THE SEVEN PILLARS OF THE BAPTISTS. Prov. 9 : 1—“ Wisdom hath buildcd her house ; she hath hewn out her seven pillars.” I shall contemplate the text as predictive, like the prophetic visions of old ; regarding “ wisdom ” as the voice of God, the “ house builded ” as the preordained Christian republic, and the “ pillars ” as the representatives and principles of the Christian system. This view is suggested by the use the Scriptures make of this term “pillar.” James, Cephas, and John, are termed pillars, (Gal. 2:9.) A Christian church is styled a pillar, (1 Tim. 3 : 15.) And how beautiful and appropriate the figure, since pillars are not only supports of a house or temple, but, anciently, were also monuments graven with records of mighty deeds, with edicts and proclamations for the world’s instruction. In a sublime sense, then, Christian individuals and Christian churches are pillars—monuments of God’s grace— raised up by the power of Christ—graven by the Spirit of God—ordained to hold up the edicts and proclamations of Heaven to the world; conspicuous, glorious office—truth-bearers for Jesus Christ; trustees and representatives of the Saviour of the world; to hold up the gospel, to illustrate its divine power, and its emancipating principles. Thus Peter speaks in addressing the saints, “ Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priest’
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