expectation from that protracted occupancy of the mind by this important theme, which varied, systematic, and lengthened illustrations would facilitate. Something will be gained, if continuous thought upon such a topic be produced. We are likely to act more to the glory of God, the more we think of it. The author knows of no treatise upon this subject. Should the reading of this volume give the topic of which it treats, a larger place and a more habitual presence in the mind, it cannot well fail of acquiring greater liveliness and efficiency. Objection will perhaps be felt to the formality of scriptural quotation adopted in the following pages. The author has only to say in explanation, that he had greater confidence of a useful effect from the cited passages when given in their simple and unbroken form. He could not persuade himself to loosen and unravel the strong texture of inspired words in order to interweave their separated parts into the material of his own language. No advantage could compensate for any weakening of the "true sayings of God." Many branches of practical religion are introduced in the volume. The reader will do well to remember that there was no intention to discuss these subjects. A complete view of any one of them is not attempted. It was meant to look at them only in one aspect-that of the glory of God. This indeed will help to contemplate them in every other light. The writer has nothing more to say of his book or of himself, except that he shall esteem himself happy if it shall promote the glory of God; additionally happy if his own heart shall assure him that this is his end in issuing it into the world; and thrice happy if this favourable judgment shall be sanctioned by the final decision of his Lord and Judge. Halstead, April 12, 1836. Their awakening effect-Their undeceiving tendency-Their happy influence upon christian minds-Their conduciveness to uniformity and consistency of character-Clear under- standing of principles facilitates their application in new and difficult circumstances-Christian consolation is also thereby promoted—By the same means the peculiarities of christian belief are vindicated-Our own minds are like- wise secured from error-The charge of enthusiasm is also removed in the same way-But practical principles must be understood not in their nature only, but in their extent, applicability and obligation, origination, and means of pre- Often misapprehended—Obscurity of view detrimental— PAGE With special respect to that gracious relation in which God CHAPTER III. ON THE EXTENT OF THE REQUIREMENT TO The views of many very narrow-Evils arise from this nar- CONTINUATION CHAPTER IV. OF THE INQUIRY ON THE The glory of God the true aim in the exercise and cultivation 71 |