Acts 8

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. VIII.—It seems hard and inexplicable that eminent ministers should be murdered when they begin to be remarkably useful. But the wisdom of God makes the blood of martyrs the seed of the Church, and overrules the persecution of his servants for the spread of his gospel. And it is wonderful to see sometimes the most noted ministers protected amidst the fury of outrageous persecution; and that, while hell and earth rage against the gospel, Jesus Christ should thereby convert multitudes to himself. If we believe his truth, we ought speedily and solemnly to devote ourselves to him and his service. But, alas, through ambition, covetousness, or other vicious inclinations, many profane the seals of his covenant, and publicly pretend to be his when they are not; and, from mercenary views, many are too readily admitted as members or officers in the church. Dreadful will it be if a Saviour perceive them at last in the gall of bitterness and bond of iniquity! in an unconverted state! Yet it is to be feared that many ask, and rely on, the prayers of others, who never heartily pray for themselves.—But no awful discovery of hypocrites must discourage ministers from going on with their work. While vengeance lights on the heads of dissemblers, true believers shall be instructed and strengthened in their most holy faith; and, by following the means of grace which they have, they may hope to meet with a blessing, or even to receive means more eminent. If we be humble searchers of God’s word, and often call ourselves to an account whether we understand it, he will send us an Interpreter. And much of Jesus Christ may be seen in the scriptures, if our mind be enlightened by his Spirit. Yea nothing so effects the conscience as the gospel record concerning him.—What strange methods God sometimes takes to send the gospel to nations answerably to his own promises!—Short-lived is the delightful fellowship of Christians on earth. But, if Jesus and his Spirit go with each, all may go on their way rejoicing. 4