ied by the voice of prophecy, affording evidence that even in
periods then future it should no less be proper. The argument for the
service that is afforded by prophecy is peculiar, and, though
corresponding with evidence from other sources, is independent. Because
that God willed to make known truth through his servants the prophets,
we should receive it as transmitted by them, in a manner peculiarly
calculated to invite attention. A statute tells what, according to the
authority of God, ought to be done. The revelation of God's purposes
unfolds precisely the same things as to be done, but according to his
sovereign arrangements made to lead to them. Prophecy declares, indeed,
the purposes of God, but specially the carrying of them into effect in
individual cases. In the purposes of God, each fact agreeable to his
will is provided for. In prophecy, such of these facts as he has
resolved to make known are presented. The reality of the pre-intimation
of these shows their importance, and points out that preparation ought
to be made for them. The assurance that a fact of Covenanting is
predicted is a substantial argument for its lawfulness. The individuals,
to perform it, may be urged by a variety of motives; yea, even by the
promise in reference to their doing of it, without knowing at the time
that they were the special objects of the promise. The argument from
prophecy derives its value from two things,--that the subject of
prophetic intimation, as provided for by the Lord himself, is
warranted, and, that it is beyond the power of men either to fulfil it
otherwise than he has arranged, or to prevent its accomplishment.
Prophecy describes, with precision, facts that will take place. Men are
brought into the circumstances to which a prophecy refers, and they may
be ignorant of the fact. Afterwards they know it, and attest the verity
of the prediction. The descriptions afforded in prophecy concerning the
circumstances of the truth predicted are not given to provide these
circumstances, for that is done according to a sovereign Divine
arrangement; but are afforded to show, after the fulfilment, that the
truth was indeed that which had been foretold. Prophecies, that duty
will be done, lead men to it, not as attracted by its circumstances, but
as directed by the Divine counsel.

Prophecy, therefore, independently of its fulfilment, affords a reason
for Covenanting. Properly authenticated, it has the force of an
important arg