CONCLUSION.
Let not my brother churchman, however, satisfy himself with being a member of the visible Church; but let him examine himself whether he be a living branch in the true vine, united to Christ by faith, and bringing forth the fruits of righteousness by virtue of union with Him. Let him inquire whether he have ever experienced conversion to God,—whether his heart have been humbled, spiritualized, and comforted by those doctrines which he professes to believe as derived from Scripture, and by that worship in which he professes to join as being primitive and “according to godliness.” Let him remember the solemn words of Him, who is the Founder, Head, and Judge of the Christian Church. At the close of His awful parable of the ten virgins, He represents the foolish virgins, who had lamps without oil, as coming to the door of the guest-chamber, and saying “Lord, Lord, open to us.” But the Bridegroom answers, “Verily, I say unto you, I know you not.” Let him also remember the sentence passed on the guest at the marriage feast in the gospel who had not on the wedding garment. (Matt. xxii. 1, &c.)
“I am therefore to consider that all are not Israel that are of Israel; all were not Jews that were circumcised; all are not Christians that have been brought by baptism into the Church; for many are called but few are chosen. Under the present state of things, bad and good are together at the marriage feast of the gospel; and many of those that are now called to be among the rest will not be chosen at the last as fit for the kingdom of God. I am therefore not to depend upon any privileges I have at present, unless I use them right; and must give all diligence to make my calling and election sure.” [16]
FINIS.