ordingly to
be understood as referred to in these scripture declarations:--"Whiles
by the experiment of this ministration, they glorify God for your
_professed_ subjection unto the gospel of Christ."[70] "They _profess_
that they know God; but in works they deny him."[71] "Women _professing_
godliness."[72] "And hast _professed_ a good _profession_ before many
witnesses."[73] "Let us hold fast the _profession_ of our faith without
wavering; for he is faithful that promised."[74]

The term PROFESSION, when used in the same connection, is equivalent to
the term _confession_; and hence includes in its import the exercise of
Covenanting. The proof of this which is obviously deducible from the
meaning of the word _confession_ is corroborated by the representation
which is given in the epistle to the Hebrews, of Christ as the high
priest of our profession. In this aspect of his character, the Redeemer
was a minister of the circumcision for the truth of God, to confirm the
promises made unto the fathers; and under this, taught the people to
manifest in every possible manner their attachment to God's
Covenant--duties which they would not have performed, if in making
confession to God they had not confessed their acquiescence in that
Covenant.

PERSONAL COVENANTING

Is an ACT OF ADHERENCE to God's Covenant. It is the definite exercise of
giving acquiescence to that Covenant in its whole character. It is not
simply acquiescing in that Covenant in the heart, but signifying that
acquiescence in a positive service. The Covenanting believer, like the
people of Israel with Josiah their king, in this exercise, stands to the
Covenant.[75] That party in this exercise takes hold upon the Covenant,
and cleaves to it; that is, not merely performs other services required
in the Covenant, but absolutely engages to it. And here, uses such
language as the words of Jacob, "The Lord shall be my God." But
particularly,

First, This is a solemn act approving of the way of salvation through
Jesus Christ. In every religious exercise an approval of this method of
restoration to the favour of God is implied; in this it is specially
intimated. To make that approval in this act there is afforded
encouragement. It was to Israel represented as about to engage in
Covenanting individually, that He who described himself, "The Lord, the
King of Israel, and his Redeemer the Lord of Hosts," made the appeal,
"Ye are even my witnesses. Is there a God beside