The works of creation

The glory of the cross of Christ , which we are chiefly to esteem , is the glory of God's infinite perfections displayed in the workof redemption , as the apostle expresses it , the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2Cor 4:6). Even of Christ crucified(1 Cor 2:2)It is this which makes any other object glorious ,according as it manifests more or less of the of the perfections of God . This is what makes the works of creation so glorious ; the heavens declare God's glory , and the firmament his handiwork .And we are inexcusable for not making more pains to contemplate God's perfections in them , his almighty power and incomprehensible wisdom , and particularly his infinite goodness . But the effects of Divine goodness , in the works of creation, are only temporal favours ; the favours purchased to us by the cross of Christ are eternal . . Besides , although the works of creation plainly show that God is in himself good , yet they show also that God is just , and that he is displeased with us for our sins ; nor do they point out to us the way how we may be reconciled to him . They publish the Creator's glory , they publish at the same time his laws and our obligations to obey them . Our consciences tell us we have neglected these obligations , violated these laws , and consequently incurred the Lawgiver's displeasure . His works declaring his glory , shew that in his favour is life , and consequently that in his displeasure is death and ruin ; yea, they lay us in some measure under his displeasure already . Why else do natural causes give so much treouble in life , and pain in death ?  From all quarters the works of God revenge the quarrel of his broken law . They give these frail bodies subsistence for a while , but it is a subsistence embittered with many vexations , and at last they crush them , and disolve them in dust .
JohnMcLaurin

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