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 maxim originated in a knowledge of the Lord's words, "He that hath ears to hear, let him hear!" For the ear itself, upon which all sounds fall, is the most expressive symbol of obedience that can be found; and those who have ears but hear not, are such as hear instruction but obey not. Those, therefore, who call the divine Saviour "Lord, Lord," but do not the things he commands, have ears, but hear not, or obey not; and through their want of obedience can never be numbered with his faithful disciples, who hear, and who delight to his will.

Let us contemplate for a moment the comparison which the Lord uses. The man who hears his sayings, and does them, is likened to one who, digging deep, laid the foundation of his house in a rock. Now, to hew a foundation in a rock requires no small labour—a labour as well of the mind as of the body; for the mind must devise first the means of accomplishing, and then the will must act and do. When therefore the foundation has been deeply digged, and the structure raised with equal skill and labour, the inhabitant of the house will enjoy the fruit of his labour, and feel secure within it, however violently the elements may beat against it from without. Now look at the comparison in a higher sense. A rock signifies the impregnability of truth, and man's spiritual house is to be erected on this truth. Further, a rock is a symbol of Jesus Christ himself, and all his sayings are pure divine truths. We are therefore to build upon Him; He is to be our sure, our tried, and precious corner-stone or foundation. Every command that he utters may be considered as a distinct stone, or truth, which is to be cemented by charity and use in raising