As if our apostle had said, "Notwithstanding that Hymeneus and Philetus, with others, are fallen away, nevertheless we know that the foundation of God, his holy covenant, standeth firm and sure, having. seal annexed to it, (as usually contracts have, whereby two parties do oblige themselves mutually to each other,) which seal on God's part has this impress or inscription, The Lord knoweth them that are his; and on our part it is written, "Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity."

Learn hence, 1. That the covenant of God made with us in Christ Jesus is. firm and sure foundation to build our hopes of perseverance and eternal life upon: The foundation of God standeth sure.

Learn, 2. That the covenant (according to the nature of all covenants) is conditional; on God's promising assistance, acceptance, and rewards; on our part. departing from all iniquity, and an obligation to the love and practice of universal holiness. All that make. profession of Christianity ought to take especial care that their lives may answer their light, their practices correspond with their profession; Christianity being not. speculative science, but. practical art of holy living.

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Old Testament