Acts 21

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. XXI.—It is delightful to travel about under the special direction and protection of Providence, and in every place to have edifying converse with Christian friends concerning the great things which God has done for us and for his church. And it is comely for Christians to meet and part with cordial affection and solemn prayer. No wonder that loving Christians are averse to think of the sufferings or death of their faithful and useful ministers. But glorious is the fortitude to be ready to suffer any thing for Christ, and to be entirely resigned to his will: and yet the tender affections of friends sometimes occasion a greater trial than the fury of enemies.—Entangling weaknesses and strong prejudices remain with real believers. And it is difficult to judge how far we ought to condescend to their infirmity, or to appear zealous or our Christian liberty. It is indeed needless to condescend to ignorant cavillers, or obstinate ungodly bigots, who will at any rate rage against us as the servants of Christ. Nothing can be expected in their popular tumults but violence and fury, confusion and injustice.—But seasonably God interposes for the preservation of his servants from wicked and unreasonable men; and gives them opportunities to vindicate themselves, plead for the Redeemer, and spread abroad his glorious gospel. 4