things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report ; if there be any virtue, if there be any praise, think on these things," Phil. iv. 8. With this affee ing and sublime group of words, the inspired Apostle suggests the influence and extent of sanctified principles, and recommends that beauty of holiness and undeviating rectitude of Christian manners, which include all that is implied in decency and delicacy.
Christians are "the salt of the earth" — "the light of the world," — "a city set upon a hill." They must " do more than others," and "through Christ which strengtheneth them," they actually do more than others. Morality in all its extensive branches, from purer motives and with greater precision, is practised by them than by any other men. They deny themselves, and are afraid to sin ; they avoid every appearance of evil, and hate " even the garment spotted by the flesh,'"'^ This refinement of sentiment and principle makes little pr r o impression upon the wicked, whose pursuits and habits have never been regulated by such exalted standards, and who have no desire to be sav
