Matthew 11:7-9 And as they departed, Jesus began to say to the multitudes concerning John, What went you out into the wilderness to see?… I. THOSE THAT ATTEND UPON THE MINISTRY OF THE WORD SHOULD PROPOSE UNTO THEMSELVES SOME END WHY THEY DO IT. 1. Some propose no end at all. 2. Some propose ends downright sinful. 3. Some propose ends frivolous and trifling. II. THOSE THAT PROPOSE A GOOD END MUST CALL THEMSELVES TO A STRICT ACCOUNT HOW THAT END IS OBTAINED OR LOST. 1. He must give such an account as a scholar to his teacher, of what he learns. 2. As a steward to his master. 3. As a debtor to his creditor (Matthew 18:23, 24). 4. As a malefactor to a judge (Matthew 12:36, 37). III. THE STRICT ACCOUNT WE TAKE OF OURSELVES MUST BE FREQUENT. Inferences: 1. It is not the bare hearing of the best preachers that will save you. 2. Remove those hindrances which prevent any soul business. 3. Call yourself to account before and after hearing the Word of God. 4. Christ asks thee here in this world, that thou mayest stand at the last day, when there will be no time to rectify. 5. If you do not give Christ an answer which He will accept, it is vain to expect relief from any other. (S. Annesley, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? |
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