But Christ had other sheep which were not of that fold, and the time had come for them also to be gathered in. A new revelation was made to Peter-the Apostle was not disobedient to the heavenly visionand Cornelius was the first convert from among the heathen. To whatever cause we attribute the blindness of the first teachers of Christianity in relation to a very plain command, the promptness with which they obeyed this command when its extent was made known, proves, that it was, at least, more honourable to them than any reason which their successsors can give for neglecting to obey the same command. When the result of Peter's mission was known, the Apostles "Glorified God, saying, then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life."
The gospel was no longer confined to one nation. To extend its benefits among the heathen, a special instrument had been prepared. Paul has justly been styled the Apostle of the Gentiles. Independent of his miraculous gifts, this Apostle, by his superior learning, his ardent piety-and by those high qualities of mind, invincible firmness and decision, was eminently qualified for his arduous undertaking. In connexion with Barnabas he commenced his labours at Antioch, where a few Greeks had received the Gospel, and where was now gathered the first Christian church. From this place he extended his labours into different countries, and during a ministry of more than twenty years preached the Gospel with indefatigable zeal, over a considerable part of the Roman Empire; though it may be doubted, whether, according to some authors, he travelled into Britain.
It is not consistent with the design of the present sketch to enter into a detail of the first missionary exertions. Indeed little is known concerning them.
Thomas and Bartholemew are said to have preached the Gospel in India, and Philip and Andrew to have penetrated into the northern countries now under the dominion of Russia. Others have had their fields of