Acts 8:40

REFLECTIONS

Reader! behold in this chapter a true representation of the church of Jesus in all ages. In one view persecuted, and while the friends of the bridegroom are cast down, the enemy triumphing with an high hand. In another, like Samaria, where the word of God is faithfully preached, and graciously received, there is great joy in that place. See, opposed to the faithfulness of Peter and John, the sorcery and hypocrisy of Simon Magus; and mark in all churches similar effects, from the contrast of grace and corruption; Christ and Belial.

Blessed Jesus! let the sweet view here afforded, of thy watchful eye over this Ethiopian, who came from a vast distance led by thy grace to seek the Lord, in sending a special messenger after him, be uppermost in the thoughts of thy people. Jesus hath said, and this sweet scripture confirms it, all that the Father hath given him shall come to him. And rather than one of Christ's little ones shall perish for lack of knowledge, the Lord will meet them in the desert; and when ordinances fail, the Lord will work without them. Oh! for grace, that all the ministers of the Lord's sending, may, like Philip, preach Christ to the people. And oh! that all, to whom the Lord shall reveal himself, as to this Ethiopian may, like him, go on their way rejoicing!