some other lurking principle which can resist and subdue the
batteries of covetousness; but all their efforts will be vain. Whatever
they may erect will be built upon the sand; the winds and floods will
sweep it away. There is no foundation which can withstand the
underminings of the depraved heart, and the shocks of a depraved world,
but the rock of holy love.

PART II.

Systematic beneficence is capable of a twofold division. There is a
general or universal system, binding indiscriminately and equally on all
of every rank and condition; and a particular system adapted alone to
the circumstances of each individual. The latter stands related to the
former, as the edifice to the foundation on which it rests. This
distinction must be kept clearly before mind, if we would have definite
views of our obligations relative to this important subject. In the
ensuing discussion, I shall confine myself mainly to the general system;
believing that if God's people are correct in sentiment, rooted and
grounded in moral and christian principles, they will be substantially
correct in practise. And as the particular or individual system grows,
by a moral necessity, out of the other when fully embraced, being, in
fact, involved in the practical part of it, I propose to give but
occasional hints concerning it.

Practically considered, a system of beneficence consists in two things:
the amount of property bestowed, and the frequency of stated gifts to
the Lord.

Before detailing in full, therefore, the general system of beneficence,
these two questions must be thoroughly discussed--1. What is the
proportional amount of property or income to be given in charitable
contributions? 2. How frequently should stated contributions be made?

The first of these is a point the most difficult for the depraved heart
to reach. Self-interest clamors most loudly for the smallest sum
possible. Her whole strength must here be encountered. But
selfishness, properly so called, has nothing to do with the question.
The rule determining the amount must be fixed upon, not only entirely
without her aid, but in direct opposition to her insidious suggestions.
It must also be a rule growing out of those principles which take hold
of, and bind the conscience; and therefore clearly taught in the Bible.
This is a consideration which may not be overlooked. If we endeavor to
deduce a rule from principles not found nor recognized in the
Scriptures