tsc. t.] EXAMINED AND ESTABLISHED. 147 wicked men. Its own truth and excellency, and divine authority, will make its own way into the world by the assistances of the blessed Spirit, where human powers do but let it alone, and preserve it' from the :unrighteous violence of its neighbours. Second observation. The resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead is the chief article, and the grand point, which private christians and ministers are solicitous to maintain, in the vindication of their religion. This was the point that stood forth to view, and sheaved itself with such evidence in the debate between St. Paul and his accusers, when Festus gave them a hearing, that he makes a special remark on that, as though it were themost conspicuous and remarkable article of their contention. Peter and Paul were the two chief preachers among the christians, who are recorded in scripture, and you find them continually insisting on the resurrection of Christ. It was chiefly the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead that was the matter of Paul's supposed heresy and crime, as Festus understood the matter. This was the great point of contest. I. Reason. Because thisarticle of the resurrection of Christ is a most effectual proofof his divine commission. This point, whether Jesus Christ, who was dead, is now alive, or no, is a question of such importance, that the christian religion stands or falls with it. It is certain Jesus Christ was once dead ; this the Jews allow, this Festus takes for granted . Jesus was certainly crucified, a spear run into his side, his heart's blood was let out, he was buried, and Pilate the governor, and the priests, sealed up the sepulchre, to guard it against all possible fraud of stealing away the body. Now if he he not risen again, his religion is not true, his pretences are vain ; he was not sent from heaven, nor is he a prophet or messenger of God. St. Paul grants, if " Jesus be not risen, your faith is vain, ye are yet in your sins, and we who preach a risen Jesus are fake witnesses;" 1 Cor. xv. 14, 15. But on the other hand, if Jesus be alive, then his religion is divine. Let me just mention these two reasons for what I say. 1. It is an undeniable proof of his divine commission, because the prophets foretold this resurrection concern- ing the Messiah, though in more obscure language, and. L ;
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