And yet the very comprehensiveness itself of the subject may possibly afford an apology for

the author, and even justify the hope that, in the expansive scope allowed, some remarks may be found not altogether unprofitable.

CROXALL, TAMWORTH.

Feb., 1862.

CHARITY.

(1 COR. XIII.)

CHAPTER I.

ALL MENTAL AND MORAL EXERCISES PROFIT

LESS, IN THE JUDGMENT OF GOD,

WITHOUT CHARITY.

THE delineation of charity, pourtrayed in this chapter, presents the value of that Christian grace under three distinct aspects.

In the first place, it affirms the possibility of the highest exercise of mental and moral powers to be supposable without charity, and

B

declares, that where that grace is wanting, such exercise is worthless to the individual himself, according to the judgment of God.

In the second place, it exhibits the inherent qualities of charity,-qualities, the bare mention of which, recommends them to universal approbation.

In the third place, it declares the lasting character of charity, which, when faith is absorbed in sight, and hope in enjoyment, shall give tone and perpetuity to the adoration, and thanksgiving, and service of heaven.

Of the charity which, in this chapter, the Apostle holds forth under so prominent and all-important an aspect, it is natural to enquire, what is its specific definition? The definition shall be taken from the mouth of God Himself. "Beloved, if God so loved us, we ought also to love one another." The mode in which this love of God towards man was exhibited is declared in the preceding verse. "Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins." How firm, how broad, how con