PREFACE. The sermons contained in this volume are printed exactly as they were preached, with the exception of a very few verbal alterations, and of the addition of about two pages as an introduction to the twenty-sixth sermon. In point of style they are wholly devoid of pretension; for my main object was to write intelligibly, and if I have succeeded in this, I must be content to be censured for much homeliness, and perhaps awkwardness of expression, which I had not the skill to avoid. In their matter they have not attempted to enter upon points of criticism, or to engage in any of the more difficult questions of theology. They are directly practical; but it has been my endeavour in all of them to enforce what may be called peculiarly Christian practice; that is, such a perfection in thought, word, and deed, as the Spirit of God should inspire to the enlightened understandings and willing hearts of those whom Christ redeemed, and who are now no longer under the law, but under grace. |