Isaiah 60:6

THE GLORY OF THE GOSPEL CHURCH
(Missionary Sermon.)

Isaiah 60:6. The multitude of camels shall cover thee, &c.

The primary reference is to the change in Jerusalem after the captivity. Instead of desolation there would be return of the life of a prosperous capital. The merchandise which had deserted it because there was no market would find its way back from all quarters. Arabia would again send its swift camels and dromedaries laden with spices and other products, &c. But glorious as this primary reference to material prosperity, it is surpassed by the secondary. Many of the terms can only be understood as contemplating the glory of the Gospel Church, which was to arise in consequence of the appearance of the Messiah and the accomplishment of His long-predicted work. View the text in this light, and observe some circumstances respecting the converts of the Gospel.
I. THEY SHALL BE DRAWN FROM AN EXTENDED AREA.
Keeping in view the wide geographical sweep of this chapter, it cannot be regarded as saying less than that the converts of the Gospel shall be derived from all the ends of the earth. Christianity is the true gospel of humanity.

1. It is needed by man universally.
2. It is adequate to man.
3. It is adapted to man.
4. It is intended for man.

II. THEY SHALL COME NUMEROUSL TO ITS ATTRACTION.

The prophet sees in vision these multitudes coming from various quarters. What is the centre to which they are attracted by an invisible but irresistible power? It is Christ (John 12:32). Already, to a large extent, has this declaration been fulfilled. What multitudes have come to Him during many ages! In connection with the modern missionary enterprise, there is no quarter of the world from which representatives are not, in growing numbers, coming to the cross.

III. THEY SHALL BRING THEIR OF FERINGS TO His FEET.
They receive, indeed, a free salvation. But it is not intended to minister to their selfishness. It aims to destroy the old selfishness by the excitement of gratitude and love. Love wishes to requite the benefactor. Moreover, the experience of Christ’s salvation, contact with His love, begets a corresponding benevolence, which looks forth to the needs of others. “They shall bring gold and incense.” Each country and each man brings his own proper production and possession, and lays it at the feet of Him who emptied Himself of His riches for us. In the light of His redeeming love let each ask, “How much owest thou unto my Lord?”
IV. THEY SHALL CONTRIBUTE TO THE CELEBRATION OF HIS PRAISE.
Is not praise the expression of joyfulness? Is not joyfulness the experience of the Church when most fully consecrated to Christ? They shall show it—

1. By their songs. The first love of the Church expressed itself in songs of praise. So did the Reformation. So does every revival. Missionary converts speedily develop a love of sacred Song of Song of Solomon 2. By their lives. The changed life of every convert that walks consistently with his new profession is a perpetual showing forth of God’s praise. The worldling, the impure, the indifferent, the idolater changed.

3. By their testimony. In their turn testify for God and the Gospel. From personal experience speak confidently. Every separate convert a fresh seed of salvation.

By coming to Christ, consecration to Christ, living to His praise, will this be fulfilled.—J. Rawlinson.