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I. EXPLAIN AND ILLUSTRATE THE DUTIES IN THE TEXT.

1. Mutual consideration.

(1)  In the frailties of our common nature.

(2)  In the oneness of our calling as saints.

(3)  In our common exposedness to afflictions and dangers.

(4)  In our reciprocal duties both to the Church and to the world. In the body every member and part has its specific function — none without their use; so in Christ's Church every one must be an eye, or ear, or foot, or hand, &c.

(5)  In the prospect of our eternal fellowship in the heavenly world.

2. Affectionate provocation.

(1)  To greater love to God. Who demands our supreme affections — our undivided hearts.

(2)  To greater love to each other. For we must love each other even as Christ loved us.

(3)  To greater love to a dying world. For whom the Redeemer died, and to whom the gospel tidings must be constantly proclaimed.

(4)  To good works. Works of piety, justice, &c., but especially works of benevolence (Matthew 5:7; James 1:27; Hebrews 13:16; Psalm 37:3).Now we must thus provoke our brethren —

(1)  By our own example.

(2)  By affectionate exhortation.

(3)  By fervent prayer with and for each other.

II. ENFORCE THE DUTIES SPECIFIED IN THE TEXT.

1. Because of our liability to lukewarmness and indifference.

2. Because love and good works are essential to genuine godliness.

3. Because, if we abound in these, our usefulness and happiness must be greatly extended.

4. Because in proportion to these will be our reward in the heavenly state.

Application:

1. We learn the true spirit which should dwell among Christ's disciples.

2. The necessity of mutual excitement, to the cultivation of that spirit, and the work it produces.

3. How many display the very opposite spirit, and are lamentably barren of good works.

(J. Burns, D. D.)

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KJV: And let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works:

WEB: Let us consider how to provoke one another to love and good works,