“W. S.,” Rutland. Mark 9:49-50, is deeply practical. “Salt” is pungent and preservative. “With all thine offerings thou shalt offer salt.” It is sweetly expressive of that energy of holiness by which the Christian is to be preserved from the corrupting influences around him, whether they be of a doctrinal or practical nature. The connection of “salt” and “peace,” and the order in which they stand, are full of instruction. It reminds us of James’ words, “pure and peaceable.” Holiness, purity and truth must first be jealously maintained; and then as much “peace” as possible. At the present day, alas! we see the order reversed. “Peace” is put first, and the sad consequence is, that much of the “salt” has lost its savor. Professing Christianity will, ere long, become a loathsome mass, fit only for the winepress of the wrath of God. Oh! that Christians may be separated, in spirit and practice, from this corrupt and corrupting world, and stand as devoted witnesses to a rejected, absent, coming Lord! We have not read the sermon you so kindly sent; but from the cursory glance we have given at it, we are much disposed to agree with your view of it.