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I. THE NATURE OF CHRISTIAN ZEAL.

1. A spiritual principle, and therefore Divine in its origin. A man may be zealous in sin; he may be a zealous bigot or sectarian; but no man can be spiritually zealous, until he is a spiritual man.

2. Christian zeal is an intellectual principle, and therefore the result of knowledge. It not only warms, but it illumines.

3. Christian zeal is a modest and humble principle.

4. Christian zeal is a constant, enduring principle. Not the feverish heat of a diseased body, but regular, constitutional warmth.

5. Christian zeal is an active, vigorous principle. It loosens the tongue, opens the hand, swiftens the feet. It prays, as well as believes; it labours as well as hopes.

6. Christian zeal is an affectionate principle, and is always connected with fervent love. No anathemas; no shibboleths. It is not suspicious, but open; not narrow, but broad, liberal, generous.

II. THE OBJECT OF CHRISTIAN ZEAL. A twofold sphere for the exercise of Christian zeal.

1. In securing the greatest possible amount of good to ourselves. Zealous in seeking extensive knowledge. Zealously labouring after more of the spirit of Christ. In communicating all the good in our power to those around us. What aa enlarged sphere! The world itself is our field. But especially those in our immediate neighbourhood.

III. THE EXCELLENCY OF CHRISTIAN ZEAL

1. It is good to the soul which is under its influence. The same as exercise to the body. It produces energy, buoyancy, safety, happiness.

2. It is good for the Church.

3. It is good for the world at large.

4. It is good, as it associates us with the highest intelligences of the heavenly world. The angels are distinguished especially for zeal. And how zealous was our blessed Saviour!

IV. THE IMPORTANCE OF CHRISTIAN ZEAL.

1. It is pre-eminently important when the object contemplated is great and glorious.

2. It is pre-eminently important when difficulties are numerous.

3. It is pre-eminently important when the time of action is limited.

4. When the responsibilities are momentous. It is not a secondary concern. Not optional. It is imperative that we be zealously affected in every good work. Our destiny awaits us according to the spirit and practice we have pursued on earth.

Application:

1. Let Christians cherish this holy principle.

2. Let unpardoned sinners zealously seek the salvation of their souls.

3. Let the Church be zealous for the instruction of the rising age.

(J. Burns, D. D.)

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KJV: But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.

WEB: But it is always good to be zealous in a good cause, and not only when I am present with you.