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}
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_FINIS_.
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