---

Various are the means which the Lord employs to convince the wicked of the error of their ways, and bring them to a knowledge of Divine truth.

I. THE REPROOFS HE ADMINISTERS.

1. By the Scriptures, which contain the most pointed and salutary admonitions, sending us for instruction and reproof to —

(1)  The works of creation;

(2)  examples of impiety;

(3)  the awful solemnities of death and the grave.

2. By ministers. They persuade men by the terrors of the Lord, and encourage them by the promises of the gospel.

3. By conscience. The internal and universal monitor; the witness to all our proceedings. It speaks with sovereign authority.

4. By providence. By —

(1)  Pious parents;

(2)  family connections;

(3)  godly neighbours;

(4)  by afflictions, and difficulties;

(5)  by the death of our fellow-mortals.

II. THE SUBMISSION HE REQUIRES. He invites return —

1. With penitent hearts. Genuine repentance includes —

(1)  Conviction of sin

;

(2)  humiliation of soul;

(3)  compunction of spirit;

(4)  holy indignation and shame;

(5)  humble confession to God.

2. With believing minds. By faith we —

(1)  Credit the gospel;

(2)  embrace the Saviour; and

(3)  realise salvation.

3. With fervent devotion. We should call upon Him —

(1)  Sincerely;

(2)  humbly;

(3)  confidently;

(4)  fervently;

(5)  diligently.

4. With prompt obedience. Religion requires an universal renunciation of the principles and habits of vice, and an entire devotedness to God, both of heart and life.

III. THE ENCOURAGEMENT HE IMPARTS. "Pour out My Spirit." The participation of the Holy Ghost is an inestimable privilege, which includes every holy principle that He implants, and every gracious disposition which He requires. The Spirit of God is —

1. A convincing Spirit. He opens the eyes of our understanding; and He imparts a spiritual discernment (John 16:8-11).

2. A quickening Spirit. He removes the death of sin, and infuses the life of grace.

3. A comforting Spirit.

4. A sanctifying Spirit. He is called "the Spirit of holiness." He sanctifies His people wholly, and preserves them blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ (1 Thessalonians 5:23).

(Sketches of Four Hundred Sermons.)

---

---

KJV: Wisdom crieth without; she uttereth her voice in the streets:

WEB: Wisdom calls aloud in the street. She utters her voice in the public squares.