2. _When we rightly appreciate the cross, we recognize it as the instrument of redemption._--This was the mode of death indicated by prophecy. The cross stands for that death; but it is an idle, unworthy superstition that this mode of death wrought the stupendous end. It is only an accessory. We must look further into the mystery. "He His own self bore our sin in His own body on the tree." It is that awful identity, that mysterious action, which expiates, and not the rood. 3. _When our mind approves this method of salvation, it finds in the cross the principle of sanctification._--A new element of thought, a new complexion of motive, enter the soul when the Holy Spirit shows to it the things of Christ. We are new creatures. We reverse all our sins and desires. We are called unto holiness. (1) Mark the _process._ We had hitherto abided in death. But now we are quickened with Him. (2) Mark the _necessity._ Until we be brought nigh to it, until we take hold of it, the doctrine of the crucified Saviour is an unintelligible and uninteresting thing. (3) Mark the _effect._ There is a suddenly, though a most intelligently, developed charm. It is the infinite of attraction. All concentrates on it. It absorbs the tenderness and the majesty of the universe. It is full of glory. Our heart has now yielded to it, is drawn, is held, coheres, coalesces, is itself impregnated by the sacred effluence. The offence of the cross has ceased.--_R. W. Hamilton._ Ver. 12. _Church Censure._--The spirit of error may so far prevail among a people that discipline can hardly attain its end--the shaming of the person censured, and the preservation of the Church from being leavened. In which case the servants of God should proceed with slow pace, and in all lenity and wisdom, and should rather doctrinally declare the censures deserved than actually inflict the censure itself. _Judgment on the Troubles of the Church._ +I. God watches over His Church with a special providence.+ +II. The doctrine of the apostles is of infallible certainty+ because the oppugners of it are plagued with the just judgment of God. +III. Our duty is to pray for the good estate of the Church of God,+ and for the kingdoms where the Church is planted.--_Perkins._ _MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH.--Verses_ 13-18. _Love the Highest Law of Christian Liberty._ +I. Love preserves liberty from degenerating into licence.+--"Only use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh" (ver. 13). Christian liberty is a great boon, but it also a solemn responsibility. It is hard to win and is worth the most gigantic struggle; but the moment it is abused it is lost. Men clamour for liberty when they mean licence--licence to indulge their unholy passions unchecked by the restraints of law. Christian liberty is not the liberty of the flesh, but of the Spirit, and love is the master-principle that governs and defines all its exercises.