Vol. 2

—376 ST. LUKE.from c!oing good. This steadfast and undauntedlook of Christ teaches his ministers, not to be at allterrified by the ill will of the adversaries of goodnessand truth. Those, whom fear renders weak andcowardly in the exercise of their ministry, forget thatthey exercise itin the name and place of Christ, andthat they must give account to him of their unfaithfulness,and of the damage which the churchshall have suffered thereby in her children." 11. And they were filled with madness; andcommuned one with another what they might do toJesus."It isnot a thing so uncommon as we imagine, tosee envy so furiously incensed against charity, andagainst such evident proofs of truth and innocence.Pride, obstinacy, and interest, combined together,are capable of any thing. When men have onceframed their conscience according to their passions,madness passes for zeal, the blackest conspiracies forpious designs, and the most horrid attempts for heroicactions.Sect. II.Christ Prays, and Calls the TwelveApostles." 12. f And it came to pass in those days, that hewent out into a mountain to pray, and continued allnight in prayer to God."In every condition of life, we have sufficient occasionto imitate that which Christ here does, whoprepares himself for the functions of his priesthood,and for the performance of good works, by retirement,watchfulness, and prayer. Prayer, whichChrist, and after his example, his church, makes