Be not deceived As if he had said, It is an easy thing for interested men to find excuses for the neglect of this and other liberalities, which are required for the support and propagation of the gospel of Christ; but do not delude yourselves in this or any other such matter, by the treachery of your own hearts, which may more fatally impose upon yourselves than upon any others. For God Who searches all hearts, and observes all external circumstances; is not mocked Or, to be mocked by such vain pretences, although they attempt to mock him, who think to reap otherwise than they sow. For As in the natural, so in the moral world; whatsoever a man soweth Whether it be good or bad, whether he be liberal or sparing in it; that shall he also reap The return shall be answerable thereto, both with respect to the kind and degree of it. For he that soweth to his flesh That yields to his unhallowed passions and appetites, and follows the desires of his corrupt nature; or that employs his substance, time, and thoughts, merely or chiefly in gratifying and indulging the flesh, or for the satisfaction of his own bodily necessities, conveniences, or pleasures; shall of the flesh Out of this very seed; reap corruption The utter destruction of his soul and body. But he that soweth to the Spirit That follows the Spirit's guidance in his dispositions, words, and actions, and, under the influences thereof, employs his abilities of body and mind, his time, talents, and possessions, to promote true religion in himself and in those about him; shall of the Spirit By his continued assistance and grace, and as the fruit of what is thus sown; reap life everlasting When he shall leave the world, his immortal spirit shall inherit eternal felicity; and whatsoever his portion may be now, he shall be fully recompensed at the resurrection of the just, (Luke 14:14,) when all the hope of the sinner is perished.

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