In Christ, as MEDIATOR, are reconciled the most opposite and seemingly contradictory characters. Things may be truly and consistently predicated of him, which cannot agree to any other being besides himself. As God-man, divinity and humanity united in one person; the Ancient of Days—yet not but 1760 years old; the everlasting Father—and yet the virgin Son, the child of Mary; the King of kings, and the Lord of lords—and yet the Servant of servants. The highest dignity and glory—and the lowest condescension and humility, meet in him. Here is justice punishing every the least sin—and yet grace to pardon the very greatest of sinners! Here are infinite majesty—and the most transcendent meekness! Here are the deepest reverence toward God—and a full equality with him! Here are infinite worthiness of good—and the most perfect patience under the suffering of evil! Here are a submissive, obedient spirit—and supreme and universal dominion! Here are absolute sovereignty—and humble resignation. Jesus conquers—by falling. Jesus saves others—by dying himself. The blood of his heart—becomes the grand cure for the dying world. In him we see the highest love to God—and in the meantime the greatest love to the enemies of God! In him we see the greatest regard to the divine holiness—and the greatest benevolence to unholy sinners. It would be endless to enumerate all the opposite excellencies and characters that meet and harmonize in Jesus Christ; but these may suffice as a specimen. Thomas Reade
PSALM 4:8 I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep:
for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety. Happy and gracious conclusion of every truly regenerate soul, convinced of an interest in CHRIST, and a personal union with him. The beloved of the LORD shall dwell safely. Isaiah 32:18. REFLECTIONS READER! let you and I never lose sight of the LORD JESUS while reading this Psalm. He is the LORD our righteousness. And, therefore, in all our approaches to the mercy-seat, let us go there in a language corresponding to this, which calls JESUS the GOD of our righteousness. And while men of the world from the world are seeking their chief good, let us desire his favor which infinitely transcends corn and wine, and all the good things which perish in using. Yes! LORD, thy favor is better than life itself. Thou causest them that love thee to inherit substance, and fittest all their treasure, yea thou thyself art their treasure. And oh! thou gracious GOD and FATHER, hast thou in such a wonderful manner set apart one in our nature for thyself? ...
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