verse 15 to 18. Instruction.-The disciples rebuked these people, perhaps, because they interrupted our Lord's discourse, or because they thuu;lit it beneath him to attend to children, as he came into this world to'instruct men, and to work miracles. Our Lord was angry with them, and again repeated that those who would enter into his kingdom must take young children for a pattern. Questions.---What did our Lord say when his disciples rebnked those who brought little children unto him 16. [Ans. Suffer little children to come unto me, and forbid them not; for of siach is the kingdom of heaven.] Do not you think it must have been a delightful sight to behold the Saviour of the world receive infants in this affectionate manner? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not a great happiness for the children to be thus received? [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 18 to the end, Instruedon.---Therich young ruler wanted ono.hing, which was, such a loye for God and religion as would lead him to give up his earthly riches for heavenly treasures. He desired eternal life, but preferred his worldly possessions to it; therefore he could not enter into the kingdom of heaven; he would not'do what was necessary for the first Christians, naimcly, sell all their estates and put their money into one connnbn purse, for the benefit of the whole community. Our Lord's disciples undrstood, from his words, that a nlch man could not be 127 iavcd; but our Lord's answer shewed that he meant those o0lY w%,ho trust in riches. What Peter said of himself and the rest of the apostles, was very true, but he should not haveboasted; however, our Lord knew that they had left all and followed him, he therefore gave Peter a gentle answer to ýucourage his hopes, and then prepared his disciples to expect his approachinig sufferings; but they had not yet received the. Holy Ghost, and were so fully persuaded that the Mesgialt was to reign upon earth, that they could not undetstand Id3 meaning. Qu stions-WvVhat had the young ruler kept from his youth? 20. [Ans. The commandmnents.] Was there nothing wanting to give him a title to eternal life? [Ans. Yes; jone thing]j What was that? '22. [AnJis. To sell all he had and distribute to the poor, and follow Christ.] Was he willing to do thris? [ -is. No.) What rich men did our Lord mean could nu0t, kiater into the kingdom of God'! [ANs. Those who trust iwr riches.] What did our Lor-d say those should receive who give tip Xl1 to follow himi? 29. [Ans. Manifold more in this pre-, sent life, and in the world to come life everlasting.] W1hy dii& not the disciples muderstand our Lord nvlih l he talked of It$ sufferingrs? 34: [Ans. Because they had not yet received. the gifft of the Holy Ghost to understand all mysiterii.JPRACTI-CAL INTItRUCT1ON>.. Instruchirin-Though our Saviour is no longrer on earth, there is no rea-son to think his kiindness for children is lessened. Ile is still ready to receive all who are broukght unto him. 'Therefore parents should nldake it their first careto have their infants baptized, wAhich is brinbgingy thein to Christ; and children, as they grow up, shoula be tau-ight that they have beenl presented to tliir Saviour, and should he adn-ionished to strive to grow in wisdom as they grow in stature, that they may ini tiLný be perfect ChristianDs. Questions.--Can infants be brought to Christ nlow? [,4ins. Yes.] i-lo ale the3' brought to him? [Ans. To be baptized.] Do not you think that it must be pleasing to our blessed Saviour to see infants broughlt to be made Christians'? [Aeis. Yes.] What should those wvho have, thus beeH presented to Christ try to do, as soon as they have urderstanding enough? [..'lns. To grow in wisdom as they grow iti stature:i] Wuhat A iSdonm? [Ains. Iietigivus.Wisdoim.'] Have )'ou been brouigh to 1%8 Christ? [,Ans. Yes.] When was you brought to Christ? [Ans. When I was baptized.] What were you -brought for? [Ans. To be made a Christian.] Should you go away from Christ? [Ans. No.] Who may be said to go away from Christ? [Ans. Those who lead unchristian lives.] Instruction.---Our Lord's discourse with the rich young ruler, shews that those who place their trust in riches cannot be members of the kingdom of heaven, but that by the help of God's grace (which our Lord said, on other occasions, will.be given to all who pray for it) the rich as well as the poor may obtain salvation. There were many rich men in the time of the apostles, who sold. all their possessions for the sake of the gospel;, and there are many in these days who trust in God, and who would part with all they possess in this world rather than lose eternal life and the treasures of heaven. Questions.-Can those who trust in riches be members of the kingdom of heaven? [Ans. No.] What should the rich, as well as. the poor, pray for? [Ans. God's grace.] What should they be ready to give up rather than lose eternal life? [ ins. All they possess.] What will those receive who give up any.thing that is valuable to them for the sake of the kingdom of. God?: [Ans. Manifold more in this present time, and in the...wedd to come life everlasting.] LESSON LII. Read to' verse 11. Instruction.-By the joy which Zaccheus expressed when our Lord declared his intention of going to his house, we may judge that his faith had led him to the place. And from the declaration he made, when the Jews murmured and called him a sinner, we may conclude that he had acted with charity and integrity in his office as a publican. lie was therefore a true son of Abraham, not by birth only, but by faith; he.war ne of those lost sheep of the house of Israel wvhomn our.:blssed Redeemer came to save.. We learn from thiis Lesson th\t it is not riches themselves, but the setting the heart upon theln, and trusting in them, that make it so difficult for. the.rich.to become Christians.. uestions.-What was the name of the man who had such a desire to see our Saviour? * [Ans. Zaccheus.] What was 1.9 lie? 2. [Ans. Chief among the publicans.1 Wyas hie ri~h or' ptnor?.[A4nK -Rich'.] How di 'd hj receive our Lord whe~n he tuidhlim he, should go to, his hoLrse? '[ti4ns.:Gladly.] -Why did'Zaeccheus toll bur Lord; -Of his good -deeds? L[Ahs. e -cause -the Je ws called him a sinner..] Di~dour Lord k-,prove 'him for -defendin.x hijs own character? fAns.- N'o.] What did our L ord say of him? 9. [tins. That he was.a sosVof Abrahatim'],X -as not Zaceheus on.e of those who m~ight be 4ýalie~d the lost sh~p-of the house of Israel? [A4n&: Yos ] Did h~is beno- rih hyinder his becof~irng ~a Christian?[Anis. NO.] What is it thait malkes it c.o difficult for the rich to cuter into the kiwrdorn of heaven? '-Jns. Their setting. their hearts upon their riches.] Read verse 11 to the en. Inýýst ructio n,,-The parable of the pounds wasdesigned to sh-ew that tie, kingdomn of C brist -is a spiritual onie;3 that all mankind., are to pass. through,i state of' trial;.an~d that afterwards our Saviour will come in kiis glory, and -call th~em all to an aqcoun 't, before they pas.s-5 into a state. " of habppiqsess..or Anisery'.. The noblemans or prince, was Christ.. The. ten~ servrants,, Christ us~ bw p 0 esliopu '1hliizens wisp sent a message after Nails the- Jew' -;h jiati'.-A T1he poun*ds,' meant whatever -may beused to the glory of Glod, the. good of our souls, or. the good ofour f how-creatures. Ye all. have som-e of.these.ý Tle nobleman's comm~n, to rcceive the, kiijgdom,.significd. Chri*t's corning to judore tUc woi d Qvsti~- h:, must, all mankind pass through? [ns. A -state of trial.] Who we e meant by the ten servants? [Ails. 9hristiax sJ What was meant by the pounds? [A4ns. Any thinerfivedan do good wvith. Whe an-must we- givýe ah ac~cQuut. of t}e-e? [tins. Whebh ou'r Lord comes.]. PRAkCTICAL INSTAUcTION'..Instruction. ---This parable should lead us to. e~mplqy our abi~litjes as well as we can for the hiongur of God, thia good of o~the~rs, ~anii our own saiv4Ltion.. Th~e. mos e diligemnt~~woare. greater~rev.'ard we- shall obtain, for.. we have a. kind aiid liber master. It is-.not enough to be ablve to.say,. We Iaedn ~ harm we must strive to do. good;j for the'e. are few, xr h world, who have no't the pow~er of doing, goo'd in.* 0x'' 'A!" Qther; azud those who -Aip il be assisted. by -divI. orae I SO Dreadful indeed will be our condition, if we presumnptuowsidy say, that we will not acknowledge Christ as our heavenly king. Questions.---What should the parable of the pounds lead us to considerf [Ans. What abilities w;e have, and how to employ them]I Who is the kind master that will reward us for doing our duty? [.Ans. God.] Is it enough to be able to say we have dlone no harm? [Ans. No.) What must wve strive to do? [Ans. All the good we can.] Ias not every one the power to do good iu some way or other? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON LIV. Read to verse 33. in struction--The chief priests and elders were continually on the watchi to detect our Lord in something fbr which they might call him to account. The questions he put to them, when they asked him by what authiority, hie taught, perplexed them not a little. The parable our Lord spoke signified, that the heathens were better disposed than the Jews were to receive the Gospel, iiince many of the most abandonied among the Gentiles acknowledged John to be a prophet, and repented at his preaching. Suestions.-What was the panable of the two sons designed tos ew? [Adns. That the Gentiles wl~ere better disposed to receive the Gospel than the Jewqs.] Why did many publicans and harlots enter into the kingdom of God, or become Christfians, before the Scribes and Pharisees? 32. V,-Jzs. Because they repented at John's preaching.] Read verse 33 to 45. fnsiruction.-The parable of the household.*r was designed to represent to the Jews their behaviour both under the law and under the- gospel. The vineyard signifies the church of God, which was first planted in the Jewish nation. H-Iisservants were the prophets; his Son. our Lord Jesus Christ. The Jews, not understanding the parable, pronounced sentence against themselves. From these parablys we learn the justice of God's dealings *ith the Jewish nation; and Christians Should take wamiilg from them; for., their having been addhiitted into God's vineyard will be of no benefit to them, if they despise their Saviour, 6r neglect to do the work appointed for them.. 4uestionrs.-Who is meant in the arable by the householder? 38. [Ans, God.] What was t vineyard? [Ans, The church.] Who were the husbandmen? %Ans. The Jews.] WVho were the servants they used so cruelly? [Ains. The pro. phets.] WVho was the Son they conspired to kill? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.1 WhNo were the other huibandmen to whoin the vineyard was to be let? [Ans. The Gentiles.] Who did our Lord mean by the stone which the bmilders refused that was to become the head stone of the corner?? [Ans. Himself.] Have not we, as Christians, been admitted into God's vineyard, that is, his church? [A!ns. Yes.] Should not we take warning by the Jews, neither to despise our Saviour, nor neglect our work? [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 45 ta the end. Instruction.---The question which the spies put to our Lord was a very ensnaring one; if he had said it was lawful to pay tribute to Caesar, they would have pretended he could not be the Messiah, or he would have stood, up for the liberties of his people; and if he had. said it was not lawful, they wold0d. immediately have accused him to Pontius Pilate, the Roman governor, as a seditioyi person. Our Lord's most prudunt and. wise answer disappointed his enemies. Questions.---Who was Cisar? [Ans. The Roman emperor.] What was the tribute? [A-ns. Money paid by the Jews.] Why did they pay tribute to Cxsar? {I.4ws. Because Judea was part of the Roman empire.] Who would they have accused our Lord to if e head said it was not lawfuil to pay tribute? [Ans. To Pilate.] To whom would hlie have given ofifence if he had said, it was lawful? [Ans. To the Jewish rulers.] Did not our Lord. give a most prudent answer? [Ans. Yes.]. Could his enemies. Ly hold of his words? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRVCTION.. 'Instruction.---From our Lord's words, Render- unto Casarthe things which be Caesar's, and unto God the things whichl be God's, we are instructed that it is our duty to pay thlse taxes willingly which the laws of the country requirm towards.the Sup. port of the government; we are also taught to pay the tribute which is due to the Supreme Being, namely, praise, thanks* giving, and obedieuce to his divitie commandiments, Q uestions.---IHow can ChristieAa render. uute COesar thie things that be Caesar's? [Ans. By paying thetaxes willingly,j What tribute can they pay to God? [Ath. Praise, thank,giving, and obedience.] Are not these due to tlie' A, ltly Goqernor? [Ans. Yes.] 132 LESSON LV. Read to the end of verse 38. Inrstruction-.-The Sadducees, who did not believe in the resurrection of the dead, put a question to our Lord, which they thought would certainly puzzle him; but he shewed that their disbelief of the resurrection proceeded from their not understanding the Scriptures; and he told them that things would be very different in the other world. Questions.--What did not the Sadducees believe?, [Ans. The resurrection of the dead ] What did they think to do by the question concerning the woman who had seven husbands? [Ans. Puzzle our Lord.] What may we understand by our Lord's words concerning Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob? 37. [Ans. That they are still living.] Are they living in. this world? [Ans. No, in the other world.] Read from verse 38 to 41. Instruction.-The Pharisees were pleased that our Lord had put the Sadducees to silence, but one of the Scribes thought he could propose a question relating to the law of Moses which our Lord could not answer. Our Lord replied with such wisdom, that the Scribes could nbo but acknowledge him to be in 'the right. By this answer we find that the whole duty of man is contained in the love of God and the. lve of our neighbour; these are the two great commandments; but each consist of several smaller on.es. The meaning of our Saviour's words,. On these two commandmerits hang all +he law and the prophets., is, that all the comm:ndments given by. God, and all that the.prophets have writteni concorning the, duties of man, relate either to the love of God, or the love of our neighbour. Questions --What question did the Scribe ask our Lord?, 34. Anl, Which is the great cdmmandment of the law?] Did our Lord answer it to his satisfaction? FAns. Yes.] In what is. 133 the whole duty of man contained? [Ans. In our duty to God and our duty to our neighbour.] What is particularly called the law in Scripture? [ns. The ten commandments.] What did our Lord say hang upon all these commandment? 38. [A.ns. All the law and the prophets.] What do all the commandments relate to? [Ans. Thelove'ofGod and the love of our neighbour.] To what does all that the prophets have written relate? [iAns. To our duty to God and our neighbour.] Read verse 41 to the end. Instruction.--The Pharisees agreed that the Messiah was to be the Son of David, but they were ignorant concerning his divine nature, therefore they could not understand the passage in David's Psalms concerning which our Lord questioned them. David, as a prophet, called Christ Lord, because.he was the Son of God. Questions.--Why could not the Pharisees understand our Lord's question? 41. [Ans. Because they were ignorant of his divine nature.] Why did David speak of Christ as hia Lord? [-Aus. Because Christ was the Son of God.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--From this Lesson'we learn that there will be a resurrection from the de'.d, and that in the next world the condition of the good will be very different from what it is in this, and greatly superior to it; but if we would be equal to the angels in heaven, we must live like the children of God upon earth. Questions.---Did not our Saviour plainly declare that there will be a resurrection from the dead? 36. [Ans, Yes.] To whom will the good be equal in the next world? [Ans. To the angel$.] How must we live upoh earth if we would be equal to the angels" in heaven? [;Ans. As the children of God.] Instruction.---Since we find that it is our duty to love both God and our neighbour, we should study what is meant by the two great commandments, and shew our love by keeping them. Those who love God with all their heart will not break the 184 commandments of the first table; those who love their neighbour as themselves will not break those of the second table. If the two great cornmandinimenc, of the law were kept by all mankind, the earth itself ;ou!d be a paradise. Questions.--Should not we studiy the two great commandments? [Ans. Yes.] Will those who love;God have other gods beside him, worship idols, take his holy name in vain, or break his sabbathls? [.Ans. No.] Will not thos6 who love their neighbour honour their fatlher and mother? [Ans. Yes.] Will they kill? [Ans. No.] Will they steal? [Ans. No.] Will they commit Cultery? [,Ins. No.] Will they bear false witness? [Ans. No.] Will they covet their, neighbour's goods? [Ans. No.] H-ow can we shew we love God and our neighbour? [Ans. By keeping the commandments.]. Have not we the greatest reason to love God, who made us from nothing, who gives us all the good things we enjoy, who sent his Son to redeem us, his Spirit to sanctify us, and who has given us hopes of eternal happiness in heaven? [Ans. Yes.] Must not we love God then? [Ans. Yes.] Have not we many good reasons for loving our neighbour also? [.Ans. Yes.] WAhose creatures are they all? [,Ans. God's creatures.] Should we not love God's creatures for his sake? [Ans. Yes.] Have not all mankind the same nature as ourselves? [Ans. Yes.] Is not the same God their Father as well as ours? [Ans. Yes.] Is not the same Jesus Christ their Saviour as well as ours? [Ans. Yes.] Is not the same Holy Ghost their Sanctifier and Comforter as well as ours-? [Ans. Yes.] Do we not all dwell upon the same earth, and partake of the same blessings? [Ans. Yes.] Do we not all hope for the same heaven? [Ans. Yes.] Should we not love one another then? [Ans. Yes.] Instruction.--We here learn from our Saviour's own mouth, that he has a divine nature; that, according to this nature, he is no less than the Lord God. David, when he as a prophet called him Lord, spake by the inspiration of God; we should therefore learn from this Lesson to acknowledge our blessed Saviour to be the Son of God as well as the Son of David. Questions-- -What should we learn from our Saviour's explanation of David's words? [Ans. That he is truly the Son of God.] Should not we honour him greatly then? [Ans, Yes.] 135 LESSON LVI. Read the u'hus' Lesson..instruction.---T his part of our Saviour's discourse was de. signed to shew his disciples what kind of people the Scribes and Pharisees -were, andi to warn them not to followy their examnple; at the same time our Lord told them, that as Jews they ought to obey the Scribes and Pharisees in matters relating to the laxw of jMoses. From our Lord's denouncing woes against, the Scribes and Pharisees we learn h1owA very hateful the sins he laild to their charge are in the sight of God; this should lead us to avoid hypocrisy and deceit, anrA to receive the doctrines of Christ with an humble and a thankful heart. We should also learn to obey the gracious calls which we have to repentance, and nort go on fromil sin to sin, adding to the guilt of the nation to which wve belong, and helping to fill up the measure of its iniquity. The thoughts of the miseries which Would fall iupon the once. holy city, moved ortr Lord with the tenderest compassion, and hie lamented that his chosen people the Jews should have abused all the invitations to repentance, whichi he as the Lord God had offered them by his holy propliets, and afterwards by, John the Baptist, and in his own person as the Messiah. It became our- Lord as the Son of GTod to denounce woe or severe punishment fo such wvicked hy)pocritesl, who were totally unwovrthy of div,;ne favour and compassion. Our Lord's declaration, that hlenceforth they should see him no more, perhaps signified that that would be his last visit to Jerusalem. Qicestions.---Were not the Scribes and Phorisees very grut hlypocrites? [Ans. Yes.] Vere they not very proudý [Ans. Yes.] W~as this example fit for the disciples of Christ to follow when they should become teachers tbempselves? [Ans. No.] Who were the-disciples to consider as their Master? [Ans. Christ.] In what light were they all to regard one another? [Ans. As brethren.) PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. nstructiom.-4n respect to denouncing woe* against sirners we are not to follow theiexeunple of our SavIv~xr. It wee 136 part of his office as the Messiah, the Son of God, to do it, and he knew all hearts, and there was no danger of his judging amiss; but the case is far different with imperfect humran beings. Qzuestions.---Is it not plain from our Lord's words that sin is very hateful to God? [.Ans. Yes.] What sin in particular khould we learn, from this Lesson to fvoid?. [tns. Hypocrisy.] )What is that? ] Ans. Making religion a cjoik for wickeduess.] Did not the S!'ribes and Pharisees do so? [Ais. Yes.j What did our Lord deaounce against them for their great wickedness? [4ns. Woe..] What measure did they fill 'up by their abornrnqble crimes?[Ans The measure of iniquity. What does God do when a nation has filled up' the measure of its iniquity? [Ais. 'Cut it off] Why did our Lord lament over tbhe city of Jerusalem? [An. Because it would soon be cut boff or its wickedness.] Had not the Lord shewn great teuderness towards ihe Jewish nation from tenertioi to generatiop? [Ans. Yes.] "Should not 'Christians take Vwaiping from this Lesson? [Ans. Yes.] Does not ChriSt call upon us to repent? [Ans. Yes.] How does hlie call us? [.insl. By the Gospel.i If we, instead of repenting of our sins, go on in wickedness, what do we help to fill up? [ns. The measure of j iquity.) Is it not a sad thipg to help to bring destruction upon a nation? [Ains. Yes.] Do you think that God wjll spare apy wicked nation, if he did liot see fit to spare Jerusalem, which was once the city of the Lord? [ Ans. No.] Did our Lord design to set a pattern to Christians when he denounced woes against the Scribes and Pharisee's? [Ains. No.j Should creatures like us, who cannot know the hearts of others, and who have, many sins of our own, denwunbe woes against our fellow-creatures? [Ans. No.1 LESSON LVII. Read to verse 2g. Instruction.--This Lesson contains our Saviour's predictions concerning the destrnction of the temple at Jerusalem and the overthrow of the Jewish nation, which were afterwards exactly fuliled., It _also,cntains predictions concerning,the 137 end of the world. At the request of his disciples our Lord informed them of many signs which would happen befofe those events would take place; the verses we have now read relate to the overthrow of the Jewish nation. One sign in particular our Lord mentioned, by which they might know that the destruction of Jerusalem was near---The abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stanading in the holy place; by which was meant, as is supposed, the armies and images of heathen nations advancing towards the holy city. That the Christians, who should live in Judea at that time, might know what course to take in this emergency, our Lord left particular directions to be transmitted to them, that they should flee away to the mountains with all possible haste as soon as they should see this sign, and not listen to -pretended Christs or prophets, who would try to delude them into different places. For the Son of Man, the true Messiah, he said, would come in a very different manner from the false ones. Questions.---What did our Lord foretel concerning the temple at Jerusalem? 1. [Ans. That it should be thrown down.] Did he mention any signs which would happen before this? [Ans. Yes.] What was the abomination of desolation, which was to be the sign that the overthrow of the Jewish nation was at hand? [Ans. Heathen armies and images coming against the holy city.] Who did he caution his disSciples to beware of? 3. [Ans. False Christs and false Prophets.] In what manner did he say the Son of Man, the Messiah, would come? 27. [Ans. As quick as lightning.].For whose sake did our Lord say the evil days should be shortened? [Ans. The elect.] 22. Who were meant by the elect? [Ans. Good Christians.] Read verse 29 to the end... ' In.rtrutiton.--The propiecy mi these veises is in'dd rstod to relate to the end of the world. The tribulations of these days, meaning the evils that were to fall upon the Jewish nation, have continued from the time the first signs began, to the present day; the Jews are still in astate of misery, and from our Saviour's predictions we may suppose they will continue so till his second comitg. Our Saviour himself, at the time he delivered this prophecy, seems not to have known the very day and hour of the end of -the world-s:.the Father iiad not ~~~.:...... 138 yet revealed it unto him. By our Lord's words, This generation shall not pass away till all these things be fulfilled, is understood, that the Jews should continue a distinct people, though in a state of tribulation, during the predicted period. Questions.---How will our Saviour come at the end of the world? 30. [Ans. With power and great glory.] What will lie do? 31. [Aus. Send his angels to gather together his elect.] Will there be any sign to shew exactly when the day of the Lord will be? [Ans. No.] Will not the world be going on in the same way as usual to the last day [An4s. Yes. I Did not the flood come suddenly upon the world in the days of Noah? [Ans. Yes.] Had the people no warning at all of it? [Ans. Yes, 120 years.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--Our Lord's prophecies respecting the destruction of Jerusalem came exactly to pass; all the signs he mentioned happened before it; at length the last sign appeared, and the destruction of the city and temple soon followed: and we may be sure that our Lord's predictions concerning the end of the world will as certainly come to pass we should therefore attend to his admonitions, that we may be found prepared when our Lord comes for if we be found living in wickedness, we shall be punished according to our evil deeds. Questions.--Did our Lord's predictions respecting the Jewish nation and the templecome to pass? [Ans. Yes.] What other prophecy may we expect to be fulfilled? [,Jns. That relating to the end of the world.] As our Lord will come in an hour that we think not of, how should we strive to be? [Ans. Ready.] 45. How will those se rvants be who are found doing their duty? [Ans. Blessed.] What will be done to those who are found in the practice ofwickellness? [Ans. They will be punished.] Where will they be sent to? [Ans. Hell.] LESSON LVIII. Read to verse 31. Instruction.--The parable of the ten virgins was designed to shew how Christ will deal with thosQ who at the day of 1s9 jutdgment shall be in a state of preparation, and with those who shall have lived careless lives. - The bridegroom in the paiable is our Lord Jesus Christ. The marriage is the end of the wvrld, wvhvn he wil come to receive his church, called, in other parts of scripture, the bride. T'he marriage day is the (lay of jtidgu-Icnt. The virgins are, the professors of his religion. The five wise ones represent sincere and watchful. 'Christians, the foolish ones those who are careless in respect to preparing' themselves for their Lord's cominig. The parable of the talents is so like that of the pounds, which was explained in a fornier Lesson, that if you remember the one, you, canncot fihil to understand the other. Qursthics.-Who is meant by the bridegroom in the parable? [AM:. Our Lord Tesus Christ.] Who is the bride? [A ns. The church of Christ.] What is his marriage? CAns. The end of the world.] What will be his marriage day? [Ans. The day of judgment.] Who do the wise virgins represent? [Ans. Sincere and wa tch-fulA Christians.] Who do the five foolish ones represent? CAns. Careless Christians.] What is nmeant by having oil in their lamps? [Apns. Being prepared to meet their Lord.] What is meant by having no oil? [Ans. Not being prepired.] WNhat did the Lord 'say to the foolish - virgins when they came and entreated to be let in? 10. [Ans. Verily, I say unto you, I knbxv you nuot.] What do you understand from this? [Ans. That careless Christians will be shut out of heaven.) What did our Saviour say when be ha& ended this parable? 13. [dns. Watch, therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour when the Son of Man cometh.J Who did our Lord mean in the parable of Ihe talents by a man, travelling into a far country? [rAns. Himself.] What are to be understood by the talents? [Ans. Different gifts.] Did not the Lord in the parable commend every one who had improved his talent? [duns. Yes.) Did he commend the man who had laid by his in a napkin, and made no improvement of it? [An's. No.] Iow was he punished? LAns. He was C.'t into outer darknRess.] Bead verse 31 to the end. Inotruction.---Our Lord here gives a plain account of the clay of judgment. From his words to those op his right hand, and on his left,* we may understand, that before this world was Mwade th-ere was a glorious world provided' for such as ghoulct: 1.40. lead-good lives upon earth, and that. it was the will of Govt. from the begiisningi that the wickied should have the.ir poition wi Lh devils~, Qusis Tihat. does our. Lord -say hie shall do when. hie. comres in j.iis.glory, and all the.holy aligels with him? [A4ns. Sit uppn. the throne of his' glory.] 3 1 Will it not be a most i4wfu1 sight to sec ou ' heavenly King. sitting upon the seat of juidgment, and thousands of' bright..and,. glorious -spirits attendipg im?. [4ns. Yes.] Whjo will be g~thered, together beflore, hin.? 32,. (Ans. AIl~nations.] Will it~not be very astonishing 'tp see all the m-illion '. 6f people who. have, ever lived upon thle earth rising. from their graves. and stapd~ingr before the judgmenit seat? [Ails. 'Yes.] Whit will, our. Saviour do then' [4s. Divideý the, wicked from 'the g-ood) Will -it not bedre'adful to'the wicked to be thus put to shame before -all the - good people wh o have.ever, lived, and all the holy angels? [.4ns. Yes. ili not b most comfortable and delighitful: toge. gq o. en thmevs 'spiated from the w'ick-edý,,an'd thus opwned by their 'heavenly K~ing?, Az. e. What,wi~the King saýy tp -the, good? [Amfl. Com4ý, ye 'blessed of my FAther, inhierit the6 kingd' omn jgepaired for" you from. theý foupitin q( te world.). Wil it'not-be happi~iess and joy beyond imaginatio'n to receive thiis. oyfuil invitation'? LAns. Yes.] What will he' say. to the wicked? (Ans.. Go,. ye Icursed, into' ýverlasting fire., prepared for thedeiadhsanl.] Wl it nit be muist dreoadful. to. hear this sentence? [Avs.. Y-es-] W~ere wA1,,the'wic~ed'g to t~en? [4ns. Ipto ~everlasting. pu~Iishmneutl-.1.Where wi.ll the 'good go to? [ns. Into 1if% rRACTICAL INftRUCTIONO 1Jnstrugction.-,,Frorn the whole Qf ~our Lord's'discourse- be'gun; iz& the lapt Lesson,-.,and end~ed in this,: we, learn,; thatý there certainl.-'will'be. a-dayof judgment,' and that we-otuglt to -keep 9LurseLves in-, cqnstauit prepara-tion..;'for';t::- Our'. Lord-1hin self has:.told.,usi in -what..rpanner we shotld, ýp'epare ývurselves; that we should furnish our minds with.Chri~tian virtueS, - nd have a constant view to our latter end t hat we should imnprove our various gi~fts and talents s *o. osto -gl6rify God, and benefit our-fellow -creatures"; and thatw'e should practise charity lo~ e~,tth~tot p pwer.Ah pnoord-zQimdhie ous t@.c~ so~ 'o rdLblcondescends tou:teoo-nhsDt Place,f ari k~indy.-ca6ls thetn J4. brotirern. 'Thcr will,he na 141. K' "ok per'sons and prisoners t6 `isit,. hungyt ft~- ' ' ive drink to,"a"t long as the;xvorld lasts. 'Al these t9*;,, ""' o, rdleve, atifd the po6dr theff'is6lv~q,',ihve' fre-- qieent cpPort Li!otics of'helping those w.ho afe miseiabl&- '"Even' a co'of cold water giveli in the nam'e bf a disciple "shall' not'' ls'its re-jward: Only' let- us keep iii Our bin'ds what 'our Saviour has recommended, and we shall be s'ui~e to meet,With".obje'cts. Let'u's ihein regard the poor, the sick, 'alA 'dthewretched, withi pity for Chri'ts ssake. n erni the rewar l has pronilsed." QUestiolis.--What should w~e furnish ouri miiii s w%?ith? [Anýs. Christi'aw virtues.]' W~hat'shbiid "we improVer to tb*0,glory 6f' -'GOd~ "'and the benefito0four fell6 w- creatures.) [A.,ns'. The -talents.God has 'given' i's.] W'N-'hat shouild w-e practise? [Afis. -Acds of, 'Charity and fineriy.]' What are' acts df'* charity, add me'rcy.? [Ahs:' Feed.lng ~he hungr'y, cloDthing the -nake'd., visit'in'g'the sick and th~e jiisoners*.] Wo'uld you' riot be 'grud t'o make son* e'returni to'youv blessed SA*Viour' for all that hie hnri done for' you? [A.n~s. X'es. Can.you 'feed, and clothe6,'and vi'sit, youi S-aviour? [A4ns. No.,] Who has he'-put in, his stead? lAnS: `The poor arid' wre-tched.J' 'Wive h not the poor' fre'quent'opportunitilet of -do~ing" wha~t our Lorid recornmen'ded.1 Výns.' -Yesj.] Cainn'bit they in partic~ular' v'isit the sick'and., the prisofier, 'Arnd be 'very* useful-'to them'? [Ansý. Yes*. For' whise'sake, thriuildthey'do tee thi Es S~n. For'Christ's ýnak&J, Will it not bea, great comfort to, you 'at.the -last day to be' con'meIl.ded by' ott f h.eavenly King, bdf4re -men' a~nd angels, for'- having done 'these -things? [&t.1s. Yes.] 'Will it not be dreadful *and' sha meftil 'to be so publicly reproached for not havint done themn?' [Ans. Yes..],Let me beg of you to reflect -serioulanfrqety -upon your latter end, and th~e day of judgment; it is for want 'of doing so that nnqany~people live wi'cked lives. LE$SQN LIXý.. Read the whole Lesson* )'nsirucaioh.-ý-It was' a 'sfrange'ignorafi't question, whitch the Jews' asked~our" Lord,' tinf'it is difficult to C'onceive -;wha they' e'Zneant by' it. Our Loird' s; answ'er 'she'wg that the 'ra ldess wich affect the 'oya ot 'aIay to be considered 'as punish'inent for sin. 'In' the Irsn intnc Sit~ ns; to, hasre 'been orderd by Providence that the' map gh6Ufldbe'btwlblfwtd, in order-thlat God might bb~ glorified by his: recitklhi 142 a miraculous way; and the man was sufficiently rewarded for the blessing of sight having been witlield from him, by having the Son of God made known to him. To be put out of the synagogue was a very severe punishment, for one thus excommunicated was considered as cut off ftom being a member of the church of Israel. Our Lord's words, verse 39, signified that those whose spiritual blindness proceeded from ignorance, should be taught to see, or should have their minds enlightened by the Holy Ghost, while those who were not willing to be instructed by him should be left in their wilful ignorance. The spiritual blindness of the Pharisees was continued as a punishment for their sin. Questions.---What miracle does this Lesson give an account of? [Ans. A man born blind receiving sight.] Was there any thing in the clay, or the water of Siloam, that could give sight to a man born blind? [A/ns. No.] How was the man cured? [Ans. By the divine power of our Saviour.) Was not this a most astonishing miracle? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not enough to convince any unprejudiced person that our Saviour was the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] Were the Pharisees convinced [Ans. No.] In what light did they regard our Saviour? 24. [Ans. As a sinner.] Were they not very wicked in thus setting themselves against our Saviour? [Ans. Yes.] Why did they cast the man out of the synagogue? [Ans. Because hesaid that Christ was of God.] What did the man do,when our Lord told him he was the Son of God? 36. [Ans. He worshipped him.] Were not the Pharisees guilty of a great sin in not believing our Saviour to be the Messiah, the Son of God? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Every Christian should consider himself, in a spiritual sense, as a man born blind and receiving sight by the hand of Christ, since he could.not by any natural means have gained the knowledge of salvation. Wesshould then, as Christians, take example from the man born blind, and not only acknowledge Jesus to be the Son'of God, but worship and adore him, as He who came forth and, proceeded from the Father to' nlighten our minds with divine knowledge, and deliver us from spiritual darkness. And we should learn from our Lord's own words, that it is very wrong to regard any one as a notorious sinner, wiho is afflicted with any un6mnmon calamity. 143 Q s4tions--W hat was the miracle of giving sight to a nian bor n blind a proof of? [Ans. That Jesus was the Son of God.] What muay we learn trom,, Our Lord's suffering'the man to worship him? [.1ns. That he ought to be worshipped.] Do infants know any thiing of salvation when they come first into the world) [Ans. No.] WVhen they come to the use of their reason could they find it out of themselves? [Ans. No.1 Where is this light, this-knowledge, t,- be found? [Aus. in thc Gospel.] Woh will enoble us to un1Derstand the Gospel? [Ans. Thie Holy Spirit.] Have we the HToly Spir-it when we come into the vorld naturally? FAns. No.] From whbomi does the Gocnvel COfliC? [;3 s. From Christ.] Who cures us of spiritual blindness theni?rns. Christ. 1 How does he cure us of it? [ (ans. By his Word and Spir'!t.],Shotild,we judge that personal calamities, such as bhUdness, and the like, are punishments for sin? [.Ans. No.] Could the man born blind have committed sin before he came into the world? [Ajns. No.] Mikiht he not have been in a worse state than blindness if he had had the use of his- eye;? [A1ns. Yes.] Mlight he not have been at a distance from his Saviour? [Ans. Yes.] Would it not have been much wvvorwe for him to have lived to the end of his life. in a state of spiritual blindness than to have been without the sigrht of his eyes for so many years? [rLZs. Yes.] Was he not fully recompensed for his former wvant of sight by the gifts he received from our Saviour? [Atns. Yes.] What wvere these? [ins. His -sight, and the knowledge of salvation.] LESSON LX. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction--In our Saviour's time the Pharisees pretended they were the only true pastors of the churclh,and insisted that the people were bound in duty to'keep to them-, nd oppme Christ. '[he parable bur Lord spake was -desigiwd to shew, that the Pharisees were the bad shepherds of Israel, a_3d him.self the good' shepherd: Ihbse whom our Lord called his sheep, were persons of humble minds, who were *-ifink 'to learn of him, and to-follow his doctrines, \Vhaf he said respecting them was very comfortable apd encouraging. It is plain rorn our Lord's own words that he is truly-the Son 'Of God, and that the Jews understood him ýas declaring himself to be so. The miracles our Lori wrought. proved him to be the WVord by whom all things were at' first carated..r MM 144 this Lesson we learn, that if we would be saved, we must come to Christ, for there is no other way of obtaining salvation but through him. If we desire to be reckoned among Christ's flock we must follow him, and hear his voice, that is, own him for our Saviour, obey his doctrine, and endeavour to imitate his blessed example; if we do so he will most certainly give us eternal life. We also learn that our Lord considers all who are well disposed as forming together one flock, of which he is the shepherd, or, in other words, the Saviour. As a shepherd protects his sheep from the wolves and feeds them in good pasture, our Lord protects those who belong to his flock, from their spiritual enemies, and nourishes their souls with everlasting life. Every sheep of his flock our Lord knows, wheresoever dispersed; and when he by any means makes his gospel known to them, they readily follow him, and shew to the world that they are of his flock. We further learn from this Lesson, that our Lord Jesus Christ willingly gave his lifefibr his sheep, or, in other words, for the salvation of such as would hear his voice and follow him.,Questions.-What did our Lord call himself in this discourse? 11. FAns. The good shepherd.] Who did our Lord mean by his sheeep? [Ans. Those who desired salvation.] What did he say he came for? 11. [Alns. To give his life for his sheep.] Who is the wolf that cometh and catcheth the sheep a.id scattereth them, when the hireling shepherd forsakes them? 11. [iAns. 'he devil.] Did our Lord know all those who would follow him when he called them? 13. ['Ins. Yes.] What are these people ready to do when the Gospel is made known to them? t.. [Ans. To follow Christ, and hear his voice.] What is meant by following him? [Ans. Owning him for a Saviour, and following his example.] What is meant, by hearing his voice? [Anus.. Obeying his doctrine.] What did our Lord say he would lay down for his sheep? 11. [Ans. His life.] Could any man take away the life of our Saviour against his will? S1. [Ans. No.] Was it not a most wonderful instance..of the love of Christ for mankind that he should resolve to die willingly for mankind.? [Ans. Yes.] Ought we not all to wish to be of his flock? [Ans. Yes.] Should not evry one of us love our Saviour? [Ans. Yes.] What was the fault of the Jews which prevented their being of the flock of, Christ?. [Ans. They set themselves against him, and would not believe him to be the Son of God.] Were not our. $aviour's works sufficient to prove him to be the Son of God?, [Ans. Yes.] Are not sheep gentle and 145 harmless creatures? ([ns. Yes.] Are they not ready to obey the voice of their shepherd, and to follow hin? [Ans. Yes.] Does not our Saviour's comparing Christians to sheep shew that they should be gentle and harmless? [Ans. Yes.] Should not they be ready to folow the great Shepherd of mankind? [Ans. Yes.] Did not our Saviour expressly declare that he and the Father are one? [Ans. Yes.] Did he not expressly say that he is in the Father, and the Father in him? [Ant. Yes.1 LESSON LXI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---Lazarus and his sisters must have been very amiable, to have gained the particular friendship of our Lord. The disciples were surprised to hear our Lord talk of going again into Judea, where he had met with such ill treatment. This answer implied, that no one could hurt him till the appointed time of his sufferings arrived. Martha shewed very great faith in our Saviour; she appears to have expected him to restore her brother to life. His words, verse 25, 1 am the resurrection and the life, signify, that our resurrection from the dead to life eternal is through Christ, and him only. Our Lord well knew what the mourners felt; all hearts were open to him, and he wept with them, from tender pity. The Jews did not put their dead bodies into coffins, therefore the corpse of Lazarus might be seen as it lay in the grave, when the stone was rolled away, and most likely it was in the state Martha supposed. It was the custom to wrap the body in linen, and to put a napkin on the head; with these grave-clothes Lazarus could not walk home. If the Jews would have received Jesiu as the Messiah, they wouldhave had no cause to be afraid,, of the Romans. Caiaphas the high priest spake a prophecy, though he knew it not. Our Lord retired with his disciples, because the time for his suffering was not yet fully come. SQuestions.--Who was sick at Bethany? [Ans. Lazqruajs Who were his sisters? [Ants. Martha and Mary.) Were' these two women the'same we read of in a former Lesson? [Ans. Yes.] Had not our Lord a great friendship for thes, good people? [Ans. Yes.] Did our Lord go to Bethany oa soon as he received the message from the sisters of Lazarus? 6, [Ans. No, he staid two days.] What did our Lord mean by his answer to his disciples, when they expressed their fearsof his going to Judea? 9. [Ans. That no oqn: cold. hrt hbl SPART II 146 till the appointed tithe for his sufferings.] Did he know that,Lazarus was dead? [Ans. Yes.] How long had Lazarus lain in the grave when our Lord arrived at Bethany? 17. [Ans. Fourdays.] What did our Lord mean by calling himself the resurrection and the life? 5. [Ans. That the resurrection of mankind from the dead to everlasting life is through him.] Did Mary go to meet Jesus? [Ans. Yes.] How was Jesus affected when he saw her and the Jews who were with her weeping? 33. [Ans. He groaned in spirit and was troubled.] What did he do when he saw the grave in which the body of his friend was laid? 35. [Ans. Jesus wept.] Could not our Saviour have prevented the death of Lazarus if he had seen fit? [Ans. Yes.] Why did he not do so? 4. [Ans. For the glory of God, and that the Son of God might be glorified thereby.] By what would God the Father and the Son be glorified? [Ans. By restoring Lazarus to life.] What did our Lord say with a loud voice? 43. [Ans. Lazarus, come forth.] What happened immediately? [Ans. Lazarus came forth.] Was it not very astonishing to see one, who an instant before was a stinking corpse, spring forth from the grave restored to health, but so wrapped up in grave-clothes that he could not walk? CAns. Yes.] Did not our Lord by this miracle shew forth the glory of God the Father? [Ans. Yes.] Was not the Son of-God also glorified by it? [Ans. Yes.] Who believed in Jesus in conisequence of this miracle? 45. [Ans. Many of the Jews.] Did all the Jews who were present believe? [Ans. No.] What did some of them do? 46. [Ans. Went and told the Pharisees.] Did the Pharisees 'believe in Jesus when they heard of this uonderful miracle? [Ans. No.] How could they help believing him to be the Son of God who could restore a man to life that had been dead four days? [Ans. Their hearts were hardened.] Who prophesied that it was expedient one than should die for the people? 49. [Ans. Caiaphas.] What did the Jewish rulers do from that day? 53- [dns. Took counsel togetlhir to put him to death.]. Did our Lord walk openly as before? [Ans. No.J b hy did he not? [Ans. BecAuse the time for his suffering was not yet come.] What feast of the Jews was at hand? 55. [4Ant, The passover.] Did the Jews who went up to the passover expect our Lord at the feast? [Ans. Yes'] What contnandment had the chief'priests and Pharisees given? 57. [ns. To take Christ.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Snaciorn.o.-From the-sickness and death of Lazarus, and 14f7 the djstress which the loss of so good a brother gave to his sisters, we learn, that the best people must expect to meet with sorrows as well as others, but th'at these very sorrows will in the end promote the glory of God, and the'eternal happiness of those who bear them properly. If we believe our Saviour's words, we shall look up to him fot a resurrection from the dead; and the thoughts of this will not only take off the dread of our own death, but-they will'comfort us' for, the loss of our friends, whom we may expect to meet again in a better world, never more to part. Our blessed Redeemerhimself wept for theý sorrows of his friends, though he was going to remove the cause of their affliction: while they felt grief, he grieved with them. We should imitate him in his tender compassion, and not turn away from scenes of distress, as too many in the world do. Sone of those who went to comfort Martha and Milary were converted to the faith of Christ; and-, wxithout a miracle, those who go to comfort the afflicted, may be the better for it; for nothing is so likely to awaken proper reflection, as going7 to the house of mourning. 9uestions.--What may we learn from the sicknesai and death of Lazarus? -[Ans. That the best people meet with sorrows.] What will these sorrows promote? fAns. The glory of God, and the eternal happiness of the afflictedi1 Is it not a most delightful thing to look forward to a glorious resurrection? [Ans. Yes.] Will it not greatly take off the dread of ourowndeath? [Ans. Yes.) What will the thouights of a glorious' resurrection comfort us for? [An:. The loss of our friends.] Did not our blessed Saviour himself go to comfort his friends?_ [Adns. Yes.] Did he not weep for their sorrows? [Ans. Yes.) Should not we imitate his example itf this respedt? [A4ns. Yes.] Is it right to go away from scenes of sorrow, and leave the afflicted to grieve by thiemselves? [Ans. No.] Were not many of the Jews who.went to comfort the afflicted siswters converted to the faith of Christ? [.Ans. Yes.] *Are not all who go to comfort the afflicted in the way of imerove.. ment I [drs. Yes.l Which, is -most improving to'the mind, going to scenes of gaietj: and riot, or to the *house of mourning?. [Ax:. The house of mourning.] LESSON LKXII Rea4 tte whole Lessen. 1restruction.-.MAs gour Lord was so shortly to sttfer, be went to make a' farewell Visit to his friends at Bethany,. Sixuon the 62 148 Jeper is supposed to have been a person who had been cured by Christ of a leprosy. Maltha, instead of sitting down with the rest of the guests, waited humbly upon our Lord; Mary resolved to give a public token of her veneration and esteem for him. Three hundred pence, the price at which the ointment was valued, amounted to about nine pounds seven shillings and sixpence of our money. Judas probably stole money out of the common purse for his own private uses; he was a covetous man. Mary, without knowing it, was anointing the body of Jesus for his burial; for he was laid in the grave before the perfume of it was gone off. Our Lord's words have come to pass; for the memorial of Mary's act of reverence is recorded in Sacred Writ, and will never be lost while the Gospel continues to be preached. Questions.---Where did Jesus go to six days before the passover? [Ans. To Bethany.] Who waited upon him at a feast? [Ans. Martha.] What did Mary do? [Ans. Anointed his feet with ointment and wiped them with her hair.] Did Judas Jscariot care for the poor? [Ans. No.] Did our Saviour suffer Judas to interrupt Mary? [Ans. No.] What did he say about the poor? o. [Anz. Ye have the poor always with you, but me ye have not always.] What did he mean by saying the woman had anointed him for his burial? [Ans. That he should be buried before the perfume was gone off.] What did he say respecting the act of Mary? 13. [Ans. That it should be told as a memorial of her.] Has not this come true'? [Ans. Yes.] Did not vast numbers of people go to that place to see Jesus and Lazarus? [Ans. Yes.] What did the chief priests consult to do? io. [Ans. To put Lazarus to death.] Why did they want to put him to death? [Ans. Because many of the Jews believed in Jesus on his account.J PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruciion.--,Though our Lord knew he was very shortly to endure various tortures, and to be put to a most painful and ignominious death, his mind was perfectly calm and serene; and he talked of his death with as much composure as if he had been only going to take a short journey; f6r he knew that he had in all things done the will of his heavenly Father, and that he should rise victorious from the grave, and ascend to his heavenly kingdom. In this instance, as in every other, our blessed Saviour set an example which no man can come up to; but we should endeavour to be as near it as.possible, by submitting to the stroke of death when we I-rav reason to think 149 it will soon fall upon us, and we should prepare our minds for a future state, trusting in God to support us in our dying agonies. It is impossible for us to imitate Mary in the act she. performed, but we may imitate her in the reverence s5h felt for our Saviour; and now that he is removed to heaven, we must regard the poor as bis substitutes, for he has taught us to consider them as his brethren, -and to do acts of kindness to them for his sake. Questions.---What should we do in imitation of our Saviour's example, if we have reason to think, from illness, or other circumstances, that the hour of our death is neqr? [dns. Submit to the will of God, and prepare for a future state.] What may we trust in to support us in our dying agonies? [ans. The mercy of God.) Can we imitate the actions of Mary? tAns. No.] Can we anoint our Savicur's feet, andl wipe them with our hair? [Ans. No.] Who are we to regard and help for his sake? [dIns. The poor.] What has our Lord condescended to call the meanest Christialui upon earth [.Avs. His brethren.] Have we not the poor alwoys with us? [Ans. Yes.] For whose sake should'we do good to them? LAns. Christ's.) LESSON LXIII, Read the ukhole Lesson. Inslruction.-..In the book of Zechariah we find the following prediction: Rejoice greatly, 0 daughter of Zion; shout, o daughter ofJerusalem: behold thy Kiing cometh unto thee: he isjust, and having salvation, lowly, anti riding upon an ass, and upon a colt, the foal of an asi. By entering Jerusalem in this manner, Our S:iviour shewedthat lie was the Mlessiah, the true King of Israel, whose coming was4oretold by the prophet. The multitude -regarded him as such, though, he did not appear as a King. The word Hosanna signifies, Save, we beseech thee!1 It was our Lord's constant practice to take his journeys on foot: this is the only instance we read of his going in any other way, ani1 he chose a beast whereon never man had rode. But he could by divfne power britig every-creature to his will. It might rather have been expecsod that the sight of Jerusalem would have provoked our Saviour to express indignation against it, instead oflamenting for the destruction that was coming upon it; but the thoaugbt that the day of grace was past, and that the inhabitants of Jeru 150 salem would bring heavy judgments upon their own headi, melted him into tears of tendet compassion. Ouir Lord forgot all his own wrongs, and felt only for his enemies. There were people who sat at the entrance to the Temple, selling doves and lambs for sacrifices, and others who attended to change foreign money into the current coin of Judea. The Temple certainly was not a proper plae for tritffic of this kind, therefore our Saviour juilged proper to put a stop to it. Quesiions.---What did Zechariah prophesy concerning the Messiah? [Ans. That he should enter Jerusalemi riding upon an ass, and upon a cult, the foal of an ass.]. What dlid Zeehariah say this King of Israel should bring? _.Ans. S;alvation.] What did our Lord prove himself to be by), riding on an ass? (Ans. The King of Israel.] What did the multitude that went before and followed Jesus, say? 9. [Ans. Hosanna to the Scn of David, blessed is he that comet h in the name of the Lord ] What is the meaning of the word Hosanna? [ins. Save, we beseech thee.] Did not their saý ing Hosanna shew that they looked upon Christ as a Saviour? [Ans. Yes.] Did not our Lord shew great compassion in weeping for his enemies?.,jj11,ns. Yes.] What did lie foretel about Jerusalem i [Ans. That it would be entirely deestroyed.] What did the multitude say when the people of Jerusalem inquired who our Lord was? 10. [Ans. This is Jesus the 'rophet of Nazareth.] Was the temple of God a proper place for buying and selling, and changing money? [Ans. No.] Did not our Lord act as the Son of God in turning the traders out? [bins. Yes.] Who cried Hosanna in the tcntple? j4. [Ans. T1h1 children.] Where did our Saviour go to from Jrrusalem? 17. [Ans. Toj Bethanv.J Who lived there? [Ans. Lazarus and his sisters Martha and Mary]I PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Fror ouwr Lord's entering Jerusalem ~in the manner foretold by the propliht, and the circumstances attending it, we should lacknowlcdoe h4im to be the Mlecsisahi, the true King of s'rael; and we should shew that we know him as such, by lifting up ocir hearts and voices in praise and adoration to him by whom alone comes salviation. We find that the hosannas of the children were acceptable, therefore the infant tongue should be taught to Ltter praise to the Redeemer, and those. children who are come to the use of their reason should join with the congregation in the house of God, riot doubting but that their hosianna1"S will be as pleasing v(I 151 their Savijur as those of the children in the temple. According to the laws-of this country, tilre cannot be such buying and sellincr ard exchanging of money in the house of God as there was at the Teemple at Jerus~lem; but it is to be feared that many who go to church have their minds occupied whilst they are there about bargains and other worldly matters, which - is a crime of the same nature. Every one who goes to a place of\ worship should remeember that it is the house of his heavenly Father, and designed for a house of prayer, not of worldly husintss..uestions.---What should this account of our Lord's tri- - umphant entry into Jerusalem, according to the prediction of the prophet, lead us to confess? [A4ns. That he was the Messiah, the true King of Israel.]- How should we shew that we honour him as such? [Ans. By lifting up our hearts and our voices in his praise ] Were the children's hosannas pleasing to our Saviour? [Ans. Yes.] What sho-uld young children be taught? tllns. To _prsise their Rede-iemer.] What, should those children do' who have sense and reastoRennn rR jto underftand the vervino' -A. -I- i 'A &0 1x%,CIALu I VUice] AWhat is a church? [ibis. The house of God.] What does our Saviour say his Father's house should be? 13. [Ans. A house of prayer.] LESSON --LXIV. Read to verse 34. Irnstruction.-- The Greeks who desired to see our Lord are supposed to have been Gentiles who had renounced idolatry, and become worshippers of the trule God. Our Lord's answer to Andrew and Philip signified that hie must -first die before his Gospel would he spread, btt that it would be preached all over the world. From our Lord's words, verse 27, we learn.that as Alan he was troubled at the thought of- his sufferings lhe w-as about to endure, and that lih was ready to wish he could escape themi; but he kilew that, unless he did suffet, mankilud conld not be saved, nor God glorificd in -their sal. "vationD; and he changed 'his- w ish into a prayer that God wouh leave hiin to suer -and glqrify his own name. The voic from heaven was an answer to this prayer, that the peopl, might know Christ would soon be glorified as. the Son F 1 52 God. The prince of this world who was to be cast out was the devil. 9uestions,--W ho desired tosee Jesus? [Anm. Certain Greeks.] Were they-Jews? [Adns. No.] What were they? [Ans. Gentiles w-ho had renounced idolatry.] What is meant by renouncing idolatry? [wAtn. Lcaving off worshipping idols.] What did our Saviour say he must do before he could be glnrifled? 23. [A1n:. Die.] What did our Lord say about loving life and hating it? 26. [AnIs. He that lo'veth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.] What else does our Saviour say? 26. LI ins. If any man serve mn, lei him follow me; and where I ami there shall also my servant be; if any man serve me, him will my Father honour.] What did our Lord say when lie thought of his sufferinlgs that were just at hand? 27. [Ans. Father, save me from this horn; but for this cause came I into the world,] What cause did he mean? [An:. To sutfferr for mankind.] For what besides the salvation of mankind was our Lord willing r~a1?if? 28,nAs. To glorify the name of his heavenly ler. ~ ~ 0-a lvation of maukilnd' rL-ns. Yes] What did a voice from eavwen repiy ' mV % Lord said, Father, glorify thy name? 28. [Ans. J have both glorified, and I will glorify it again.] For whose sake were these words sent? [Ans. For the sake of those who heard them.] Might it not also be for the sake of thosed who should read them? [,An:. Yes.] Who did our Lord say should be cast out in consequence of his dying to redeem mankind? 31. [A,4n:. Tlhe prince of this world.] Who did he mean? [At4ns. The Devil.] Who did our Lord say he would draw to him if he was lifted up? [An:. All men.], What did he mean by being lifted up? [Ans. Crucified.] Read 'verse to the end. Instruetion..-Our Lord knew that the people who questioned him had no good design; therefore, instead of answer. ing them, he gave them warning not to neglect the present opportunity of learning the truths of the gospel, lest they should provoke God to condemn them to spiritual darkness. The prophecy our Lord alluded to is in the 53d chapter of Isaiah, in which the prophet foretold that the Jews would not believe the report of Christ's being the Messiah when he should come upon earth; but that, instead of doing so, they would treat him, in the most abominable manner, and at last put him to death; for which they would be punished by 153 having the light of the gospel hidden from them: this is what is meant by blinding their eyes, and hardening their hearts. When our Lord came upon earth in our nature, he came for a very different purpose than thatfor which he will come the second time. The latter part of our Saviour's discourse shews that God the Father and God the Son are truly one; and that those who do not believe this doctrine, after it has been revealed to them, will endanger their eternal salvation. Questions.--What did our Lord advise those who questioped him to walk in? 35. [Ans. The light.] What light did he mean? [Ans. The light of the Gospel.] What does the Gospel enlighten, our eyes or our minds? [Ans. Our minds.] Could ive have known any thing about Christ or our salvation without the Gospel? [Ans. No.] What kind of darkness do those walk or live in who are ignorant of the things revealed by the Scriptures? [Ans. Spiritual darkness.] What. do you understnd by spiritual darkness? [Ans. Ignorance of religion.] Is not this a great deal worse than blindness of the eyes? [Ans. Yes.] What prophet foretold that the Jews would not believe Jesus to be the Christ when he should appear? [Ans, Isaiah.] Did the Jews believe in our Saviour when he came? [Ans. No.] What did he do before them to prove that he was the Messiah? [Ans. He wrought miracles.] Did none of the Jews believe in him? [Ans. Yes.] Did any of the Jewish rulers believe him to be the Messiah? [Ans. Yes.] Can you name one in particular who did so? [Ans. Nicodemus.] When"did he go to Christ to converse with him? [Ans. By night.] Did the rulers who believed in our Saviour confess their faith publicly? [Ans. No.] Why did they not? [Ans. Lest they should be put out of the synagogue.] What did those who were afraid to confess Christ shew that they loved better than the favour of God? [Ans. The praise of men.] What did our Saviour shew by saying that those who believed in him, believed in him thatsent him? [Ans. That God the Father and God the Son are one God ] Did our Saviour come upon earth at that time to judge the world? 47. [Ans. No'~ What did he come for [IAns. To save the world.] Will he never come to judge the world? [Ant. Yes, at the last day.] What is to be understood by our Lord's saying, that the commandment of the Father is everlasting life? 50. [Ans. That those who believe what God has taught and commanded shall have everlasting life.] I1A PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION: Jnjtruction.---Our Lord's promise, verse 26, should encourage. us to go through all difficulties, that we may follow him to heaven; and from his willingly submitting to stiffer o muich for our sake and the glory of God, we should learn to do what we can for the good of mank.ind and thle glory of God. What he says about walking in the light, should lead us to pray for the constant help of the Holy Spirit, that we manry be preserved fromn spiritual darkness, and enabled to understand the word of God. -And from what he says cotncerning himself, in the latter part of this discourse, we should b~elieve him to be truly one with God the Father. Questions.---Which is of most value, this life or the next? [Ans. The next.] Why is the next life- the most valuable? (Ans. Because it will be a happier life, and klst for ever.] Where will those be in the next world who follow our ha - vibur in this? [Ans. In heaven.] What do you understand by following Christ? [Anzs. Following his example and his precepts.] What should we be readiy to do in imitation of our Saviour, for the good of mankind and the glory o~f God? [An:. Suffer.] What should we alwvays do in order to keep from spirituil dacrkness? [Ans. Walk in the litht of the Gospel.] Is not spiritual darkness a dreadful tihing)? [Js. Yes.] Can you recollect a very bad manr, of whom there is a great deal said in one of the books of Moses, wvho was punlishied with spiritual darkness? [ uIns. Pharaoh, king of Egy)'pt. Will those who believe in Christ, and follow his example, incuir this punishment? [4ns. No.] LESSON LXV. Read the -whole Lesson. Instruction..---Peter at first refused to be vashed by Christ from a sense of unworthineis ini himllself, and hie afterwards yielded fronmlove and venerdation for his divine master. Our Lord's design, iw perfornming this servile office, was chiefly to set an example of humility. All hearts were open to our * Lord, and he-knew one of his apostles would betray him; but he would nbt name the traitor openly, lest he should draw * the resentment of the others upon him;j but he gave John a sign to know him by, that he inight bear witness afterwards Sýat every circumstance rel-ating to him was known to hiun before it came to pass. Our Lord's presenting Judas with a sop was an act of kindness and friendship, but he was not disposed to receive it as such; on the contrary, he was full of 155 age that his wicked purpose was known. It is said, that the beloved disciple leaned on J.us' bosom. This means that he was pl:,ced next to him at table. They did not at that time si;t ' table in the m:!nner we do, but rather lay along, so that thI head of otie cane to the breast of another. The p!ce offered to JuJas by 'he Jewish council amounted to about three pounds fifteen shillings of our money, a sum fix,-d by the law of Moses to be paid by the owner of a beast wiLich had by accident killed a slave belonging to another person. This the)y proposed, to shew their contempt of Jesus; and Jiudas was mnean enough to accept it. The prophet Ze. chariah for. told this circumstance, chap xi. verse 12, &c. Bet re his departure our Lord gave a positive commandment, designed for all Christians, that they should love one another, as he had loved thclem; and this love is the distinguishing badge of Christ's disciples. The words little children, was an expression of kindness and affection. Qucsiions.---'Why did our Saviour wash his disciples' feet? [Ans. To set an example of humility.] Why did Peter at first refuse to have his feet washed by Christ? [Ans. Because he thought himself unworthy.] What did our Lord foretel concerning one of his apostles? 21. [Ans. That one of them 'should betray him.] Were-not the apostles very soirrowful? [Ans. Yes.] What did they say? 22. (Ans. Lord, is it I?] What sign did our Lord give to his beloved discipleby which he might know the traitor? 26. [ xns. He to whom he should gi e a sop.] Who was the beloved&disciple? [Ans. John.] To whom did our Lord give the sop? (Ans. To Judas Iscariot.] Was this a kind action or an unkind one? [Ans. A kind one.1 Did the rest of the apostles judge from this action of our Lord's, that Judas was the man? [Ans. No.] Was not every part of our Lord's conduct to Judas. kind and benevolent? [Ans. Yes.] Did our Lord's kindness melt Judas? [Ans. No.) How came it not to do so? [Ans. He had hardened his heart against him.] What did our Lord do when his kindness failed i [Ans. He gave Judas up.} What happened then? 26. [A's. Satan entered into him.] What did Judas then do? [Ans. He went to the chief priests to betray Jesus.] What price did they agree to give him? [Ans. Thirty pieces of silvFr.] Did Judas agree to take this trifling sum [Ans. Yes.] What prophet foretold that thirty pieces of silver would be the price of the Messiah? [dns. Zcchariah.] What fnew commandment did our Saviour give to his disciples? 34. SE[ns. That they should love one another as he had loved them. 156 'PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION* Instruction.- -From our Lord's washiing the feet of his aposo tles, we should learn to be ready to perform the meanest offices for any of our fellow Christians. By our Lord's behaviour to Judas we are instructed to keep from bitter re. proaches towards our enemies, and to endeavour to soften them by kind behaviour. From our Lord's giving it as his own commandment to his disciples, to love one another, as he had loved them', we should learn to consider all Christians as opr brethren, and, as such, to be ready at all times to instruct, 'comfort, or assist and pray for themn; to take their part when we hear them falsely accused, and to bear their failings wi~ti compassion. Questioms.---W hat should we learn from our Lord's washing the feet of his disciples? [Ans. To be ready to do the meanest offices for our fcllow Christians.] What should we learn from our Lord's behaviour to the traitor Judas? [Ans. How to behave to our bitterest enemies ] "Did our Lord reproach Judas, and call him a false friend and a traitor? [Ans. No.] Did he expose him to the other apostles, by tellincr them that Judas was the wicked person who intended to betray him? [Ans. No.] Was he in a rage with judas, and desirous of taking revenge of himr? [Ans. No.) 1-low was our Lord, when he thoughrof the wickedness of Judas? (Ant. Troubled in spirit.] Do not you think it was encugh to have tnovtd any good heart, to have observed this t1ouble in the Countenance of so benevolent and kind a master, and to hear hin say, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betra~y nme? [Ant. Yes,] How came Judas to be in the power of Satan? [CAnt. Because our Lord1's kindness did not move him.) Should not this be a warning to us? [AXs. Yes.] Whatsh.doU1ld we learn from our Lord's commandment? 32. [Anis. To love one another as Christ loved us.] What shall Nve shew ourselves to be if we do so? [Ant. Christ's disciples.] LESSON LXV1. Read to verse 26. 1sntictio.-X...This Lesson shews that nothing relating to o'ir Lord's sufferings was unknown to him; he informed his dis-0 ciples of the very day in which he should be bitrayed tq be caucified. By preparing the passover, was meant pro-iding a 157 lamb to be roasted for supper, and eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. The lamb thus eaten was called the paschal lamb, or lamb of the passover, and it was meant to represent the Redeemer, who had delivered Israel out of Egypt, and who was to deliver mankind from the bondage of sin, and save those who had faith in God's mercy from eternal death. Our Lord Jesus Christ was himself the Redeemer, and is called by John the Baptist, the Lamb of God that taketh away the sins of the world. Questions.---Did our Lord know the exact time of his approaching sufferings? [Ans. Yes.] When did he tell his disciples he should be betrayed to be crucified? [Am. At the feast of the passover.] What was that feast kept in remembrance of? [Ans. The Lord's passing over the houses of the Israelites.] When was that? [Adns. When the Lord slew the firstborn of Egypt.] How were the apostles to prepare for the passover? [Ans. By providing a lamb to be roasted for supper.] What was to be eaten with it? [Ans. Unleavened bread and bitter herbs.] What was the lamb called? [Ans. The Paichal Lamb.] Who was it meant to represent before our Saviour's coming? [Ans. The Redeemer.] Who is the Redeemer? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] What did John the Baptist call our Saviour, when he was speaking of him to his own disciples? [nr. The Lamb of God which taketh away the sins of the world.] Read verse 26 to the end. Instruction.---When our Lord took the bread in his band, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to his disciples, saying, Take, eat, this is my body which is given for you; and the cup, saying, Drink ye all of it; this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins; he willingly offered his body and blood for the redemption of mankind; he testified that he was now ready to be sacrificed upon the cross: and when he said, Do this in remembrance of me, he ordaiied the Holy Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, instead of the Passover, to be a memorial of his death, for the remission of sins, to the end of the world. The blood of the New Testament signifies the blood of the New Covenant, that is, God's covenant through Christ, for the forgiveness of sins. What our Lord said, concerning his not eating the passover and drinking wine, may be understood to mean, that the passover should be put an end to. The prophecy our Lord alluded.to is in the book of Zecha - 158 riah, chap. xuiii. verse 7. 'Peter had great affection for his diieMatr but he had too grear c iee in hiimself. Our Lord's words, 'ihou caust not tollow. me, now, but thou shalt follow meafterwaids, sign ifieri, tbit.- 1is own wvo,!k was 'nlearly finished, lthat of his apoitles bu~t ilimt beguLn.. Question1s --Did ouir Lord give his rcali body to be eaten? [Ans. IN'o.1 Did hle, not gi.ve hisi bodly at ll1 1, [A17s. Yes.)i What dYiA he -ive it to be done v,:ith [JsCr.di'ifl d Wh1)a t did he or;.in to ( oresent his bod, u)nd to br- Ldtei, [A~ns. Bread1.] Did our ILot d give his disciples hit- ovtn reý I bl';od* to drink. -; ()I As. N!).] Did he give hi; 1-ýA od. at all) '[An1ts. Yct, ] XX hat did hie give it to be- (dote with?[ibis To be sheki for tiehe i-e-issiotu of sn What idA hit- at,'. in to represcnt his blood, Adid to be drank?27 [Airs Ni ne.] W~hat weie hisi disciples to do in rernenhrflnee of iai yingD his body to be broken cii thle crosF, and his blood to Le shek-d for the remission of sinsý? [Ans. They were to eat bread and drink-wine.) What did our Lord do before hie brake tlie bi cad Anil gave it? 26. [Ans. He bles-ed it.] Wh~lat did hie do be'fore he gave themi the cup?) 27. [.4is. He gave thans]B what name did ho call. his own blood? [Anis. The blood of the New Testamncrt.] What is mteant by the New htsnent? [Ans. God's covenant through Christ.] WVhat. have those who rep~ent and be-lieve in God's mercy througiý Christ, by this covenanIlt,[Ains. RentiSsioi, of sins.] Whclat is n ant by remission of sins? [,ins. Free pardon.] Did ou r Sai-it',(r tell h's (disciples they were to go on keep'ing the p'tissovec1 af ter 'bis death? [Atis. No.] What did our Lord's dis ciple do atter they had received the ivdysacr~amcnt? 29. [A4,2s. 1 hy sanig an hymn.] Where did they. go to? [.4bis. 'To the n nu-lut of 'Olives.] W~ha't prophiecy didl our Lord rt-peat?31. [Ans. I will qntiite the Shepherdi, and the sheep of'the fioek Ohall be scatt( red -abroad.] Who wrote this p~rophecy? L,'Iiis Zeichariah.] Who was nm-ant. by the shepherd? [,Ins. 'Ju. Lord Jesus Christ.] Who were mieant by the sheep of his flock? [Ans. His disciples.] When did oui Lord s;ay that lyr)pliecY w~uld be, fulfil'led?.[.,ns. That bight.] Wh;lt.ld Peter say hie would nevur do? 32. [,Ins. Deny Christ.] Wh 1at did' our Lord tell him hie 6crtainly would do? -j.. [Ans. Deny him thric.e before, the cock should crow twiecý.] What did Icter* s;ey then?. [dos. ThoughYl I shiould die with thee, yet "wiil I not deny thee.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTI-ON. lInsruction*.--From tbi4 Les~un we learn,, that our Lord 159 w li ngly gave-his body and hi; blood for the remission of sins; anj;d thi,-t Ie( appointte-d the Holuty Sacraertest of the Lord's Supper as a" nmemorial of his cloing so. 'iTe account of our Lord's institoting the holy sacrament shewrs, that when he discoursed before of h'i-disciple * s eatinghiis flesh, and drinking his blood, he did not mean that they should eat his real body, and drink his real bloodl, but that they should cat and drink what hte ordain~eld to represent his body and blood, namely, bread and wine,.and fCeed on1 him inI their hearts by faith vwith thaniksgiving-; or, in other words, sincerely believe that lie had given his body anid blood for the remission of sins, and ordajued bread 4nd wvine. to be equen, and be thankful for his love in thuus giving himself for the redemption of mankind. Questions.--Did not our Saviour, long befbre the institution of the Lord's Supper, talk of people's eating his flesh and drinking his blood? [1ns. Yes.] Is it not- very plain that Christikuls are rveqi6red to do thAt which our Lord meant by rating bis fesli, and drinking his blood?Ans. Yes.] What is ttqt? [Ans. To eat bread, a nd driink wine, in remembrance of him.] In Vemniembranoce of whatt? [Ans. Of Christ's giving his body nid blood for the remission of sins.] Should this wondcrletl in~ta nce of Christ's love for mnankind be ever Ior~ntt en? [Anes. No 7] Should not we' think that person very ul kind and ungratetifil, svl shoujd reluse to comuply with the dying reqIuest of a friei,4 who had left hirfi a very great e~tate? tA4s. Yus.1 Suppose also that this friend had lost his~life in defence o f t hee pe-rson to w hom he left t his great fortune, wNould it not be veryjitngrat~ful to forget such a friend? Ains. Yes ] Can apy frienkd do fu ruis What our Saviouur has done? [tns. No.] 11as lie not actueollly laid down his life, for us? [Atns. Yes.] Has he not purchased for us an heavenly inheritance? [Ans. Yes.] What must we do to kcep tp the remembrance of this? [A;s.,Eat bread, and drink wine, in remembrance of himi1 Do you think it can be right for Christians to neglect this H-1oly Sacrament? [ ns. No.) Wenrc those to whorm our Lord gave the Sacrament learned or unlearned persons? [Ans. Unlearned.] Should people stay away from the Sacrament because they are not learned? [Ans. No.] Cannot an unlearned person believe that Christ gave his body and flood for mankind? [A4ns. Yes.] Cannot an unlearned person believe t hat he shall be saved through Christ? [Ans. Yes.] Cannot he repent of his sins ) [An3. YesC % Cannot he b- 'n charity with his neigrhbour,? [Ans. Yes.. If a person can do all this, he may be fit to receive thesacran. 160 ment; but he must do all this, or he certainly will not be fit to partake of the body and blood of Christ. LESSON LXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---Our Lord delivered this divine discourse to comfort his disciples, who, without doubt, were greatly troubled at the thought of his leaving them. By his Father's house, he certainly meant heaven, in which there are many mansions, or inheritances, for all his followers. By his being the way, he meant that no one could go to heaven but through him. Our Lord's answer to Philip plainly shews, that he is one with God the Father, and truly God. If he had not been so he could not have wrought such wonderful miracles. 'The Comforter promised by our Lord was the Holy Ghost, who was to abide with the true disciples of Christ for ever; of whose heavenly aid worldlyminded people, not attending to spiritual things, know nothing. The peace which our Lord, as his last legacy, bequeathed to his disciples, was, the Peace of God. The meaning of the words, My Father is greater than I, from the rest of the discourse, appears to be, that they were not to judge of the glory and happiness of God from what they saw of him in our Saviour upon earth, because the two states were very different. By the prince of this world is understood the devil. Questions.---Do not you think our Lord's disciples must have been greatly troubled at the thought of his leaving them? Amns. Yes.) What did he mean by his Father's house 2. [Ans. Heaven.] What did he mean by saying that in his Father's house are many mansions? [Ans. That there are inheritances in heaven for all his followers.] What did our Lord's answer to Philip shew? is. [Ans. That he and God the Father are one.] How did our Lord prove that he is in the Father and the Father in him? [Ans. By his miracles.] What did our Lord desire his disciples to do to shew their love to him? 15. [Am. Keep his commandments.] What did our Lord'say he would pray the Father to gie them } 16. [Ans. Another Comforter.],Who is this Comforter? [Ans. The Holy Ghost.] To whom did our Lord say he would manifest or make himself known? 21. [.ns, To those who 161 ove him and keep his commindments.] What did our Lord;ay the Holy Ghost would -teach, and bring to the rememh. bx'ance of his disciples? 25. [Ans. All things whatsoever he had said unto them.] What did our Lord leave as his last legacy to his disciples?ý 27. [An:js. His peace.] Had not the apostles reason to rejoicethlat their Lord was going to a more glorious state? [dns. Yes.] Why did he tell his'disciples about his going away and the sending of the Holy Ghost? 29. [Ans. That when it camie to pass they might believe in him.] Who did he mean by the prince of this world who had nothinig in Wim? 3,0. [Ans. The devil.] How did our Lord shew in his human nature that he loved the Father? '31. [Ans. By doing as the Father gave him commandnaent.J rRACTICAL INSTRUCTIOM Instruction.- --Fro m 6ur Lord's words, Ye believe in God, believe also in me, we learn, that to believe in one God the Father Almighty, maker of heaven and earth, is not the whole'of the Christian faith, we must also believe in Christ; and in nis oi v&.a, cmaco-arvR otir Lord has taught us that we must believe him to be one with the Father, and truly God. We also learn, that there actually is an inheritance in heaven prepared for all the faithful followers of Christ, and that at the end of the world they will be put in possession of it. This should make us look upon heaven as our home. We learn further from this discourse, that we must not only believe in Christ, but we must love~him, and shew our love by keeping his commandment's. If we do this, God the Father will love us, and God the Son will manifest himself unto us, ar make us fully sensible that he is the Son of God and our Redeemer; and God will abide with us. The Peace which our Lord bequeathed as his last legacy, was not confined to his disciples, but designed for all good Christians, for all who love and obey him, it is called by St. Paul, the Peace of God which passeth all understanding; and, indeed, it must be felt in order to be known. If we would partake of this ines.. timable legacy, we must cherish in our minds a sincere love of God, and ume our utmost endeavours to be good Christians. Questions,--Is it sufficient for a Christian to believe in God the Father only.? [Adns.'No.] In whom else must we be. lieve? [.An:. Ih Jesus Christ.] What must we believe of Christ? [A?1m That he is one with. God the.Father.) How 1621 *did our Lord prove this? [Ant. By his works.] Is then certainly an inheritance provided for the faithful in heaven [Ans. Yes] How long will thc)' covunue in heaven? [Ans, For ever and ever.] Which should 7ve regard as our home this world in which we shall rt maio but a fcw short years, or heaven? [.An. [T-eaven.] Who wV ill come and conduct tht faithful to their heavenly miansions i [kIt4. Our Saviour.] Are we sure of going to htaven, wblcher we take the right way or not? [Ans. No.] Which is the right way? [Adns, To believe in our Saviour.] What must we do besides believing in Christ? [A,4ns. Love him). How are we to shew our love? [A4ns, By keeping his comma ndments. ] What does our Saviour say God the Father will do in respect to those who love Christ? 21. [Ans. Love them.] Did the apostles understand our Lord's discourse at the time? [Ans. No.] Who did he say would teach them all things, and bring all things to their remembrance? z;. [Ans. The Holy Ghost.] What 'does our Lord call the Holy Ghost in the begi nning of this verse? [.--ins. The Comforter ] Do you not find in this Lesson three Divine Persons spokr-n of as God, namely,.The Father, The Soni, and The H1oly Ghost? [.ins. Yes.1 Does not this plainly shew what wa, C1011 TP.;Lit i, at is to say, Three Persons in one God? F.-Ins. Yes.] Ought we not 4hep to believe in a Trinity'? [Ant. Yes.] For whom was 'oui L0crd's iegaOy of Peace designed? [Ant. For all good,Christians.] What does St. Paul call it? [Ans. The Peace of God which passeth all understtn ng.] Is it not very desitable to enjoy this peace? [Ans. Yes.] 'What must wve cherish in our minds in order to partake of this peace? [OAs. A sincere love of Gdd.] What must we endeavour to be? [Ans..Good Christians.] LESSON LXYIII. R7ead 1he uhole Lesson. Instructi1n - --Our*Saviotr might very properly compare him'self to-a vine, and God the Father to a husbandmmanbecauie -the life of the world was in the Messiah, and it was God tihe Father who planted the Messiah in the world. From the description of the husbAundman's proceedings we. may learn, that every unprofitable meember of the Christian church -will be finally cast away from God, anid the best Christians exercised with: trials to purify their hearts. From what our Lord sits. concerning abiding in him, we learn, that if wve 163 forsake our Saviour, God will withdraw his grace; and without the grace of God we cannot bring forth the fruits of righteousness. Our Lord promised his apostles to treat them from henceforth as friends; but that they might not suppose it was their own merit thit procured them that honour, he rtminnded them that he had madechoice of th m from amongst his numerous followers, that they might be ministers of the Gospel, and he promised to endow them with every spiritual gift they should stard in need of. Our Lord again repeated his commandment to his apostles, because it was particularly necessary for them to love one another, as they would soon be exposed to the hatred and enmity of wicked persons; he therefore exhorted them to unite firmly together, and not to be discouragdd by the hatred of the world, since it was what he had taught them to expect, and had met with himself, utestions..---To what did our Lord compare himself? r. [Ans. To a vine.] To what did he compare God the Father?' [Ans. To the husbandman.] To what did he compare Christians? [Ans. To the branches ] What will be done to every unprofitable member of the Christian church? [Ans. 'God will cut lhim off] Wl!at will God do to the best Christians? [Ans Exercise them with trials ] For what purpose? [Anr. To purify their heartsI. What may we learn from what our Lord says of abiding in him? 6. [Ans. That God will withdraw his grace from those who forsake their Saviour.] Can any one. bring forth the fruits of righteousness without the grace of God? [Ans. No] What did our Lord say he should for the future call his apostles, if they obeyed his commandments? 14. [Ans. His friends.] Was it for their own merit that the twelve apostles were chosen from the rest of his followers? [ ns No.].For what purpose were they chosen? [.ns. To be ministers of the Gospel.] What did our Lord promise to endow them with? [A4ns. Every spiritual giftj 'lo whom in particular did our Lord repeat his cominandment? [AIns. To the Apostles.] \\ hy was it particularly necessary that tlhey should love one another? 18. [Ans. Becautse the world would hate them.] Who did our Saviour meau by the world?.[Ans. Worldly-minded people.3 Who did our Lord say theworl'd hated before it hated bis -apostles? 18. Lins. Himself.] Were not the Jews in particular very sinful in setting themselves against Christ notwithstanding his wonderful works? [.ins. Yes.]. Ilwhom bad the Jews seen;abd heard God the Father? [Ans. In Christ,] Who cd4 our Lord,ay he would send to them from the Father as 164 another witness of himself? 26. [Ans. The Comforter.j Who is that? [Ans. The Holy Ghpst.] Who besides the Holy Ghost were to bear witness to Christ? 27. [Ans. His apostles.] Were they not qualified to do so by having seen his miracles, and heard his doctrine? [Ans. Yes,] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--We should learn from this Lesson to continue steadfast in our Christian profession, lest we be cut off as unfruitful branches; and we should also learn to bear with patience the trials we meet with in our Christian course, as they are certainly intended for our benefit. If we depart from our faith, or leave off being Christians, destruction will be our lot; if we continue faithful and obedient our prayers will be heard. As our Saviour testified his love for us, we should endeavour to show our love for him, by living holy lives, that we may glorify our heavenly Father, and do honour to the religion of Christ. We should also, in obedience to our Lord's commandment, love one another. If we do not cherish a spirit of general kindness to all mankind, /and particularly towards our fellow Christians, we shall not deserve the name of Christians. It is wonderful to think of the great condescension of the Son of God in calling himself the friend of his apostles, the greatest part of whom were poor illiterate fishermen. This circumstance should raise the hopes of the humble, and bring down the pride of the lofty. No other qualifications are required from the great friend of human kind for a share in his friendship, but a sincere love of God and of our fellow-creatures; surely then we should each of us strive to obtain it. Questions.---In what should we continue steadfast? [Ans. Our Christian profession.] If we depart from our faith, what will be our lot? [Ans. Destruction.] What will be heard if we continue faithful? [Ans. Our. prayers.] Should we not endeavour to shew our love for our Saviour? [Ans.Yes.] How can we do this? [Ans. By leading holy lives.] Who shall we glorify if we do so? [Ans. Our heavenly Father.] What shall we do honour to? [Ans. The religion of Christ.] What should we do in obedience to our Lord's commandment? [Ans. Love one another.] If we do not so, shall we deserve the name of Christians? [Ans No.] Is it not wonderful to think that the Son of God should condescend to call any of the human race his friends? [Ani. Yes.] Is it not a most desirable thing to have the friendship of the Son of God? 165 Ans. Yes.] How is it to be obtained? IAns. By a sincere ove of God and of our fellow-creatures.] LESSON LXIX. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--.Our Lord informed his apostles beforehand of the sufferings they must undergo from wicked men, that they might not be surprised or disheartened afterwards. He did not mention these things in the beginning of his ministry, because their minds were not disposed to receive them. Even at the time he was speaking, shey did not consider the blessed mansions he was going to, or the Comforter he had promised to send them; they only thought of the melancholy part, the loss of him. It certainly was expedient for all mankind, as well as for the apostles, that our Saviour should go away, in order that he might complete the great purpose of redemption by his death and ascension, and send the Holy Ghost; and also that he might come with glory to judge both the quick and the dead. Our Lord told his apostles that their sorrow should be turned into joy, such joy as the world could not take from them; and that when he was no longer present, they, might pray to the Father in his name. It was with a view to oomfort, and not to distress them, that he talked of these things. Questions.-.-Why did our Lord talk so much to his disci. ples about the sufferings they were afterwards to endure? [Ans. That they might not be surprised or disheartened after-, wards.] Would the great purpose of our Lord's coming have been answered if he had continued always upon earth in hisa human nature? [Ans. No.] What was the great purpose of his coming upon earth? [A.s. To redeem man* kind.) How was he to do this? [Ans. By laying down his life for them.) When was he to send the Holy Ghost, the Comforter? [Ans. When he had ascehded into heaven,] Why were the disciples sorrowful at the thoughts of our Saviour's departure from earth? [Ans. Because they did not, consider where he was going to.] What did our Saviour ayf their sorrow should be turned into? [As., Joy,] Whatt id. he say..they might do when he was no longer upon earthj [Ans. Pray to the Father in his name] For What purpose' did our Lord say he spake thib discourse [UAsd.sTo cffort his discl les.] - -:;;. 166 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---We are to observe particularly, tlat our Lord in this discourse promised to send the Holy Ghost to supply the want of his bodily presence; this should keep us from wishing that our Saviour was now upon earth. We should also observe what our Lord said concerning the Holy Ghost, which shews, that all which the Holy Spirit afterwards revealed, related entirely to the religion which Christ came upon earth to establish; which is a farther confirmation that Go(d the Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost, are one God. We also learn from this discourse, that we can have access to God the Father by prayer, but that we must offer.up our petitions in the name of Christ. As sinners, we can claim no right to ask any thing of God; but every thing-proper for us will be given us for our Saviour's sake, if we pray in his name. Our Lord's words in the last verse of this Lesson are very plain to be understood, and they may be applied to all Christians, for in him they may at all times find peace, even in the midst of the greatest tribulations, for he has overcome the world, and disarmed death of its power. As-the Captain of our salvation, he has conquered for us all the.poders of darkness, and opened for us the gate of ever)la ting life;. -:0,; Qestionr. --Should we wish our Saviour to have remained always upon earth in his human nature? [Ans. No.] Who bas he sentlto' upply the want df his bodily presence? [Ans. The Holy Ghbst.} Tof what did the things afterwards revealed by the Holy Ghost relate? [Ans. To the religion of Christ.] Does not what our Saviour says in these verses show that the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, are one God? [Ants, Yes ) May such sinful dreatures as mankind pray to God the Father Almighty? [Ans. Yes.] In whose name roust we pray? [Ans. In:the name of Christ.] Why so? [Ans. Because he is our Mediator.] In whom may Christians find peace? [An, In Christ.] What must they expect to meet with in the world? 33. [Ans. Tribulations.] What are tribulations? [Ans. Sorrows and troubles.] Does not our Saviour tell Christians to be of good cheer, or to take heart, notwithstanding? [Ans. Yes.] What doesg he say he has overcome? 33. (Ans. The world;] Did: not our Saviour say before, Peace i leave with you? [Ans. Yes.] What peace did he men? [(Am. The peace of God which passeth all understanding.] What peace do you think he means here? [Ans. The same.] Does not this peace cheer the mind under all the 167 lirouibles and sorrows of life?,(Ans. Yes.1 Is it not a most cormforiable thing to think that our Saiviour has overcome theworld, so ti-kt its troubles and sorrows cannot destroy the happiness of those who btlieve and trust in hini? [An3. Yes.] LESSON LXX. Read to verse 9. Instruction--This Leison contains our Lord's solemn prNayer with which he. ended his mnistry. 11e first prayed for -himself, -then for his apostles, and then for all his faithful discip)les to the end of the world. T1he hour that was come was the hour for his suhniitting to sufficr and die for men's redemption. Verse 5 shews that our Saviour in his divine nature cnjoyed eternal glory with the Father before tht- foundation of the world. Quc'stions.--What hour was come. when our Lord offered up this prayer 'r [Ans. T'he hour for his submitting to suffer and die for men's redemption.] What did our Lord say lie had done upon eaeth.4. [Ans. Glorified the Fathier.] What did he say he had finished? [Ans. 'ithe work which the Father gave him to do.] WV-hat glory did he wish to be glorifiedO with? [Ans. The glory which he had with the Father before the world was.] %, ho did lie mean by the men whom the.Fa-- ther had given him out of this world? 6. [Ans, His Apostles.] Read verse 9 to 20. k-Wnruction.--In these verses our Lort( pray' d for his Apostles; the Wvords, Sanictify them tlbrough thy truth,' signified, make them. by the inspi ration of the-Holy Ghoslhoiypersons, as they are set apart for the ministry oft te gospel.,' Son of. perdition signified, one'who had bronght ruin updn~himself;_ Questions.---For whiom did ourtLord pray in these verses): [Ans. For his- Apostlus]1 Whio did he mean by the 'son of" perdition.? 12. [Ans. Judas Iscariot.] Read verse 20 to the e n d. Instruction.--..This part of our Lord's solemn prayer was for all his faithful followers to the end of the world. To be one with God the Father and God the Son, signifies to have the Holy Spirit bestowed upon them, and to belong to the church of God. Qaeaidons.--For whom didour Lord pray in the cdond'din-:g part -f his prayer? [Ans. For all his faithful followers tof the end of the world.] What did. our Lord pray in be1falC of those who should be united with- Goa through'thb8 If6ly 168 Spirit? 24. [ins. That they might be with him and behold his glory.] Where must they go in order to do this? [Jns. To heaven.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION, Instruction.---We should learn from this most excellent Prayer to honour our Saviour as the eternal Son of God, who laid aside his glory and took our nature upon him to redeem mankind by laying down his life for them; and we should be thlankful to him for this astonishing instance of his love for sinners. By the petitions our Lord offered up in behalf of Christians in general, we are taught that we should pray to be united with God the Father and the Son by the Holy Spirit, and to be received after death into the kingdrn of heaven. And as it is our duty to imitate our Saviour, we should remember that he had always the glory of his heavenly Father in view, and that he glorified the Father on earth by obeying his will in all things. Questions.---In what light should we regard our Saviour from his praying the Father to glorify him with the glory which he had with him before the world was? [Ans. As the eternal Son of God.] Was it not a wonderful condescension in the Son of God to lay aside his glory and to take our nature upon him? [Ans. Yes.] For what purpose did the Son of God do this? [Ans. To redeem mankind.] Should not we be thankful for this wonderful instance of love to sinners? [Ant. Yes.] What should we learn from our Lord's petitions in behalf of Christians in general? [Ans. To pray to be united to God and received into heaven ] What had our blessed Saviour in view in all his words and actions? [Ans. The glory of God the Father.] Ought not all his followers to imitate him in this respect? [Ans. Yes.] How did our Lord glorify the Father on earth? [Ans. By doing his will.] Cannot we try to glorify God by doing his will? [Ans. Yes.] How can we do God's will?- [A,. By keeping his commandments.] LESSON LXXI. Read the whols Lesson. Instruction.--n respect to his agony in the garden, we most consider our Lord as" Man; the sufferings he then endured were such as his divine nature was not subject to. It appears. -trange, that on such an occasion, when our Lord told his IGs three apostles expressly, he was going to be betrayed intoeti hands of sinful men, they should sleep, but sorrow had overpowered then', and our Lord made every indulgent allowance for the infirmities of human nature.' Our Lord knew that Judas was coming with a band of armed men to take him, yet he went forth to meet them, being resolved pa. tiently to endure all the evils which were coming upon him, and to submit willingly to sufer death upon the cross for 'the salvation of mankind. Till he should resign himself into their hands, his enemies had no power to touch him; and before he would do so, he required that they should not molest his disciples. The moon was at this time near the full; but they brought lanterns and torches, that they might search about in case our Lord should have endeavoured to conceal himself, and that they might manage their arms if they should have occasion to use them. Peter was very rash in drawing his sword at such a time; but we are told by one of the evangelists that our Saviour healed the man by a miracle, whose ear Peter had cut off; and it is probable he did this just as the man was going to seize.him.-A Roman legion consisted of six thousand men:. we find that the Son of God had legions of angels ready to come to his succour if he had needed them. But our blessed Lord would not pray for an army of angels, because he could not fulfil the prophedies.without submitting to the death of the cross. The behaviour of the dis. ciples, when their Lord was apprehended, shews how much they stood in need of his admonition to watch and pray lest they entered into temptation. Questions.---What garden did our Lord enter when he had ended his prayer for his disciples and followers? [Ans. Gethsemane.] Who did he take withlhi? 36. [Ans. The two sons of Zebedee.] Who were the sons of Zebedee? Ans. James and John.] What did our Lord mean by the cup which he prayed might pass from him? 3. [Ans. His sufferings.] Did he find his disciples watching when he came back? (Ans. No they were asleep.] Was not our Lord in a very great agony? 44. [Ans. Yes.] What shewed that he was so? [Ans. His bloody sweat.) In what nature did out Lord suffer this agony [tAns: In his human nature.) Was it not the duty of the three apostles to watch with their Master when they saw him so distressed? [Ans. Yes.] Did they sleep from carelessness, or from the infirmity of their nature? 41. PAgr II. a 170 7 fAis. From infirmity.] Did our Lord try to escape from those who came with Judas? [Ans. No, he went forth to meet them.] -What did he say to them? [Ans. Whom seek ye?] What did they say? 5. [Ans. Jesus of Nazareth.] What reply did our Lord make? [Ans. I am he.] What happened then? 6. [Ans. They fell to the ground.] Why did not they seize trpon him? [Ans. They were overruled by divine powgr.] WVas not our Lord very kind to think of his disciples at such a-time? [Ans. Yes.] Was not Judas very treacherous and iicked? [Ans. Yes.] What rash action did Peter commit? 10. fAns. He cut off a man's ear.] What benevolent act did our Lord do? [Ans. He healed the man's ear.] Who did our Saviour say the Father would send to defend him if he prayed for them.? '[Ans. Twelve legions of: Angels.] How many:was a Roman legion of soldiers? [Ans. Six thousand.] Would it not have been very dreadful to his enemies to behold twelve legions of angels? [Ans. Yes.] Why did not our Lord call fomthe angels to come to him? [Ans. Because the prophecies would not have been fulfilled.} Was there any occasion for the multitude to come- out against our Lord, as against a thief, 'to take him? [Ans. No.] Did he deliver himself into their hands? [Ans. Yes.] What was all this done for? [Ans. That "he Scriptures might be fulfilled.J Did his disciples stand by him'? 55.. [/Ins. No, they all forsook him, and fled.] What did our Lord prove himself to be when Judas and the others tame to take him? [ins. The Son of God.] What circumstance shewed this? 6. [Ans.. The men's falling backward to the ground.] PRACTICAl6 INSTRUCTION., Instruction.--Our Lord's exhortation to his disciples, Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation, should be attended to by all Christians; for the devil is always ready to tempt those who are off their guard, and who neglect to pray for the help of the Holy Spirit. Our Lord's kindness to his'disciples who slept while they phould have been watching,, affords great comfort to all Christians who fall into kin through the weakness of their nature, but it is. comfortable' to those only whose spirit is willing. From our Lord's praying that.thf cup might pass from him we learn, that we may pray to be delivered from any evil that afflicts 's, or is likely to fall upon us; 171 but we must at the same time resign ourselves wholly to the. will of God, as our Saviour did; then we may be certain, that. comfort and support, at least, will be sent us; not, indeed, bj an angel from heaven, but by the Holy Spirit. From our Lord's delivering himself into the hands of his enemies, we should learn to submit to whatever it shall please God to call upon us to bear; and we may know that God calls us, when we cannot avoid the evil without acting contrary to the holy Scriptures: and, from his disciples forsaking him, we should learn not to depend with too much confidence upon the friendship of even the best men. Questions.--Who is the devil always ready to tempt? [Ans. Those who are off their guard.] What should we do then? 41. [Ans. Watch and pray, lest we enter into temptation.] Did not our Lord forgive his disciples for sleeping when they should have been watching with him? FAns. Yes.] Why did he do so.? 41. [Ans. Because the spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak.] Do you think our Lord will be as ready to excuse those whose spirit is not willing? [Ans. No.] May we pray God to save us from the evils which afflict us, or we think are coming upon us? [Ans. Yes.] How do we know that we may do so? [Ans. Because Christ did so.] What must we wholly resign ourselves to? [Ans. The will of our heavenly Father.] What may we then be certain of? [.Ans. Corhfort and support.] How will these come to us? [Ans. By the Holy Spirit.] What should we learn, from our Lord's delivering himself into the hands of his enemies? [Ans. To submit to whatever it shall please God to call us to bear.] When may we know that God calls us to bear any particular evil or affliction? [A4ns. When we cannot escape it without acting coni trary to the holy Scriptures.] What should we. learn from the behaviour of our Lord's gisciples? [Ans. Not to trust too Smuch to the friendship even of the best men.] LESSON LXXII. Read the whole Lesson.:Instruction.--Though it' was the dead of the night, the high..priest and elders of the Jews assembled together in touical; so eager were they to have Jesus brought before'entm. r~Ie proceedings against our Saviour were contrary to all law and! H 2 qnity. The high-priest examined him concerning his doetrine, only as a cover for his malice, in hopes of finding from his own mouth something for which he could accuse him. At the house of Caiaphas there were only the members of the great council assembled; in the morning they took our Lord to the chamber where they used to sit for public business: the witnesses who bore testimony against our Lord were such as are to be found in our owp courts of justice, who will take a false oath against any one for money. These men repeated tearly our Lord's own words, but they contrived tp give them a different meaning. Our Lord had,once sa;d, Destroy this temple, and in three days I will raise it up; but he spoke of the temple of his body. Caiaphas acted the part of a hypocrite when he rent his clothes in sign of sorrow, as the custom was, at hearing blasphemy. By accusing our Lord of this crime, the high-priest committed it himself. Peter was in another part of the palace while our Lord was under examination. He and all the apostles certainly ought to have gone boldly and offered themselves as witnesses to the innocence of their Master; but they suffered their fears to get the better of their duty and affection. It is likely that Peter was denying him the third time when those who guarded our Lord were conducting him from the palace of the high-priest to the council chamber. Questions.--What did the soldiers and officers do with Jesus when he had delivered himself into their hands? [Ans. They bound him.] What did they do with him then? [Ans. Tdok him to Caiaphas the high-priest.] Did any of our Lord's apostles return to see what would become of him? 15. [Ans. Yes, Peter and another disciple.] What question did a maid sertant ask Peter? 17. [Ans. Art not thou one of this man's dis6iples.] What did Peter say? [Ans. I am not.] What did the high-priest question our Saviour about? 19. [Ans. His doctrine.] For what purpose did he do this? [Ans. That he might find cause to accuse him to the Romans.] Did our Lord give him cause? [Ans. No.] What did one of the officers who stood by do? 22. [Ans. Struck Jesus with the palm.of his hand.] Could not our Lord have struck him dead upon the spot? [Ans. Yes.] Who assembled together in the morning to examine our Lord? 59. [Ans. The elders and alJ the council.) What did they seek for? [Ans. False witnesses.] Did they find any at last? [Ans. Yes.] What did these false witat tsay 01. [Ans, This fellow said, I am able to 173 destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days.] Had our Lord said those very words? Ans. No.] Wat had he said? [Ans. Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.] What did he mean by this temple? [Ans His own body.] What reply did our Lord make to these false witnesses? [Ans. He held his peace.] Did he continue silent when the high-priest adjured him by the living God to tell him whether he was the Christ, the Son of God? [Ans. No.] 64. What did he say? [Ans. Thou hast said; hereafter shall ye see the Sen of Man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.] Did the high-priest believe him? [Ans. No.] What did he say Christ was guilty of? 65. [Ans. Blasphemy.] What answerdid the others make? [Ans. He is guilty of death.] How did the soldiers and the rabble use our blessed Lord then? 67. [Ans. They spit in his face and buffeted him; others smote him with the palms of their hands.] Was not this most cruel treatment? [Ans. Yes.] What ought Peter and the other apostles to have been doing? [Ans. Bearing testimony to the innocence of their Master.] Did not Peter deny his Lord again? 25. [Ans. Yes.] How did he deny him the third time? 26. [Ans. With an oath.] What did he say? [Ans. I know not the man.] What happened as soon as he had denied his Lord the third time?. [dns. The cock crew.] Who came by at the same instant? [Ans. Our Saviour.] What did Peter remember when our Lord looked upon him? [Ans. That our Lord had foretold he would deny him.] What did Peter do when he recollected this? 61. [Ans. Went out and wept bitterly.] PRACTICAL INSTRUfCTIQO., Instruction..--By the dignity of his beaviour during his elanination by the high-priest and elders, our.Lord shewed himself to be the:Son of God and the true Messiah. While we are reading, the history of our Saviour's sufferings, we should constantly keep in- mind that he submitted to them for our sakes. 'here is:no doubt but that when Peter made his former professions, that he would follw Christ to prison, and even die with him, he was yery sincere, yet he basely forsook his Lord, and denied him before men, when he ought particularly to have confessed him. This is a strong instance of.human frailty and imperfection; and weshould learn from it, that ilf-cnofidenoe 0 sign of stedfastness in religion. Petor's.s p,^la,;]^]^Wffs, on. 174,of. holiness are. Good Christians, though they may fall like other men, through the infirmities of human nature, yet their Sway to repentance is more open and easy; their minds not being hardened by sin, are awakened by the gentlest calls of conscience. Every one may sin, but those only will repent who sincerely endeavour after righteousness. Questions.--What did the dignity of our Lord's behaviour prove him to be? [Ans. The Son of God, the true Messiah.] What should we constantly keep in mind while we are reading the history of our Saviour's sufferings? [Ans. That he submitted to them for our sakes.] What should we learn from Peter's denying Christ? ['7ns. That self-confitence is no sign of stedfastness in religion.] If we would stand firm in the hour of trial, what must we pray for? [Ans..The help of God's holy Spirit.] Did not Peter on most occasions pay great regard to his duty? [Ans. Yes.] Are not good Christians liable to fall into sin through the infirmity of their nature? [Ans. Yes.] Is repentance as difficult to them as to hardened sinners? [Ans. No.] Was not Peter soon softened into repentance? [Ans. Yes.] Had our Saviour's discourses to the Scribes and Pharisees concerning their sins, as much effect as a look had upon Peter? [Ans. No.] Should not we take care to lead a holy life, that repentance may be an easy task? [Ans. Yes.]. LESSON LXXIII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--The repentance of Judas was different from that of Peter; it led him, indeed, to confess his crime to the high-priest, but it does not appear that he humbled himself to God, or sought reconciliation with Christ. Instead of retiring to relieve himself by a flood of tears, or going to pour forth his sorrows to a friend, or to his Lord to beg forgiveness, Judas gave way to despair, and put an end to his own life. HoWv.shocking it is to read the ansWer of the chief priests, when Judas confessed that he had betrayed the innocent! They were quite at a loss what to do with the thirty Spieces of'silver. The potter's field vas in the neighbourhood of Jerusalem, and was probably so called from its having been occupied by a potter. It was the people who gave it the name of The Field ofBlood. The-prophet Zechariah foretold the-circumstances of betrayitg the Messiah for thirty pieces of silver, 175 and buying with them the Potter's field. See Zech. chap.. ii. ver, 12. Qu cstions.--' What did Judas do as soon as he found that the Jewish council had condemned Jesus todeath? [Ans. Repented himself and carried back the thirty pieces of silver.] What did he say to them? 4. [Ans. I have sinned i'n that I have betrayed the innocent blood.] What answer did they make? [Ans. What is that to us? see thou to that.] Was not this a shocking answer for such persons to make? [Ans. Yes.J What did Judas do then? [Ans. He went and hanged himself.] What did the chief priests do with the thirty pieces of silver? 7. [.Ins. They bought the potter's field to bury strangers.] What name was given to the filddafterwards?. 8. [Ans. The Field of Blood. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-Judas designed, without doubt, to end his sufferings at once when he hanged himself, but. he had better have endured life even with a wounded conscience; than die by his own hand in his sin; for had he felt a godly sorrow for his crimes, great as they were, he would have been pardoned. It is certainly the height of folly, as well as wickedness, for any one to attempt to destroy himself, since, by such an act, he only increases and prolongs those torments from which he wishes.to fly, and adds to their sting the bitter reflection of having committed a crime for which there is no repentance. SQuestions.--What should Judas have done insteadof hanging himself) [iAns. He should have gone to Christ and asked his forgiveness.] Which would have been best to have,endured, life with a wounded conscience, or die in his sin by his own hand? [Ans. Endure life.] Can any one put an end to himself, soul and body? [Ans. No.] What do those prolong and increase who put an end to their mortal lives? [Ans. Their misery.] Is there- any repentance for such a crime? [Ans. No.] LESSON LXXIV. Read to verse 13.. Instruction.--As Judea was. a Roman province, the Jews could not put any one to death, therefore they carried Jesus, very early in the morning, before Pontius Pilake, the Joman governor, to whom they accused him of a design of setting up a new kingdom in opposition to the Roman emperor. Pilate desired the Jews to try Jesus themselves, because he thought our Lord had only committed some transgression against the Jewish law, of which he did not pretend to judge. By putting him into the hands of the Romans, whose custom it was to crucify, the Jews fulfilled the prophecies our Saviour had spoken concerning the manner of his death. Our Lord's answer to Pilate shewed, that his kingdom. was a spiritual one, very different from Cesar's. Such a man as Pilate had very little reverence for truth. We read in a former Lesson, that after the death of John the Baptist, Herod had' a great desire to see and converse with Jesus, he was therefore in hopes of having his curiosity gratified when our Lord was brought before him; but no insults could provoke him to speak. Herod caused him to be dressed in a gorgeous robe, to expose him to ridicule and insult for pretending to be a king. Pilate appears to have been very desirous to release our Lord, but he was afraid if he did so the Jews would accuse him to Cesar as a disaffected person. Questions.-Where did theytake our Lord to from the council chamber? [Ans. Into the hall of judgment.] Who was judge there? [Ans. Pilate the Roman Governor.] What did his accusers say to Pilate? 2. [Ans. That they found him perverting the nation and forbidding to give tribute to Cesar.] Did our Lord forbid the giving tribuite to Cesar? [Ans. No.] Do you remember what he said when he was asked whether it was lawful to pay tribute to Cesar, or not? [Ans. Render unto Cesar the things that are Cesar's, and unto CGod the things which are God's.] Did our Lord ever set himself up as a king in opposition to Cesar? (Ans. No.] What did the Jews fulfil by putting our Lord into the hands of the Romans to be crucified? [Ains. Our Lord's prophecies.] What did our Lord tell Pilate concerning his kingdom? 36. [Ans.. That it was not of this world.] What did Pilate say to the Jews after he had examined our Lord? [Ans. I find no fault at all in him.] Did this soften the Jews? [Ans. No.] Was not Herod very glad to have this opportunity of asking our Lord questions? 8. [Ans. Yes.] What answers did our Lord return? 9. [Ans. None.] What did Herod do when he found that Jesus held him in contempt? t1. [Ans. Arrayed him in a gorgeous fobe, and sent him back to Pilate.] What did he do this for? 177 SAns. To expose him to ridicule and insult for pretending to be a king.] Were Herod and Pilate friends before this? 12. [Ans. No.] Did they become so? [Ans. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRU,'TION. Instruction.-These verses plainly shew the innocence of our Saviour; not a single crime could his inveterate enemies prove against him; we may therefore be certain that he suf. fered for our sins, and not his own, for he was free fiom sin. Our Lord's behaviour under the injurious treatment he received, affords a noble lesson to ius of patience and resignation. We should also learn from his declaring himself fo be a king before Pilate, though he knew he should be put; to death for doing so, to make a free confession of the truth, though we are sure to draw upon ourselves the hatred of the world. Questions.-What do these verses plainly prove? [ns. The innocence of our Saviour.] Was any crime proved against him? fAns. No.] For whose sins did he suffer all this illtreatment? [Ans. For the sins of mankind.] Did he suffer.against his will? [Ans. No.] Does not our Lord's behaviour under the ill-treatment he met with afford us a noble lJesson of patience and resignation? [Ans. Yes.] What should wetry to do? [Ans. To imitate it.] What should we learn 'from our Lord's declaring himself to be a king, though lie tknew he should be put to a crud and ignominious death for doing so.?:A[ns. To make a free confession of the truth.] Readjfrom verse \3 to the end., Instruction.--How shocking it is to read that the chiet priests and rulers preferred an infamous robber and murderer to our blessed Lord, who, even as a man, so far from doing injuries, was.constantly employed in doing good; but when: we view him as the true Messiah, the Son of God, the presumption of the Jews in persecuting him is beyond example..s for the multitude, it is likely they cried out just as thejr rulers directed them, without thought or reflection; but it was a great crime in them to do so, and heavy judgments were afterwards sent upon them for it, Pilate perhaps hojed to pacify the Jews, when Ite ordcred our Lord to be scourged; but if he had been an upright juzdge, he wvould have released him, at once, and would have severely reprimanded his persecutors. To shew that lie had been punished, Pilate hrought Jesus forth, 2nd once more declared his innocence. But nothing less than crucifixion would satisfy his enemies. It is supposed that the soldiers stripped Jesus of the scarlet robe wvhich. Herod had caused to be put upon him, and put upon him a purple robe. Tiberius the Roman emperor, who reigned at that timeý, was of a most jealous temper; as soon therefore as the Jews said, If thou let this man go, thou art not Cesar's friend, Pilate resolved to pass sentence upon him. Wheln the Jews said, We have no king but Cesar, they, in fact, acknowledged that they were no longer the people of God. 9UcS;ions.--Was it not very wvicked in Pilate to desire to punish one in whom- lie could find no flault.? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not very shocking to hear the chief priest sand elders calling out for Jesus to be crucified,,ind for an infamtous robber and murderer to be saved? t.Ans., Yes.1 Was it not Nxerv wrong in the multitude to join with them without consideration.?- [As. Yes.] What did Pilate, (1 in order to pacify the people? 1. [Ans. Scourged himi.] What did the s'oldiers do? 2. [Ans. Platted a crown of thorns, and lut it on his head; and they put on him a purple robe. I' Was not thi.q-most cruel treatment? [Ans. Yes.] WVhat did Pilate say when Jesus came-forthi, wearing the crown of thorns? 5. CAns. Behold the man.] Were the chief priests -and elders satisfied with the cnrelties which had-been inflicted? [Ans. No.] IWhat answer did the Jews make when Pilate said, Behold your king'?, 1b. [Ans. We have no king but Cesar.j What answer did'they make when Pilate washed his hands, and said, I ami free from the blood of this just man, see ye-to it? 2,5. [Anzs. 1-is blood be on us, and on our childreni.] Who was Cesar? [Ans. The Ro!nman.ermperor Who wvats properly the king of israel? [ Tns. The Lofd God.] Who did they reject whet' they said, We have no king but Cesar? [i/its. The Lord God.]. Who Was Jes'is Chiri.tt according to. his divine nature? [ siLv.'Tbhe tord God.] Who was lie according to hIs humnan inat.ure? [Ans. The Messiah.] 'Could the Jews any longcr pretend to be. the people of Ged, when they had condemned the Messiab, the true king of Israel, to he crucified, and chosen a hentliemi prince for their king,? [Ans. NP.] 179 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction. --From the account we have of Pilate's condact we should learn how dangerous it is to act against our own conscience, or to yield to the persuasions of wicked men in a, single instance. The only safe way for persons of all conditions is to resolve to act uprightly on all occasions, and to pay regard tb the checks of conscience.,The behaviouri of theJews, who could not be softehed either by the rernonstrarnteA of Pilate, or by the sufferings of Christ, but who persisted iin desiring that he micght be crucified, shews, that when meir abandon themselves to their passions, thefe is no act so wicked: that they will not commit; and the behaviour of the multitude who joined in crying out, Let him be crucified, let him be crucified; his blood be upon: us and upon our children; shews, that when ignorant people join a mob, they may be led into the worst of crimes beforei they are aware ofit. The Jews called down judgments upon themselves and their posterity when they said, - His blood be on us and on our. children; which judgment still remains.l Qitestions.-What does Pilate's examphe shew [Anis. That it is very dangerous to listesr to. the -persuasions-of wvicked men.] Had Pilate any malice against Chrinst? -[As. No.1 Would he have committed the great sin of condemning him to death, if he had obeyed his conscience? [A4is. No.] What did his conseience tell him? [ L4rs. T*at there was no guilt inll our Lord:] H-low should we resolve- to act on all occasions? fAns. Uprightly.] Did not the people make a tumult without considering beforehand whether it was right or wroing tojoi-r withli the chiet priests and, elders against Jesus.?' [Ans. Yes.] Should not all persons consider -well what they are going abont before they join in a riot or tunlft?? [A4s. Yes.] - Was it not a most moving sight to see% our Saviour scourged, buffted, spit -upon, crowned with thorns,. aad insulted, with cruel tauatings.? Ldns. YesJ For whose-sake did he endnre all these? FAns For the sake of sinfidamen.]' What should the thought of this lead is to do? [fAns. To love and honour our SavioariJ Have not heavy judgments -beem sent -upon the Jewish-mnation for condemning the Messiah to.death - jAkiis. YesL WtiI judgment are they under at this time [Ans.,They are.'scau tered amnong all nations.]. o...-'' 180 LESSON LXXV. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.-The cross was too heavy for one person to bear, yet there were none among the multitude who surrounded our Lord that would assist in carrying it, but a poor African passing that way, they compelled him to do it. Our blessed Lord, instead of lamenting his own case, grieved only for the miseries which he knew the wicked Jews would bring upon their nation. Crucifixion was a most dreadful punishment; the cross was laid upon the ground, and the person to be crucified was laid upon. it, with his arms stretched out; then the body was fastened to the cross by large nails driven through the hands and feet. When this was done, the cross was raised up and fixed in the ground and it fiequently happened that the crucified person remained alive, but in great agonies, for a considerable time. It is very remarkable that Pilate directed an inscription which, instead of pointing out any crime, declared our Lord's real characterand proclaimed him as a king. This inscription was written in three languages, that it might be understood by Jews, Romans, and most other foreigners. It was the custom to give dying criminals a portion of strong wine mingled with spices, in order to stupify their senses, and abate the pain of their sufferings. The soldiers that attended our Lord offered him, instead of this, an odious mixture of vinegar mixed with gall. This our Lord tasted that he might submit to every indignity. It seems his friends had prepared a cordial cup, but this he refused to taste. Our Lord certainly could have come down from the cross in a miraculous manner, and miight have avoided all his agonies; but then he would not have fulfilled the end of his coming he would not have suffered willingly for the redemption of mankind. And if he had come down from the cross the priests and scribes would not have believed him to be the iMVessiah; for they had hardened their hearts against him from the beginning. Our Lord's attention to his mother at such a time shewed, that he loved her as a parent; it also shewed, that his mind was composed. The darkness which happened at noon-day, while our Lord hung on the cross, was out of tho common course of nature; for a total eclipse of the sun could not happen when the moon was at the full. The words our Saviour spake were the same as the beginning of the twenty-eccood Psabn $ they &hew that his agony was -prodi 181 glously great. The Jews pretended to misunderstand his words only that they might insult him to the last. Our Lord most likely felt extreme thirst in consequence of his agonies. When he had received the vinegar he had completed all the prophecies concerning the Messiah; and having done so, he willingly gave up the ghost, that is, died for the sins of mankind. Questions.-Was it not very cruel to make Christ carry a heavy cross, after having flayed his back with scourges, and while his head was crowned with thorns? [Ans. Yes.] Who was compelled to assist him? [Ans. Simon, a man of Cyrene.] Did our Lord express sorrow on his own account? [Ans. No.] What did our Lord say to the women who wept for him? 28. [Ans. Weep not for me, but for yourselves.] At what place was our Saviour crucified? [Ans. At Mount Calvary.] Who were crucified at the same time? [Ans. Two thieves.] Was not crucifixion a most dreadful punishment? [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord do while they were nailing him on the cross? [,is. Pray for his executioners.] What did he say when he prayed for them? 33. [Ans. Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.] What title or inscription did Pilate cause to be put on the cross? 19. " Ans. Jesus of Nazareth, the King of the Jews.] In what language was it written? [Ans. In Hebrew, and Greek, and Latin;] What did the soldiers offer to Christ -after he was nailed to the cross? 34. [Ans. Vinegar mingled with gall.] Did he taste it? [Ans. Yes.] What did his friends offer him? [.Ans. Wine mingled with myrrh.] Did he drink that? [Ans. No.] What did the people do -while Jesus hung upon the cross? A9. [Ans. Reviled him.] Were they not very.unfeeling? [Ans. Yes.] Do not you think our Lord must ihave sufferedvery great agonies upon the cross, considering too how his body had been bruised and wounded before?,Ans. Yes.] Was not his punishment a most shameful one, to be crucified with two thieves? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not very shocking to think of such persons as the chief priests and elders mocking and reviling our Lord upon the cross? [Ans. Yes.] What did they call upon him to do? 41. [ ns. To come down from the cross.] Could our Lord have done this? [Ans. Yes.] Why did he not? [iAns. Because he could not have redeemed mankind without suffering.] Would his enemies have be. lieved him to be the Messiah if he had come down from the -cross? [Ans. No.] Had not our Lord wrought a number of imiracles quite as wonderful as that would have been? [Ans. Yes.] What xairacles? Ans. Feeding the multitude with a I 8~ few loaves and fishes, raising Lazarus from the dead, and many others.] Had these miracles any effect upon tile chief priest3 and elders? [n.n. No.] Who besides the chief priests and -scribes reviled our Lord? 3_9. [Ans. One of the two thieves that were c'nticied with him.] Did our Lord mike any reply to those who mocked and reviled him? [ ns. No.] What did the other malefactor say to our Lord!.Ins Lord, remember me when thiou comest into thy kingcotn.] 4 1. 'What answer did our Lord make 143. [Ans. To-day shalt thou be with me in paradise.] Was not this a most comfortable answer? [A1ns. Yes. Who are said to have stood by the cross of Christ? 44. [Ans. His mother, and his mother's sister,, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary Mlagdalene.] Were any of his disciples there) [,4ins. Yes, St. John.1 To whose care did our Lord recomlne- d his mother? 20. [Ans. To St. John's.] Was it a natural eclipse which occasioned the darkness at the time of the crucifixion? [Ans. No.] 'What did the Jews pretend to understatrd when our Lord cried out, Eli, Eli, lama sabacthani? 47. [A471s. Thnt he called for Elias.] What did he say then? [Ars I thirst.] Why did our Lord say so? [.Ans. That the scriptures might be fulfilled.] What did they do ii order to allay his thirst? 29. [Anls. They dipped a sponge in vinegar, and gave him to drink.] What did our Lord say when he had received the vinegar? [Ans. It is finished.] What did he mean by this? [Ans. That he had fulfilled all the prophecies relating to the Messiah.J What did our Lord do when he had fulfilled all the prophecies? [Ans. He cried with a loud voice, and said, Father, into-thy hands I commend my spirit; aiid having said this he yielded up the ghost.] PRACTICAL INSTrUCTIONO Instruction--If our Saviour had not died for mankind we eould have had no hope of rising from the dead, therefire the thought of what he did and suffered for us, should fill our hearts with love. and gratitude; and should also make us abhor sin, which made those sufferings, necessary,. and resolve to renounce it. Every particular of our Lord's sufflring, friom the beginning of his life to the end of it, was foretold by some or other of the prophets, or by himself. The 53d chapter of Isaiab plainly relates to them; and so does tbe 22d Psain'; 183 Even the trifling circumstance of the soldiers' dividing his garments, and of the 6ffering him gall and vinegar to drink, were foretold, so that the Jews might have known him to be the Messiah, from his fulfilling all the prophecies. These prophecies have come down to us, together with the history of our Lord's life and death, and we should carefully read and compare one part with another, in order to confirm our faith in our blessed Redeemer. From the manner in which our blessed Lord submitted to his sufferings, we should learn to bear all that may fall to our lot with patience and resignation to the will of God, and not to indulge a spirit of hatred and ill-will against our enemies, but to pray. for them, especially as it is very possible that those who injure us may do it through ignorance. From our Lord's tenderness to his mother we are instructed to honour our parents, and to do what we can to provide for their ease and comfort; and from our Lord's last words we are taught what we should do at the hour of death, namely, commend our spirit into the hands of God, and die willingly when he sees fit. The kindness of our Saviour to the penitent thief, encourages sinners to call upon Christ in their last moments, if their penitence be sincere; whilst the example of the hardened criminal shews the danger of deferring repentance till the end of life. No one can possibly tell what disposition of mind he shall be in at the hour of death. Repentance is seldom a sudden thing; for it consists ii a change of mind, which cannot, but throughh!e miraculous power of God, take place in an instant; and signers have no reason to expect God will work miracles for.itheir Conversion. Questions.---Is it not very affecting to read the history 0ofour Saviour's sufferings? [Ans. Yes.] For whose -sake did he endure them? [Ans. For the sake of mankind.] What should our hearts be filled with towards such a Saviour? [Ans. Love and gratitude.] What should we hate? [Ans. Sin.] Should we not resolve to renounce it? [Ans. Yes.] What did our Lord shew by fulfilling all the prophecies relating to the Messiah? [Ans. That he was the Messiah.] Have these prophecies come down to us? [As. Yes.] Where are they written? [Ans. In the Bible.] It not the history of our Lord's life written too? [Ans-. Yes.] What should we do then? [Ans. Read them, and compare them,] For what piurpose should we do this? [Ans. To strengthen our faith.] What should we learn from the manner in, which our Lord 184 submitted to his sufferings? [ 4ns. To submit to our lot with patience and resignation.] Should we indulge a spirit of revenge against our enemies? [Ans. No.] What should we do then? [Ans. Pray for them.] What should we learn from our Lord's tenderness to his mother? [Ans. To provide for the ease and comfort of our parents.] What should we learn from his last words? [AnsTo commend our spirit to God in the hour of death, and to die willingly when God sees fit.] Was there not a very great difference in the behaviour of the two thieves who were crucified with our Saviour [Ans. Yes.] What did the penitent thief give a strong proof of when he addressed our Lord as a King, upon the cross? [Ans. His faith.] How did our Lord reward it? [Ans. By saying, This day shalt thou be with me in paradise.] What is to be understood by paradise? [Ans. The. place of rest and peace provided for those who die in the fear of God.] LESSON IXXVI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---Our Lord was nailed to the cross.betwixt nine and twelve o'clock in the forenoon, and expired betwixt three and four in theafternoon. The vail of the Temple was a curtain, which served to separate the holy place from the most holy. The holy place was that part of the Temple in which the priests ministered every day; the most holy was that into which none but the high-priest entered, and that but once a year. The rending of the vail of the Temple was a sign or token that God's Covenant with the people of Israel was at an end, and they were no longer the people of God. The rocks near Mount Calvary still bear visible marks of the earthquake which split them. The Centurion who guarded our Lord during the crucifixion, though a heathen, was convinced that Jesus was not only a righteous man, but the Son of God. It was the custom of the Romans to expose on the cross the bodies of those who were crucified, till' the fowls of the airdevoured them, or till they were destroyed by the weather. On the contrary, the Jewish law ordained; that whosoever was sentenced to die, should be buried on the day of their execution. The preparation-day was the day before the pawss 185 ever. The Jews desired the legs of those who were crucified might be broken, in order to hasten their deaths. But, according to the Mosaic law, not a bone of the paschal lamb was to be broken; and it was the will of God that not a bone of the Lamb of God, who offered himself for the sins of the world, should be broken. The blood and water which issued out of the side, shewed that our Lord was actually dead. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus were both members of the great council of the Jews; though the latter, in the beginning of our Lord's ministry, went secretly to him by night, he was neither ashamed nor afraid to shew himself a faithful disciple at the last. Though our Lord's enemies beheld him a lifeless corpse, covered with wounds and bruises, their malice did not cease; they remembered he had said that in three days ho should rise again from the dead, and they resolved in themselves to prove him an impostor. Without doubt they looked into the sepulchre to convince themselves the body was there before they closed it up and sealed it; and as the tomb was hewn out of the solid rock, it was not possible to carry the body off by any other way. Questions.--What happened in the temple when our Saviour gave up the ghost. [Ans. The vail was rent from the top to the bottom.] What did the centurion, and they that were with him watching Jesus, say when they saw the earthquake 54. [Ans. Truly this was the Son of God.] What did the blood and water which came out of our Lord's side when the sol i r pierced it shew? [Ans. That he was quite dead.) Who begged the body of Jesus? 50. [Ans. Joseph of Ari mathea.] What was he? [Ans. A counsellor.] Did Pilate consent that he should have the body? [Ans. Yes.] Wh9 joined with Joseph of Arimathea in performing the last honours to the body of our Lord? 39. [Ans. Nicodemus.] Where did they bury it? 41. [Ans. In the garden, in a new sepulchre.] Is it not plain, from there circumstances, that Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus believed Jesus to be the Messiah? [Ans. Yes.) What did the chief priests and Pharisees do when Pilate gave them leave to make the sepulchre sure? 65. [Ans. They sealed the stone, and set a watch.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.-..-From the prodigies which happened at our Lord's death, we may be certain that he was the Soneof 186 God; and from the rending of the vail of the Temple, we may conclude that the old covenant made with the people of Israel was put an end to. When Christ died on the cross, he fully established the new covenant; he had done all that was required by God for the redemption of mankind, and had purchased our salvation with his own blood, which is called the blood of the new testament or covenant. From the example of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, who were rich and powerful men, we should learn, let our condition in life be ever so great, not to despise the cross of Christ, but to think of a crucified Saviour with the utmost love and reverence. Questions.--What should we learn from the account of the darkness, the earthquake, and the rending of the rocks, at our Saviour's crucifixion? [Jns. That he was really the Son of God.] What may we conclude from the rending of the vail of the Temple [Ans. That the old covenant made with the people of Israel was put an end to.] What was fully established when our Lord died on the cross? [Ans. The new covenant.] Had not our Lord then done all that was. required of the Messiah for the redemption of mankind? [Ans. Yes.] What had he purchased for them? [Ans. Salvation.] What did lie pay as the price of their Salvation? [Ans. His life.] I-ow did he seal or confirm the new covenant? [Ans. By shedding his blood.] What did our Lord call his blood when he instituted the holy sacrament of the Lord's Supper, [Ans. The blood of the new testament.] What should we learn from the examples of Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus? [Ans. Not to despise the cross of Christ.] How should we think of a crucified Saviour? [Ans. With the utmost love and reverence.] LESSON LXXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--The pious women who had attended our Lord's crucifixion were desirous of embalming his body, forgetful of his words, so often repeated, that he should rise again from the dead the third day. The Jewish sabbath was the day we call Saturday; the day after the Jewish sabbath answers to our Sunday; our Lord expired on the cross about three o'clock on Friday afternoon; he lay in the grave all Saturday) 187 and rose from the dead very early on the Sunday morning, which was the third day. It seems the women did not know of the sealing the sepulchre, and setting a watch; they had only seen the stone rolled-to the door of it. The amazement of the guards at the sight of the angel, and at the earthquake which was on the spot where the sepulchre stood, prevented their observing our Lord's resurrection. They were not chosen witnesses of this wonderfil event. If Peter had not been expressly named by the angel, it is likely he would have been both afraid and ashamed to see his Lord again after having denied him. Our Lord's message by the angel shewed that his penitence had found acceptance. Mary was overcome with grief, not knowing how the precious remains of her beloved Lord, which she had intended to embalm, might be treated by his enemies. When Jesus first spake to Mary, her back was towards him; but when she fixed her eyes on him, she was convinced it was Christ himself. Our Lord's calling his disciples his brethren, shews his great kindness for them. It is probable that Mary Magdalene went one way, and the other women other ways, to look for all the apostles who were not assembled at that time. XWhat the soldiers said by the command of the chief priests could not possibly be true. Questions.--What did Mary Magdalene and the other Mary intend to do? [Ans. To embalm our Lord's body.] What had happened before they reached the sepulchre? 2. [Ans. There had been a great earthquake, and an angel had rolled away the stone from the sepulchre.] How did the angel appear? [Ans. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white as snow.] Were not those who kept the sepulchre very much terrified? [Ans. Yes.l Did the women find he body of our Lord in the sepulchre? [Ans. No.] Were they not greatly perplexed when they missed it? [Ans. Yes.] Who appeared to them in the form of men? [Ants. Two angels.] What shewed that they were angels? [Ans. Their shining garments.] What did the angels tell the women? 5. [4ns. H-e is not here, for he is risen, as he said.] Did the women recollect our Lord's words when the angels reminded them? [Ans. Yes.] What did the angel direct them to do? 7. [Ans. To go and tell his disciples, and Peter.] What did the apostles believe from seeing the linen clothes and the napkin? [Ans. That Christ was risen from the dead.] To whom did our Lord appear? [Ans. To Mary Magdalene.] Did she know our Lord when she looked at him [ iAns. Yes.] What did 188 our Lord call his disciples when he sent Mary with a message to them? 17. [Ans. His brethren.] Did our Lord appear to any other woman besides Mary Magdalene? [Ans. Yes.] Who did the women tell of our Lord's resurrection? [Ans. The eleven apostles, and the other disciples.] Did they give credit to their words? 10. [Ans. No.] Did any one go and tell the chief priests that there had been an earthquake at,the sepulchre, that an angel had appeared, and that the body of Jesus was gone? [Ans. Yes, 'one of the watch.] What did the chief priests and elders when they had taken counsel together resolve to do? 13. [Ans. To bribe the soldiers to say his disciples had stolen the body by night.] Did not this conduct of the chief priests and elders shew that nothing would convert them? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not quite as asto* nishing that Jesus should rise from the dead, as his descending from the cross in a miraculous manner would have been? [AIns. Yes.] Could the apostles have stolen the body if they L:d tried to do so? [Ans. No.] Could they have made a K ing of a dead body if they had stolen it? [Ans. No.] Could they have raised it from the dead? [Ans. No.] Could they have buried it privately? [iAns. No.] Would people have believed in' their words only that Jesus was risen? [Ans. No. [ Were not the sepulchre's being without the body, and the linen clothes and napkin lying by themselves, proofs that there had been a resurrection? [Ans. Yes.] Could the words of angels be doubted when they said he was risen? [Ans. No.] Were not the sight of our Lord, and the hearing him speak, proofs of his resurrection beyond dispute? LAns. Yes.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--The resurrection of our blessed Lord should confirm our faith in him as the Christ, the Son of God. Some time before his death, our Lord declared that he had life in himself; that he had power to lay down his life, and power to take it again; and we find that he did both. By the same divine power with which he raised his own body from the grave, and united it again with the soul, our Lord is able to raise all other human bodies and unite them again with 'their souls, and he has promised to do so; we should therefore.regard our Lord's resqrrection as an earnest of our own, and place our full dependence on the performance of his diviu* 189 promise, that the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of Gode and those that hear shall live. Our Lord chose for the first witnesses of his resurrection pious humble-minded persons; these were fully convinced of the truth of it. The same things were told to the chief priests, who esteemed themselves wise, and were regarded by the world as persons of superior knowledge and abilities, but they believed them not; the first were rewarded for their faith by the great joy which they felt from knowing that the Lord was risen again, and we shall be partakers of the same joy if we believe as they did. Questions.---How did our Lord shew that he had power to lay down his life? [Ans. By yielding up the ghost on the cross.] Could the Jews take him before he was willing, and had delivered himself into their hands? [Anzs. No.] Could they make him die on the cross before he saw fit? [Ans. No.] Did our Lord take his life again after his human body and soul had been separated by death? [Ans. Yes.] Has our Lord power to raise any other bodies besides his own? [Ans. Yes.] Has he not promised to raise mankind to life at the lait day? [Ans. Yes.] Who did he say should hear his voice? [A3s. The dead.] In what light then may we regard our Lord's remiriection? [Ans. As an earnest of our own.] Is it not very comfortable to those who believe in Christ and endeavour to lead good lives, to look for the resurrection of the dead? [Ans. Yes.] Is it comfortable to those who have not led good lives, and who either do not believe in our Lord, or are careless and indifferent about him, to think ofa resurrection? [Ans. No.] What kind of persons did our Lord chuse as witnesses of his resurrection? [.'ns. Persons of pious, humble minds.] Did they believe in it? [Ans. Yes.] Were not the same things told to the chief priests? [Ans. Yes.] Did they believe them? [Ans. No.] How were the women and the disciples who believed in the resurrection of Christ rewarded? [Ans. By the joy they felt.] Was it not a real cause of joy to them that their Lord was risen again? [Ans. Yes.] Had they not the greatest reason to believe that he would fulfil all his promises, and that they themselves should rise from the dead? [Ans. Yes.] Shall not we be partakers of their joy if we believe as they did [AIs. Yes.] LESSON. LXXVIII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---The two disciples who were going to Emmaus were not of the number of his apostles; they had heard but an imperfect account of our Lord's resurrection. It was very natural for them to converse on so interesting a subject. Our Lord appeared to them at first as a stranger, in order to shew them, before he revealed himself to them, that, according to the ancient prophets, the Messiah was to suffer what he had done before he entered into glory. Having convinced these disciples that, according to the design of God, it was necessary for the Messiah to sufler and.dig, our Lord proved his resurrection by revealing himself to them. As he blessed the bread and brake it, the mist was removed from their eyes, and they perceived plainly that it was the Lord. but lie instantly withdrew himself. ' Questions.---What did two of our Lord's disciples converse about as they were walking to Emmaus? [Ans. Of his death and resurrection.] Whojoined them as they were discoursing? -15. [A1ns. Jesus.] Did they know him? [Arns. No, lie appeared to them as a stranger.] What did our Lord expound to them, in order to convince them, from the prophecies, that Christ was to suffer? [Ans. The scriptures relating to himself.] Did the disciples know our Lord when he had expounded the prophecies to them? [Ans. No.] How did he make himself known to them? 30. [Ans. By blessing bread, and breaking it.] Did our Lord stay with them after he had done this? [Ans. No.] Where did they go to immediately? 33. [Ans. To Jerusalem.] Who did they find there gathered together? LAns. The eleven apostles.] What were they saying at the instant these two disciples entered?. [Ans. The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared unto Peter.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION,.nstruction.--From this Lesson we learn that the Scriptures of the Old and New Testament help to explain each other, and that we ought to study the Scriptures of the Old Testament and compare them with the history of our Saviour, in order to confirm our faith. Whoever will do this with an humble mind and a real desire to know the truth, will occasionally feel, in some degree, as the two disciples felt while 191 eur Lord unfolded the prophecies to them, No study in the world can be so delightful as this; and that heart must be dead indeed which does not glow with gratitude and joyful hope at the display of the infinite mercy of God the Father and his beloved Son Jesus Christ, and the prospect of a resurrection from the dead to a life of endless happiness. Questions.--VWhat does this Lesson teach us that we ought to study? LAis. "'he Scriptures of the Old Testament.] What should we compare the prophecies with? [:ns. The history of our Saviour.] Can any other study be so delightful as this? [.Ans. No.] LESSON, LXXIX. Read the uwhole Lesson. Instruction.--By submitting himself to be handled and examined by them, and by eating before them, our Lord convinced his apostles th'at he was risen with the same body that was'nailed to the cross. The promise of the Father, which our Lord was to send, was the Holy Ghost. He breathed on his apostles as a token that the Holy Ghost was to be communicated to them through him; and gave to all his apostles the same power he had before given to St. Peter, to remit sins, or, in other words, to admit those, who repented of their sins and believed in Christ, into the Christian covenant by Baptism for the remission of sins. This shews that though Peter was to be the first to preach the gospel, he was not to be set up above the rest, as the Roman Catholics teach. Thomas, it seems, was hot in the room when our Lord first appeared to his disciples; but, as he was one of those who were to bear witness to our Lord's life, death, and resurrection, it -was proper he should have the same, knowledge of them as the rest. Though he had been unbelieving at first, he professed a true and full faith afterwards; and whoever attentively con.. siders all the circumstances of our;Lord's rising from the dead, must be convinced that he had a divine as well as human nature, and will be ready to say, as Thomas did, My Lord, and my God. The last verse of this Lesson tells us, in a few words, the design of writing the Gospels, and the use we should make of them. Questions.--What gracious words did our Lord repeat again to his apostles when he entered where they were sitting? '[Ans. Peace be with you.] Were not the apostles frightened when they saw our Lord? [Ans. Yes.] What did he do in 192 order to satisfy them that it was really himself they saw ' t.ns. Shewed them his hands and his feet.] What did our Lord do to confirm their belief? [Ans. Eat before them.] What did he do to enable them to understand the Scriptures? 45. [Ans. Opened their understandings.] What did he tell them they were to be witnesses of? [Ans. All things concerning him.1 W)at were they to preach to all nations? (Ans.. Repentance, and remission of sins.] Where were they to begin to preach this doctrine? [Ans. At Jerusalem.] What was our Lord's breathing on them a sign of? [Ans. That the Holy Ghost was to be given through him.] Did our Lord set Peter above the rest of the apostles? [Ans. No.] Which of our Lord's apostles was absent when he appeared to the rest? [Ans. Thomas.] What did Thomas say when the others told him that they had seen the Lord? 25. [Ans. That except he could see the prints of the nails, and put his hand in his side, he would not believe.] Did our Lord appear to his disciples afterwards, when Thomas was present? [Ans. Yes.] How long afterwards? [Ans. Eight days.] Did our Lord give him the proofs he required? [Ans. Yes.] What did Thomas say as soon as he beheld the prints of the nails, and of the spear? 28. [Ans. My Lord, and my God.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---Had Thomas properly considered what the women and the apostles who had seen our Lord related, he would have believed that our Lord was risen from the dead, without desiring to see and handle his body; and as their evidence has come down to us in the Scriptures, we may convince ourselves of the same truth. It is a dreadful tiing to doubt in a matter of such consequence to us as our Lord's resurrection. We should therefore thankfully receive the account which is Jlere given us, that we may be partakers of the blessing which our Lord has pronounced to those who have not seen, and yet have believed. Questions.---Does not this Lesson afford fresh proof of our Lord's resurrection? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not a dreadful thing to doubt in a matter of such consequence to us as our Lord's resurrection? [Ans. Yes.] If we do not believe in that, can\ we be certain of our own resurrection? (Ans. No.] Have not we evidence enough of our Lord's resurrection in the Scriptures? [Ans. Yes.] Shall we say as Thomas did at first, that we will not blieve, unlesswe couldsee our Lord's body? tAns. No.] On whom has our Lord pronounced a blessing 28. 193 [Ans. On those who have not seen, and yet have believed.] What shall we acknowledge Christ to be if we are convinced that he actually rose from the dead? [Ans. Our Lord, and our God.] Did our Lord perform any other miracles in the' presence of his disciples besides these recorded in St. John's Gospel? [Ans Yes, many.] What does St. John say his account of our Lord's miracles was written for? 30. [Ans. That we may believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing we may have life through his name.] What, life shall we partake of if we are true believers in Christ? [Ans. Eternal life.] LESSON LXXX. Read the -whole Lessow. Instruction.---Galilee was the country in which our Lord had resided above thir ty yeear. There he began his ministry, and in the cities of G(_ilke he performed the greatest part of his mighty works, so that he had more followers there than in any other region of Judea. Gailte was also the native place of most of the apostles. O)r Lord's appearance there was not merely to prove the truth of his resurrection, but to declare that the prophecies concerning the Messiah were ful. filled; to ordain the holy Sacrament of Baptism; and to make known the reward w hich should be bestowed upon the faithful, and the punishmennt which should be inflicted on those who wiltully rejected him; salvation to the one, dainnation to the other. Thepromise of miraculous gifts was intended for the first believers, as we firnl from the writings of the apostles. Questions. -Did the apostles go to Galilee to meet the Lord, as he had colmmanded them? [Ans. Yes.] By how many was our Lord seen at one tiue? [Ans. Above five hundred.] What did the greatest part of them do? [Ans Believed.] What did some do? 17. [Ans. They doubted.] What did our Lord say was given to him? 18. [Ans. All power in heaven and in earth.] What did he command his apostles to do? 19. [dns. To preach the Gospel to every creature, bap' tizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, apd the Holy Ghost.] What were, the apostles to teach those who were baptized? 20. [dns. To observe all things that he had commanded.] How long did our Lord say he should continue with those who should thus baptize and teach? [Ans. To the end of the world.] How did our Lord say those would be PART II. I - 191 rewarded wh0o should believe and be baptized? 16. [21bs. They should be saved.] How did he say those should be punished who did not believe? [Ans. They should be damned.] - PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. l nstruciio~n.- -As our Lord hits declared that all power is given to hii nhevnad upon earth, we should. worship himi as our Saviour, and ou'r heavenily King. And as hie ordained flatim a ameas f entering into t he kingdom of heaven, we should ie('ard it as a H-oly Sacrament, Iiccessarv for sa-lvation to those whlo can partake of it. WVe maJst' also observe that our Lord commanded baptismi to he admn'inistered in the name of the, Fathelr, anid of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost, the Holy Trinitty, or divine Three'. lkho -are in God.. To I~. baptized in the name of the Father, th Son aI heHl Ghost, is to enter into a solemin covenant with the Father, the Son, and the. 1oly Ghost, as one God, and to have a -new birth unto righteousness. This-covenan't is cxplained in thle church Catechism. Thio.e who refus,,e to believe the Gospel, anld to be baptized, in fiicf, refuse-salvation; of course thley must take the consequences. Qucstions.-- -As --our Lo-ed hai. declared* tha't all power is given to him hin heaven and in.- caith, wNhat should -,y do (1 [.,4ns. Worship him as- our.Saviou'r and heav.eni) JKino )] In what light sionld. we regard.baptism~i [1-ins As Hol(;y` Sacram en t general ly n eces~ary to s*Iil va-tioi i.] 1IlNrii s. Il ac nMe ire-I Christians to be- ba,_ptized -? [ti4ns. In the' namie of thc Faither, the Son, and. th~e H1oly-Gh1ost:'] ikre not these thircc in God? [Ans. Ycs. W-hat word do-wc `ie, e6texts 'h Persons in ons.God?- [.Ins. The- Trni-ity. '.Do "not.those who are baptized'eenter, int-fo a solkiln mu Vx 3nant or eugagavnientt w ith the Trinity? -[o'ns. Yes.-] WhOrc is the covcn,3nn' explained? [tins. In the chutrch- Catethi~in IIs not b'ýiptisnDi flcc ssary for all who can re(ccii ty it 0. ns' Yes. I se atdth dCast away wvho refuse. to beli eve- tile Gospel!'nd t'o be _bapqtiZed? f..ns. Salvation...:N I hart, d~o th ey *r'unii the' I-iwr oi?a Yd ns went in hehli.. Is it nota' goodthfing' )br dsildfen to be. baptized in their jliiflanoy V [AWzs.esýJ "Who prominie for thevn. when they ent'er in.to'.th Chri-sti-iiiCovenant?. [,4nzs. Thqeir Godfathers and God-mothers;], " What are clhildr Iea bou~n~d to perform as sopii as they bav'eýLnd-ersta~ridinig sufficienit,?~ [Ains.. What their Qodfqthcrs and.. Godinotlhers. promised in their wanme.] Can those who do- not Iperfolm the promiseanid owl made in their name, expect to have God the. Father tfr their Father, God the Soil for their Saviour, or God the Hioly. G- sf for their Sanctifier and Comforter? [Ans. No.] LESSON LXXXI. Reai1 t/ze w/hule Lesson. lnstructon.--Our Lord's question to Peter must have bryught:to mind his former professions, from which lie had so shamefully deserted by denying his Master; and Peter's answeo shews, that lie was humbled and improved. To convince ' imi that he was perfectly reconciled to him, our Lord gave Peter, a charge to instruct his sheep and his lambs, nieaning the memibers of the church; by which he restored him to his apostolic office, which hie had forfeited by dew!ying him. Our Lord then signified to Peter that he would sufrer martyrdom,. an1d that he would be crucified, and exhorted him to follorv. his own blessed example. Peter was curious to know whether John would also die a martyr; but as this did not iminedi~. ately concern Peter, our Lord did not see fi~t to satisfy his* cnriosity. T1e coijecture that John would never die was founded upon) a mistake, for our Lord's answer to Peter really, conveyed no such Imeaning. This Lesson is the conclusion, of St. John's Gospcl: no one was s6b rell acquainted with, our Lord's lif'e and discourses as this beloved disciple; and, he here solemnly-declares, that all he had written concernin1g. themiii was true.. But he did not undertake to give an account. of all that our Lord had done, as the Word and the, Messiah, J'b)r this would have been a work too great for all the hunaa race together. que'stlonS.---1o which of his disciples did our Lord shew hiimself at the sea of. Tiberias? t. [A4ns' To Simon'Peter, Thomas, Nathanael, James, and John.] Did thfiy know him at first? [Ans. No.] oIwov did 'be make hiimselfknoWivito them? [Ans. By a iuraculouS draugbt o~'6fihes.] What> question did our Lord ask Peter? 'I. ~Pns', Simlon,.,q Qf; Jonas, loiest thou mie imore -than these-?] lXVhat aiPstyer did Peter make? L 4lis. Lord -,thou knov~est-tbst I Idve thee.] Hiow often did. our Lord ask this- questid ý 'Vts., Thrpe, times.] Do not you,hbiiik- i*- n.ishave -Petef in mind a 196 his former behaviour? [4ns. Yes.] Did our Lord express any resentment towiards Peter for having denied himm? Ans. No.] What did hie comniand Peter to do' [A.ns. To feed his sheep and his lambs.] Who may we undtr-stand by our Lord's sheep and his lamibs? [Ans. The members of the Christian church.] What did our Lord restore -Peter to? [Ans. His office as an apostle.] How had he forfeited this? [Ans. By denying his Lord.] What did our Lord -signify by telling Peter that whea he should be, old he 'shoUld stretch forth his hands? 18. [Ans. T hat he should be crucified.] Did our Lord say that John would never die? [AýIns. No.] What did. our Lord sayF 21. [Ans.'"If I will thKit lie tarry till I come, what is that to thee?] Did not Sr. John write a history of our Lord's life, -and give an accoun t of maDny of his divine discourses? [Ans. Yes.] Did he write -an account of every thing our Lord did? 25. [Ans. No.J?PRACTICAL INSTaRUCTION. Instruction. ---We should rrmark in this lesson1, that o0r1 lord app'eared to his apostles, and assisted themn by his powe'r while they were engaged in theirworldly business. From bence we are taught to expect a blessing upon honest iiin dustry. Our Lord's appearance to his disciples wasvery, seasonable. This circumstance should teach us to hope in the midst of disappointment. Our Lord was taken by his disciples for a sttanger; from hence we learn that our Savipur may bte near to us when we think ourselves 'forgotten by him.. Our Lord agktd' his disciples if they had. any meat, to encourage them td make their 'wants known, and he prepared refrcshmet'tbor them to'shew his compassion; by which he instructed his followers to seek. out modest people who are in want, and to relieve them. In our Lord's behaviour to Peter 'we have' a representation of the goodness of God to penitent sinners, -and an~fxa'mple to behave with meekness towards those-who are sorry for having injured us. Our Lord's answerto Peter'. quesfion concerning St. John, should teach us 'not to'rmuse:ourselves' -v/th ~curious in-qoiries into things which do not concernlus,'but to follow our Saviour, that is. 'to imitate his blessed example to the best of our power. And St. John's solemn attestation, that what he wrote he- knewv to be strictly true, should confirn our faith in Christ Jesus.our Saviour; hot only as the Mlessiah, but as the ý\ ord, the Aeii of God. 19 7. Qrcetions.--What are we taught to expect 'from our Lord's appearance to his disciples when. they were trying to catch fish, and'could. not? [Ans.- A. blessing upon our honest industry.] Wa;i not our Lord's appearance to his disciples very seasonable whcn they had been working hard and had no victuals to refresh thema? -[Ans., Yes ] What should we learn. from his supplying their wants? [,-ns- To hope in the midst of disappoinitmetnt.] Though our Lord does not now appear to wvork-miracles,' does he not often put it into the hearts of good people. to assist those who are in want? -[Ans.- Yes.] What should, we learn from our Lord's preparing food for his di'scipjes without their asking? [Ans. To seek out modest people and relieve them.] What should we learn from our Lord's behavi6ur to Peter?! [Ans. To behave with meekness to those who are sorry for having injured us.] In what should we imitate Peter? [A1ns. In loving Chri-st.] What sh!ould we learn from our Lord's answerto mPeter concerning St. John? [Ans. Not to amuse ourselves with curious questions.].What sffould St. John's solemn. attestation, that he knew the things he wrote concernning Christ, to be true, confirm 1 [Ans. Our. faith in Christ Jesus our Saviour. LESSON LXXXII / Read to verse 13.I r nstructitrstm --Our Saviour did not appear in heavenly glory' once only to astonlish and surprise his disciples, but in his usual fbrmn, conversing, eating and drinking, and'submitting his body to be handled and ex;amined. Our Lord commanded his disciples to remain at Jernsalem, because it was the will of God that thet visible descent of the. Holy Spirit should be seen in that holy city, in which the presence of the Lord had been so often man ifestedl, and because the Gospel was to go forth from Jerusalem. The apostles supposed that the kingdom of the Mcssiah,which before our Lord's crucifixion they h.3d so earnestly looked for, was now going to begin. Our Lord did not satisfy their curiosity; all that was requisite for them to know at that time was, that they should receive power to perform what would be required of them. Our blessed Lord ascended to heaven, as our King, that he might subdue his enemies, and protect his subjects, and as our Mediator, that be might enter into the presence of' God the Father to intercede for us. H1-Te also weent, as be before declared, to prepare a place for his faithful followers, and he ascended in the presence of all his apostles, those whomn he had chosen to be witnesses of his life and doctrin6, on whom he pronounced a blessing as lie went up. By the right band of God, to which (Mr Lord ascended, is understood the place of the highest dignitv in heaven, above theangels and all created beings.. The apostles continued to look after our Lord after he was out of sight, jhoping, l)ezhaps, that lie would return, or that the cloulds woUld open, and tlie should have a view of him in his heavenly state; he therefore kindly sent t-wo ministering anigels to reconcile his disciples to the loss of his presence, anil to confirm what lie had before told them concerning hig second cominhg. A sabbath day's journey was about a mile. 'I lie apostles, without doubt, wvere greatly afiected by the Mw0on1.erIul things they had seen and heard; and our Lord's mother and the other pious wonit 1l, whose hearts were lately 'illed with sorrow, now exjperieticed the hiighest joy, which they cxpresscdl in praising and blessing God. 9oliCsiwns--Dnring how niany days did our Lord shew himself a:dive upon earth after his death? [Ans. Forty.] How did he prove hirnself to be actually alive? [Ans. By conversing, eating, and drinking.] Did he not also submit his body to be handlkd and examined? [Ans. Yes.] What subjects did our Lord converse about while lie remained upon earth? [Ans. T[he thlings bielonging to the kingdom of God.] Where did our Lord lead his disciples to? [wIns. To Bet hany.] Where did he command them to wait for the promise of the Father? [A1ns. At Jerusalem.] What did our Lord mean by the proniise of the Father? [ilns. The Holy Ghost.] What did our Lord say they should be baptized with within a few days? 5. [Ans. The Holy Ghost.] What did the disciples suppose ouir Lord was going to restore? 6, CXns. The king'dom of Israel.] Did lie satisfy their inquiry? [A4ni. No.] What did he tell them they should receive after the Holy Ghost was come upon tmcni 8. [An:s. Power.] What did our Lord say they should be to him in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and unto the uttermost parts of the earth? [Ans. Witnesses.] What did our Lord do when he had told his disciples they should be witncsses to himi 9. [Aen:. He blessed them.] What came to pass while he was blessing them? [Ans. He ascended into heaslen and sat down at the right hand Of God.] What is understocel by thetight hand of God [L-471S. The-place of the highest dignity and power in heaven.] 199 Did the disciples eontinue to look up after our Lord when he was out of sight? [Ans. Yes.] Who did he send to tell them that it was in vain to do so? [Ans. Two angels.] Why are they called men? [Ans. Because they appeared in the form of men.] What did the angels tell those who were looking up after our Saviour? I I. [Ans. That he should so come again in like manner.] Were not their words very cbmfortable? [Ans. Yes.] Where did the apostkls go to? [Ans. To Bethany.] What is the name of the place from whence our Lord ascended?,12 [Ans. Mount Olivet.] Where, did all the apostles assemble at Jerusalem? 13. P[4n. lu an upper room.] Who was with them? 14. [Ans. Mary the mother of Jesus.] How did they express their joy and thankfulness? 14. [Ans. By prayer and supplication.] Wheredid they constantly go to at the hour of public worship? [Ans. The Temnple.] Read from verse 13 to tie end. Instruction.--We find that, as our Lord had chosen twelve apostles, it was the first care of Peter and the rest to appoint an apostle in the room of Judas; for this purpose they made choice of two persons who had been witnesses of the life, resurrection, and ascension, of our Saviour; but they cast lots, and prayed the Lord to shew which of the two he had chosen, because the apostles were to be chosen immediately by Christ himself. Questions..-What two men did the apostles fix upon to cast lots to fill up the place of the traitor Judas? 23. [Ans. Joseph, called Barsabas, and Matthias.] Why did the apstles pray the Lord to shew which of these two he had chosen? [Ans. Because the apostles were all to be chosen by Christ nimself.] On which of them did the lot fall? 25. [Ans. On Matthias.] What was he reckoned from that time? [Ans. One of the twelve apostles.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--Thhis lesson furnishes us with the moit con. vincing proofs of the resurrection of our blessed Saviour, of his ascension, and of, the certainty of his second coming to judge the world; these truths being attested by the apostles, and by angels, His ascension ought to convince us that he has a sovereign authority over all things, and that his kingdom is a heavenly one. It should likewise raise our thoughts and our desires towards heaveli, that glorious place where our Lord is exalted at the right hand of his Father, and where he has !2.00 also prepared for his faithful people an eterial iLih-eritanic<ý. and it should dispose us to live in a constant practice of holeness, that we may be prepared for his coming agin * to receive us into everlasting habitations. We find ihat immediately after our Lord's ascension his apotkles and disciples made it their practice to assemble together to. pray: by doing so, they left an example to all. Christians to assemble for prayer. In the beginning of Christianity they were obliige,1 to inect Pi$i/ vately in rooms, because there were' no churches for them; but when Christianity was fully established, churches were built for them, as the Teimpleand Synagoguesbad been before the comin~g of Christ for God's chosen people, the Jews. We thould observe, that Mary the mother of Jesus is mentioned As having been among the number of those who assembled toget her witli the apbstles but not in a maniner to give us any reason to think. shtshoud be worshipped, as the Rioman Catholic religion teaches. The. history of our. Lord's life, death, burial, resurrection, and ascension, proves that the articles in the Aposfies' Creed relating to him are all'founded up9r Scripture. Quesflons.--Did not our Lord prove by his ascension that he has sovereign power and authoriiyk over all things? [4Ans.Yes.) Did he not also prove by going up to heaven that his kingdom is heavenly? [Ans. Yes ] Wihat should the thoulght, of our Lord's ascension engage us to do? C[Ans. To raise our thoughts and desires towards heaven.] What did our Lord say when he was comforting his disciples before his death? [Ains. In my IFallher's house are many mansioni: if it were not so, 1 would have told you. J go to prepare a place for you; and if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you unto my-self, that where I am., there ie may be also.] Did not the angel's words agree with our Loi)d's promise? [,An;. Yes.] As our Lotdl wtnt up to heaven, ag he said he should do,,have not we reason to believe he will fulfil his promise in every parficlilar? [d4ns. Yes.] Is not a nansion or dwelling-place in heaven a thing to be desired above all earthly possessions? [Ans. Yes.] Xlhat.must we live in the coistant practice of, in order to be received into heaven hereafter? [As;. Hloliness.] If we lead wicked lives, shalt we be fit to inherit a heavenly mansion? [Ans. No.] Why did the first Christians assemble togrether in a room? [Ans. l3ecause there were nochurches.] Are there Christian churches nowk [Ans. Yes.] Is it not more dotifortable to have churches and chapels in which people of all ranks and conditions may assemble together in great numbers; than to be obligcd to meet 201 a few people only in rooms? f Ans. Yes.] Was the Virgia M.NTary one of those who is sOid to have assembled with thle apostlts? [Aizy. Yes.] Is any thing said about paying worship to her? [nibs. No.]- Is she called the queen of heaven aMd the mother of Gbd? [Ans. No.] Is, it not very wrong then in the Roman Catholics to worship her and call her so? [nIS. Yes.] Wihat do you profess to believe concerning Christ's sufferings, dtcah, burial, resurrection, and ascension, when you repc it the X-postlei' Creed? [iis.' That lie suffiered nuder Pootius IPlI te, Nzis crucified, dead, and buried, rose again the third dav, aI5( tdet into hieaven, and sitteth at the right hand of Go.d tnhe tht Aher tv, ftorn thence he eball cdme to judglce tLe quiclkz arid the dead.) Do you beliex e all this? r.4,s. 0,. 1,y you i t 6. f hen to join with your fellow Ciirisuianu. in d G%2cAia i?i ttat ug you. do so" [Ans. Yes.] LESYSON LXXXIII..Real to vrese 14. bzstlriw~on.--~'he day of Pkentecost was the next great festi'val to the Pa-,ovcr; it was kept in remrfnibrane of the ILord's giving the lavw fromi Mount Sinai. Those who were INih one accotrd in one place, most prohably were the huhdred cnd twVnty nti(meoad in the last Lesson. The sound as ofA rushing nighty wir4,was a proper symbol of the Holy Spirit, and it ioi 'rmJ wi: h our Saviour's.disdourse with Mcbdeins; at the berturiniugg of his ministry the cloven or divided tongues, were symbols of the gift of spreaking divers languages, wit-h which the 'ipostles and first disciples were suddenly endued, in order to t rnder them- capa blie of preaching the Gospel to all naitious. The wonder-ful things 4f which the Apostles spake related to Christ and the Gospel. There were usually at Jernsalemn great uumhers of people -from different parts, who did not constantly reside there; when these persons returned to their own, countrie;, wvithout douit, they gave an Accoutit of the wonderful miracl thty had witnessed, which prmpared their countrymen for the preaching of the apostles afterwards, when they travelled from place to place. Questions.--What was the sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wipd a sign of? [Ans. The coming of the Holy Ghost.] What appeared. at the same time? [Ans. Cloven tongues as of fire resting upon the heads of every one of them.] Do not you think it must have been very astonishing to the apostles. and the rest of the persons assembled with them to 11 5 find themselves all of a sudden enabled to speak ldngutage~ they had. n~eer learned? [Axs. Yes.] Shoultd not you be sui~prised to ind yourself in a moment capable of talking Latin, Greek, Fr3nch, Spanish, and all the languages of foreign nations? [AAn r. Yes.] Could the apostles bave done this unless, they'h-ad "been inspired by the Holy Gh(ost? [I.-ns. No.] Were not all whoheard them, astonished? [A.ns. Yes.] What did they sf)&ak of? FiN. Tns.he wonderful works of God.] What did-some say who heard thIem? [A ns. These men are full of new wine.]. Read verse 14 to the endl. 'Inslruwion.---The end apd desigp of Peter's discourse was to4teach the Jews, that what happened then was the fulfilment'of the prophecy of Joel cpncerning the Holy Spirit; that Jesus, whom they had crucified, was risen again; that God the Fither'l ha'rd exalted him to heaven; that it was he wht11o had given his apostles the gift of tongues, and that all nmanktnd ought to look -upon himn as the Mesiiaih, and as their Lord and Kin5T This wýas pr.-aching the Gospel, which Peter (lid with great holdness,. The prediation he referred to, is in the 2d Chapter of the prophetcy of Joel; it evidently relates to thu erilraculous descent of the eI.oly Ghost. Thle verses concerning 'N onders in the hieavenl above, and in the earth bei.eath, are, nndi-,rstood,to refer to the destructionr of Jerusalem, x -i1ui 'Ias to hiijptn after the descent of the H'oly Ghost, occor(ing t o OPlI hSa'sour's own prediction. By the Church is to he uid4rstood, t!h.e society of Christians. -By the apostie's' Joctrine is meant' the G),pel which they preached con-' cernu1jg rcrnis.ion of siins, and salvation through Jesus Christ, th e. Soni or God, and the gift -of the I(Acy.Ghost, which was to'be given to all who were- hpti zed -in his name. The fellowship (f the opostlzs, signified belonging to the society of Chir *.ians, andjoinniig with the apostles in breaking of bread, or ree sun~the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, and in prayers of0ered up in the name of Jesus Christ._'tle ns.-,-Who stood up and justified those who had the gift of tongues, fqrpm what had been said by those who mocked? [Ans.' Peter.] WX hose prophecy did Peter say was fulfilled by the gift of tongues? [..,ns, The prophecy or Joel.] Did, not the prophet foretell that the Holy Spirit would be given in a~very extraordinary way? [Ans.'Yes.] Does it not sgree with the arcount we have been reading of thl descent of the Ho~y Ghost on the day- of Pent~rost [AIis. Yes.] What did Peterqpeqk of after Joel's prophecy? [Ans. Of the rcsurrctsio4 of Christf Who did he say al &pochen of ltbe re* 203 surrection of Christ long before? 25. [f4ns. David.1 What question did sirne of those who heard Peter's discourse ask him and the rest of the apostles? [Anis. Mlen, and brethren, what shall we do?] What (lid Peter tell them to do? 38. [Ans. To repent, and be baptized.] What did tliosý do who gladly heard the discourse of Peter? 4 1. IAns. They were baptized.] How many persons were added to the church that day? [Ans. About three thonsand. Was not this a wonderful increase.? [Ans. Yes ] What ig meant by the church? [An's. The society of Christians.] Who were added to the church daily? 47. [fns. Such as should be savcd.] Who were they?. [Ans. Those who repented of their sins and were baptized4j Who was the first Christian preacher? C[AIzs. St Peter.-[ Where was the first Christian church? [Ans. At Jerusalem.j PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION, Inst rucion.--This Lesson requires very particular attention, for it shews what the Gospel is which the apostles were commanded to preach to 'all nations, first to the Jews, and then to the Genftiles. The Gospel, or good tidings, preached first by Christ, and after, his ascension, by the apostles, is plainly thi i That Christ died for the sins of mankind; that he rose again from the dead, and ascended into heaven, where be sitf teth at the right hand of God; and that he will send the Holy Ghost to those who truly repent of their sins, and are baptized in h1is name. The gift of the Holy Ghost is not bestowed now in the visible manner it was in the apostles' time* Ministers of the Gospel hav'e no new doctrine to preach, they have only to expkrin the written Word; it is indeed proper for them to know the languages in which the Scriptures were originally written, but these they can learn by study, befored they are of sufficient age to preach the Gospel. But all Chris-' tians, those who teach, and those who learn, have need of-the, gift of the Holy Ghost to enable them to understand the: Scriptures, and do their duty; and we believe that this heavenly gift is bestowed upon infants in the Sacrament of Baptism) to cleanse them from the defilement. of original sin., anm give thein a new birth unto righteousiýcss; and that if they live as Christians ought to do, wheri they.come to the use, of>-.their reason, the grace ofGod, the gift of the Holy Ghost, will be coruinued to them to the end of their lives. But, if on the contrary, they live ungodly lives, ýthe grace of God will be withdrawn from them, till -tley repent and forsake their evilways. ~We see then that Lhere are,,as in thie apostle$ d6ys, I two s6rfs bf-people,-one of whom may be called an untoward generation, for they are mockers at religion, a-adlutubelievers;. from these we sh~uld save ourselves by doing -a6 the first Christians -did,. -If %e resolve.'to continue steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and felJowship.; t hat is, in believin-g the Gospel, and leadfing th6 lives of Christians.; if, when we are of a proper age, we frequently partake of the Lord's Supper, and attend with true devotion at public worship, we miay be. sure that the gift of the 'Holy Ghost will 'remtnin with us; and ifhile it does so, we at e in the wiay of salvation. kbiesticns.- Does not this T sson-shev what the Gospel is? CAns, Yes.] What grrat gift is bestow-ed upon thoie. who repent of their.ins, and We.lieve the Gospel? [A:.v. The gift of the Holy Ghost-] * r those who have the gi tt of the Holy G'host understand the doctrine- ot Scripture better than those who have it not? [Ans.. Yes.] Is *not the gift of the Holy G'host to be desired above all things we can possess it) this world [ 1Ans. Yes.] Whiat was it necessaryv fr the first r hetlr; of the Gospel to be able to do in or& r to be under. stoodl by pe: sons of all nation's? [Ans To speak alllnouages.3 Were they enabredl do so? [Ans. Yes.] Had not Peter twvo sort~ of hearer(s? [Ans. Yes.I What did one sort do when he, arnd thtisewhoxvrrewith him, spake in dlivers languages? [.Ans. Mockcd-.] IWhat did others do? [Ans. Gladly received the w1ordl.j W~e're thec first baptized? [.4ns. No.3 -Were the ot hers bip-;Zed [iln's. Yes.] Whic~h of them received the gift of the Holy Ghhost? [Ans. Those who gladly received the wNord.] What word is mrant'? [Ans. 'The Gospel.] What did Peter tell his hearers re'specting the promise of the Holy Ghost? 39. [Ans. The pr'omise is to you and your c-hildren, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord God shall call.] Does not this she.Nw that ihe gift of the Holy Ghost was designed fi~r;fll who'shall be received into the Christian church? [Ans. Yes,] Is the Gi'ft of the Holy Ghost bestowed in the same mhanner now as it was in the time of the apost les? [Ans. No.] Have the ministuvs of the present time any new doctrine to preach? [.Ans. No.] Do Christian congregations now consist. of persons of all nations? [Iins. No.] Do not the people of eac'h congregation in general, all speak the same language? [Ans. Yes.] What language do ife people of this country speak and understand? [Aens. English.] What language are our prayers and sermons in? [,A4z, English.] Have the ministers any occasion then for the gift of tongues? [Ans. Na.ij What have all Cbristians, both those who teach and 205 those taho learn, need of? [Ants. The gift of the. Holy Gho.st] For what purposes do they want it? f nr. [ Tou~nderstand the Scriptures, and do their duty.] Are ttti~e not two sorts of persons in the world now as -well as in thie apostles' days, those who inock at rtligioon,and those who gladly receive the word? [Jnils. Yes.] WVht may the mockers be called? [Jns. An uitoward generatimn.] Should not %%e try to save ourselvesfrom becoaming a pirt of this untoward generation? [Ans. Yes.] WhI)at should every act ion of our lives be marked with? L,4ns, Si;,rngleness of hitart.] i cid Christians do any thing Wiierely to gain the praise Of men [Ansr. No.] Whose praise will those be,- sure to hatve who act uprightly? [Ans. The pi-laise oa God anid-Nod men.] LESSON LXXXIV. Read the whole Lesson. Ta truWtis7. --The curing the lame men shewed, that pre. sently after the ascension of our Lord, the apostles were ennhled to work miracles, in order to prove that their doctrine was true. \'e moust observe, that the apostles Peter and John did not pretend to have any power or holiness but irom' Christ; on the contrary, thfey positively declared, that it wa* through faith; in the name of Christ, that the lame man was' nitde to walk. The apostles believed, that on their saying to the man, 1 1n the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, arise and walk," lhe -would have theu *se of his limbs; andi, the lame nwan believed their words. Questions.---Were not all who beheld this miracle which Peter pet tormed on the lame. man at the beautiful gate Qf the temple astonished? [,4Ans. Yes.] Did Peter say he wrought it by hisi own power or holiness? 12. C[Ans. No.] Did he not declare that the man was cured through faith in the name of ChristM? [ns. Yes.] Who. had this faith? [ibs,. Both Peter and the lame mmin.] Could Peter have cured the man if he had not hid this thith? [Ans. No.] Could the man have hoped fr a cure if be had not had the same faith? [ Ans.No.) What did Peter say had been fulfilled by the sufferings of Christ? 17. [Ins. What God had showed by the mouth of all his prophets.] Did not Peter say that Jesus was the son of God? [AnRs. Yes.) Did he not say that Christ was the great prophet foretold by Moses? [Ans. Yes.) Did he not say that all the prophetq prophesied of the things that had conme to pass 2OG~ iii those day*? [Aitrs. Yes.] To whom did he say G44 had list sent his Son Jesus, the promised seed of Abrahath, in 'Whow all the families of the earth should be blessed? 26. CAns. To the Jews.] What did. he say -was the purpose of Christ's coming? [Ani. To bless them, in turning every one of them from his iniquities.] If the Jews were not turned from their iniquities, whose fault was-it? [Ats. Their own.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.~---From this Lesson we learn, that the grace of God is freely offered-to aU-those wbo repent, and believe the Gospel, however wicked they may have been; but this should not encourage any to lead a wicked life, as they cannot be certain they shall be disposed to do what God requires if they get into habits of wickedness; not all who heard -Peterts discourse, were convertfd by. it.. Though God offers his grace to all, the will of man- is free either to accept it or-not; so that though-we cannot be saved by our own works, without the grace of God, neither shall we be saved by the grace of God, if our works are directly contrary to his commandments;i for from such persons God withhblds his.grace;- he neither bestows remission of-sins, nor the gift of the Holy Ghost. As we are assured by St. Peter, tbat.Jesus Christ, in his human nature, was the great prophet foretold by Moses, to whom the people were to hea'rken, we should pay the utmost attention to all ourLord's words which we find written in scripture, since Moses has declared,.that whosoever would not hearkien to them, will be cut off from being God's people. Abtd since the Son of God came on purpcse to bless and give remtission of siux to.-all who repent,. we sbould resolve to t urn away from all iniquity, that we may partake of the blessingspurchased for us -by our great Redeemer. QuestidnsL,-To whom is the grace of God freely offered? [4mtr. Tcrall whb repeatand believe the Gospel.] Should the offer of the grace of God tp repentan't sinners encourage any to ctntinue in sin? 1n.4.. No.] Is any one sure that after he is fixed in habits of wickedness he shall be disposed to repent?'. [IIns. No.3 We rie all who heard St, Peter's discivurse conveirted by it I [An:. No.] Did nu-t he offer remission of sins i-in.Christ's name to all u pon She same, condýtiqi.? -[Ans. Y&.) 1aW(4-hC saved by our own -%iorks without t-he grace, of God? i-Mr. ~No.) Can..we expett ol bt saved biy the grape ot sodsi v or. wwqrk- ýkre (t rctly;.i"rivto tn rr, k i NAn. No~; Wat b;cs th(b- f- act- Of God cintist in? LAn:. ti ough Jesus Christ, and a spiritual, lie, by. the Gift of the Holy G~host.) LESSON LXXXV. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---The captain of the temple was the officer who cbumanded the Levites then in waitirig. -Our Lord himself was particularly opposed by the Pharisees; and-the Sadducees particularly persecuted his apostles. Tlfe prophecy to which Peter alluded, verse 11, is in the ii8th Psalm. Our Lord had pr'omrised his disciples that he wotild give them a mouth and wisdomi which all their adversaries should not be abile to6 gainsay and resist. This was remarkably fulfilled on the present occasion. Peter and John shewed that, according to their Lord's in junction, they did not fear those who could only kill the body, but tfhat they feartid Him wbo alone is able to de. stroy both soul, and body in hell., The prophecy which the Christian brethren applied to Christ, verse 25, 26, is in the ýd Psalm, and it *,as remarkably fulfilled by the Jewish ri.". lers, byH-erod and Pontius Pilate. The fervent prayer which the, disciples offered up sliewed that they were fulI.of'copi.4 fidence and trust in God'; and the shaking of the place were they were assembled, ahd their being imwediAtely.filled wid~ the Holy Ghost, was a rokeni to them th.At'God bad.0coepted' their pra4-yer, and that he would alwpýays protect them., What -is said at'-the latter tnd of the Lesson, about the union and, agreement among the believers at Jerusalem,. and -the.s. they made of their godds, shews, that tLte Christinb avc. but one heart and soul, and thad "hey willingly a4nd cheer., fully exercise'charity towards those in necessity. Questions.-.-Who were grea'tly oftinded when they.. heard:, that the two apostles laught the 'people io the temple? [14m,. 'The chief priests.i 'N by were the Saddtcees in particular dim.. pleased with their docirine? [ins, tee~ause they did ndt be. lieve in the resurrection of the dej4.]. Iii vvlose -ame, wass the-miracle wrought? [4ns. In Christ's, natne.] Wase.ter' afraid to -declare before the council in whovjA* 'name hvrtiragele was wrought upon tbe.lame wanu? [.n4. No.1. bidi4not'otr.Lord.- tell his disciples before his deab.trh'ýtthey would be d.&. livered up to the council,' and that it sh-ouIl, be, venil tym in that same hour what they should speak iAns~ SeWir: not his wotds fulfilled? [Ans. Yes.) Did- aot'o tor d pfu,4flk,, iis promise by giving his apostica wisdom to cozitbuhd tbei adversaries?.rAng. Yes.1 Was it riot very astonishing to hetr unlearned men preach as they. did? tý4ns. Yes.] How came they to be enabled to do so? [Ans. They werne inspided by the Holy Ghost.] What did the Jewish council do when t hey found that they could ý ne-ithrer d-eny thle miracle which had been wrought, nor cotifound ihei r doctrine? [Ans. Laid hands upon the apostles, and put themn in pri-on~] 3. Were not their Christian bre-thren greatly rejoiced w hey, they ard how Peter and John had bcen enabled to speak before the Jewish rulen? [Ans. Yes.] What sign or token was gi-een them that their prayer was heard? 3,. [k4iis. The place was shalen where they were assembleed, and they wvere all filled with the Holy Ghost.] W ho in particular is named as one who sold his laiid, and brought the money to the apostles 3 56. LAis. Joses, surnamed Barsabas.] PRIAcTICAL INSTRUCTIOW. Instruction.-Fro--Frm this Lesson we shonld learn never to be ashamed of our Christian protcssion, and to think-it the safest and wisest way, on all occasionss, to obey Godl rather than. man. If we do this, we niayb)e certain God Will give us strength and resolution, to do our dnty. J3ut we must not expmtt such an extrabrdinary degree of incpiration as the aposiles. anid first Christians had, neither are we tc*look for it in others, bccause in- the present state of the church- it is not necCstary1'. Quewtions.--Suppose we were to.be persecuted ani threatened to be puit to death unless we would deny Christ, who should we obey, God or man? [Ans. God.1 Can mIan destroy the soul? fns. No.] What can God- destroy [ins". Both soul and body.] If we determine to obey God on all occasions, what may we be certain of? [Ans. That lie will give us strergth and resolution to do our duty.] What did our Saviour say he will d(Y in respect to those Awho deny hiM before men? (Ans. Deny them before 1the angels in heaven.] What is denying him? fAns. Not believing, in him as the. Son of God 1 What other way is there of den"Ving Christ? [Ans. Not followitng his doctrine and examplle.J Are we to expect in these days to be inspired with the gitt of tongues,and such extraordinary'e.ndowmients as the apo-,stlvs ard first Christians had? [Ans. No.] Are we to expect the preachers of the Gospel to be inspired after the same manner? f dns. No.] Why not? fAns. Because in. the present state of the chu'rch it is not wanted.] 209 LESSON LXXXVI. Readl t verse f 7. l*struction.--God struck Ananias and Sapphira dead for having lied to St. Peter, that their example might prevent others from joining the apostles on false pretences, and bringing a scandal upon the Christian religion in the beginning. St. Peter told them they had lied to the Holy Ghost, and to God, because they had attempted to deceive the Holy Spirit, who is God. They were tempted by Satan, but he could not have forced them to commit sin. ' t e miracles which, were wrought by the hands of the apostles, and the love and reverence which the people had for them, were certain proofs of the divinity of their doctrine. They likewise proved the truth of our Lord's promise to his disciples, that they should perform wonderful works through his divine power. Questions.--What crimedid St. Peter say Ananias had been guilty of in keeping back part of the price of his land, and pretending to devote the whole to charitable purposes. 3. [Ans. He had lied to the Holy Ghost.] What happened to Ananias as a punishment for this crime? [Ans. He dropt down dead.] Did his wife commit the same crime? [Ans. Yes.] What happened to her? [Ans. She dropt down dead.] It these sinners had been suffered to escape might not others have been tempted to follow their example? [Ans. Yes.) Would it not have brought great disgrace upon the church? [Ans, Yes.] How did St. Peter know what they had donte [Ans. It was revealed to him by the Holy Ghost.] If the apostles had preached false doctrine, would Christ have given them power to work miracles to prove a lie? [Ans. No.) Were not these miracles likely to gain credit to their words [Ans. Yes.] Did not our Lord tell them before his death, that after he was gone to heaven they shouldbhave power to heal all manner of sicknessess and diseases, and to cast out devils? [Ans. Yes.] Did he not fulfil his promise? [Ans. Yes.] Read verse 17 to the end. Instruction.--We find that the two apostles were imprisoned a second time, but God caused their prison doors to be miraculously opened by an angel; this was a fresh proof of the divine protection, which must have filled them with joy and confidence, and ought to have convinced their enemies that it waSs in vain to oppose the preaching of the Gospel. It was CIO very remarkable that the apostles should, find an advocate even in the Jewish council: the advice Wvhich Gamaliel gave was very prudent and good. It was both unjust and cruel to command innocent men to be beaten. Questionj.--Who set- the apostles at liberty wvhen the hig~i priest had caused them to be put in prison? 19. [AIrs. An angel.] Where did the angel tell them to go to? [..Ins. To the Temple,] Were not the high priest and those who were with him greatly disturbed when they heard t* hat the men they had put in prison were at liberty, and teaching in the temple? [Airs. Yes I Did Peter and John boldly preach the Gospel to the councilI [Anrs. Yes.] How were the council affected when the apostles told them that Jesus whom they had crucified was exalted to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins? 32. [ANs.They were cut to the heart.] Who stood-up and spake in. favour of the apostles, 34. [A4is. Gamaliel.] Did he not give wvise council? C[Ais. Yes.] How did the apostles behave after they had been severely beaten? 4T. [Ans. They' rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for Christ's sake. PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Int ruction.-.From the crime of Ananias and Sapphira being made known to-the apostles by the Holy Ghost, we learn, that nothing done in secret can be hidden from God; and from the reproof which St. Peter gave them, and the heavy judgment which fell upon these two persons, we learn, that it is a very great sin to make use of falsehood and deceit in the exercise of charity. If the apostles were now upon the earth, it would be right for evpry one to follow them and hear their discourses: but we must take care not to pay the honours due to apostles only, to preachers who go wandering about from place to place, preaching in fields and houses. To honour such as apostles, is to dishonour the true apostles of Christ. It is true that the apostles-were unlearned And ignorant men; but thiere is no reason -to expect that such persons will be inspired to preach in the present state of the church,' because from tie time of the apostles there have been ministers regularly ordained.,to preach the Gospel, 'accordirrg to the Scriptares. The manner in which the apo'stes, bore the sufferings which were inflicted upon them for*Christ's sake should serve as an example to all who suffer persecution in the same righteous cause; and those who are only subject to the common trials of a religious life, should learn to submit to them with -cheerfulness, 9211 Questions.--Is it not a very great crime to lie and deceive? [Ans. Yes.] What should the judgment that fell upon Ananias and Sapphira make us afraid to do? [dns. Lie and deceive.] Can any one tell that he shall not be struck dead with a lie in his mouth? [As. No.] Did not the people do very right in following the apostles, and honouring.them as they did? [Ans. Yes.] Who ordaiqed them to be apostles, and to preach the Gospel? [Ans. Christ himself.] Were they not inspired by the Holy Ghost? [Ans. Yes.] How did they prove that they were ordained of Christ, and inspired by the Holy Ghost? [Ans. By being the first to preach the Gospel, and by working miracles?] Should we regard preachers who travel about from place to place and preach in fields and houses as apostles? [Ans. No.] Who d6 we disbonour by doing so? [Ans. The Apostles of Christ.] Were not the apostles in general unlearned and ignorant men? [Ans. Yes.] As there are ministers properly ordained, and places of worship to go to,, should. we follow field preachers? [Ans. No.] Is there any occasion for ignorant men to be inspired as the apostles were, now the doctrine of the apostles is written in Scripture? [Ans. No.] To whom in particular should the behaviour of the apostles, when they were beaten and cruelly used, serve as an example? [Ans. To all who suffer persecution for Christ's sake.] What should those who are only subject to the common trials of a religious life learn from the behaviour of the apostles? [Ans. To submit to them with cheerfulness.] LESSON LXXXVII. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.--Stephen was one of seven men called deacons; who were ordained by the apostles- to distribute the collections which were made for the relief of the indigent: they were ministers under the apostles; and, after them, young clergymen, when they first take orders, are still called deacons. Stephen was accused of being an enemy to the law of Moses; but, in a long discourse which is in the 7th chapter of the Acts, he proved that he was neither an enemy to God nor the law; that he worshipped the God of Abraham, that Christ was the Messiah, and that God's covenant and his service were not confined to the nation of the Jews; and ihe reproached the Jews with having been rebellious to God from the beginning. Stephen was the first Christian martyr, the first who was put to death on account of his professing-the Christian faith. Saul, who is said to have been consenting to the death of Stephen, was a young. man, very zealous for the religion of the Jews, a strict Pharisee, aid a great opposer of the Christian religion; he thought he. was doing his, duty when he persecuted the church of Christi but he was a bitter enemy to it. The disciples could no longer keep together in one body as they had done, but dispersed and preached in different places. N Questions. -What were the seven ministers called who were ordained by the apostles to assist~ thern? [Ems. Deacons.] Was Stephen one of them? [,dns. Yes.] Did not the Jews of certain synagogues dispute with Stephen? [Ans, Yes.] Did Stephen answer the accusation brought against him? [.Ae2s. Yes.] Were not his enemies greatly enraged and very furious againsthim? [Ans. Yes.] How did Stephen behave under this barbarous treatment? [Ans. He prayed- for his murderers.]' Who did he pray to receive. hus spirit? 50. [Ais. The Lord Jesus.] What is -meant by his falling asleep? [A44ns. He died-an easy death.] What is Stephen called on. account of hi&.being the first that wai put to death for professing the Christian faith? [,AIn Thre firs Chriftiian martyr.' Who is said to have been consentirrr to the death of Stephien-? T. [Ans. Saul.] What was there against the church or society of Christians at Jernsalem? [,Ins, A persecution.] What is meant by. a persecution? [.4ns. Ill treitment for- the sake of religion.] Did all the disciples continue together as before? [Ans. No.] What wts done with the body of Stcphep aftcr his deatht z, [Ans. Devout men buried it.] rRACTICAL- INSTRUCTION'. Instruction.- -From the account we here have of ihe death'i of Stephen, we may conclude, that those who suffer martyrdons for the sake of Christ are #upported. and comforted iu an extraordinary manner. This account of the first Christian martyr is enough to animate the courage of all who are called upon to suffer in the same causi. As Stephen was favoured with a vision by which le knew that heaven vas opened to receive him, all other niarttrs may be certain it will open tdi receive thein alsol and there have been numbess since Stephen who have died in the same happy way. Hundreds at different times-have been burnt to death, who scarcely appeared sensible of pain in the midst of the flames, so exalted were their hopes of future, happiness, and,-so pqwerful the consolations of the Hioly Sp~irit to their souls. The death of trur believers, ua. -less whlen) they have unhappily given way to melancholy, is generally happy, w-hether they die by the hands of thieir enemies or by disease and decay. They see by faith their fRe. deemer the Lord Jesus, at the rigiht hand of God, ready to receive their souls, and introduce thew to eternal ilory: and after death they are received in to heaven, wherethey find iheir blessed Redeemier, anid join with the saints and martyrs, and all the holy angels, in worshipping God, and with ihem they will be partakers of endless happiness. In the behaviour of Saul we have an instance of the crimes whicli well-meaning penple niny be hurried into through misguided zeal. Qriesioios.--Would Stephen's death have been happy if he had denied Christ? [Ans. No.] 'Could he fiave hoped that heaven would open to receive him? '[Airs. No.] Would a vision of Christ at the-right hand of God have been comfort. able to him? [Jlns. No. I Could he have called upon Christ at the moment of his departure 'to receive his spirit? [ 4Ans No.] Which is most likely to make any one tiuly happy, to die a martyr, or to live an apostate? [Ans. To die a mnartyr.] What is a martyr.? [i/is. One who dies for the sakewf his religion.] What is an apostate? [Ans. One who forsakes UiS religion.] Do not you think the martyrs-I told you of, who rejoiced in the midst of burning flanmes, were suppof ted after -the same manner as St. Stephen? [Airs. Yes.] Are Christians ingeneral called upon to suffer martyrdomw? fAnis. No.] Do not by far the greatest number of Christians die in a natural May? [Amis. Yes.] Do not people commonly suffer a great deal of pain in dying? [.Ais. Yes.] Does it not reqtiire great courage to weet death without fear? [Aruts. Yes.] What -kind ot life must we lead if we wouid die withou't fear [ As, A good life.1 What sort of a conscience shall we have if we lead a good life? [Ais. A quiet conscience.] Will not a quiet conscience help to give us courage in the hour of death? [Ans, Yes.] 'Will it not contribute to'a happy death if we have a firm trust in, twe mercy of Gpd through Christ Jesus? [AiRs. Yes.] Shall we not then have reason to hope that we shall soon change our painful life for a life of endless happi. ness ~[Airs. Yes-I How may xvezxpress our faith in Christ it) the wonr of death? [Ans-. By saving as St.. Stephen did, Lord Jesus, receive my spirit.] Was not Saul very wrong in pergecuting inpncent peeple only for differing from him ir; religious opininns? [Ans. Yes.] Was it not very cruel in him to tear meti and women from their families, and putth-e M 414 intp prison, widimut first satisfying hirns'lf that the doctrine they preached wai of aia evil ten~dency? [.AIs. ýYes.] Was it not very unbecoming 'in a younig nuwn to pretend to judge in" such difficult matters as the question in dispute betwiNxt the Jews and Christians? [diis. Yes.] Did not his holding the clothes of those who stoned St. Stephen shew. his hatred of thi Christians? [Ans. Yes'.] Should any-people pretend to persecute others for thei sake of religion? (4ns. No.] Does tile Christian religionjustify persecution for difference of opinion. [Ans. N.o.] LE&SSON- LXXX VIII. Read tie -whole Lesson. f[nst7-uction.---The per-secution which was raised againmt the Christians was a means of spreading the Gospel. TI'he kingdom of heaven increased, as our Saviour had tbretold it wouild ýy his parable, like a grain of mustard-seed. Philip was one of the seven. deacons. - What is said of the credit which the people of Samaria gave to Simon the* magician, shewvs, that those who know not the truth are easily seduced by impostors; but the change that happened in that city after' Philip had preached to them, shews that truth 'vill triumph over falsehood. Simon's desire to be baptized proves, that the wvicked are'sometinies -affected with the excellency of the Gospel, so as to embrace the profession of it; but not acting upon good principles, their conversion is not sincere. It appears from this lesson, that the visible descent of the Holy Ghost wars given to new converts upon the apostles' praying and laying onl of hands. Candace is supposed to have reigned over the sa4ie country as the queen of Sheba. The officer. of queen C(andace whom Philip baptized had before renounced idolatry, arid. embraced the Jewish religion, as We may know by his reading the writings of the prop)hets. The passagef he was reading is in tile 53d chapter of Isaiah. This prophecy was written long before our Saviour came into the Nvorld, yet it describes his sufferings, death, and burtial, as if it had been written after his crucifixion. Questions.--Who was Philip - O-nes. Oe of the evern deacons.J Where did he-go -to?. 'AiAs. Samiaria.] What convinced the Samaritans that" his- doctrihe was of God? j-ns. The miracles which--he -did. Whtat kind of miracles didb he do? 7. [Ans., He cast odut un'clean spirits, and&cured palsies and lameness.j. Were -nhbt these -the same kind of miracles 2W15 / which our Saviour wrought while he war upon earth, to prove the truth of his doctrine? [Ans. Yes.] In whose name did Philip do these miracles? [Ans. In Christ's name.] What man in the city of Samaria deluded the people by liractising magical arts? 9. [Ans. Si mon.] Did the Samaritans continue to follow Simon when they. heard Philip preach, and beheld the miracles'he wrought? [Ans. No.] Was Simon also baptized? 13. [Ans. Yes.] What did the new converts receive on the apostles' laying o01 of hands? [ Ans. The Holy Ghost.] What did Simon do when he observed this? I 8S. [Ans. Offered money to Peter for the power to give the HIoly Ghost.] Was not Peter greatly offended at this? [Ans. Yes.] Who was Philip sent by an angel to instruct? 27. [Ans. A man of Ethiopia.] What did Philip find him doing? [Ans. Reading in his chariot.] What was he 'eading? [Ans. The 53d chapter of Isaiah.] Could he understand it? [Ans. No.] How came the E thiopian, who belonged to a heathen nation, to be reading the Holy Scriptures? [Ans. He had been converted to the Jewish religiop.] What did Philip do when the Ethiopian asked him who the prophet spake.of? 32. [Ans. He began at the sainme scripture and preached Jesus unto him.] What did the Etliopiau desire when Philip had done this? [Ans. To be bapti zed.] What did he profess to believe before Philip baptized him? 37. [Ans. That Jesus Christ is the Son of God.] ])id QPhilip go. with theEhiopian after this? 39. [AnLs. No, he went to thile cities of Cesarea.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instrctlio.--FIrom Philip's being sent to instruct the Ethioplan, we may learn, that. God takes particular care of those who read the cicriptureswith a sincere desire to understand them, and gives a oreatPr degree of grace to those who have made a good ue' of eh light afforded them. The Ethiopian could not underst mnd the prophecy he was reading without an explanation, ind a minister of the Gospel was sent on purpose to teach him if he had known, of Philip, or of any of the apostles, it is most likely he would have -gone to them; and this is what Christians ought to do who live in a coun try -where thery are ministers expressly ordained to expound the Scriptures to those who have not leisure or ahilities tt compare one part with another, in order to see how the prophecies of the Old Testament were all fulfilled in Jesusx Christ. Ouestions.--Are not the Scriptures read'and explained in all *tar chyWuches? s Yes.] * Ought we not to'go to hEirr them??.tAs. Yes.] Wrhat did the Ethiopian do wheda he had been baptized and made a Christian '.3q. [Ans. He went on his way rejoicing.] Have not all wNho have enmbraced the Chiristian faith equal reason to rejoice? [Ans. Yes.] Sliould Chrisatias imake religion a gloomy melancholy thing? [Ans. No.] LESSON LXXX.TX. Read the whole Lesson. Instriution.--Saul wvas the declared enemy of Christ; but the Lord, to whom all bearts are open, knew that it ws for want of knowing him that hie was so, -and that he had a.regard to the honour of God in standii-g up for the Jewish law. The Lord also knew that when his zeal was properly directed, Saul would be a useful member of the Christian church; hie therefore chose him for ani apostle to the Gentiles; and that Saul might bear w- itness to his resurrection, our LorJ vouchsafed to convince himi, by a vision, that he -was actually in a state of glory, as his disciples declalred hrim to be. Saul became a sincere believer; upon which he received remission of his former sins by baptism, and was filled with the -Iolv Ghost after the same manner as the other apostles. After this Saul was called PauL.* Q uestinns.-Who was Saul? [_Ans. The 'young ran who held Stephen's clothes when he was st(r.ed.] Did Saul continue his fury againist the disciples after Stephen's death? [Ans. Yes.] To what place did lie set off in order to apprebend all the Christians he could find, and carry them as prisoners to Jerusalem? 3. fAns. To Damascus.] Had he not an astonishing vision in the way to Damascus?f[Ans. Yes.] Who spake to him from heaven? [Ans. The Lord Jesus.] In what condition was Saul after this vision? 8. [Ans. He could not see.] How long did he cont.inue with out sight? [Ans. Three days, and he did neither eat nor drink.] To whom did the Lord appear in a vision, and sent him to Saul? i10. [4ks. To Ananias.] Did the Lord give notice to Saul of Ananias's coming? [4Ans. Yes.] Was not Saul filly converted when he had beard the words of Ananias?,- [.Ans. Yes.] Was hissight restored to him? 18. [Ans. Yes.] What was done then?.Ans. He arose, and was baptized.] What did Ananias tell him Ie should beý filled with when his sigh t was restored'? [.dns. The W 7e Holy Ghost.] 17. What did Santr do a few dayvafterwan4s? 19. [Ans. Preached Christ. in the iynago~ses that h-e was the Son of God.] Were not all who heard him amazed [Ans. Yes.] Who did he confound by his preaching? 22. [Ans. The Jews who dwelt at'Damascus'. PmKC'rIAL INSTRUCTI'Obt. Instnictionn.--We ought to admire die- power and go(-odnevs of Christ displayed in &~ conversion of St.' 'PaulL; the suidden change which was wrought in this apostle.was very happy both to himself and the chu~rch; but we must be careful not to expect ftrom it that God will work miracles for the conversion of hardened sinners; for there is no reason to believe.that had Paul been 'a wicked man, Chr-ist iviuld have thosen him to be an apostitz to the Gentiles. What we 'pArti ular~y lealrn fromn this Lesson is, that our bles'sed Sav-'iotir is alctually in a state of gliory, that be silwatches 6ver his' church, and considers the injuries done t-o it as done to hiffi*self.' His appointing an apostle for the. Gentiles; proved. that he was readdy to rec-eire teisni among, his people. Ques-tions.---Whiat were wond-erfully displaye.d in the, c onversion of St. Paul? [-Aflsj The power and g~bdness of Gbd.] Was not the sudden changre that was m;Ade in him very happy both for himself and the -church? [Anis. Yes.] 'Wouldno hie have' persecuted,~number of good people'iit he had hot been stopped in h* way, to Damascus [ dAns.' Yes.] Would not hie have increa~ the n Unber' of his ow'n sins?, JAns. Yes.J Have hardenled sinners, who -give themselves uip to the prctice of 'wickedniess, any -reason to- expect.thrt they, shall'be as suiddenly converted as St.- Paul1 was? [dezs; No.] Was St. Paul a man who set himself ~apinst God a 'id religibn on [dens. No.) Was he addictedi to swearing, sabbath-breaking, and other viees? [A.Nq;J -Was- he not, on the. contrary, veiry.zealolus 'for the h6nm*r of G*od? [Aasy. Yes]l WhA. change- then was suddenly wvrought in himu? ~dt;Froma a persecut~in~r Jew he becamne a:%iealous Christian.1 is it likely that: if 8t. -Patl, hA'd been an- enemny to O'1ireligion', Cbrist wo~uld hrave qhosen hira, as an apostle to the Gentiles? I- [A~w; - Net Is it mot piaixi from this Lessdni that:'oir Saviou'r 4~ in.& qtat,6 of g i7 [~rs'. Yes.] Wh~at does his taking'toe part.o the first Chrtstis against their persectitor's ifhe'W * Tliaý he wae et-ve his. church.] What'did hils appo'AA~tiag ai PART 11. K, S18 apostle for the Gentiles prove? [Ans. That Christ was ready to receive the Gentiles among his people.] LESSON XC. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.---Cornelius was a Roman officer, who was stationed with some troops at Cesarea; though a Gentile, Cornelius was a very good man; but he could never lave discovered, by his own reason, the glorious truths revealed in the Gospel; he could never have been certain that his good deeds were accepted of God. In order to reward this good man for his piety and charity, an angel was sent to inform him that he was approved of God, and to put him in the way of becoming a Christian. The Jews had a notion that the blessings of the Messiah's kingdom were to be confined to themselves, and that the Gentile nations would have no share in them and St. Peter seems to have taken up this opinion. The vision he had was designed to remove this prejudice, and shew him that he was not to despise the Gentiles, but to admit them into fellowship with himself and the rest of the believers of the Jewish nation. Peter was fully convinced; when the Holy Ghost fell upon the new converts, that it was the will of God that Gentiles, as well as Je ws, should be admitted into the Christian church by baptism. From this time there was no distinction in respect to spiritual blessings betwixt Jews and Gentiles; and it is remarkable that St. Peter was the first preacher of the Gospel to both. 9uestions.---Was not Cornelius a very good man? Ans. Yes.] What was he, a Jew or a Gentile [.Ans. A Gentile.] How did God assure this good man that his prayers and his alms were accepted? [Ans. God sent an angel to him.] What did the angel put him in the way of becoming? [Ans. A Christian.} Who did the angel tell him to send for? 5. [,Ans. Peter.] Did Cornelius do as the angel directed him? [Ans. Yes.] What notion had the Jews concerning the Messiah's kingdom? [Anis. That none but themselves were to be admitted into it.] Had St. Peter taken up this opinion? [Ans. Yes.] fow did God'shew him his error? [Ans. By a vision.] What did he see in the vision? [Ans. A great sheet full of all kinds of creatures ] Did Peter understand the vision at ~19 first? [Ans. No.].Who arrived while he was doubting about it? [Ans. The men Cornelius had sent.] What did the Holy Spirit make known to him while he thought of the vision? [Ans. That three men sought him.] What did the Holy Spirit direct him to do? 19. [Anis. To go with the men.] Did he go with them the next day? [Ans. Yes.] Who accompanied him? 23. [Ans. Certain brethren from Joppa.] Who had Cornelius assembled together waiting for Peter's coming? 24. [Ans. His kinsmen and friends.] Did Peter know before he wss inspired by the Holy Ghost what words he was to say to this assembly of Gentiles? [Ans. No. Did Peter uaderstand the vision now? [Ans. Yes.] Was not he fully convinced that the Gentiles, as well as the Jews, were accepted of God? [Ans. Yes. J Did he preach the same Gospel to them as he had preached to the Jews? [Ans. Yes.] What did St. Peter say, whosoever-believeth on Christ, shall receive? 42. [Ars. Remission of sins.] What fell upon all who heard Peter as he was speaking these words? 44. [Ans. The Holy Ghost.] Were not those of the circumcision, that-is, the Jews, who went with Peter from Joppa, astonished when they perceived that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost? [Ans. Yes.] How did they know it actually was so? 40. [Ans. They heard them speak with tongues and magnify God.] Were they baptized? [Ans. Yes.] Who was the first to preach the Gospel both to Jews and Gentiles? [Ans. St. Peter.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.--St. Peter's discourse to Cornelius comprehends the substance of the doctrine which the apostles preached; those important truths which ought tobe received by all Christians. He represents faith in Christ, and holiness of life, as the only conditions of salvation. The attention, submission, and obedience, with which Cornelius, and all who were with him, heard St. Peter, ought to teach us to receive the wordof God with the same disposition, when it is declared to us. And as we of this country descend from those who were at first heathens, we should be very thankful to God,- for admitting the Gentiles into his covenant, and for pouring forth his Spirit upon them as well as upon the Jews. Questions.--- Does it not appear from the history of Cornelius, that acts of piety and charity are very pleasing in the sight of God? [Ans. Yes.] Should-we not do them then? [Ans. Yes.1 Does it not appear also that God grants more light and grace to those who have a sincere desire to know and please him? [Ans. Yes.] tWat does St. Peter's discourse to Cornelius comprehend? [Ans. The substance of the doctrines which the apostles preached.] What does St. Peter represent as the only condition of salvation? [Ans. Faith in Christ, and holiness of life.] Did not Cobrnelius and his friends receive the word of God with great attention, submission, and obedience? [ns. Yes.] Should not we do the same? [Ans. Yes.] What were the people of our country before they were converted to Christianity? [Ans. Heathens.] What should we be very thankfil to God for? [.as. For admitting the Gentiles into covenant with him, and pouring forth hia Spirit upon them.] LESSON XCI. Read the whole Lesson. Instruction.-The Christians at Jerusalem were offended at frst that St. Peter had been with Cornelius and his friends, because it was not lawful for the Jews to have any dealings with the Gentiles; but when he had informed them of tbe descent of the Holy Ghost upon the Gentile converts, they rejoiced. We find that the dispersion of the Church at Jerusalem, and the persecution that was raised against the Christians, contributed to spread the Gospel; and that many churches were founded and Rept up by the ministry of Barnabas and Paul, and other persons, who laboured for their edification. Questions.--Why were the Christians of Jerusalem displeased with St. Peter for going to Cornelius? [Ans. Because it was unlawful for the Jews to keep company with heathens.] What did they do when Peter told them the whole about the vision he and Cornelius had had, and the descent of the Holy Ghost upon the Gentile converts? 4. [Ans. They glorified God.) Did not the different preachers convert great numbers? [ins. Yes.] At what place were the disciples first called Christians.] [Ans. At Antioch.] 25. Who prophesied of a great dearth that was to happen? 27. [Ans. Agabus.] Did this prophecy come to pass? [Ans. Yes.] 221 PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION. Instruction.---The behaviour of the disciples at Jerusalem teaches us that we ought to rejoice in the favours God bestows upon others, especially when they are called to repentance and everlasting life; and it ought to be the subject of great joy and gratitude to us, that God has granted to the Gentiles repentance unto life. And the resolution which the Christians took to make a collection for their brethren in Judea, should stir us up to assist the necessities of our fellow Christians. Questions.-Ought not all Christians to rejoice in the favours God bestows upon others? [Ans. Yes] Ought they not to rejoice when they see the knowledge of the Gospel spread in the world? [Ans. Yes.]. What ought to be the cattse of great joy to us as descended from the Gentiles? [Ans. That God has granted to the Gentiles repentance unto life.] Is it not right for Christians to help those who are in need? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XCII. Read the -whole Lesson. Instruction.-In this Lesson we see how the apostle St. James, as St. Stephen had done before him, sealed the truth of the Gospel with his blood, which shews that he was fully persuaded of the truth and divinity of it, and we may be certain he received the glorious reward prepared in heaven for martyrs to the Christian faith. The Herod here mentioned was.not that king who put John the Baptist to death, but Herod Agrippa, nephew to the other. It was to please the Jews that he was cruel to the Christians. God, who had permitted James to be put to death, did also permit Peter to be imprisoned by king Herod; but the Lord set him at liberty in a miraculous way to shew, that though God sometimes allows the wicked to execute.their 'designs, yet when it pleases him he restrains them, and that he always watches over- his faithful servants. Herod's1 miserable death is likewise related by Josephus, a famous Jewish historian; it slrews that God confounds the proud, and that it is a very dangerous. tbiig to persecute the church of Christ. Questions.---Who is said to have perseouted the Christians K3 0 C4 [Ans. Herod.] Was it the same Herod who put John the Baptist to death? [Ans. No, Herod Agrippa.] Who did he put to death? [Ans. James the brother of John.] What did St James shew by losing his life for the sake of the Gospel? [Ans. That he believed it to be true.] Was it a misfortune to James to die a martyr? [Ans. No.] What may we be certain he received? [Ans. A glorious reward in heaven.] Was there not another apostre named James besides him whom Herod put to death? [Ans. Yes.] Who was he? (Ans. The son of Alpheus.] What other cruel action did Herod do after the death of Jamres? 4. [Arfs. He put Peter into prison.] Was not Peter heavily loaded with chains and strongly guarded? [Ans. Yes.] How was he delivered? [Ans. By an angel.] Was not Peter himself, and the friends he went to, greatly astonished at this miraculous deliverance? [Ans. Yes.] Was not Hert(x greatly enraged when he heard that Peter had escaped? [Ans. Yes.] What did the people shout and say when Herod sat cn his throne and made an oration to them? 21. [Ans. It is the voice of a God and not of a man.] What happened immediately? 23. [Ans. The angel of the Lord smote him, and he was eaten of worms and died.] Why was he smitten? [Ans Because he gave not God the glory.] Did the persecution of the Christians hinder the increase of the church? [,ns. No.] Who are mentioned as ministers of the Gospel? 25. [Ans. Barnabas and Saul.] PRACTICAL IN8TRUCTION. Instruction.--The death of St. James shews that the Christian religion was at first established by the sufferings of those that prea'ched it. If the Gospel had not been true, this apostle, and others who were put to death in the same cause, would not have laid down their lives for it. This should strengthen our faith, and make us resolve to bear any thing rather than depart from the Gospel. The deliverance of St. Peter should teach us to put a firm trust and confidence in God in times of distress, not doubting but that he will either deliver us from the hands of our enemies, or take us to himself The miserable end of Herod shews the vanity of all earthly greatness, and the fatal effects of pride and vain-glory, which corrupt the hearts of those who indulge them, and provoke the just anger of God. Questions.-Dkl not St. James prove by his death the truth of the doctrine he preached? [Aas. Yes.] What should tb's 223 strengthen? [Ans. Our faith.] What should we resolve to do? [Ans. To bear any thing rather than depart fiom the faith.] What should we learn from the deliverance of St. Peter? [Ans. To put a firm trust and confidence in God in time of distress.] What may we be certain God will do if we thus trust in him? [Ans. Either deliver us from our enemies, or take us to himself ] What does the miserable end of Herod shew? [Ans. The vanity of all earthly greatness.j Does it not also shew the fatal effects of pride and vain-glory? [Ans. Yes.] Who died the happiest death, do you think, St. James or king Herod [AiIzs. St. James.] Instruction.--In the Book of Acts we have the history of St. Paul, and an account of many particulars respecting the other apostles, which you may read in the New Testament; and you will find that they travelled into various parts, and established churches wherever they went, performing miracles to prove the truth of their mission; in most places they met with persecutions, which they endured with unshaken fortitude, and St. Paul, in particular, went through great trials, but nothing disheartened him., When he was taking leave of the elders bf the church at Ephesus, he told them that they would see his face no more, that he was going to Jerusalem, not knowing what would befall him, any farther than that it was revealed to him by the Holy Ghost, that in every place bonds and imprisonment awaited him: But,said thisfaithful and zealous apostle, none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God. On another occasion, when the disciples would have persuaded him not to go to Jerusalem, because a prophet named Agabus foretold that if he went thither he would be delivered into the hands of the Gentiles, he answered, What mean ye to weep, and to break mine heart? for I am ready not to be bound only, but also to die at Jerusalem, for the nameof the Lord Jesus. When arrived at Jerusalem, every thing that had been foretold, hap-. pened to him; hle was most cruelly persecuted by the Jews, and,given into the hands ofthe Romans; who kept him prisoner twoyears; then the chief priests requested the Romangovernor t9 send him to Jerusalem, to be'tied; but Paul knowing they had a design against his life, appealed unto Cesar; in consequence of which, he was at last sent to Rome, where he met with kindnes, and dwelt two whole years in his own hired 4 house with only one soldier to guard him, preaching the Gospel to all who came to him. Here the Scripture account of St. Paul ends, but from other books it appears, that he suffered martyrdom in the time of the cruel emperor Nero. In the course of his travels, this apostle is said to have visited Spain and Britain, and to have preached the Gospel there. Before his death he wrote Epistles, that is, letters to different churches, and to his two disciples, Timothy and Titus, which are preserved among the writings of the New Testament. In his second Epistle to Timothy, which was written, when he was expecting to be shortly put to a cruel death, he expressed himself as follows: For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith; henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing. Questions.-Is not the history of St. Paul a very wonderful one? [dns. Yes.] What does it prove? [ ns. The truth of the Gospel ] If Paul had not been certain it was true, would he have submitted to such sufferings for the sake of Christ? [Ans. No.] Does it not appear from his Epistle to Timothy, that Paul was happy in the hopes of a future reward, while he was expecting to be put to a cruel death? [Ans. Yes.] What did he say was laid up for him? [Ans. A crown of righteousness.] On whom besides himself did St. Paul say the Lord, the righteous Judge, would bestow this reward? [Ans. On all that love his appearing. Who do you suppose Will rejoice to see the Lord coming to judgment? [ans. His faithful servants. Do not you wish to be among the number of these? [Ans. Yes.] LESSON XCII. Read to verse 35. Instruction.-This Lesson is taken from the 15th chapter of St. Paul's first Epistle to the Corinthians, in which he fully explains the doctrine of the Resurrection of the dead. The apostle shews that the first man Adam brought death upon the whole human race, for which there would have been no remedy, had not Christ died and rose again. He calls lirist the first fruits, comparing his body to seed sown in the earth, the first fruits of which are an earnest of the future harvest. SQesti ns.--.-What did St. Paul sayhe was going to declare to his hearersj? Ans. The. Gospel, What did he say would happen if they stood firm in it? [Ans. They should be saved.] How did St. Paul know what he taught about our Saviour's resurrection? [Ans. lie received it from Christ himself.] What did he say Christ died for? 3. [Ans. Our sins.] Who did he nean by Cephas? 5. [Ins. St. Peter.] By how many persons did he say our Lord was seen at one time after his resurrection? [Ins. Above five hundred.] Why does St. Paul call himself the least of the apostles? 8. [Ans. Because he persecuted the church of Christ.] Was not our Lord's raising his own body a certain proof that the dead may be raised? [AIs. Yes.] Is it not very comfortable to us to believe that Christ is risen from the dead? [,Ans. Yes.] Could we hope Christ would raise our bodies, if he had not raised his own? [Ans. No.] Why does he call Christ the first fruits of them that slept? 20. [Ans. Because he was the first that rose from the dead.] As Christ shewed himself alive after the resurrection, in our nature, which was laid in the grave, may we not hope with the greatest coufidance, that all the dead will be raised? LAns. Yes.] Would, the apostles, or any of the first Christians who were so cruelly persecuted, have continued to be Christians, if they had not firmly believed in the resurrection from the dead, [iAns. No.] Would they have submitted to be cast iato prisons, to be loaded with chains, to be scourged, to be stoned with stones, to be exposed to wild beasts, and many other barbarities, if they had not had hopes of rising again to a life of happiness and glory? [Anss. No.) What did the Apostle mean by saytag, We die daily? 34. [Ans. That they were always in danger of death from their persecutor.] Read verse 85 to the end. "Instruction.-There is a wonderful difference betwixt a small grain of corn when it is put* into the earth, and the plant which springs from it when it is come to perfection. The body this little grain receives in the earth is given to it by the Creator.; and we may be certain that God will improve mankind, the highest part of the creation, as much as he does the lowest; and that the spiritual body will as greatly exceed the natural body, as a plant in perfection exceeds the grain it springs from. In his Epistle to the Philippians, St. Paul says, that when our Saviour Christ comes again he will change our vile body that it may be like unto his glorious body; and the apostle here tells us that flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdolm f God from which wemay conclude that our Lord's body was changed as he ascended into heaven. - St. Paul tells us as a mystery, or as a circumstance which could never have been known if it had not been ievealed from heaven, that we shall not all die, but we shall all be changed; by which we understand that those who shall be alive at the ei:d of the world will undergo this change in a moment, so as to become like those who shall rise from their graves. Questions.--To what does St. Paul compare the resurrection of the body? 30. [Ans. To a grain of wheat sewn in the ground.] Does not every seed that is sown receive a very different body before it rises from the earth? f Ans. Yes.'j Is not a plant of corn in full ear much more excellent and beautifut than the grain it sprang from? [Ans. Yes.] Is not the plant rising from the earth, after the grain has to appearance rotted, a lively image of the resurrection of the body? [Ans. Yes.J Are there not such images of the resurrection in every little plant which springs from the earth every year? [Ans. Yes.] Does not the apostle say that there are terrestrial bodies and celestial bodies? 40. [Ans. Yes.] What are terrestrial bodies? [Ans. Earthly bodies.] What are celestial bodies? [Ans. Heavenly bodies.] Is not a celestial body much more glorious than a terrestrial one? [Ans. Yes.] In what state is a terrestrial body sown, that is, buried? 42. [Ans. In corruption.] In what state does St. Paul say human bodies will be raised? [Ans. In incorruption.] What kind of body is that which is buried? [Ans. The natural body.] What kind of body will it be raised? [Ans. A spiritual body.] Whose image do we bear in respect to our natural body? 45. [Ans. The first Adam's.] Whose image shall we bear in the spiritual body? [Ans. The second Adam's.] Who is meant by the second Adam? 17 [Ans. The Lord from Heaven.] Will all mankind die? [Ans. No.] What will happen to those who shall be alive on the earth when the last trumpet shall sound? 51. [,ns. They shall all be changed in a moment, in the twinkling ofan eye.] What will this corruptible mortal body put on then? 53. [Ans. Incorruption and immortality.] What will then be swallowed up in victory? 54. [Ans. Death.] What is the sting of death, or the thing that makes death dreadful? 56. [Ans. Sin] Will there be any more sin after death? [. ns. No.] Will those who are raised from the dead die any more? [Ans. No.] PRACTICAL INSTRUCTION Instruction.--From this Lesson we learn the certainty of a resurrection from the dead, and the nature of it, as far as it 927 can be explained to us in this state of mortality; and very comfortable this revelation is to those who make a proper use of it. The advice which the apostle gives at the end of this Lesson every Christian ought to follow; and we have the greatest encouragement to do so, for then may we expect to be received by our blessed Redeemer into his heavenly kingdom. Questions.--What do we learn from this Lesson? [Ans. The certainty of a resurrection from the dead.] Is it not very comfortable to -Christians to be assured of a resurrection from the dead? [Ans. Yes.] Will not the sound of the last trumpet be a joyful one to those who rise from the dead with a spiritual body, to go to take possession of a heavenly inheritance? [Ans. Yes.] Will they not have great cause to rejoice that they are no longer subject to sin, and death, and corruption? [Ans. Yes.] Through whom will this victory be obtained? [Ans. Through our Lord Jesus Christ.] What does the apostle"advise us to be, at the end of the Lesson? 58. [Ans. Steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.] Ought not every Christian to follow this advice? [Ans. Yes,] Will the labour of those who lead religious lives be in vain? [Ans. No.] What reward will they receive? [Ans. An -heavenly inheritance.] Who will give it to them? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] LESSON rCIV. Instruction.--St. John-the apostle lived to a great age: after many years spent in his ministry, he was at- length accused to the emperor Domitian, who persecuted the Christians, and by his command was sent prisoner to Rome, and there thrown inro a cauldron of boiling oil, or rather oil set on fire, from which he came out unhurt. After this he was banished to a desolate island called Patmos; here he had some wonderful visions relating to the future state of the church, which he wrote in a book now called the Revelation.of St. John the Divine, and which' makes part' of the Nier Testament. In this book there are some parts which are clear, but othersdifficult to be understood. The Lessons we are going to read coin tain some passages of this book. R ead I. Instruction.--The glorious Being who appeared to St. John had so much resemblance to the' person of Jesus Christ that St. John- was convinced he was the same. In such majesty as is herei described, we may expect to gee ouir blessed Lord at his second coming9. Qzuestions.-~.Who wa s the glor-ious Being that appear.ed to John in a visionl in the island of Patumo? [.4ns. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] Was he not greatly changed from the time he ascended up into heaven? [Apis. Yes.] What did 'the Lord command John to do? 19. [Anis. To write the things he had seen.] Did not tke Lord shew the same kind-ness to St. John in the vision as hie used to shew to his apostles While on earth?.1 [Ass. Yet.)I Was it not a great -instance of our Lord's love for his faithful servants that he commranded Jokm to write an account of the visionis which weire vouchsafed to kim?) [Ans. Yet,] Instruction..-Inu this VtiQIIn St. John ha a vic.w. of the throne of God. The four beasts, or living creatures, are, supposed to signify sorts of angels, and the four anti twenty elders to. signify the saints;, but there is rno occasion to savek for a. partjcular explanation 'of the vision; it is sufficicut~we. learii from it to think highly of the Imajesty of, God, and of thqe glory which the saints shall enjoy with the holy angels in heaveui; and we should learn from them to. praise anid glorify God; nay we may join with the saints and angels while we remain on earth, if we make use of die same words, lifting up our souls from earth to heaven. Questiess...-Of what had, St. John ' vie~w iti this visisn? [Arrvs. Of the throne of God-] Wam it not a mnost glorious viSion? [Ans. *Yes.] Do not the woyds, of the elders' suit' all Christiars at the people of God? -11. [Anrs. Y es.] Whrat should we do when we use these woArds or any others to the Fwrms pt gkry of God? [Aiis. Lift up our souls to God] InsbUctiOU.-.!A* this pas'sage of ths ltve~ltion of St, John, V* kave a epsentatiou of the enad of, t6,. woild;. and very a wful. it is! Dreadful indeed will bo. the fuiditiou of those on, "~orn the wrath of the Lamb."a~lfi Questions.-Does not this give.,you a lively irnake of what May be expected at the end oTf the world? [Ans. -Y6s.] Do nak ycui think ttw4, Meh p1ple as' hbxt, le ickett lives, ~swtbeli "941e princ6escstaiuls, and mighty men., whether pmt cc ri~h, Jhigb or h m, will. wkdevo~r to, escape 6Mo: -the !29 heavy judgment that will be passed upon them? [Ans. Yes.] From whose face will they wish to hide themselves? [Ans. From the face of God.] From whose wrath will they wish to escape? [Ans. The wrath of the Lamb.] Who is meant by the Lamb? [Ans. Our Saviour.] Should not the thoughts of this dreadful judgment make us afraid of being wicked? [Ans. Yes.] Read,V. IntStruction.--This passage represents to us in a very lively manner the triumph and glory of the blessed, and particularly of the martyrs who have suffered for the sake of the Gospel. Among the multitude which no man could number, were persons of all nations and kindreds; this agrees with God's covenantwith Abraham, that in his seed all the families of the earth will be blessed, and gives us great reason to hope that those who have formed families upon eaith will meet together in heaven, if they all pursue the same paths of godliness and virtue. It is very delightful to think of being hereafter an inhabitant of heaven, and joining with sairts and angels in praising and adoring God. This passage of Scripture should raise in our minds an ardent desire to be one of the blessed multitude, and it should make us more assiduous to attain to that ho-. liness, without which we cannot expect to be received into heaven. Questions.-Is it not very delightful to think of being hcreafter one of the blessed multitude? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not very comfortable to hope to meet again our dear departed relatives and friends? [Ans. Yes.] Is it not very comfortable to those who suffer distress and poverty in this world to hope to be received into another world in which there is nothing but happiness? [Ans. Yes.] What should this passage make us desirous of? [Ans. Of going to heaven.] What must we try to attain to if we wish to be admitted into heaven? [Ans. Holiness.] How can we do this? [Ans. By believing in Christ, and living godly lives through the help of the Holy Spirit.] Read V. to the end. Explanation.-This passage gives us a lively idea of the-majesty of Christ, and of the general resurrection, when all men will stand before his throne to be judged according to their works. These great truths ought always to be present to our minds, and they should engage us to pray and to labour conPART II. L 230 tinually to improve in godliness, that at the last day, which will be so dreadful to the wicked, we may stand with humble confidence before our heavenly Judge, and our names may be found in the book of life. Questions.--Shall not you be amongst the number of those who will rise from the dead and stand before the judgment seat of Christ? [Ans. Yes.] What day should you frequently think of then?] [Ans. The day of judgment.] In what should we daily endeavour to improve, that our names may be found written in the book of life? [jns. Godliness.] What will become of us if our names are not written in the book of life? [Ans. We shall be cast into the lake of fire.] What is meant by this lake? [Ans. Hell.] Read VI. Explanation.-This vision was designed to give to the apostle, and to all who should read his account of it, an idea of the consummation of all things. The New Jerusalem, means, the kingdom prepared in heaven for the blessed, into which all the faithfuil servants of God will be received, and in which they will enjoy happiness unspeakable, and without end. From the manner in which it was represented to St. John in this vision we may conceive that it will be very glorious and beautifil, infinitely more so than any kingdom or city of the earth has ever been; and that its principal glory will consist in the visible presence of God the Father Almighty and his only Son our blessed and adorable Redeemer. Into this heavenly Jerusalem no wicked person will find admittance to disturb the felicity of the blessed, but all will be joy, and peace and love, and there will be everlasting life. Questions.--What did St. John see in the vision we have an account of in this passage of Scripture? 1. [Ans. The New Jerusalem.] Who will dwell with men in this heavenly kingdom? [Ans. God.] Who will certainly be shut out from it? [Ans. The wicked.] Where will the wicked have their portion? [Ans. In the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone.] What did the angel call this? 8. [Ans. The second death.] How long will the wicked continue in this state of torment? Ans. For ever and ever.] Who will come quickly? [Ans. Our Lord Jesus Christ.] What will he bring with him? [Ans. His reward.] What reward will he give to avery man? [Ans. According to his work.] Will the blessed behold God as they can now see their earthly kings? [Ans. Yes.] Do you not desire to see the most glorious and 231 gracious of all Beings, from whom you received your life, and every blessing? [Ans. Yes.] Do you not desire to be one of the people of his heavenly kingdom? [Ans. Yes.] Do you not wish to be for ever delivered from pain and sorrow? [Ans. Yes.] Do not you wish for the inheritance of a child of God? [Ans. Yes.] Where must you go to in order to enjoy all those blessings? [Ans. To heaven.] Is not the kingdom of heaven described as a very glorious place? [Ans. Yes.] Is it possible that any earthly kingdom could come up.to this description of the New Jerusalem? [Ans. No.] If there were such a place upon earth, would not every one wish to become an inhabitant of it? [Ans. Yes.] What will be the chief glory of the holy city? [Ans. The glory of God and of the Lamb.] Who is meant by the Lamb? [Ans. Our Saviour.] How long will the felicity of those last who shall be admitted into heaven? [Ans. For ever and ever.] What must we pray for daily in order to enable us so to live that we may earnestly wish for the coming of the Lord Jesus to receive us to glory? [Ans. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.] What is that? [Ans. The help of the Holy Ghost.] THE END. 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