---

I. EXPLAIN THE MEANING OF THE TEXT. There is a disparity between external light and the judgment of the mind; the former does not depend on choice. Obstruction in the eyesight may be a man's infelicity, it is not his fault. The evil eye is the disease of the mind, malignant and dangerous. We are to lay up treasure in heaven; we are in danger of such darkness or ignorance as shall make us insensible of our highest interest. We are liable to this self-deceit.

1. It is evident from the plain intimations of Scripture (Proverbs 16:2; Isaiah 5:20).

2. Instances within the compass of our own acquaintance.

II. THE MOST GENERAL CAUSE OF SELF-DECEIT IN THE AFFAIRS OF RELIGION IS SOME PREVAILING, CORRUPT PASSION. This leads to unfairness in these inquiries concerning duty.

III. THE MEANS WHEREBY THIS FATAL DISEASE OF THE MIND IS CONFIRMED.

1. False imaginaties.

2. Superstition.

3. Self-flattery.

4. Feeble, ineffectual purposes of future amendment.

IV. THE EXTENT OF THIS SELF-DECEIT. Learn:

1. To be watchful.

2. What is right will generally appear to our first thoughts.

3. Implore the aid of Divine grace.

(J. Abernethy, M. A.)

---

---

KJV: The light of the body is the eye: if therefore thine eye be single, thy whole body shall be full of light.

WEB: "The lamp of the body is the eye. If therefore your eye is sound, your whole body will be full of light.