_Here have we no continuing city_ AN EVER-CHANGING SCENE: These words sum up what was certainly the apostolic mind as to the position of Christians in the world. They were members, as we are, of a vast and complex association which we call human society; but, with all its great attributes, it want... [ Continue Reading ]
_Offer the sacrifice of praise_ A LIFE-LONG OCCUPATION: It is instructive to notice where this verse stands. The connection is a golden setting to the gem of the text. Here we have a description of the believer’s position before God. He has done with all carnal ordinances, and has no interest in t... [ Continue Reading ]
_But to do good, and to communicate, forget not_ CHRISTIAN BENEFICENCE: I. WHAT THE EXPRESSIONS TO “DO GOOD “AND TO” COMMUNICATE” DENOTE. 1. To “do good” is to do whatever may tend to promote the good and happiness of our neighbour; to prevent any peril or misfortune he may be exposed to, or to d... [ Continue Reading ]
_Obey them that have the rule_ RULERSHIP IN THE CHURCH I. THAT THE DUE OBEDIENCE OF THE CHURCH, IN ALL ITS MEMBERS, UNTO THE RULERS OF IT, IN THE DISCHARGE OF THEIR OFFICE AND DUTY, IS THE BEST MEANS OF ITS EDIFICATION, AND THE CHIEF CAUSE OF ORDER AND PEACE IN THE WHOLE BODY. Therefore is it here... [ Continue Reading ]
_Pray for us_ PRAYER FOR MINISTERS I. SOME CONSIDERATIONS TO ILLUSTRATE AND CONFIRM THE NECESSITY OF SUCH PRAYER. 1. The awful responsibility of the ministerial office. 2. We are men of like passions with yourselves, with bodies requiring to be kept under, and with souls to save. II. SOME SUITA... [ Continue Reading ]
_The God of peace_ THE GOD OF PEACE AND OUR SANCTIFICATION I. I call your attention to THE PECULIAR TITLE UNDER WHICH GOD IS ADDRESSED IN THIS PRAYER: “NOW, the God of peace.” The names of God employed in prayer in holy Scripture are always significant. Why, then, did the apostle here call God “ th... [ Continue Reading ]