3. For if any of those who are present
should think to tempt God’s grace, he deceives himself, and knows
not its power. Keep thy soul free from hypocrisy, O man, because
of Him who searcheth hearts and reins Ps. vii. 10.. For as those who are going to make a
levy for war examine the ages and the bodies of those who are taking service, so also
the Lord in enlisting souls examines their purpose: and if any
has a secret hypocrisy, He rejects the man as unfit for His true
service; but if He finds one worthy, to him He readily gives His
grace. He gives not holy things to the dogs Matt. vii. 6.;
but where He discerns the good conscience, there He gives the Seal of
salvation, that wondrous Seal, which devils tremble at, and Angels
recognise; that the one may be driven to flight, and the others may
watch around it as kindred to themselves. Those therefore who
receive this spiritual and saving Seal, have need also of the
disposition akin to it. For as a writing-reed or a dart has need
of one to use it, so grace also has need of believing minds.