Our Father who art in heaven. Matthew 6:9. Divine answer. Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will he a Father unto you, and ye shall he my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. 2 Corinthians 6:17-18.
To apply the gospel in general, without distinction, as if all were children of God, nay. in a state of temptation, does exceeding great harm. St. Paul acts otherwise here. The heart must first be broke and discharged from the comfort of the world. Christ comes only to comfort, namely, all mourners; consequently, every one must mourn first, though not in the same degree, and to make amends, but so much that he may be really humbled, sufficiently desirous and prepared to receive the comfort. To experience the gospel, requires time. Many pretend now too soon to an evangelical state, insisting upon assurance and boldness which they have not themselves.
Jehovah reigns, his throne is high,
His robes are light and majesty;
His glory shines with beams so bright,
No mortal can sustain the sight.
His terrors keep the world in awe.
His justice guards his holy law,
His love reveals a smiling face,
His truth and promise seal the grace.
And will this glorious Lord descend
To be ray Father and my friend?
Then let my songs with angels join;
Heaven is secure if God be mine.