Wine in Scripture is frequently put for some choice thing. Thus when Jesus wrought his first miracle in Cana of Galilee, in turning the water into wine; as this set forth the glories of his person and righteousness, it might be truly said the gospel then preached, compared to all former revelations, was keeping the best wine to the last; (John 2:10-12) and hence the gospel itself is called wine on the lees well refined. (Isaiah 25:6) But the sweetest commendation of Jesus and his gospel, is that which under the similitude of wine is given by the spouse, (Song of Solomon 1:2) where she desires to be kissed with the kisses of Jesus's mouth, for, said she, thy love is better than wine. And for this self-evident reason. Wine no doubt is a delightful cordial, and properly used will tend, under the devine blessing, to revive a poor sick and sorrowful heart. But never was it known to do what Christ's love hath done, to raise a sinner dead in trespasses and sins. Oh, precious love of a most precious Saviour! Surely here every one must allow that Jesus's love is better than wine. Here the largest draughts can never injure as the juice of the grape; but as Jesus gives, so may souls receive the largest portions, not only unhurt, but more blessed. His language is: "Eat, O friends: drink, yea, drink abundantly, O beloved!" (Song of Solomon 5:1)


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