August 21

When you meet with it, therefore, remember that it may intimate four things.

First, his advanced age. He had now "the hoary head;" and it was "a crown of glory," because it was "found in the way of righteousness."

Secondly, the affectionateness of his disposition. He was not only "the beloved," but "the loving" disciple: and seems to have imbibed very largely of the spirit of him on whose bosom he leaned. It would be well if all who are engaged in the sacred office were distinguished by more of "the meekness and gentleness of Jesus Christ." Instead of insulting, scolding, and menacing, it would be better for love's sake to entreat, and endeavour to win. Indeed there is no gaining the heart any other way. It cannot be forced—but it may be won—and "he that winneth souls is wise." This was the original method—"We were gentle among you, even as a nurse cherisheth her children: so being affectionately desirous of you, we were willing to have imparted unto you, not the Gospel of God only, but also our own souls, because ye were dear unto us."

Thirdly, the effect of his usefulness. Many of them were his converts. He had begotten them through the Gospel; and he regarded them as his spiritual progeny; the most important and interesting of all offspring. Such children are indeed a heritage of the Lord—Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them: he shall not be ashamed, but shall speak with the enemy in the gate.

Fourthly, the character they were to display. He would have them resemble the qualities of little children. He would have them receive the kingdom of God like little children, who implicitly confide in their Father's declarations. He would have them, like little children, to depend on their father's care to provide for them; and be free from all anxiety and fear. In malice he would have them children retaining no resentments, and if angry easily pacified. He would have them free from pride and disdain; condescending to men of low estate; not ambitious and worldly minded.

Whatever we may think of these things we know how they are regarded by the Judge of all. "The disciples came unto Jesus, saying, Who is the greatest in the kingdom of heaven? And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven." From this Divine decision it is first obvious—that these attributes are not natural to us, but the effect of conversion; we become such. And secondly—that the change producing them is indispensably necessary to our hope; for except we be converted, and become as little children, we shall not enter the kingdom of heaven—We are without title and without preparation, and as the same authority tells us in another passage, "we cannot see the kingdom of God."

The conformity however is not to be universal. You are not to "be children in understanding," but "full grown men." You are to be "no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, by the sleight of men, and cunning craftiness, whereby they lie in wait to deceive." Little children are fond of trifles, and will cry and fight for toys—But, says the Apos-

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