WHY THE MACEDONIANS WERE LIBERAL.
Paul, in commending to the Corinthians the liberality of the Macedonian Christians, represents them as even exceeding their ability in ministering to the saints—an instance so remarkable that we might naturally be curious to know by what motive they were impelled. In a few words we are informed, They "gave themselves to the Lord." This is an explanation altogether satisfactory. They heartily and sincerely surrendered themselves to the Lord, and hence they would not withhold their pecuniary assistance from his afflicted people. It will always be so. The true and hearty Christians, who feel they belong, in body and soul, to the Lord, cannot be niggardly; and hence, by this rule all may do well by trying themselves, whether their faith is not a mere fancy, instead of a fruitful principle.