3961 THE HAPPIÑESS OF SEPARATE SPIRITS. [DISC. II. various relish and inclination of the blessed, but it is such a perfection as allows of different degrees even in the same blessedness, according to the different capacities of spirits, and their different degrees of preparation. The word perfection does not always require equality. Hall the souls in heavenwere of one mould, and make, and inclination, yet there may be different sizes of ca., pacity even in the same genius, and a different degree of preparation for the same delights and enjoyments; therefore though all the spirits of the just were uniform in their natures and pleasures, and all perfect : yet one spirit may possess more happiness and glory than another, because it is more capacious of intellectual blessings, and better prepared for them. So when vessels of various Size are thrown into the same ocean, there will be a great difference in the quantity of the liquid which they receives though all might be full to the brim, and all made of the richest metal. Now there is much evidence of this truth in the holy scripture. Our Saviour intimates such differences of re- wards in several of his expressions. Mat. xix. 28. He promised the apostles, that they shall sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And it is probable this may denote something of superior ho- hour or dignity above the meanest of the saints. And even among the apostles themselves he seems to allow, of a difference; for though he would not promise James and John to sit next to him, " on his right-hand and his left in his kingdom;" Mat. xx. 20, &c yet he does not deny that there are such distinct dignities, but says, It shall be given to themfor whom it is prepared of his Father, ver. 3. Again our Lord says; Mat. x. 41, 42. "he that re- ceives a prophet, and entertains him as a prophet, shall lave a prophet's reward ; and he that entertains a righte- ousman, agreeable tohis character, and fromareal esteem of his righteousness, shall have a righteous man's reward: And even the meanest sort of entertainment, a cup of cold water given to a disciple, for the sake of his cha racter, shall not go without some reward. Here are three sorts of degrees of reward mentioned, extending to the life to come, as well as to this life: Now though neither. of them can be merited' by works, but all are
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