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I. OF WHOM THE DIVINE FAMILY IS COMPOSED.

1. The family in heaven embraces —

(1) An innumerable host of spiritual intelllgencies, denominated angels, seraphim, cherubim, thrones, principalities, etc., also called sons, saints, etc. (see Deuteronomy 33:2; Jude 1:14; Job 38:7).

(2) The souls of all who have died in the faith. From the righteous Abel to the present hour. "For to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord."(3) All the spirits of those who have died in infancy.We feel satisfied of the happiness of these;

(1) Because accountability implies trust, capacity, etc.; these never entered upon this trust, never possessed this capacity; therefore, do not fall under the penalty of the wicked.

(2) Because for all original guilt, there is an ample remedy in Christ's all-sufficient sacrifice.

(3) Because Jesus received such, and blessed them, and declared that "of such is the kingdom of heaven" (Matthew 19:14).

(4) Because the Divine mercy is over all His works; but if infants perish this declaration is not correct.

2. The Divine family on earth is composed of all true believers. They may differ materially in knowledge, talents, gracious attainments, etc.; "but to as many as received Him, gave He power to become the sons of God," etc. (John 1:12).

II. IN WHAT RESPECTS THE TWO BRANCHES IN HEAVEN AND EARTH ARE BUT ONE FAMILY.

1. They have only one head. Jesus is the Head of the body, the Church. So He is the Head of principalities and powers; He is Lord of all (Ephesians 1:22; Colossians 2:10).

2. They have one distinguishing nature. And that is holiness; with this difference, that those in heaven are made perfect, while those on earth are advancing towards it (Revelation 7:13).

3. They have one employment. To bless and adore Him who sitteth on the throne, and the Lamb forever. To obey the Divine commands, and to exhibit His spirit, whose they are and whom they serve.

4. They are one in interest and affection.

III. MAKE SOME REMARKS ON ITS FUTURE UNION AND CONSUMMATION. Both branches shall be joined, and in one holy place they shall spend an eternity together. Notice —

1. The time of this union and consummation. After the termination of Christ's reign upon earth; the judgment, etc. (see whole of Revelation 21 and 22).

2. The great number of this family.

3. The moral and intellectual character of this family. All bright and unerring in knowledge; burning with love — without spot or wrinkle, etc. (Revelation 21:27). Notice —

4. Its perfect happiness. Every cause of grief and misery removed — presence of all good — pleasures for evermore (Revelation 22:1-5). Notice —

5. Its eternal permanence.

(1) How desirable to be members of this Divine family. What privileges here, what glory hereafter!

(2) How easy the mode! by believing on the name of the Son of God.

(3) If the Church is one family, how love and peace should be promoted; the unity of the spirit kept in the bonds of peace!

(4) Let us invite poor aliens to the joys and blessings of gospel adoption.

(J. Burns, D. D.)

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KJV: Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named,

WEB: from whom every family in heaven and on earth is named,