Question 3.- If the natural man is utterly corrupt, what is the moral value of the so-called amiable qualities, such as natural affection, benevolence, etc.? Are these evil? A. M. C.

Answer.- We must remember, first of all, that God has a different standard of measurement from man's. He measures motives, which we cannot; and secondly, He tests everything with relation to Himself. If these two factors are present in our tests of the naturally amiable qualities in man we will find their true worth in God's sight. As to motive, "Whether ye eat or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God." (1 Cor. 10:31.) Does the benevolent worldly man act from that motive? Does the parent love his child because the love of Christ constrains him? We know that such is not the case. How often is selfishness only too apparent in much that passes for love,-desire for approbation in what passes for disinterested benevolence. But unquestionably there is much that is amiable between man and man, in which God is left out entirely. Sinners lend to sinners, and salute their friends. But God's glory is far from their thoughts. " That which is born of the flesh is flesh." It may not be low or immoral conduct, but it does not rise to God. Spiritual death consists in separation from God; and, alas, the stamp of death is upon all that is fairest and sweetest in the natural man. Even his religiousness but sharpens his hatred of God, as witness Saul of Tarsus.

It will be remembered that honey, as well as leaven, was excluded from the offerings to God. Natural amiability could have no place before Him. It is by Christ, and Christ alone, we draw near to God. In Him alone are we complete. Honey may do to taste, as Jonathan did, and was refreshed; but he only dipped the end of his rod in it,- a mere taste. The sweets of this life, even when apparently most innocent, do but allure us. from God, if we are not careful.