NOTE.—One of the briefest and best definitions of temperance is _self-control_. The word in the text means much more than mere abstinence from intoxicating drinks,—the limited sense now frequently given to it. It means control, strength, power, or ascendency over exciting and evil passions of all kinds. It denotes the self-rule which the overcomer or converted man has over the evil propensities of his nature. Commenting on this passage, Dr. Albert Barnes says: “The influences of the Holy Spirit on the heart make a man _moderate_ in all indulgences; teach him to restrain his passions, and to govern himself.” 17. How highly is he commended who controls his spirit? “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and _he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city_.” Prov. 16:32. 18. What is said of all these different virtues? “Against such there is no law.” Gal. 5:23, last clause. NOTE.—The law condemns sin. But all these things, being virtues, are in harmony with the law. They are produced by the Spirit; and the law, which is spiritual, cannot, therefore, condemn them. 19. From what condemnation does Spirit-leading save us? “But if ye be led of the Spirit, _ye are not under the law_.” Verse 18. 20. To what unity are Christians exhorted? “Endeavoring to keep _the unity of the Spirit_ in the bond of peace.” Eph. 4:3. ‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐‐ Spirit of life, and light, and love, Thy heavenly influence give; Quicken our souls, our guilt remove, That we in Christ may live. His love within us shed abroad, Life’s ever-springing well; Till God in us, and we in God, In love eternal dwell. THOMAS HAWEIS. Gifts Of The Spirit [Illustration.] Healing The Leper. "He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men." Eph. 4:8. 1. Concerning what subject ought we to be informed? “Now _concerning spiritual gifts_, brethren, I would not have you ignorant.” 1 Cor. 12:1. 2. When Christ ascended, what did He give to men? “Wherefore He saith, When He ascended on high, He led captivity captive [margin, a multitude of captives], and _gave gifts unto men_.” Eph. 4:8. 3. What were these gifts that Christ gave to men? “And He gave some, _apostles_; and some, _prophets_; and some, _evangelists_; and some, _pastors_ and _teachers_.” Verse 11. 4. How are these gifts elsewhere spoken of? “And God hath set some in the church, first _apostles_, secondarily _prophets_, thirdly _teachers_, after that _miracles_, then _gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of tongues_.” 1 Cor. 12:28. 5. For what purpose were these gifts bestowed upon the church?