CHRISTIAN EXPERIENCES.
Eph_1:3-14.
This is a marvellous and comprehensive statement of Divine grace and of the believers’ progressive discovery of its riches. "Blessed with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies in Christ" (Eph_1:3). The apostle’s view is from the Divine standpoint. "Chosen in Him before the foundation of the world" (Eph_1:4), then following step by step down to the day that "ye heard the Gospel of your salvation" (Eph_1:13). It might help us to reverse this order, and take the truths as they appeal to Christian experience.
I. "Ye Heard the Word of Truth, the Gospel of your Salvation" (Eph_1:13). What a Gospel this is. Good news of Christ’s redeeming love, that has its origin away back in the eternal purpose of the Eternal God. To hear it is to behold the open door into the fulness of blessing in the favour of a reconciled God.
II. "Ye Trusted after that ye Heard the Word of Truth" (Eph_1:13). It is not enough to hear, there must needs be the committal of the heart’s affections and confidence. This trust is the personal appropriation of the offer God has made in Jesus Christ. "Ye are all the children of God by faith in Jesus Christ" (Gal_3:26).
III. Ye were Sealed with the Holy Spirit of Promise "After that ye believed" (Eph_1:13). The Holy Spirit of Promise has been given as an earnest in our hearts of all that God hath laid up in store for His children (2Co_1:22). "Ye are sealed until the day of final and perfect redemption" (Eph_4:30). Ye are claimed by Him and stamped with His signature.
IV. Ye have Redemption through His Blood (Eph_1:7). Ye were not sealed that ye might be redeemed, but because ye have been redeemed. He gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity (Tit_2:14). He was the "Lamb slain from before the foundation of the world." Redemption is an older thought than creation, and will be the theme of the final song (Rev_5:9).
V. Ye have the Forgiveness of Sins, and that "According to the riches of His grace" (Eph_1:7). Bought by the precious Blood of Christ, and forgiven according to the infinite riches of almighty grace. Oh, how marvellous is His lovingkindness to us, who deserved nothing but His righteous condemnation. He hath loved our souls out of the pit, and called us sons of God (1Jn_3:1).
VI. Ye are Accepted in the Beloved (Eph_1:6). Yes, already accepted in Him in all our ignorance, weakness, failure, and conscious helplessness, through faith in Christ. God is pleased to wrap the trusting soul within the folds of the riches of His grace in Christ Jesus that we might be to the praise of His glory (Eph_1:6). How gladly and fully did the Father accept the Son when He raised Him from the dead. That is the measure of your acceptance in Him.
VII. Ye have Obtained an Inheritance. "In Him also we have obtained an inheritance" (Eph_1:11). Not only accepted in the Beloved, but a partner in His inheritance. "If children, then heirs: heirs of God and joint-heirs with Christ; for if we suffer with Him, we may be glorified together" (Rom_8:17). This will be the inheritance of the saints in light (Col_1:12). "Heirs of God?" What can this mean? Jesus Christ is God’s only begotten Son and Heir. The Church is the Bride of Christ. All saved by His grace and possessed by His Spirit are one with Him. The redeemed Bride shall share the glory and honour of the Bridegroom in that day when the "Marriage of the Lamb" is come.
VIII. Ye were Predestinated unto the Adoption of Children (Eph_1:5). Having been forgiven, accepted, and honoured as heirs, we make this great discovery that all these experiences were according to the predetermining purpose and good pleasure of His will (Eph_1:5). "Whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son" (Rom_8:29-30). We in our simplicity, may have thought that when we first trusted in Christ we were adding some fresh lustre to the glory of Christ, but now we see that we were only fulfilling the promise of the Father to the Son, that He would give Him an inheritance from among the nations of the earth. Jesus said: "All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me" (Joh_6:37).
IX. Ye were Chosen in Him before the Foundation of the World (Eph_1:4). The origin of the Church, as the body of Christ, may date as far back as, "In the beginning was the Word" (Joh_1:1). Pentecost was the visible manifestation of this eternal purpose (2Th_2:13). There was nothing haphazard about the covenant God made with His Son to give Him a people for the eternal honour of His Name. Christ did not die in chance that some might believe in Him and be saved. He knew that the Father had given Him power over all flesh, that He should give eternal life to as many as the Father had given Him (Joh_17:2). So our Lord could say: "This is the Father’s will which hath sent Me: that of all which He hath given Me, I shall lose nothing" (Joh_6:39). What a halo of glory is here seen on the brow of the Church of God; that it was a completed thing in the Divine purpose a thousand ages before the incarnation of His beloved Son. The Christ who loved the Church before it was born, and gave Himself for it, will, one day present it to Himself a "glorious Church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing" (Eph_5:27). Then shall He see of the travail of His soul and shall be satisfied. "Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy. To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory, and majesty, dominion and power for ever and ever" (Jud_1:24-25).
SEALED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT
Eph_1:13
Here is Weymouth’s translation of Eph_1:13 : "In Him you Gentiles also, after listening to the Message of the truth, the Good News of your salvation-having believed in Him-were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit."
I. The Seal is the Holy Spirit, which was promised, and is now given. His presence in our hearts is the evidence of our approval in the sight of God (2Co_1:22, R.V.). As a seal may be marred and broken, so the Holy Spirit may be "grieved" and "quenched."
II. The Sealer is God, who gives the Spirit to them that believe. "Him hath God the Father sealed" (Joh_6:27). He that wrought us for this very thing is God, who gave unto us the earnest of the Spirit (2Co_5:5).
III. The Sealed are they "who have heard the Gospel of salvation, and have trusted in Christ" (Eph_1:12-13). It is "because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Sons into your hearts" (Gal_4:6).
IV. The Significance of the Sealing. It is usually given as the closing act of a bargain. Mohammed is called by the Moslems, "the seal of the prophets," because they believe him to be the last of that order. The sealing of the Holy Spirit speaks of-
1. SECURITY. The stone laid at the mouth of the den where Daniel was imprisoned was "sealed with the king’s signet" (Dan_6:17) that the purpose might not be changed. The sealing of the stone at the sepulchre of Jesus was also with the same intent. Those who are chosen of God, "according to His purpose," are built upon that foundation of God, which standeth sure having this seal. "The Lord knoweth them that are His." None shall pluck them out of His hand.
2. OWNERSHIP. When the Holy Spirit descended upon the Son of God there came also the voice saying, "This is My beloved Son." Those sealed by the Spirit are owned of God. All who are established by God in Christ are also anointed and sealed (2Co_1:21-22). The blood of Christ redeems to God. The Holy Spirit possesses for God. God’s marked men are those whom the pleasure-loving world would avoid, those who "sigh and cry" (Eze_9:4).
3. AUTHORITY. THE SEAL IS THE SIGN OF AUTHORITY. Joseph and Mordecai were both clothed with royal authority when they received the seal of the king (Gen_41:41-42; Est_8:8). Possessed of the king’s seal, they acted in the king’s name; so we possessed of the Holy Spirit are to act "in Christ’s stead" (2Co_5:20). They are witnesses unto Him in whom the power of the Holy Ghost has come (Act_1:8).
4. LIKENESS. A seal imparts its own image to the object sealed; that is, if the object is in a condition to receive and retain the image. Not even the Holy Spirit can imprint the image of Christ on a hard and stony heart. The humble and contrite heart will have God the Holy Ghost dwelling with them (Isa_57:15). Those sealed by the Spirit will have the mind of the Spirit, which is "the mind of Christ." The work of the Spirit with us produces the character of Christ in us. Yield yourselves unto God. He is able to work in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure.
A COMPREHENSIVE PRAYER.
Eph_1:15, Eph_1:21.
The spirit in which this great prayer was offered was that of thanksgiving and abounding faith. Prayer and thanksgiving are twin sisters (Eph_1:16).
I. To Whom it was Offered. The manner in which men approach God is often a revelation of their spiritual character. This prayer was offered-
1. To "the God of our Lord Jesus Christ" (v. 17). He is doubtless thinking of the manifestation of His own character in the person of His Son. He is praying to the God of infinite love and super-abounding grace.
2. To "the Father of Glory." The Father of all the glory that belongs to His eternal Son, in whose face this glory was seen (Joh_1:14). Christ’s personality was the Shekinah of God, unveiled before the eyes of men.
II. The Petitions. They are in sweet harmony with such a gracious God.
1. That He may "give unto you the Spirit of Wisdom, and Revelation, in the Knowledge of Him." This would mean a precious inheritance to any possessor. Wisdom to discern spiritual things. Fresh revelations and a growing knowledge of the glorious character of Him who is the Wisdom and the Power of God. All such gifts are for the magnifying of Jesus Christ in our hearts and lives.
2. That the Eyes of your Heart may be Enlightened (v. 18). There may be things Spiritual and Divine which we can see with our hearts, that we cannot comprehend with our minds. The affections of the heart may lay hold on what the intellect is inclined to doubt, as when doubting Thomas said, "My Lord and my God" (see 2Co_4:4-6).
III. The Expected Results. That ye may know-
1. What is the Hope of His Calling. Not what is the hope of your calling. But what is the hope of His calling. The greatness and grandeur of that hope into which the grace of God hath called us, how few can realise. "Walk worthy of God who hath called you unto His Kingdom and glory" (1Th_2:12). Our calling as we view it, and our calling as God views it, may be vastly different things. The apostle had the Divine outlook when he said: "I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus: for our citizenship is in Heaven, from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall fashion our bodies like unto His glorious body."
2. What is the Riches of the Glory of His Inheritance in the Saints? We often think of our inheritance in Christ, but here it is the riches of Christ’s inheritance in the saints (Eph_1:18). All are His saints-or separated ones-who have been born from above, possessed by His Spirit and yielded to His will. They are Christ’s peculiar treasure. The Lord’s portion is His people; and in the coming ages the glorified Church will be an everlasting witness to the riches of the glory of Christ’s saving grace.
3. What is the Exceeding Greatness of His Power to Usward? We believe that God is Almighty. We see His power in the creative work of His hands. But what is the greatness of His power in operation toward us, who are now His needy children? It is the same mighty power that wrought in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and set Him in the heavenlies, far above every form of power and every name that is named in this world, and also in that which is to come (Eph_1:20-21). This is the power at the disposal of the Church of God to-day; for it is given to Christ to be Head over all to the Church (Eph_1:22). "All power is given unto Me. Go ye, therefore." "Ye are complete in Him" (Col_2:10).
THE BELIEVER’S PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE.
Eph_2:1-13.
I. Their Past. This constitutes a dark and dismal review. They were-
1. Without Life. "Ye were dead in trespasses and sins." Spiritually dead to God, and buried in graves of their making-"trespasses and sins." No response to all the overtures of Divine mercy in Christ Jesus. "To be carnally minded is death."
2. Without Strength. "Ye walked according to the course of this world" (Eph_2:2). Carried away by the current of the world’s influences, and, like a dead fish in the stream, without any power of resistance.
3. Without Christ. "At that time ye were without Christ" (Eph_2:12). All that Christ now stands for in our personal experience and future hopes, at that time had no existence in our lives. Here see the poverty and desolation of unregenerate souls. Destitute, afflicted, tormented.
4. Without Promise. Strangers from the covenants of promise (Eph_2:12). It is said that there are thirty thousand promises in God’s Book, but not one for the man whose mind is at enmity with God. There are "exceeding great and precious promises," but the worldly, carnal, Christless soul sees no value in them.
5. Without Hope. "Having no hope" (Eph_2:12). Being without a promise, they are without hope. This is God’s judgment of their case: but it is not theirs. Jesus Christ said: "No man cometh unto the Father but by me" (Joh_14:6). But at that time we were "without Christ," and so could not come to the Father in His own appointed way. "He that believeth not is condemned already." Without hope.
6. Without God in the World. Without God, in a world teeming with evidences of His wisdom and power. In the world, loved by God, where God’s own Son lived, loved, and died to save sinners (Joh_3:16). Yes, such were some of us, "but ye are washed."
II. Their Present. But now in Christ Jesus. What a change!
1. Ye are Quickened (Eph_2:1). The Holy Spirit of God hath breathed into you the breath of a new life. Your eyes have been opened to see the mysteries and realities of eternal things. The darkness is past and the true Light now shineth. The clouded promises now appears like stars of the first magnitude. Christ has become an overshadowing reality.
2. Ye are Made Nigh. "Now made nigh by the Blood of Christ" (Eph_2:13). Christ has been trusted, and He who died, the Just for the unjust, has brought us to God (1Pe_3:18). The sins that separated have been put away. We have now the fellowship of the reconciled.
3. Ye are Raised together with Christ (Eph_2:6). In the purpose of God we were one with Him in the Cross. Now we share His resurrection life and power. "He died for our sins, but He rose again for our justification."
4. Ye are Seated together with Him in the heavenlies (Eph_2:6). His last word on earth was, "It is finished," then He ascended to the Father’s right hand and sat down. Our blessed privilege now is to rest with Him in the work accomplished for us.
5. Ye are His Workmanship. It is all His doing. Through faith we are saved by grace, that not of ourselves, it is the gift of God" (Eph_2:8). "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure" (Php_2:13).
III. Their Future. "That in the ages to come He might shew the exceeding riches of His grace in His kindness toward us through Christ Jesus" (Eph_2:7). In this present age we have seen much of God’s kindness toward us through Christ Jesus in His saving, keeping, satisfying fulness. But in the age to come we shall be witnesses of the glory that was to follow. When the Lord Himself shall appear, and when all His redeemed shall be caught up together to meet Him and to be glorified together with Him as "heirs of God," we shall then have entered into our glorious inheritance (Rom_8:17-19, Luk_22:28-30).
THE CHURCH AS A NEW MAN.
Eph_2:14-22.
In by-gone ages the Church’s character "was not made known unto the sons of men" (chap. Eph_3:5). It was "a mystery hid in God" (chap. Eph_3:9). In all ages God had His Holy ones; but the Church as a new man, a new created Body of Christ, through which the manifold wisdom of God was to be make known (chap. Eph_3:10) had not yet been revealed. This is the theme before us now.
I. The Divine Plan. This was to make in Himself of twain (Jew and Gentile) one new man, one new Body, so making peace (Eph_2:15). This new Body was to be-
1. Composed of Jew and Gentile. These terms represent the whole human race. He that is not a Jew is a Gentile, whatever be the colour of his skin or the language he may speak. The Church is to be composed of "called out" ones from every nation and people under the heavens.
2. Reconciled One to Another. No more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens and of the household of God (Eph_2:19). "All one in Christ Jesus." In being brought to God, each member is to be brought into sympathy and fellowship with one another. They all belong to the "household of faith" (Gal_6:10).
3. Reconciled to God. "That He might reconcile both unto God in one body" (Eph_2:16). Before God there is now neither Jew nor Gentile, but one body, made nigh by the Blood of Christ (Eph_2:13). All are saved by grace. This "new man" is "accepted in the Beloved" for the Head of this new creation is Christ Himself.
II. The Divine Preparation. Before this gracious purpose of God could be accomplished a great work had to be done, a work that God only could do. There was-
1. A Wall of Partition to be Broken Down. "He hath broken down the middle wall of partition" (Eph_2:14). In the temple worship the Gentile court was cut off from the inner court by a separating wall or partition. But in this new creation in Christ all such prejudice, sectarianism, and every dividing thing is to be broken down. But men are still building partition walls in their priestly pride, religious bigotry, and pagan superstitions; but, thank God, that in Christ all are done away, "broken down."
2. Enmity to be Slain. "He hath reconciled both unto God by the Cross, having slain the enmity thereby" (Eph_2:16). The Cross of Christ is God’s mighty weapon for breaking down barriers between individuals and nations, between human hearts and a Holy God. The greatest of all partition walls is the enmity of the carnal mind (Rom_8:7). This enmity cannot be cured, it must be slain; and the humbling and melting vision of Christ crucified for our own sins can slay it.
3. Both Must be Possessed by the Same Spirit. "Through Him we both have access by one Spirit unto the Father" (Eph_2:18). This union between Jew and Gentile is not a mere expediency for a temporary end. It is a vital and eternal work of God’s grace. One Spirit animates the whole body. "For by one Spirit are we all baptised into one body, whether we be Jew or Gentile, bond or free; and have all been made to drink into one Spirit" (1Co_12:13). Christ is the Fountain Head of this Spirit-life that flows through every member of the body. "If any man thirst, let him come unto Me and drink" (Joh_7:37).
III. The Divine Purpose is to have this "new man" as a fixed abode of God through the Spirit (Eph_2:22, Weymouth trans.). Does that mean that in the coming age the Church will be the fixed abode of the Holy Spirit for the manifestation of the glory of Christ? "He shall abide with you for ever."
1. All Built on the One Foundation. Built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone (Eph_2:20). The prophets as well as the apostles built upon the truth revealed, whether by the Holy Spirit or by Christ Himself (Heb_1:1-2). In both instances Jesus Christ Himself was the chief corner stone, binding the whole spiritual fabric as one to Himself. The strength and stability of the structure depends on the presence and position of the "Chief Corner Stone" (Mat_21:42).
2. All Fitly Framed Together. "In Him all the building is fitly framed together, groweth unto an holy temple in the Lord" (Eph_2:21). In Christ every separate believer is depending on Him as the foundation of all their hopes, but they are also individually to be "fitly framed together" with their local fellow-believers. There is to be "no schism in the body." Stones which do not fit with each other make an untrustworthy or uncomely structure. Christians have often rained their testimony by being out of harmony with their brethren. The Church is a growing concern, "growing unto an holy temple in the Lord."
3. All Uniting to Make a Fixed Abode for God through the Spirit (v. 22). When this holy temple in the Lord will be ready as a fixed abode for Him to whom it belongs, no tongue of angel or pen of scribe can tell. But the day will come when the last addition will be made, and when the top stone will be put on, with "shoutings of Grace, Grace, unto it" (Zec_4:7). Truly every stone in the building is a monument of the grace of God through Christ Jesus. Thus this "new man," full-grown and glorified, will become the temple of the Lord, and a witness to the triumph of Christ’s sacrifice in the kingdom that is to come. Well may we pray: "Thy Kingdom Come."
BELIEVERS’ POSSIBILITIES.
Eph_3:14-21.
"For this cause I bow my knees." This was no mere formal prayer. Paul deeply realised the immense importance of the petitions he was about to offer. He knew that as Christians these experiences were needed.
I. What these Blessings Were. He prayed that they may have-
1. Spiritual Power. "Strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man" (Eph_3:16). The might of the Holy Spirit in the inner man is the supreme need of every Christian in our own day. Herein lies the secret of our real influence for God. This power He is ready to give to the faint (Isa_40:29-31).
2. The Indwelling Presence. "That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith" (Eph_3:17). There can be no spiritual power where Christ is not honoured. If by faith Christ dwells in us, then the Spirit will take the things that are Christ’s and show them through us. This indwelling is assured by an unfailing faith in Him.
3. Stability of Character. "Ye being rooted and grounded in love" (Eph_3:17). The downward growth of the roots of our being are to be in the rich, fruitful soil of God’s love, and the upward growth of the building of character is to be based also in love. "Rooted and built up in Him, and established in the faith" (Col_2:7).
4. Enlarged Comprehension. "That ye may be able to comprehend with all saints… and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge" (Eph_3:19). It will take the comprehension of "all saints" in every age to find out the breadth, length, depth, and height of that love of Christ which in itself passeth knowledge. It is a great discovery to find out the immeasurable magnitude of that love wherewith Christ hath loved us. And who shall separate us from that love? (Rom_8:35).
5. Complete and Abiding Satisfaction. "That ye might be filled with all the fulness of God" (Eph_3:19). Filled out of this fathomless fulness of God. "That ye might be complete in accordance with God’s own standard of completeness (Weymouth). Already "from His fulness have all we received, and grace upon grace" (Joh_1:16). But, Lord, increase our faith, that we may rise to the Divine standard of fulness.
II. The Unfailing Source. "Now unto Him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all we ask or think" (Eph_3:20). These were great requests, but the apostle knew that he was coming to a great and gracious God. He knew and believed what we so easily forget, that "He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things" (Rom_8:32). If this princely truth reigned over our prayers, how different many of them would be. God has given us His Son, this is the proof and pledge that He will withhold no good thing from those that love Him and ask Him. But the measure of our receiving is "according to the power that worketh in us" (Eph_3:20). "According to your faith." This power worked mightily in the apostle, and mighty things were done (see Heb. 11).
III. The Measure of God’s Giving. "According to the riches of His glory" (Eph_3:16). We think that we know something of "the riches of His grace" (Eph_1:7), but what can we know of the "riches of His glory?" In dealing with His pleading servants, it is the larger measure of His eternal glory that He uses, according to the wealth of His risen and glorified position. If in His poverty He could so bless and enrich needy souls, how much more now, since He has entered into the inheritance of His Father’s glory. "All power is given unto Me in Heaven and on earth." Believest thou this? "Ask, and ye shall receive." "He giveth liberally and upbraideth not."
CHARACTER AND CONDUCT.
Eph_4:17-32.
As those who have learned of Christ (Eph_4:20), the apostle exhorts the Ephesian brethren that their manner of walk must be different from "other Gentiles," who walk in the "vanity of their mind," with the understanding darkened and "alienated from the life of God," because of ignorance and blindness of heart (Eph_4:17-19). What a sad picture this is of the unrenewed man. "Such were some of us, but ye are washed." The difference grace makes must be apparent in character and conduct. To this Christ-honouring end he calls upon them and us to-
I. Put Off the Old Man (Eph_4:22). This old man is just the same age as yourself. You cannot put him off like an old coat, nor can you put him off with promises. It is the natural carnal mind, whose motto was "Me first"-the self-seeking, self-praising, self-satisfying spirit. It is the old, corrupt heart, that loved the things that dishonoured the Christ. Shake him off as you would a poisonous viper! Let him be crucified (Rom_6:6).
II. Put on the New Man. This new man is after the image of God in righteousness and true wholeness (Eph_4:24). This new man is the "second man, the Lord from Heaven." "Put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and make no provision for the old man" (Rom_13:14). To put on Christ is to put on His Spirit and the yoke of His will. When He has His rightful place in the heart and life there is no room for any other. "Jesus must reign."
III. Put Away all Unreality. Every deceptive and untruthful thing (Eph_4:25). Does it seem strange to be warning those who have been made anew after the likeness of Christ, of lying, anger, and stealing? We all know that the thoughts of the heart, as well as the words of the tongue, often betray. In their most incipient stage these things are to be hated and disowned.
IV. Give No Place to the Devil (Eph_4:27). The Devil is always in search of a place in our lives. He knows that if he can but get his poison into the blood, that the whole man will be affected. Paul forgave others, "lest Satan should get an advantage of us" (2Co_2:10-11). The hasty temper and the unforgiving mood gives Satan a great advantage. "Resist the Devil and he will flee from you."
V. Let your communications be free from corruption, and Good for Edifying (Eph_4:29). When conversation degenerates into mere gossip, or a display of repartee, there is little thought of obeying this injunction of making it a "ministry of grace to the hearers." Many a God-given opportunity has been utterly lost by the frivolous mood displayed at times by God’s servants in the presence of quiet, thoughtful, anxious souls (Col_4:6).
VI. Grieve not the Holy Spirit. This is an awful possibility on the part of a Christian worker. He may be grieved by ignoring His presence, by unholy talk and temper which falsifies His character, by resisting His teaching, by depending on our own wisdom and strength. A grieved Spirit means the loss of the enjoyment of God’s love, the loss of communion which is by the Holy Spirit, the loss of power for service (Isa_63:10). Grieve Him not, for by the Holy Spirit are ye sealed and secured unto the day of Christ’s final redemption (Eph_4:30).
VII. Be Kind and Tender-hearted. "Forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you" (Eph_4:32). Be kind, tender-hearted, forgiving one another for Christ’s sake: even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you. This measure is "until seventy times seven" (Mat_18:22).
BE FILLED WITH THE SPIRIT.
Eph_5:16-18.
To "redeem the time" (Eph_5:16) and to "understand what the will of the Lord is" (Eph_5:17), we must be "filled with the Spirit." God does not now thunder from a mount or send prophets with new messages. The last of the prophets was His Son from Heaven, and His last great gift for this age is the Holy Spirit, who reveals the will of God and inspires with power to do it.
I. A Striking Contrast. "Be not drunk with wine, but be filled with the Holy Spirit." A contrast between being drunk and Spirit-filled. Between man’s most debasing vice and God’s holiest and highest virtue. Between that which genders mockery and self-deception and that which gives Divine illumination. Between that which gives license to lust and shame and that which gives liberty and power in God’s service. The one means waste and loss of self-control, the other means new gifts and self-renewal. The one leads to vain imaginations and regretful deeds, the other guides into truth and makes strong to do the will of God. "Wine is a mocker." The Holy Spirit is the great Teacher come from God to take the place of the Lord Jesus Christ.
II. A Needful Exhortation. "Be filled with the Spirit." This implies-
1. That the Holy Spirit has been Given, and that as surely as God gave His Son, Pentecost is a witness to that (Act_2:1-4). Just as there is an ample provision in the Sacrifice of Christ to meet all our needs as sinners in the sight of God, so there is sufficiency in the Holy Spirit to meet our need as sons and servants of God in the presence of men.
2. Every Believer has been Influenced by the Spirit. It was He who first convinced of sin (Joh_16:8). It was He who gave the first quickening touch to our spiritually dead souls (Eph_2:1), and since we first trusted in Christ has been in many ways helping, guiding into truth, and revealing the things of Christ to our lagging hearts. "If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His." But there is something more than this-
3. Every Believer should be Filled with the Spirit. When the Spirit was first poured out, He rested upon each of them, and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost (Act_2:3-4). Again, after prayer, we read that all assembled together were filled with the Holy Ghost (Act_4:31). While Peter yet spake, the Holy Ghost fell on all them which heard the word (Act_10:44). It is perfectly clear that the apostles, at the beginning of their ministry, were taught by the providence of God that every believer in the risen Lord was to be, or might be, filled with the Spirit. Paul’s first question to the Ephesian disciples was: "Did ye receive the Holy Spirit when ye believed?" (Act_19:2). There are many young disciples to-day that could give the same answer they gave: "We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost to be received." "By grace are ye saved," but by the Holy Spirit are ye to be filled. This filling is for you. Seek it.
III. A Powerful Inducement to seek this filling is presented to us in the peaceful, faithful, and fruitful lives of those who were filled with the Spirit in Bible and in modern times. We can only note some of the more prominent characteristics.
1. A Deep Sense of Personal Unworthiness. The more of the Spirit the less of self. "Not I, but Christ." They know that apart from Him-nothing.
2. A Hunger for the Word of God. When the Spirit has full control within, and reveals afresh the things of Christ, there is a growing love and reverence for the living Book.
3. A Quickened Realisation of the Presence of God. There are wonderful sights and sounds in nature, which cannot be seen nor heard without some special instrumentality. There are more wonderful things in the spiritual sphere, that the natural eye or ear hath never seen or heard, but God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit (1Co_2:9-10). We know Him.
4. A Desire for, and a Delight in, Prayer. Prayer now means having fellowship with God in our need. There is no misgivings as to God’s Personal interest in His trusting child. His prayers are mingled with notes of thanksgiving and heart-felt praise.
5. A Yearning for the Salvation of Others. Paul wept over those who were the enemies of the Cross of Christ (Php_3:18). Spiritual things have become so vital and precious that compassion and pity have been intensified for those who are out of the way. The love of Christ constraineth.
6. A More Real Conflict with Spiritual Enemies. Hitherto we were but onlookers and students of spiritual forces, but now we are right in the arena of battle, "wrestling against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness and wickedness in high places" (Eph_6:12), and know the power of the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.
7. A More Christ-like Attitude in the Face of Opposition. When misunderstood and misrepresented (Act_2:13), not giving railing for railing, but contrariwise, praying for them that despitefully use you, as Christ and Stephen prayed: "Father, forgive them." To be filled with the Spirit is to be filled with the knowledge of His will and a desire to please Him.
IV. What Doth Hinder? There is no hindrance on the Divine side. He says: "Be filled with the Spirit." Then, if we are not, the hindrance must be in us. Is it ignorance of its possibility and need? Is it unbelief in its reality? It may be indifference as to its vital importance, or it may be love of the world and sheer self-satisfaction. Whatever it is, we are responsible for not being filled with the Spirit. Then, for the sake of Jesus Christ, and your own eternal honour, "Be filled with the Spirit." "If ye, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask Him" (Luk_11:13). "If thou knewest the gift of God thou wouldst have asked of Him" (Joh_4:10).
CHRIST AND THE CHURCH.
Eph_5:21-33.
The union brought about by a truly Christian marriage is here used by the apostle as a metaphor of that spiritual union between Christ and His Church. Let us examine-
I. The Relationship of Christ to the Church.
1. It is that of a Lover. "Christ loved the Church" (Eph_5:25). When did this love begin? He loved it before it was born, as the promised gift of the Father. His love is an abiding benediction, a love that passeth knowledge (chap. Eph_3:19).
2. It is that of a Redeemer. "He gave Himself for it" (Eph_5:25). Like a true lover, He gives Himself first. He has bought the Church for Himself by the ransom of His own precious Blood (Eph_1:7). "Ye are not your own."
3. It is that of a Husband. "The husband is head of the wife, even as Christ is the Head of the Church" (Eph_5:23). The Head is the seat of authority. With the Head also rests the responsibility of supplying the needs of the wife- the Church. Why, then, for the work of the Head, do we constantly appeal to the wife for the means to carry on? If we are doing the Lord’s work we ought to do it in the Lord’s way, by trusting Him who is "able to supply all our need" (Php_4:19).
4. It is that of a Sanctifier. "That He might sanctify and cleanse her with the washing by His Word" (Eph_5:26). He sanctifies, or separates, her for Himself. He found her in rags and wretchedness, but He looked on her in love and spread His skirts of mercy over her. He washed and clothed her with broidered work. He anointed her and decked her with ornaments and jewels, and made her perfect with the comeliness He put upon her (Eze_16:5-14). It is all His doing. Praise His Name.
5. It is that of a Satisfier. "He nourisheth and cherisheth it" (Eph_5:29). No mother was ever more careful over her child than the Lord is over His Church. He nourisheth her with the milk of His Word, and fondles her in the arms of His love (Joh_17:14-15). He satisfies with good things by His comforting Spirit (Joh_16:13-14).
6. It is that of a Bridegroom. He longs to "present it to Himself a glorious Church, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing" (Eph_5:27). A Bride without blemish in His eyes. Seeing that this is His ultimate purpose concerning all His own, should we not expect Him to work out that which is pleasing to Him now in each individual life? Let us ever remember that we are always in the hands of Him who is able to keep us from falling, and to present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy (Jud_1:24-25). That will be the happy day of the "Marriage of the Lamb."
II. The Relationship of the Church to Christ. It is that of-
1. Saved Ones. "He is the Saviour of the body" (Eph_5:23). It can never be forgotten that the Church is as a brand plucked out of the fire.
2. Members of His Body, of His flesh, and of His bones (Eph_5:30). So close is the relationship that "they two shall be one flesh" (Eph_5:31) The members of the body are the operators on behalf of the Head (Rom_12:5).
3. Submission. "Therefore the Church is subject unto Christ" (Eph_5:24). The members of the body that is not subject to the control of the Head is either separated or paralyzed.
4. Reverence. "The wife see that she reverence her husband" (Eph_5:33). We reverence our Lord when we believe His Word, love His will, and adore His Holy Name. This is the happy slavery of love. "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive honour."
THE CHRISTIAN’S ARMOUR
Eph_6:10-20
Bunyan was wise in sending his Pilgrims into the armoury immediately after supper. As soon as we are brought into communion with God, we need to be fitted for the fight of faith. All who are in the Kingdom of God’s dear Son have got the forces of the kingdom of Satan against them, so they need to be panoplied with the whole armour of God. Let us look at-
I. The Enemy. "Not flesh and blood, but principalities, powers, world rulers, spiritual hosts of wickedness" (Eph_6:12, R.V.). All the authorities of Hell and all the rulers of the darkness of this world, who are in league with the Devil, are opposed to the progress of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ. Not flesh and blood, but that wicked spirit that works in the children of disobedience, using flesh and blood as an instrumentality (Eph_2:2). Our warfare is not so much with mortal beings as with the immortal powers of evil that rule in their lives, and that come to us in the form of the "wiles of the Devil." These wiles are very varied, and are adapted to suit the different tendencies of the age or the individual. If he fails with his wiles he will surely try his "fiery darts" (Eph_6:16). These may come as unclean thoughts shot into the mind like ignited arrows from the pit. Truly, in the face of such a mighty and invisible foe we need the whole armour of God.
II. The Armour. Our putting on of the armour of God simply means being fortified against all the powers of evil by those virtues or moral excellences by which the Son of God was able to withstand all the temptations of the Devil (Col_2:15). This armour consists of six parts-
1. THE GIRDLE OF TRUTH. The loins of the mind are to be girded with the truth as it is in Jesus Christ, and so made strong to think and act for Him. This truth is "light from Heaven," which scatters all the darkness of doubt and fear, and enables one to speak out what they do know, and not what they don’t know, like those who don the girdle of doubt.
2. THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. A conscience void of offence toward God and men, is that rightness which is as a protecting breastplate for the peace and joy of the heart. This breastplate Christ constantly wore, because He always delighted to do the will of His Father.
3. THE SHOES OF PREPAREDNESS. The "Gospel of peace" provides for our feet the shoes of preparedness, so that we should be always ready to do His will and to run in the way of His commandments. Those who have received the Gospel of peace should have swift feet to publish it (Isa_52:7).
4. THE SHIELD OF FAITH. The Roman shield was so large that the soldier could hide himself completely behind it, thus it was above or over all. This was the shield behind which David sheltered when he faced the terrible Goliath. This piece of armour signifies that unstaggered confidence in God which always overcomes (1Jn_5:4).
5. THE HELMET OF SALVATION. The assurance of salvation is a mighty protection for the head in these days when there is so much false teaching all about us. The strength of this helmet lies in the fact that God Himself is our Salvation. This piece, like the others, is the gift of God, so we are to take it.
6. THE SWORD OF THE SPIRIT. The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God, not the thoughts or opinions of men. Jesus Christ did not fail to use the written Word when assaulted by the arch-enemy of God and man (Mat_4:4). There be many in our days that seem at a loss to know where to find this sword now; the Devil has so blinded their minds that they imagine that the "Word of God" has been buried in a heap of ancient rubbish, and so they go on fighting with the rotten sticks of their own theories. Nothing but failure and shame can follow where the Word of God is not preached, because the Holy Spirit of God, the author of life and blessing, can use no other weapon. It is the sword of the Spirit.
III. The Warfare. The attitudes to be maintained in this conflict are-
1. STANDING. "That we may be able to stand." Having been justified freely by His grace, and accepted in the Beloved, we have got a blessed standing, from which the great enemy of souls is ever seeking to drive us. The stratagem of the Devil is to get in between bur souls and God, that the source of our spiritual supply may be cut off."
2. WRESTLING. "We wrestle against principalities," etc. In this warfare we cannot hide ourselves in the host. Wrestling is a personal conflict, an individual contact with the enemy. By putting on the whole armour of God every single Christian is to overcome by faith in Him who is able always to give the victory.
3. PRAYING AND WATCHING. This will not only keep the armour bright, but will keep it on. Polished armour hanging up in the hall of pur creed will not save us in the day of battle. A praying heart and watchful eyes will never be taken unawares by the scouts of the kingdom of Satan. Daniel prayed three times a day, and, in spite of the trap carefully set by his enemies, he triumphed. This is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
THE WARRIOR’S ENEMY.
Eph_6:11, Eph_6:12.
(For Notes on "The Whole Armour of God," see Vol. IX, page 179.) Here we shall briefly look at "Your Adversary the Devil." The Christian’s great enemy is "not flesh and blood" (Eph_6:12). Not even human nature, as such, but a real spiritual and powerful personality. "Called the Devil and Satan" (Rev_12:9).
I. His Character. There is but one Devil, or Satan, but there are many "demons." "The Devil and his angels." He has had long experience in sinning. "The Devil sinneth from the beginning." He is great. Called "the Son of the Morning" (Isa_14:12). He is also called a "lion" for strength, a "dragon" for fierceness, the "old serpent" for subtilty. Even our Lord called him "the prince of this world." When he led the revolt in Heaven it was the great Archangel Michael who fought against him (Rev_12:7). This is the passage we have to deal with: Who is the "accuser of the brethren" (Rev_12:10).
II. His Sphere. When cast down from Heaven, he seems to have pitched his camp in the aerial regions near this world, and became "the prince of the power of the air," and the god of this age (2Co_4:4), and "the spirit that now worketh in the Children of disobedience" (Eph_2:2). Although his stronghold is spiritual wickedness in high places, he is found "going to and fro in the earth, and walking up and down in it" (Job_2:2),
III. His Resources. These are difficult to define. But when we take our "stand against the wiles of the Devil" (Eph_6:11) we are in conflict with the despotisms, the empires, the forces that control and govern this dark world-the spiritual hosts of evil arrayed against us in the heavenly warfare (Weymouth). But, thank God "greater is He that is for us."
IV. His Methods. We are not to be "ignorant of his devices," lest he should get an advantage of us (2Co_2:11). His devices are varied-
1. He tries "Wiles" (Eph_6:11). Something attractive, but deceptive and ensnaring. This was his method with Christ in His great temptation.
2. He tries "Fiery Darts" (Eph_6:16). Poisoned tipped arrows, that strike as suddenly as an unclean thought or a dishonest and evil imagination. If you do not love such, but hate them, you need not worry over them. Disown them.
3. He tries the Prolonged Struggle, or "wrestling." "We wrestle against the rulers of darkness, against spiritual wickedness" (Eph_6:12). The conflict may be severe, but resist the Devil and he will flee from you.
V. His Subjects are not those who are warring against him, but those who are his willing, because blinded, slaves (Eph_2:2; 2Co_4:4). They live in his "kingdom of darkness," being captured by his powers, his signs, and lying wonders (2Th_2:9). They are in bondage to a great delusion. This is the condition into which sin and unbelief had brought us, and where all unsaved ones now are. May the love of Christ constrain us to seek their deliverance.
VI. His Victors. Our Lord Jesus Christ, the stronger One, has come into the Devil’s dominion, and has overcome him, and spoiled him of his goods (Luk_11:21-22). By His life and death, and triumphant resurrection, He has spoiled principalities and powers. He shook them off, and boldly displayed them as His conquests, when by His Cross He triumphed over them (Col_2:15). The Son of God was manifested that He might destroy the works of the Devil, even him that had the power of death (Heb_2:14). Now we who believe in Him have been delivered from the power and dominion of Satan, and translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Col_1:13). We know that we have passed from death into life (Joh_5:24), and that the darkness is passed, and the true light now shineth (Joh_2:8). "Thanks be to God, who hath given us the victory" (Rev_12:11).
THE SELF-HUMBLED BUT GOD-EXALTED CHRIST.
Php_2:5-11.
I. His Humiliation. The pre-incarnate position and glory of the Lord Jesus Christ is frequently referred to in the Scriptures. "He was in the form of God, and thought it not dishonouring to claim equality with God" (Php_2:6). "In the beginning was the word… and the Word was God" (Joh_1:1). He is before all things (Col_1:17). It was He who "laid the foundations of the earth, and the heavens are the works of His hands" (Heb_1:10). This is He who was "the Lamb slain before the foundation of the world" (Rev_13:8). This is He who-
1. Made Himself of No Reputation (Php_2:7). Think of the reputation He had in the Heavens, before the world was, and how much He stripped Himself off when He appeared amongst men to be despised and rejected. "A man of sorrows, acquainted with grief."
2. Took Upon Him the Form of a Servant. He who was the Creator of the ends of the earth, whom angels delighted to serve and adore, who was in the form of God, takes the form of a servant, that He might bring blessing to a rebel world (Luk_22:27).
3. Was Made in the Likeness of Men. He Himself took part of the same flesh and blood, for it behoved Him to be made like unto His brethren (Heb_2:14-17). "The Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve, and to give" (Mat_20:28). He who was the "express image of the invisible God" takes upon Him the likeness of a sinful humanity.
4. Became Obedient unto Death (Php_2:8). Obedient! but not to the clamoring of a proud, sin-blinded race, but to the will of His Father. "I delight to do Thy will, O my God" (Joh_6:38). Nothing on earth or in Hell could turn Him aside from His great and gracious purpose. "He set His face like a flint."
5. Became obedient Even unto the Death of the Cross (Php_2:8). From our natural standpoint it is simply appalling to think of the Eternal and Beloved Son of God submitting to be nailed to a Cross by those whom He lovingly sought to save. The utter unworthiness and guilt of men could never make itself more hideous before the eye of Heaven. But yet the infinite grace of God is hereby revealed. He was giving "Himself a ransom for us all." The Just One was willingly suffering for the unjust, that He might bring us to God (Gal_3:13).
II. His Exaltation. "Wherefore God hath highly exalted Him" (Php_2:9). Because of His voluntary humility and suffering, in the fulfilling of His Father’s purpose, He hath highly exalted Him as the Son of Man, as the Eternal Son of God. He could not be exalted above His pre-natal position, "as One with the Father" (Joh_14:9). There was given unto Him-
1. A Pre-eminent Name. "A Name which is above every name" (Php_2:9). The Name which is for ever above every name is "Jehovah." Now the Man, Christ Jesus, who became a "Man of Sorrows," has been lifted up above every name that is named. He who was crowned with the thorns of shame for us is now crowned with glory and honour (Heb_2:9) as our Representative.
2. Universal Authority. At the Name of Jesus every being in Heaven and on earth, and in the under world shall yet bow (Php_2:10) "All power is given unto Him in Heaven and on earth" (Mat_28:18). He who now bears the eternal stigma of the Cross upon His hands and feet, will "subdue all things unto Himself," not only in this world, but also in that which is to come (Eph_1:20-21).
3. Universal Worship. "Every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord to the glory of God the Father" (Php_2:11). It was God the Father who sent His Son to seek and save the lost, and He shall be honoured and satisfied when a whole redeemed world shall confess Jesus as Lord. For He shall be Lord both of the dead and the living (Rom_14:9). Now we see Jesus, who tasted death for every man, crowned with glory and honour. "Thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory for ever. Amen." "He that humbleth himself shall be exalted."
HOLY ASPIRATIONS.
Php_3:7-14.
When Paul met the Lord on his way to Damascus (Acts 9) his whole being was revolutionised. His eyes being opened, he discovered that in Him he had found a limitless store of spiritual wealth, for which he counted everything else as worthless (Php_3:7). We have here some of the experiences which his holy ambition aimed at. May our own hearts also be stirred up to seek them.
I. That I may Win Christ (Php_3:8). Christ had already won him (Acts 9). But the apostle realised that although he was now in the land of promise, there was still much land to be possessed. He evidently wished to find Him as a daily prize. He was determined not to know anything among them but Jesus Christ (1Co_2:2).
II. That I might Know Him (Php_3:10). There are, of course, many degrees in knowledge. All Christians know Him whom to know is life eternal. But the Christ some saintly men and women know is a much greater Christ than many have ever experienced. It is the same Jesus, but they have a much deeper and more intimate knowledge of His character and capabilities. It will take all eternity to know Him as He really is. We are to "grow in grace," but also "in the knowledge of Hint."
III. That I may be Found in Him (Php_3:9). It is an abiding victory for all those whose faith and works are found in Him. If He abides in us we shall be found in Him (Joh_15:4), and at last, when the time of our departure is at hand, it will be a joy to us, an honour to Christ, and glory to God, when He finds us enveloped in the worthiness of His own Son. To be found in Him will be to find us blameless and complete (Rom_8:1).
IV. That I Might Know the Power of His Resurrection (Php_3:10). There is no doubt as to the fact of Christ’s resurrection. He had seen Him, and had such exultant faith in Him, that he longed for the power that raised Jesus from the dead, that the risen life of Jesus might be manifested in his mortal flesh (2Co_4:10). If we have been crucified with Christ, then are we raised together with Him. The power of His resurrection is the power of His life-giving Spirit. The vitality of the Gospel has its source in His resurrection.
V. That I may Know the Fellowship of His Sufferings (Php_3:10). With the sufferings of Christ as our atoning Substitute, we can have no fellowship. He was alone, and will be for ever alone in that, but in suffering because of His holy, God-honouring devotion to His Father’s will, He hath left us an example, that we should follow His steps; for "if any man will live Godly he must suffer" (2Ti_3:12). We cannot know the fellowship of His sufferings unless we are possessed by the same Spirit and faithfully serving in the same cause. This fellowship demands a consecrated life, a life willing to be "made conformable unto His death."
VI. That I Might Attain unto the Resurrection from Among the Dead (Php_3:11). At the coming of our Lord the dead in Christ shall rise first (1Co_15:20). This is called "the first resurrection." "Blessed and holy is he that hath part in the first resurrection, for they shall be priests of God and of Christ, and shall reign with Him a thousand years" (Rev_20:5-6). Doubtless this is the truth the apostle refers to here in being raised from among the dead. (The rest of the dead lived not till the Millennial reign had closed.) He desired to attain a place of honour and service in the coming Kingdom of his Lord; and certainly he will, for he "fought the fight and finished the course," he kept the faith and expected the crown (2Ti_4:7). "Seek those things which are above."
VII. That I may Apprehend that for which also I am Apprehended (Php_3:12). It was Jesus Christ who suddenly apprehended him, while on a persecuting expedition (Acts 9). He still yearns to know and to carry out to completion the whole purpose of His Lord in saving him. Many there are who are satisfied just because they are saved from the penalty of sin. They have no concern as to the work the Lord has saved them to do. Saul was very practical and reasonable, for as soon as he was converted he said: "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do," and he made it his life’s business to do that will. "To me to live is Christ" is the faithful Christian’s motto.
VIII. That I might Gain the Prize of the High Galling of God in Christ Jesus (Php_3:14). The higher the calling the greater is the reward. To be "called of God," and that "in Christ Jesus," is the greatest honour Heaven can bestow upon a sinful man. What can the prize of this heavenly calling be? It must be perfectly consistent with the glory of the calling. That surely means a perfected character, not only in the world to come, but here and now, as the reward of true-hearted obedience (1Pe_5:10). "Let us therefore as many as be perfect, be thus minded" (Php_3:15). For they shall know who follow on to know the Lord (Hos_6:3).
THE BELIEVER’S POSITION, EXPECTATION, AND PREPARATION.
Php_3:20-21; Php_4:5, Php_4:6.
I. Their Position. Their "citizenship is in Heaven" (Php_3:20). They have been born from above, and have their home in the City of God So they have "no continuing city" here, but they look for that city whose "Builder and Maker is God" (Heb_11:10). They know that in their Father’s house there are many rooms, and that a place is prepared for them there (Joh_14:1-2). Knowing that they are citizens of a better country, they love not the world nor the things of this world, but are loyal to Him who rules in the "Heavenly Jerusalem."
II. Their Expectation. The expectations of the believer are as great as the promises of God.
1. They expect that Christ will Come Again. "They eagerly look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ" (Php_3:20). They believe that He will appear the second time without a sin-offering unto a perfected salvation (Heb_9:28). They are obedient to His Word in waiting for the Coming of the Lord Jesus Christ (1Co_1:7; 1Th_1:10). Happy are they who hold this "Blessed Hope."
2. They expect a Transfigured Body. "Who shall change our mortal body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body" (Php_3:21). The Lord Jesus showed His disciples a pattern of this new body, when on the mount He was transfigured before them (Luk_9:29). So when Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall we appear with Him in glory (Col_3:4). We are sons of God now, but "it doth not yet appear what we shall be, but we know that when He shall appear we shall be like Him" (1Jn_3:2). For this corruptible body must be changed for the incorruptible (1Co_15:53). Then shall "death be swallowed up in victory." "Believe ye that I am able to do this?"
III. Their Preparation. The watchword of the early Christians seem to have been, "The Lord is at hand" (chap 4 5). In view of His appearing, they were exhorted to-
1. Be Careful for Nothing (v. . Php_4:6). Let no harassing care trouble your mind with regard to the seemingly conflicting experiences of this life or the signs of the times. He who is Coming again would have us to cast all our care upon Him, because He careth for us (1Pe_5:7). He who bore our sins is the same Lord who carries our sorrows. Roll thy burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain thee (Psa_55:22). "Be careful for nothing."
2. Be Prayerful in Every Thing. "In every thing by prayer let your requests be made known unto God" (chap. Php_4:6). Nothing that troubles us is too trifling to bring to God. Those who have learned this holy practice know what it is to "pray without ceasing." The blessedness of it is unspeakable. In these closing days of this age, with the end of present conditions at hand, "Be ye therefore sober and watch unto prayer" (1Pe_4:7).
3. Be Thankful for Anything. "In every thing… with thanksgiving" (chap. Php_4:6). For "all things work together for good to them that love God." "This is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you," that ye should in every thing give thanks (1Th_5:18). It is easy to thank God when we receive the things we desire and that please us; but when disappointment comes, when our plans are thwarted or friends betray us, it may be easy to forget this: but it is then that we need the faith that God doeth all things well, that we may still say, "Thanks be to God."
Autor: James Smith