GOD IS MANIFEST IN THEM --- Romans 1:19.
"That which may be known of God is manifest in them, for God hath showed it unto them." --- Romans 1:19.
There are some things declared and enjoined in the gospel which have their foundation in the law and light of nature; such are all the moral duties which are taught therein; these, the remaining light of nature, though obscurely, yet does teach and confirm: The apostle, speaking of mankind in general, says "That which may be known of God is manifest in them:" The essential properties of God, rendering our moral duty to him necessary, are known by the light of nature; and by the same light are men able to make a judgment of their actions, whether they be good or evil. Romans 2:14, 15.
The same law and light which discover these things, do also enjoin their observance. Thus is it with all men before the preaching of the gospel to them. The gospel adds two things to the minds of men.
1. It directs us to a right performance of these things, from a right principle, by a right rule, and to a right end; that so they, and we in them, may obtain acceptance with God; hereby it gives them a new nature, and turns moral duties into evangelical obedience. 2. By a communication of that Spirit which is joined to its dispensation, it supplies us with strength for their performance in the manner it directs.