December 23

PART VII.— Colossians 3:11.

CHRIST is all and in all, in the duties and ordinances of religion. As it regards duties, he is our only legislator, we are directed always to hear him. He also imparts the strength by which all duties are performed, for without him we can do nothing. Duties will only be acceptable to God, as they are connected with faith in Christ's merits, for all our services must be acceptable through him. In all ordinances, Jesus is all and in all. He is the sum of the gospel. To preach the gospel is to preach Christ. There can be no gospel but what is identified with his name, and person, and work — Christ crucified, as the Saviour of the world. In baptism, his example is our model, and his command our authority. Besides, in baptism, we visibly put on Christ, and become his public witnesses before men. In the Lord's supper, we have also his example, and express command. The elements too, are significant of his body and blood, and shew us wherewith we have been redeemed; and by eating and drinking of the bread and wine, we profess to be Christ's friends, have fellowship with him, and shew forth his death till he come. In prayer, Christ is our medium of access to God, and his merits our only plea for acceptance. In praise, we bless God chiefly for the unspeakable gift of his dear son, and for all other gifts, as coming to us alone through his efficient mediation. Thus, in that which relates to the practical part of the believer's life, and in all that is connected with the ordinances of religion, Jesus is eminently "all and in all."