SERMON IX.
EXTRACT I.
Disguised spiritual pride.
Every one under the Christian name, and who is professing to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, must stand alone from all the kingdoms of the world, as his kingdom is not of this world, otherwise they cannot be his disciples or subjects.—Our profession is above that of all the professors of Christianity.—Because we presume to say, that we are led and guided by the unerring Spirit of God, and this Spirit will lead into the Gospel of Jesus Christ, into the true nature of it.—I apprehend the prophecy, or declaration of Balaam, will apply in a particular manner, as much to us, as to Israel.—'The people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.' p. 215.—And as we each in our several allotments, turn inward to this teacher; we who make this high profession,—we should be as a city set on a hill, standing alone, we should not amalgamate with those in the kingdoms of this world. And by attending to this precious leader, likewise, instead of their leading us off from the right way to them, they would come over to us, who standing like a city on a hill, would not be easily hid; and seeing our good works, they would be running to the standard which is set up for the nations. Oh! let us be persuaded then to centre home to the gift of God in our own hearts.—My heart seems filled with thankfulness and gratitude to the author of all mercies, who has been pleased to be near us, and to bring us under such a solemn tender calm." pp. 223, 224.
There are perhaps few circumstances, under which spiritual pride works more insidiously, than in a per-
