Vol. 2

—140 ST. MARK.when in outward appearance there is nothing butwhat is good ? It is very much for the interests ofGod and his truth, not to have some certain personsfor declared enemies; it is imprudence not to preserveand improve this advantage."41. For whosoever shall give you a cup ofwater to drink in my name, because ye belong toChrist, verily I say unto you. He shall not lose hisreward."The very smallest services done to our neighbourshall be rewarded. The intention and design whichwe have of doing them to Christ in his members orministers, does wonderfully enhance the value ofthem before God. They often say in the world,*Such a person has recommended him to me:' butwhen does any one say, * God, Christ, or the gospel,recommends this poor afflicted wretch, this business,this oppressed person :' ' Such a one belongs to JesusChrist, I owe him, not only a cup of water, but myassistance, my protection, and if there be occasion,even my life itself?'Sect. V.Offence.unquenchable Fire.The never-dying Worm andSalt and Peace." 42. And whosoever shall offend one of theselittle ones that believe in me, it is better for himthat a millstone were hanged about his neck, and hewere cast into the sea."A man offends, or gives occasion of scandal to hisbrother, his own family, and the church, not only bygiving a bad example, but also in suffering that inthem which it is in his power to remove; or by notgiving a good example, when he can, and ought.