The nature and extent of that
efficacy we are unable as yet fully to trace. Part we are capable of
beholding; and the wisdom of what we behold we have reason to adore.
We discern, in this plan of redemption, the evil of sin strongly
exhibited and the justice of the divine government awfully
exemplified, in Christ suffering for sinners. But let us not imagine
that our present discoveries unfold the whole influence of the
death of Christ. It is connected with causes into which we can not
penetrate. It produces consequences too extensive for us to explore.
"God's thoughts are not as our thoughts." In all things we "see only
in part"; and here, if anywhere, we see also "as through a glass.
darkly."
This, however, is fully manifest, that redemption is one of the most
glorious works of the Almighty. If the hour of the creation of the
world was great and illustrious, that hour when, from the dark and
formless mass, this fair system of nature arose at the divine command,
when "the morning-stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted
for joy," no less illustrious is the hour of the restoration of the
world; the hour when, from condemnation and misery, it emerged into
happiness and peace.
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