Revelation 5:8-10 And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps… I. THE NEED OF REDEMPTION. 1. It is proved by the conduct of the species; by the various modes of expiation to which men of all ages and nations have had recourse. 2. It finds an evidence in the breast of every individual. II. THE SUFFICIENCY OF REDEMPTION BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST. 1. The victim was provided by Jehovah Himself. Infinite goodness and love had nothing more to give. 2. Nor should it ever be forgotten that the vicarious suffering was endured to its full extent — to blood and to death! 3. We may rely on the competency and perfection of redemption by the blood of Christ, inasmuch as its success has already appeared in the actual salvation of so many of Adam's race. III. THE TRUTH OF MAN'S REDEMPTION BY THE BLOOD OF CHRIST. 1. One objection advanced by the enemies of the atonement of Christ is, "that repentance and amendment constitute of themselves an acceptable and adequate means of reconciliation with God." Confidently as this maxim is advanced, we do not see that it takes place in the governments and legal institutions of men. 2. Another of the most plausible of those objections adduced against the doctrine of redemption by the blood of Christ is "that we can perceive no reason for, or connection between, the shedding of that blood and the acceptance and salvation of men." But is the statement in this objection true? Might we not say that when the Son of God became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross, an act of obedience so stupendous became a reason or consideration not only why God should highly exalt Him and give Him a name above every name, but also why He should forgive and accept all who repent and believe in Him? IV. THE PRACTICAL INFLUENCE of this momentous doctrine. 1. It is eminently qualified to impress us with holy fear. 2. It should inspire us with the fullest confidence. 3. It should compel our gratitude and praise. (James Bromley.) Parallel Verses KJV: And when he had taken the book, the four beasts and four and twenty elders fell down before the Lamb, having every one of them harps, and golden vials full of odours, which are the prayers of saints. |
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