Yet not as ancient as those precious truths that are the delight of our souls! Come, let us count them over as misers count their gold.

The Father's sovereign choice, by which he elected us to eternal life before the earth existed—this is so ancient that no human mind can conceive its beginning. We were chosen before the world's foundations were laid! And everlasting love went with that choice. This was no bare act of divine will. No! The divine affections were engaged. The Father loved us in and from the beginning. Here is a theme for daily contemplation.

His eternal purpose to redeem us from our foreseen ruin, to cleanse and sanctify us, and at last to glorify us—this purpose is infinitely ancient. It runs side by side with immutable love and absolute sovereignty.

The covenant is always described as everlasting. And Jesus, the second party in it, had his goings forth of old. He struck hands in sacred suretyship long before the first star began to shine! It was in him that the elect were ordained to eternal life. Thus in the divine purpose, a most blessed covenant union was established between the Son of God and his elect people—a union that will remain as the foundation of their safety when time shall be no more.

Is it not well to be conversant with these ancient things? Is it not shameful that they should be so neglected—even rejected!—by the bulk of professors? If they knew more of their own sin, would they not be more ready to adore distinguishing grace?

Let us both admire and adore tonight, as we sing: "A monument of grace, A sinner saved by blood; The streams of love I trace Up to the Fountain, God; And in his sacred bosom see Eternal thoughts of love to me."