HEADS OF SERMONS.

Ephesians vi. 24—Grace be with all them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity.

SELDOM has the efficacy of the gospel been more strikingly manifested than in the case of the individual who wrote these words.

I. Why ought men to love the Lord Jesus Christ?

To this question we reply,

Because his character exhibits every thing that is morally excellent.

Because it was for our express benefit that his mission was undertaken.

Because in order to secure the objects of his mission, his labours were incessant, and his sufferings extreme.

Because he continues to manifest the liveliest interest on our behalf." He ever liveth to make intercession for us."

II. What is meant by loving the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity ?

An influential love is referred to. We have no evidence that we possess this love unless we,

Yield a cordial assent to the doctrines he taught.

Diligently obey his injunctions.

Humbly confide in his promises.

Carefully cultivate the spirit he manifested.

Constantly imitate his example.

III. What is the import of the apostle's invocation?

He expresses a wish that the manifestations of divine grace, or favour, may be realized.

We regard this as including,

1. The bestowment of all necessary temporal good.

2. The enjoyment of all spiritual blessings.

IV. For whom does the apostle invoke the Divine favour ?

"All them that love our Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity."

1. All of every name.

2. All in every place.