2. The character of their love.—They love in sincerity. This proved by the effects it produces. (1) Love to God’s Word. (2) Prompt obedience to Christ’s precepts. (3) Brotherly love. (4) Zeal for God’s house.

II. The nature of the benediction.—1. The prayer embraces the communication of Divine grace. 2. All Christians need the grace of God. (1) In all trials peculiar to the age in which they live. (2) In time of temptation and spiritual darkness. (3) In the discharge of Christian duties. (4) To sanctify, refine, and make them meet for the inheritance of the saints in light.

Lessons.—1. Imitate the catholicity of the apostle. 2. Sectarian bigotry and hostility should cease. 3. How perilous the state of those who love not Christ.—Pulpit Themes.


Transcriber’s Notes.

THE

EPISTLE TO THE PHILIPPIANS.

INTRODUCTION.

Philippi and the Philippians.—It was a moment fraught with very far reaching issues when at Alexandria Troas St. Paul seemed to see, in a night-vision, a man standing on the beach over the head of the Ægean Sea eagerly calling for help, as a herald might summon a general to the relief of a hard-pressed garrison.