SERMON XXXVI. The Use of foregoingSermons, with internningle4 Reflections ItoM. iii. 25.Whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation . THIS glorious doctrine of the propitiation of Christ, has been explained and proved at large in the former discourses. It re- mains that we shew the proper uses of it. If we would set our thoughts at work to draw inferences, we might derive thence many truths, as well as duties. But as my chief design is to promote practical godliness, I shall content myself with mention- ing two doctrinal inferences, and all the rest shall more immedi- ätely direct our practice. First doctrinal inference. How vain areall the labours and pretencesof mankind, sinful, guilty mankind, to seek or hope for any better religion than that which is contained in the gospel of Christ ! It is here alone, that we can find thesolid and rational principles of reconciliation to an offended God. This doctrine of atonement for sin by the sufferings of Christ, is a substantial ground for our establishment in christianity, and should be an effectual persuasive, to continue in the profession of the gospel; Jieb. iv. 14. Having such a High. priest as Jesus the Son of God, who after hehad diedfor our sins, rose again, and entered into hea- ven, let us hold fast our profession. All the religions that God ever appointed for fallen man, meet and centre here. If you have any regard to reason and argument, if you would fol- low the dictates of revelation, or if you would seek the peace And happiness of your souls, never, never forsake the religion pfJesus. Reflection. " My soul, hast thou heard this doctrine ofthe propitiation of Christ, and the arguments that support it in the last discourse ? Host thou receive, dost thou believe this great article of faith? Hold it fast then, and live upon it continually. Never hope to find a surer spring of pardon, nor a sweeter relief for a guilty conscience. Maintain this hope, and hold fast thy bible, Where this blessing is discovered tomen. Keepupon thy spirit a due sense and relish of this atonement for sin : It will be a blessed guard against infidelity, and assist thee to stand in an hour oftemptation, againstthecavils of men, whohave renounced Me gospel of God.
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