Luke 6

REFLECTIONS UPON CHAP. VI.—Works of real necessity and mercy, but no other, may consist with a proper observance of the sabbath. And it is base when Christ’s kind indulgence is abused to carnal licentiousness; and when the rigid accusers of the innocence of others are the most indulgent to their own crimes. If we desire to have our spiritual maladies healed, we must attend Christ’s ordinances; and neither our own inability, nor other men’s perverse-ness, must hinder us from our duty. If Jesus command, he can enable to perform. Where passion reigns, neither conscience nor reason can be regarded: but it is in vain to devise mischief against an all-seeing Redeemer. Important work ought always to be introduced with fervent and solemn prayer, and Jesus’ prayers and power can easily furnish his church with plenty of gospel ministers! Marvellous and free are the effects of his mercy: and infinitely distant his views of real happiness and mercy from those of carnal men. Happy are they whom he blesses, and miserable are they whom he curses, be their outward circumstances what they will. And it is eternity, not time, that properly distinguishes the lot of saints and sinners. Honourable and beneficent is the spirit and tendency of the Christian religion, which so calls us to imitate JENOVAH in his most endearing perfections and work. How important is it to be a Christian indeed! It is a great reproach for the professors of the true religion to do no more in duty toward God or men than mere heathens. And we need to live always under a deep sense of our own weakness and pollution, and in daily repentance and forgiveness; so shall we be induced to candid and charitable conceptions of others. It is absurd to attempt raising good works out of unrenewed hearts; or to expect a blessing with teachers whom Christ never sent. Let us, therefore, take heed what, how, and whom, we hear. Let us receive Christ’s word into our heart; and resting on him by faith, practise it in our lives; so shall we persevere unto the end, and safely arrive in glory, notwithstanding all the storms that may befall us by the way. 2