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The peculiar character of the gospel is, that it shows how a sinner may be justified before God. Yet the generality of Christians are far from entertaining just views of this most fundamental point. They confound the different offices of faith and works. But St. Paul distinguishes them with much accuracy and precision. He invariably declares that our justification is by faith. Yet, though he denies to works the office of justifying, he invariably insists on them as the fruits and evidence of our faith. Nothing can be more decisive than the declaration in the text.

I. We shall EXPLAIN IT.

1. Man is prone to trust in outward rites and[ ceremonies. The Jews trusted in the ordinance of circumcision; some among ourselves think it sufficient Chat they have been baptized, or are communicants.

2. But no outward observances can avail for our salvation.

(1) An external conformity with the rule of duty may proceed from the basest motives;

(a)  to obtain man's applause;

(b)  to establish a righteousness of our own;

(2) it may consist with the indulgence of

(a)  evil tempers;

(b)  vicious appetites.It cannot, therefore, of itself characterize the true Christian. Nor can it avail anything towards procuring the Divine favour; though, if it proceed from faith and love, it will doubtless be rewarded.

3. That which alone can avail for our acceptance with God is faith. It is by faith that all the saints of old obtained salvation (Romans 4:3, 6, 7). All the promises of God are made to faith (Mark 16:16; Acts 10:43).

4. Yet this faith must be productive of good works. It is not a mere notional assent to certain doctrines; nor a confident assurance respecting the safety of our own state; but a living, operative principle in the heart.

5. It is, on our part, the bond of union between Christ and our souls; and it cannot but discover itself by works of love.

II. IMPROVE IT (2 Timothy 3:16).

1. For the establishment of true doctrine. Let us renounce all confidence in our own works, and rely wholly on the blood and righteousness of Christ.

2. For reproof, i.e., refutation of false doctrine. We are not justified by faith as an operative principle, but simply as uniting us with Christ. Our works do not make our faith to be good or saving, but only prove it to be so.

3. For correction of unrighteous conduct. Let unrighteous Christians put away either their profession or their sins.

4. For instruction in righteousness. Love should operate uniformly, and respect both the bodies and souls of men. Let us abound in it more and more.

(Theological Sketch-book.)

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KJV: For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but faith which worketh by love.

WEB: For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision amounts to anything, nor uncircumcision, but faith working through love.