SERMON, DELIVERED AT THE FOURTH ANNIVERSARY, OF THE AUXILIARY EDUCATION SOCIETY, OF THE YOUNG MEN OF BOSTON, FEBRUARY 12, 1823. BY JUSTIN EDWARDS, ANDOVER: PRINTED BY FLAGG & GOULD. 1823. Gen. Lib SERMON. NEHEMIAH VI. 3. I AM DOING A GREAT WORK, SO THAT I CANNOT come DOWN. THIS was the answer of Nehemiah, to those who would hinder him from finishing the walls of the holy city. The time had come, when Jerusalem must be rebuilt. Its walls must be completed, and the worship of God again established on Mount Zion. Much had already been done. But, on account of the greatness of the work, the weakness, and timidity of its friends, and the number and strength of its opposers, it was not completed. Nehemiah was, in the providence of God, raised up to finish it. And, as God, when he raises up instruments, fits them for their work, Nehemiah was exactly such a man as was, at that time, needed. He was pious, wise, bold, active, and persevering. His ruling passion was love to God; and his distinguishing characteristicks were confidence in him, regard for his glory, and devotion to his will. When he looked over the desolations of Zion, he was pained to the very heart. And, although surrounded with the splendours of a court, he could not rest, till he had made a grand effort to restore her prosperity. By deep repentance, and humble prayer, he secured |