History of Presbyterianism

end deceived and defrauded him, thus reproving his conduct towards his brother Esau. How won— derful are the ways of God in chastising his chosen children! They read their sin in their punishment. Laban dealt with Jacob in a more cruel and unjust manner, but yet though oppressed he did not flee from his uncle, nor desert his service until God commanded him and gave him the promise of his presence and protection, saying, “Return to the land of thy fathers and God will be with thee.” So Jacob set out on his journey to his native land with his wives and children, his flocks and herds, and all that he possessed. In a few days Laban pursued after him in great wrath, intending to do him harm. But God warned Laban of his sin and danger, and protected Jacob from the effects of his wrath. The meeting of Jacob and Laban was remarkable. They made a covenant and set up a pillar, and swore an oath before God, with protestations of the most genuine friendship. As Jacob went on his way, God, as an evidence of his care and protection, gave him a remarkable vision: the angels of God met him and he called them God’s host, and the place he called Mahanaim, i. e. two hosts or bands. Im- mediately after this signal vision of angels, he is informed of the warlike appearance of his brother Esau, with his four hundred men coming out to meet him. He remembered how he had deceived and de— frauded his brother, hence he was greatly troubled and distressed. He promptly employed proper means to pacify him, sent him a magnificent present,

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