November 3

"Christ the wisdom of God."—1 Cor. 1. 24.

CHRIST is the grand figure set forth in the picture of the Gospel—the talents, learning, and eloquence of ministers are not to be regarded as colors to adorn it, but as the dark ground in the picture to show it more clearly—they are not the light, but the lamp that holds it—they are the earthen vessels in which the heavenly treasure is deposited. Let us see how the wisdom of God is displayed in Christ.

IN OBTAINING A FIT MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MAN. A mediator, or peacemaker, is supposed to have a common interest in both parties; and, in effecting a reconciliation, he is to be the impartial judge of the rights or injuries of both. The Son of God, by his incarnation, was perfectly possessed of every requisite qualification, because all Divine and human excellences are united in him. As a Prophet, it was necessary that he should be God to reveal the purposes of heaven concerning our salvation—and man, that he might make known the Divine will in a way suited to the human race. As a Priest, it was necessary that he should be man, that he might suffer; and God, to give efficacy to his sufferings. As a King, it was necessary he should be God, to subdue our enemies, and man, that his infinite greatness might not overwhelm us with awe. But the wisdom of God is seen

IN ANSWERING THE OPPOSITE CLAIMS OF JUSTICE AND MERCY TO THE MANIFESTATION OF THE GLORY OF BOTH. Upon the introduction of sin into the world, the glory of God's justice seemed absolutely irreconcilable with the salvation of man. Justice required that "the soul that sinneth should die;" mercy replied, Let the rebel live. The difficulty to all created minds was, how both these perfections might obtain their demands, and be equally glorified. All is accomplished in Christ crucified — the glory of justice shines in the sufferings of the Saviour, and the glory of mercy is displayed in the salvation of the sinner. The wisdom of God appears

IN ACCOMPLISHING THE MOST GLORIOUS ENDS BY THE MOST UNLIKELY MEANS. Who would have thought of the cross as the instrument employed for the achievement of such a mighty conquest as the Captain of our salvation obtained? It now forms a connecting link between God and man — a focus to which all the rays of the Divine glory are drawn — a shaded arch through which we see the visions of the Eternal. Let me gaze, and admire, and pray that the Gospel may be made the wisdom of God unto me.