01.2. The Camp of Judah

Chapter 2 THE CAMP OF JUDAH.

’ And on the east side, toward the rising of the sun, shall they of the standard of the camp of Judah pitch throughout their armies: and Nahshon, the son of Amminadab, shall be captain of the children of Judah." - Numbers 2:3. This chapter is entitled the order of the tribes in their tents. It informs us how they encamped on their way to Canaan; but it has also a further signification. For this people was a type of the spiritual Israel, and all God’s dealings with them had a reference to greater things to come. All were allegorical prophetic, significant ― shadows of those things of which the substance is to be found in the kingdom of Christ. This remark applies not only to the whole multitude collectively, but, individually, to the tribes of which it was composed. Thus, in the words before us, we are taught the manner in which the people of God are encamped in the present day.

Let us draw near, that we may behold more clearly this lovely sight. We will observe, 1. The tribe of Judah.

2. His camp.

3. The position of his camp.

4. His standard.

5. His army.

6. His captain. And may the Spirit of the Lord direct our meditations aright.

1. THE TRIBE OF JUDAH.

It is generally understood that the tribe of Judah was a representation of the New Testament Church, which is not unfrequently designated by the term Judah. Thus it is said by the Prophet Joel, " Judah shall dwell for ever." (Joel 3:20) And Zechariah foretells that " the Lord shall inherit Judah, his portion in the holy land." (Zechariah 2:12) A similar allusion is contained in the blessing of Jacob, " Judah, thou art he whom thy brethren shall praise." (Genesis 49:8) And indeed, Judah possesses every qualification requisite to set forth the reality of the spiritual church. Was Judah the most distinguished tribe which gave to all Israel a race of kings? Behold here is an elect people, a people who are all kings and priests, and whose sceptre shall govern all the inhabitants of the earth. (Revelation 2:6) Was Judah the tribe in which the second Adam was born? Behold, here is the woman clothed with the Sun, who by the power of the Spirit, and the witness of the word, bringeth forth a man-child, even Christ, who is to rule all nations with a rod of iron. (Revelation 12:1-5) Was Judah the tribe which dwelt on Mount Zion, in Jerusalem, and, bore in its bosom the sanctuary of God! Behold, here are the royal priesthood, the citizens of the heavenly Zion, themselves the habitation of God by the Spirit. The holy fire is preserved among them, and the glory of the Lord filleth the house. This then is the true Judah. The name Judah signifies praise. Now, said his mother at his birth, will I praise the Lord, and thence his name. So also is the spiritual Judah appointed and ordained for the praises of Him, who hath called him out of darkness into his marvellous light. Even when silent, there ascends from his tabernacles the sacrifice of praise. For what was once the state of those who are now so highly honoured? Were they not as firebrands snatched from the burning, and though now a holy nation, and peculiar people, were they not once without God and without Christ in the world? The golden harps which they bear in their hands, were placed there by the God of Jacob, and though fellow heirs with the holy angels, and inheritors of the glory that shall be revealed, their desert was the misery and despair of the devil and his angels, in the blackness of darkness for ever.

Well may this people be called Judah, a praise to the Lord, for it is a living monument of the power and grace of Christ, more glorious than the fabric of the world, a people that he hath formed for himself, they shall show forth his praise. (Isaiah 43:21.) He esteems them as his peculiar treasure. They are a " crown of glory in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem in the hand of their God." ( Isaiah 42:3.) " They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his son that serveth him." (Malachi 3:17) Their names are borne on the breast-plate of the Great High Priest into the Holy of holies, and when at length the Son of Man shall come in his glory, and every eye shall see him, he shall come attended by this people, they shall encircle him as a guard of honour, they shall sit on his throne, and with him judge the world. They are made for the praise of the glory of his grace, and thence they are termed Judah, that is, praise. Such are the people of whom we speak. But let it be observed, that we have not here to do with that Judah who dwelt at peace among the hills of Zion, and on the shores of the Jordan, and sat beneath his own vine and fig-tree, none daring to make him afraid; but our text refers to that Judah, who, abroad upon his march, amid the sound of trumpet and the clang of war, pitched his camp in the barren wilderness, and thought of battle and of strife. And the spiritual Judah in this world has much more resemblance to a people so circumstanced, than to such as were in the full enjoyment of peace within the borders of the promised land. For they are enlisted under the banner of the cross, nor shall their warfare be accomplished till they at length attain the crown. (Revelation 2:10)

Truly they have more adversaries than Midian and Amalek. Many are the principalities and powers which stand opposed to them in hostile array. They have enemies in the air, (Ephesians 2:2; Ephesians 6:12.) and on the earth; (Ephesians 5:14.) enemies in the house, (Matthew 10:36.) in the heart, (Mark 7:21-23.) and in the members; (James 4:1) enemies in the tumult of the world, (Mark 10:17-25; Acts 4:25-30.) and in the solitary chamber; (Matthew 4:1.) and on all sides they are beset with ambuscades and snares, and hidden mines. Thus, therefore, of necessity, must they ever stand ready armed. (Psalms 57:6; Proverbs 29:5.) The Judah of former days was divided into several companies, each of which had its peculiar equipments. And it is the same in spiritual things. As there is a diversity in form and outward circumstance, in complexion and character, and spiritual experience, so is there a difference in the weapons which they wield. The defence of some are tears, as it is with a child, who, on the appearance of danger, runs weeping to his mother. This is a band of combatants, who, when they are weak, then are they strong, and so one victory is followed by another. Others protect themselves after the manner of a virgin, with holy shame-facedness and modesty. Scarcely is the temptation presented, when the heart starts back with trembling apprehension; " How shall I do this great wickedness and sin against God?" (Genesis 39:9.) and Joseph is rescued. A third class is skilled in the Word of God. " It is written," is their sword and shield under every assault; and then, " Get thee hence, Satan, for thou savourest not of the things that be of God." ( Matthew 9:10.) With sighs and cries to God do others prevail, as Moses, in the conflict with Amalek, when Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands towards heaven, and Amalek and his people were discomfited with the edge of the sword. (Exodus 17:12.) Or the cross is lifted up on high, and one look is directed to the bleeding victim hanging on the tree, and the storm in the members is hushed, and Satan launches his weapons in vain. The spiritual combatants are strong in the Lord and in the power of his might. They put on the whole armour of God, that they may he able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For they wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore they take unto them the whole armour of God, that they may he able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all to stand. They stand, therefore, having their loins girt about with truth, and having on the breast-plate of righteousness, and their feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace; above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith they are able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. And they take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance (Ephesians 6:10-18.) The Lord himself is their rock and then fortress, and their deliverer; their God, their strength, in whom they "will trust; their buckler and the horn of their salvation, and their high tower. (Psalms 18:2.) Relying on the thousand promises which are graven on the Rock of ages, they know and are fully assured that no enemy can do them harm. Wherever they encounter the adversary, they resist him with firmness, and deride his power, and they rejoice in the fulfillment of the promises of God, which are all yea and amen in Christ Jesus. (2Co 1::20.) As the weapons are various which are used against the flesh and the devil, so are those also which are opposed to scorners and blasphemers. In the camp of Judah one fights with the transfixing arrows of meekness and love, blessing him that curses, and healing coals of fire upon his head. To another is given a holy conversation and heavenly example, to stay the tongue of slander. A third ensures success by a simplicity and gentleness which confounds and perplexes the enemy. And thus, by such-like weapons, taken from the spiritual armory, we prevail; though we walk after the flesh, we do not war after the flesh. For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God, to the pulling down of strongholds; casting down imaginations and every ’’ high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God." (2 Corinthians 10:3-5.) Nor is there a sword, or shield, or spear, or other instrument of war, found in the camp of Judah, which is not furnished by Him who is given for a leader and commander to the people, the Captain of the Lord’s host, the Captain of our salvation. (Isaiah 55:4; Joshua 5:15; Hebrews 2:10.) 2. THE CAMP OF JUDAH.

"On the east side, toward the rising of the sun, shall they of the standard of the camp of Judah pitch throughout their armies." Behold, then, this people in their camp. The Lord of Hosts is with them! the God of Jacob is their refuge. (Psalms 46:7.) And underneath are the everlasting arms; and he shall thrust out the enemy from before them, and shall say. Destroy them. (Deuteronomy 33:27.) But was it always so? Did the spiritual Judah, at all times, dwell in the secret place of the Most High, and abide under the shadow of the Almighty! (Psalms 91:1.) No, brethren. A time was when they were without; {1 Corinthians 5:13.) and though exposed to dangers and destitute of help, they thought that they were safe. In fancied power, and imaginary goodness, they boasted of their state. But now the hand of grace has subdued their haughty spirit, and bowed to the earth their crown of pride. Now they lie in the dust, weak, and poor, and destitute, and say, " In the Lord have I righteousness and strength." (Isaiah 45:24.) They encamp; they march; they fight; they conquer. Poor in spirit, and ever deeply sensible of their own unworthiness, they cast themselves at the feet of Jesus. And should any one of them attempt to quit the camp of Judah, to lift up or exalt himself he hears the voice of Jesus, calling him to return, and his former position is resumed. (Isaiah 30:21; John 12:23.)

Down, therefore, to these depths must you all come who trust in a righteousness of your own, and boast in a crown which your own hands have formed, (Jeremiah 9:24; 1 Corinthians 1:31.) There are no such vain confidences m Judah. They do, indeed, glory; but it is in the Lord they glory. (2 Corinthians 10:17.) Their crown is the crown of thorns, which encircled the brow of their King in the common hall of Pilate. (Matthew 27:27.) Their robe of righteousness is the garment dyed with blood, which their Lord was content to wear for their salvation. (Isaiah 63:1.) And ye who weary yourselves in the pursuit of human merit, that you may be your own saviors, and seek, by good works, to atone for your past transgressions; O come down from your heights, and take your station with the princely but lowly Judah. For Judah casts his crown upon the ground, the crown of life which the Saviour gives him; he lays his forehead on the footstool of the throne of grace, land is accepted in the Beloved. (Revelation 4:4-10; Ephesians 1:6.) The camp of Judah is pitched. It is not pleasing to the Lord that this people should consume their time in vain and fruitless labours. It is his will that they should rest in the enjoyment of the blessings which were purchased by the agony and bloody sweat, by the cross and passion of the Saviour. The feast is prepared for them; the time is come; all things are ready; nothing is required but to partake of the bounties so amply provided. (Matthew 22:4.)

Happy then is our state in the camp of God. We may rest in peace, for thou. Lord, only causest us to dwell in safety. Do we hear from afar the rushing of the storm? We learn to rejoice more in the serenity which pervades the camp of Judah. Do we hear, without, the war-cry of the enemy? Our souls are thus taught to delight in the voice of peace, (Ephesians 2:13-15.) which proceeds from the cross of Jesus, (Hebrews 12:24.). Do we hear at a distance the raging of hell? We compare it with the quiet of our own habitations, and give praise to God. Are we roused in our contemplation of future things by the voice of the archangel and the trump of God, summoning the world to judgment? We hear it with joy, for the more dreadful the things that must be hereafter, the sweeter our feeling of security in the knowledge of reconciliation. For, whoever has prostrated himself on the ground with Jesus in Gethsemane, and with the worm has become a worm, shall certainly also partake with him of this rich and abiding portion. But how is Judah encamped? In the form described by the wave-offering, namely, the form of the cross ( See Numbers 8:11. marginal reading.) A most significant emblem! For the people of God are saved by the cross. They cling to the cross of the Redeemer, as to the plank which can rescue them from shipwreck. They rest upon the cross as the alone foundation of their spiritual life, of their hopes, their joys, and prospects. And whosoever is without the cross can claim no place in the camp of Judah. But where are the resting places of this favored people They dwell in a camp. In camps there are no fixed habitations, but only tabernacles and tents, which are speedily and without difficulty pitched and taken down. And it is well that it is so, for the children of Judah must always hold themselves in readiness to march. They are but wanderers and sojourners in the world. The feeling that they are such, should ever pervade their soul, and direct and control their plans and operations. Theirs is the most happy condition upon earth. Occupying for a season a temporary habitation, with hearts set free from earthly entanglements, they confess that they are strangers and pilgrims on the earth, and declare plainly that they seek a better country, that is, a heavenly. (Hebrews 11:13-16.) Wherefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for he hath prepared for them a city. (1 Corinthians 7:29-31.) And thus those that have wives are as though they had none, and they that weep as though they wept not, and they that rejoice as though they rejoiced not, and they that buy as though they possessed not, and they that use this world as not abusing it, for the fashion of this world passeth away. And they know that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in them. (Romans 8:18.) And though weeping may endure for a night, joy cometh in the morning. (Psalms 30:5.) Here they have no continuing city, but they seek one to come. (Hebrews 13:14.)

0, how happy are they who have learnt, as travellers, to press onward to their much loved home, only seeking shelter for the night under a transient covert by the way! This is acquired only in the school of Christ. And as external objects affect so little the follower of Jesus, (for he looks not at the things which are seen and temporal, but at the things which are not seen and eternal. So is it not to be expressed how firm is the hold which the anchor of his hope takes within the veil. One only knows, He who will shortly conduct His people to their rest, to the haven where they would be. 0, happy art thou, Judah in thy tents, and in thy dwellings by the way!

3. THE POSITION OF THE CAMP OF JUDAH.

Judah pitched "on the east side toward the rising of the sun." There is something animating and joyous in this description ― on the east side, toward the rising sun ― the evening behind them, the morning full in view. And observe, that from the child upwards to the gray-headed, all in Judah look to the east, to the sunrising. Where the Rose of Sharon blooms, where the Root of David sends forth its shoots out of a dry and thirsty ground, and the chief of the host of stars arises in splendor over the night, thither do they direct their looks ― their thoughts.

Now the hill of Bethlehem is tipped before them from afar with glowing light, and they hear, with transported soul, the song of the angels. Now they stand upon the shore, and rejoice in Him, to whom the wind and the waves yield a ready obedience. At one time, they build a tabernacle with Peter on the mountain of the transfiguration, and dream dreams, and see visions of glorious things which shall be hereafter. At another time, they visit Jesus in the lowly cabin of the carpenter, their brother, in the form of a servant, and they adore His condescension in becoming so closely related to them, and exclaim with tears, " Brother! my Brother!" And now they enter into the darkness of Gethsemane, and with trembling reverence eagerly catch the bloody sweat which drops from the forehead of their Lord and Saviour, and the wounds of their souls begin to feel its healing power. Then the mount of the crucifixion arises before the view. The soul expands its wings, and on the cross of the dying penitent, adopts his prayer, " Lord, remember me when thou comest into thy kingdom," and draws upon itself the same blessing, "Verily, I say unto thee, today shalt thou be with me in paradise." (Luke 23:42; Luke 23:48.) Behold, the stone is rolled back from the sepulcher in the garden of Joseph! Praise, praise the Lord. The Lion of the tribe of Judah hath prevailed. He hath arisen victorious over death and the grave. Death, where is thy sting? Grave, where is thy victory? Thanks be to God who giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. And now the glories of the rising morn are shed on the heights of Olivet. The soul mounts upwards. She sees heaven opened, and God is gone up with a shout; the Lord with the sound of a trumpet. Sing praises to God, sing praises, sing praises unto our king, sing praises. (Psalms 47:5-6.) She breathes the air of paradise. She spreads abroad her wings, and would fain ascend with the bridegroom to the chamber where the marriage feast is prepared, and would leave for ever the earth and earthly things.

Thus, my brethren, doth Judah fix his gaze upon the opening glories of the morning. Thus is he encamped towards the east. Soon will the Sun of Righteousness arise as a bridegroom out of his chamber with healing in his wings. Already on every side, among Christians, the heathen, and the Jews, has the harbinger of day announced His near approach. Already the dawn appears and the eastern heavens are tinged with red, and the vapors which foretell the coming day, the mists of uproar and confusion which arise from the camp of the enemy, are dispersed as with the breath of a whirlwind.

He will come. The day-star from on high will visit us. The bride longs for his appearing! " Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly." He will come. ― The prince of the kings of the earth in the clouds of heaven, and will soon bring to an end the rage of His embittered enemies, and will establish the mountain of the Lord’s house in the top of the mountains, and exalt it above the hills, and all nations shall flow unto it. (Isaiah 2:2; Isaiah 2:5) house of Jacob, come ye and let us walk in the light of the Lord. For our camp is pitched on the east side toward the rising of the sun. The night is far spent, the day is at hand. We already inhale the air of the morning, hoping, believing, looking upwards.

Behold then, on the east side, toward the rising sun, is Judah encamped. Thither tends his soul, and as he gazes with longing and intense delight, his eyes fill with tears, they fail with looking upward, and oppressed with the exceeding weight of glory, he sighs for the time when mortality shall be swallowed up of life.

Walk about Zion, and go round about her, tell the towers thereof, mark ye well her bulwarks, consider her palaces, all look toward the east. (Psalms 48:12-13.) Glorious as is the dwelling-place of the Lord among men, it bears no comparison to that which shall be hereafter. If there was a glory, in the earthly temple, when the brightness of the Messiah was concealed by the veil of mortality, will it not be more strikingly made manifest in the world to come? And may not a further accomplishment of the promise be yet anticipated? " For thus saith the Lord of hosts, Yet once, it is a little while, and I will shake the heavens and the earth, and the sea, and the dry land, and I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come, and I will fill the house with glory, saith the Lord of hosts." (Haggai 2:6-7.) " The glory of the latter house shall be greater than that of the former, saith the Lord of hosts." (Haggai 2:9.) The great Melchizedec, the king of Salem, the king of peace shall reign there. For there shall be a new heaven and a new earth, for the first heaven and the first earth shall pass away. And the holy city, the new Jerusalem, shall come down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. And a great voice out of heaven shall say. Behold the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them and be their God. And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes, and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things will have passed away, and, behold, he that sitteth upon the throne will make all things new. And he said unto me, write, for these words are true and faithful. (Revelation 21:1-5.) The pilgrim looks, therefore, towards the rising of the sun. He waits for the morning. To behold this is his desire in this dark and desolate world. He longs for his peaceful home, among the dwellings of the blessed. He thinks upon the morning of the eternal sabbath, and cries with David, "as the hart panteth after the water brooks, so panteth my soul after thee, O God. My soul thirsteth for God, for the living God: when shall I come and appear before God r’(Psalms 42:1.)

Some in the camp of Judah are children of sorrow. They are encompassed by doubts, and sit in darkness, yet their window is ever open towards the east, hoping that the morning will quickly appear, that morning whose brightness and splendor no night can obscure. Others, beset by a thousand obstacles, would never know another happy hour, did they not perceive with the eye of expectation, through the confused imagery around them, the dawning of that day of which the poet speaks. As dreams shall seem the pilgrim’s fears;

Great day; when thy bright morn appears.

Others, whilst bowed down with grief they follow the remains of a beloved one to the grave, though weeping, may rejoice for their eye, rests upon the dawning of that morning which will unite all the saints in one indissoluble bond of union.

Yes; go to the chambers of the afflicted children of God; visit their bed of suffering; see the brother of Job, the sister of Lazarus, and you may well ask, how they are capable of sustaining their calamities, and whence are derived the peace and serenity which beam in their eyes. But know, that to the upright their ariseth a light in the darkness, there shineth over them from afar the effulgence of a morning, such as the world never saw; an eternal Sabbath, a blessed jubilee, with thousand crowns and thousand glories; and by faith they behold Jesus himself, the Light of the world, the source of their present and everlasting joy. They are encamped on the east side, toward the rising of the sun. And it is as though they already heard the cheerful notes of the herald of the day, and as though the morning breeze wafted its freshness through their window, and the early dawn gladdened their chambers. O, praise, praise the Lord. The night is far spent, the day is at hand.

Judah is pitched on the east side, toward the rising sun. Such also is the position of the Saints, who, having been called to their rest, are sleeping in Jesus. The sacred dust of those who were once the temple of the Holy Ghost, the habitation of God, through the Spirit, is precious in His sight, and He guards it as His treasure. Whilst the bodies of the just lie in the silent tomb, their souls are happy with Jesus; but ere long, when the morning of the Resurrection will dawn, the Spirit of the Lord will breathe upon them, and the voice of the Archangel and the trump of God will awaken them from their long night of slumber. At length they shall arise, invested with a radiance and glory inexpressible, and the soul and body again being united, they shall enter as the blessed of the Father into the joy of their Lord ― a praise to the Redeemer throughout the ages of eternity. " Thy dead men shall live; together with my dead body shall they arise. Awake and sing, ye that dwell in dust, for thy dew is as the dew of herbs, and the earth shall cast out the dead." ( Isaiah 26:19.)

Yes, thou people of Judah, thou art indeed blessed. Wait patiently but a little. Thy morning sun will soon arise. O sing, then, one of the songs of Zion.

I sigh for home, and feel a stranger Here, where all is drear and cold;

Shelter me soon from storms and danger In thy warm and peaceful fold.

Soon, very soon, thy mourning will be turned into joy. The sighs which issue from the tabernacles of the Pilgrims to Zion are heard in heaven.

I sigh for home, in twilight pining;

Grant me soon, thou Prince of Light, Thy face to see, in glory shining, In those realms where all is bright.

Thy mansions are already prepared in thy Father’s house above. Tarry but a while on the hill of expectation. Behold the Lord will come quickly. He will not disappoint thy hope.

I sigh for home ― my spirit panteth After Thee, God of Love;

Give me the joys for which it fainteth, Unite me to thyself above.

Silent and unobserved, the dawning of the day will speedily appear, and, before thou art aware, that Sun will arise which at once and for ever will turn thy darkness into light.

4. THE STANDARD OF THE CAMP OP JUDAH

" Every man of the children of Israel shall pitch his own standard with the ensign of their father’s house." (Numbers 2:2.) After the position of the Camp of Judah is stated, mention is made of his standard. Judah had his own peculiar banner, cruciform, with a transverse piece of wood above. His colour was red, as ancient tradition relates, with the figure of a Lion on the field. It was, therefore, the type of the Christian standard, the cross of a crucified Saviour.

Flags were used to give signals to the host for the pitching of the camp, and other military operations. They were wont to be set up on the mountains and hills, that they might be seen afar, and forthwith the army collected around them. And it is even so with the banner of the cross. It is that which the Father makes use of to draw all men unto Him. Wherever it is unfurled, there is a moving, there is a going to and fro, there is a rushing and a hastening forward, and the elect of God flow to it with rejoicing or with tears.

Here we behold men, whom the humiliation of the manger could not affect, and the throne of the Majesty on High failed to alarm, whom the consideration of their everlasting welfare could not allure, nor the thought of eternal destruction impel to seek the salvation of their soul ― And behold! the cross of Christ in a moment breaks their heart, and the crown of thorns pierces their soul, and the reed given in mockery to the Son of God strikes them to the ground, and the blood, which trickles from the accursed tree, softens and dissolves, as with the power of fire, the heart of stone. And tell me, where do the Rahabs and the Magdaleus become the chaste spouse of Christ; where do the aged Simeons and Hannahs rejoice in the vigour of youth; where are the Sauls breathing out threatenings and slaughter against the saints of the Lord, converted into devoted priests of the Most High; and where do the strong ones become a prey to the Lord? Is it not where the word of the cross is proclaimed, and the banner of the cross is unfurled, and the power of the cross is experienced! This is the standard which is lifted up, and draws all men unto it. Yea, it is the center around which myriads of happy spirits in heaven and on earth are day and night collected in holy love and brotherhood. For here alone, beneath this banner, is life. When an army is deprived of its standard, it is in deed a great loss, it is a disgrace, and almost worse than a defeat. Our enemies are aware of this, and what is there that they more desire, than to wrest the ensign from our hands. A holy Saviour, a divine Saviour, a princely Saviour, an exalted and glorified Saviour ― such an one they would leave with us a thousand times, could they but rob us of Him that was crucified. It is against Him that all their arrows of scorn and derision are directed. To cause us to disesteem and contemn such a Saviour ― this is all their endeavor. Brethren, they would tear from us the banner of our faith, the flag to which we have sworn fidelity; need I exhort you to die rather than suffer this, and lose your hope of heaven. The ensign precedes the host, and so does the cross conduct the army of God in their heavenward progress. It is a crucified Saviour whom they follow, and a look to his cross is their strength and security. Should they, in following him, encounter the storms and fury of the elements ― they look to the cross. That look inspires courage and confirms the heart in patient endurance. Is their pathway dark and dreary? They look to the cross. The rays of the Saviour’s glory shine to them from thence. Darkness is made light before them, and crooked things straight, and they are refreshed and comforted. Are they exposed to the covert and insidious attacks, or to the more vigorous and determined onset of their numerous enemies? They look to the cross. And whether the power of temptation be from without or from within, from a corrupt and evil nature, or from the world, the flesh, and the devil, they are at once assured, by the effects which follow, that the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give them the victory. Should sin alarm, or their heart condemn them ― they look to the cross. God is greater than their hearts, and knoweth all things. He knoweth that they trust in that Saviour who finished the transgression and made an end of sin, and brought in everlasting righteousness; that they repose their faith on Him who died and rose again, and ever liveth to make intercession for them. And they confidently adopt the language of the apostle, and say, " who can lay any thing to the charge of God’s elect? " since God, the triune Jehovah, acquits and justifies. Who can condemn whom God hath not condemned! There is no condemnation to them that are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh but after the Spirit. And when to triumph over their last, their dreaded enemy, they pass through the valley of the shadow of death, amid the gloom and silence of their dreary pilgrimage, (for no human friend is near to help or encourage them,) they look to the cross. That friend is near, who sticketh closer than a brother. They fear no evil, his rod and his staff they comfort them. And finally, when they stand before the awful seat of judgment ― they look to the cross, and because that banner has gone before them to notify their approach as soldiers of the cross, the king will hold out to them the golden sceptre, and the glorified saints and angels will welcome their arrival. Such is the power of the banner of the cross. It brings us safely through, where without it there is no way. It breaks the brazen bolts and iron doors, and cuts a path through the flinty rocks, and over the hills which touch the heavens. When a warrior falls on the battle field, it is a mark of distinguished honour if the flag is thrown over him, and he is covered in its sacred folds. And thus it is with thee, Judah. Shouldst thou be stricken to the ground and faint in the conflict, the bloody banner shall float over thee and protect thee, and bring thee to honour. And when at length thou shalt die, die beneath the shade of this ensign, die under the covering of this red-stained standard of the camp. Thus abide as a good soldier. Be thou faithful unto death, and He will give thee a crown of life.

5. THE ARMIES OF JUDAH.

0, beloved brethren, how should we be astonished, what trembling delight would seize upon us, if but once the protecting host, by which the spiritual Israel is surrounded, should burst the veil which hides them from our view, and render themselves visible. To some it has been permitted to behold, with their mortal eyes, these unseen attendants of the heirs of salvation, Jacob beheld them, after his departure from Laban. As he went on his way, the angels of God met him. And when Jacob saw them, he said this is God’s host; and he called the name of that place Mahanaim, that is, two hosts or camps. ( Genesis 32:1-2.) The servant of Elislia was enabled to see the armies of heaven, when the king of Syria sent horses and chariots, and a great army to Dothan; " and they came by night and compassed the city about, and when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold an host compassed the city, both with horses and chariots, and his servant said unto him, alas, my master, what shall we do I And he answered, fear not, for they that be with us, are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said. Lord I pray thee, open his eyes that he may see; and the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw: and behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha." (2 Kings 6:14-17.) The army of Judah is the heavenly choir of guardian angels, all ministering spirits sent forth to minister to them who shall be heirs of salvation. They are the mighty ones, who with golden harps surround the throne of the Majesty on high, and behold the face of the Ancient of Days in glory. They are the blessed messengers which wing their way from heaven, and visit the habitations of the children of men on earth, and take back a report of their deeds to the presence of the Father. They are the holy angels who, around the throne of Jehovah, await his high commands, hearkenmg to the voice of his word; who, swifter than the rushing storm or flash of heaven, urge their impetuous flight to help and protect the elect of God.

These blessed visitants are present in the congregation of the saints, and go in and out of the city of God in this lower world, to mingle with our children in their simple pleasures and keep them from harm; to warn our youths of their danger, and conduct them in the right way; to encourage and excite those of mature age, to faithful and active services in the things of God, and refresh them in their labours; to convey cheering messages to the gray-headed, from their home which is now not distant, and permit them to hear before-hand, the first low murmurings of their heavenly harps.

Ah, what sweet but awful sensations must we experience at the thought, that such a band of angels invisibly surrounds us; and who knows how near we may be to that great cloud of witnesses, who before us have entered into rest, and of whom the world was not worthy! Or should the gates through which a Samuel, a Moses, and Elias came back, though but for a moment, from the kingdom of everlasting rest to this globe of mortality ― should those gates, since they passed through, have been closed, entirely closed. Who can declare it? Enough ― we live already in the midst of the invisible world. The inhabitants of heaven are our friends and companions, spirits are our ministers and guides. Let us then comfort ourselves with the recollection of this unseen army which surrounds us day and night, the horses and chariots of fire in countless number. And if there be any one here that is dispirited, timid, or easily dejected, at the thought of the multitude of his foes, let me remind him, that "they that be with us, are more than they that be with them." Take this to thy comfort, and be at peace.

6. THE CAPTAIN OF THE CHILDREN OF JUDAH.

" Nahshon, the son of Amminadab, was captain of the children of Judah." The interpretation of his name is experience, a term in every respect applicable to Jesus Christ our Saviour. For who has more experience in battle, than He whose bloody track is seen from the slaughter-field of Gethsemane and Golgotha, and from that sacred spot in the garden of Joseph, where he overcame the grave and swallowed up death in victory? And who has more skill in conflict than He who spoiled principalities and powers, and made a show of them openly, triumphing over them in himself! (Colossians 2:15. See the marginal reading.) Or who is more inured to the toils and pains of war, than He who now for nearly 2000 years, has never slumbered nor slept on his post, but by the power of his sword has safely conducted his weak and feeble church through millions of its foes, conquering and to conquer! Or who is more acquainted with the tumult of the camp, than He against whom an infatuated world has waged a ceaseless warfare, through every stage of time, without one moment of respite! And who is more accustomed to victory and triumph, or laden with the spoils of glory, than He who has made all his enemies his footstool? He may well, therefore, be called Nahshon, an experienced and valiant captain. And happy art thou, O Israel; who is like unto thee, people saved by the Lord, the shield of thy help, and who is the sword of thy excellency! and thine enemies shall be found liars unto thee; and thou shalt tread upon their high places. (Deuteronomy 33:29.)

Nahshon was the son of Amminadab, which is, being interpreted, he hath bestowed a people. In this also is typified the Saviour of sinners, to whom God, who is rich in mercy, hath before the foundation of the world, bestowed a lost and ruined people, that, being quickened together with Christ, and raised up together, and made to sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus, they might in the ages to come show forth the exceeding riches of his grace, in his kindness towards us, through Christ Jesus. (Ephesians 2:4.) And hear the gracious words which express his divine commission and the greatness of his power and love. ’’ All that the Father giveth me shall come to me, and him that cometh unto me I will in no wise cast out." (John 6:37.) And again, "This is the Father’s will which hath sent me, that of all whom he hath given me, I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of him that sent me, that every one which seeth the Son and believeth in him, may have everlasting life, and I will raise him up at the last day." (John 6:39-40.)

Blessed are they who are privileged to hope that they are of the number of those who were given to the Saviour. They are safely kept in the hands of Him, who, in order to effect their redemption, willingly suffered himself to be offered up in sacrifice on the altar of the cross. In his name is their everlasting security. Through Him they are citizens of heaven. Be thou thus encamped, O Judah of God; be thou encamped in peace. Let others vainly confide in their imaginary powers. Be thou humbled in the conviction of thy own helplessness and poverty. Lie low in the dust of self-abasement. Confess the power of divine grace. Be thou nothing, and let Christ be all and in all, and repose on the merits of thy Surety. Abide under that Banner to which thou hast sworn allegiance, and which is thy glory and thy trust, thy triumph and thy freedom. Let thy looks ever be directed to the east, to the morning. Let those that are without, look to the evening, to midnight, where for them also the sky is red, but terrible, and fearfully lowering; thunder-clouds, laden with their curse and everlasting destruction, are gathering blackness.

Fix thy gaze, Judah, upon the opening glories of the east, brighter, and yet brighter every moment. Breathe the sweetness and the fragrance of the morning. This is the good pleasure of thy God, who ere long will give thee the kingdom in the regions of eternal day. Thou must not regard the night which now surrounds thee. Onwards direct thy view to the Sabbath of eternal rest and peace, which now opens its lovely dawn. Thou must not suffer thine eyes to linger on the dark and troublous vision of thy sins, thy weaknesses, and infirmities, which still cling to thee ― a body of death. Direct thine ardent glance beyond unto the morning, and feast thine eyes with that great and glorious day of freedom, which is thine even now in promise, a high and holy jubilee. Soar on hope’s expanded pinions through the air, and leave behind the darkness and desolation of this lower world. Immortality and light, and crowns of glory, robes of surpassing splendor, palms of victory and triumph, joy and eternal gladness ― these, all these, await thee in the presence of thy God and Saviour in thine everlasting rest.

Judah, be thou comforted, as well thou mayest be. Though as yet in the dark valley through which thy brightening course conducts thee, sing aloud the praises of thy God.

Yes, onwards, my brethren. For he who is our leader is called Immanuel, God with us.

Amen.