Men do not love to believe in Christ, but have a contrariety thereunto, John v. 40. Matt. xxiii. 37. The opposition arises partly from pride. They had rather be saved by their own works, that they may have somewhat to glory in. It is very cross to their haughty spirit to go out of themselves and be beholden to Christ alone for salvation, to have nothing of their own to glory in. Men do not love to see themselves nothing. And partly it arises from fear. It seems to them a terrible thing to venture upon Christ. They are not certain that God is free to accept them. They are not certain whether Christ's righteousness be sufficient for them. They do not see the encouragement that is in the gospel, and think it an unlikely thing that they shall be safe in such a way.

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