_Blessed be the God and Father._ MAN BLESSING GOD I. Man blesseth God three ways. 1. In his heart, when, refreshed with God’s favour and inflamed with the joys of His presence, he doth lift up his heart with affection, striving to laud God and acknowledge His mercy. 2. In his tongue, when he tak... [ Continue Reading ]
_Wherein ye greatly rejoice._ JOY AND TRIAL IN THE CHRISTIAN’S LIFE I. The Christian’s joy. 1. It is present joy. God’s service is gladsome even now (1 Peter 1:8; Philippians 4:4). Nor is this joy for advanced believers only, but for all true-hearted seekers after God (Psalms 105:3). 2. It is gr... [ Continue Reading ]
_Of which salvation the prophets have inquired and searched diligently._ SALVATION-THE CENTRAL SUBJECT OF STURDY I. The prophets as examples to us in the study of salvation. 1. The intensity of their study. The word here translated “searched” is used by classic authors to describe hounds scouring... [ Continue Reading ]
_Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind._ TIGHTEN THE BELT “Wherefore,” for this reason, that your salvation was so great an object of interest to prophets and to angels, it becomes you to maintain your faith, your courage, and expectation to the end. “Wherefore, girding up the loins of your min... [ Continue Reading ]