January 28

PART II.

CHRIST A REDEEMER.

I know that my Redeemer liveth.—Job 19:25.

JESUS as our Redeemer, has completely changed the condition and prospects of mankind. Through the fall, we were involved in sin, bondage, and misery, and exposed to eternal death. Christ has redeemed us from sin, from its enthralling and degrading influence, and from its present and everlasting consequences. Jesus redeemed us from the curse of the law, and from the bitterness of eternal death. Jesus has redeemed us into a state of access to God. Now there is a way open, whereby we may come to God, even to his seat; where, under the character of just, as well as merciful, he can dispense pardon and life to the believing sinner. Christ's redemption, is a redemption from darkness to light, from sin to holiness, from wretchedness to peace, from hell to heaven, and from the power of Satan, to the enjoyment and image of the blessed God. This redemption was first intimated in the prediction immediately after the fall, was often renewed by promise to the patriarchs, was typified by the victims offered on the ancient altars of sacrifice, was the burden of prophecy, and was finished by Christ's expiring shout upon the cross. Christ alone possessed the power and merit by which it could be effected; therefore there is not, nor ever was, any other by which we can be saved. The Father appointed and sent him forth to redeem the world. The Spirit descended and wholly rested upon him, that he might effectually accomplish it. And he ardently and zealously came forth, and rested not until he had finished all the work which this mighty undertaking involved. This Redeemer is the joy of heaven, for all the celestial hosts, worship and adore him. He is the terror of hell, for at his presence, the devils fear and tremble. He is the salvation of earth, and it is the happy province of the christian minister, to call upon the dying sinner, to "behold the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world."

Jan.29.

CHRIST MY LIVING REDEEMER.

I know that my Redeemer liveth.—Job 19:25.

THERE are three words connected with this passage of preeminent importance First,—Christ is a