Meditations and Discourses on the Glory of Christ

1. THERE is in obstinate unbelievers a darkness that is an effect of the power of Satan on their minds, in blinding of them, which makes it impossible for them to behold any thing of the Glory of Christ. So the Apostle declares it, If our Gospel be hid, it is hid unto them that are lost, in whom the God of this World hath blinded the minds of them that believe not; lest the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ, who is the Image of God, should shine unto them, 2 Cor. 4. 3, 4. Of these we do not speak.

2. THERE is in all men, a corrupt, natural darkness; or such a depravation of their minds by nature, as that they cannot discern this Glory of Christ in a due manner. Hence the Light shineth in darkness and the darkness comprehendeth it not, John. 1. 5. For the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God, for they are foolishness unto him, neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned, 1 Cor. 2. 14. Hence it is that although Christ be preached among us continually, yet there are very few who discern any Glory or Beauty in him, for which he should be desired, as the Prophet complains, Isa. 53. 1, 2. But I speak not of this natural darkness in general. But even these persons have their minds filled with prejudices against the Gospel and darkened as unto the Glory of Christ according as corrupt lusts and affections are prevalent in them, see Joh. 1. 44. chap. 12. 43. Hence is the difference that is among the common hearers of the word. For although no man can do any thing of himself for the receiving of Christ, and the beholding of his Glory, without the especial aid of the Grace of God,