2 Chronicles 6:18 But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain you… The temple which Solomon built may be viewed as a type of the body of our Redeemer. It pleased Him to tabernacle amongst us. This is a truth that seems to enter into the very rudiments of our religious knowledge; and we are ready to give immediate assent to the truth that Jesus took our nature upon Him. The more we dwell on this great truth, the more inclined are we to exclaim with something like the astonishment of Solomon, "Is this true? Will God indeed dwell with men on the earth?" In order that our examination may have its full weight on the mind, and lead to profitable thought and action, I appeal — I. TO THE ANSWER THAT WOULD BE PROMPTED BY NATURAL FEAR. Think of the majesty of God — think of His holiness! The only thought which the fear of man's natural heart suggests when he hears of God visiting the earth is the thought of wrath and judgment. There can be no breathing freely in the presence of God when there is the sense of unpardoned sin on the conscience. II. TO THE ANSWER BROUGHT TO THIS QUESTION BY THE GOSPEL OF GRACE AND SALVATION. III. TO THE EXPERIENCE OF GOD'S BELIEVING PEOPLE. "The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him" (Isaiah 57:15-19; Psalm 68:18). IV. TO THE HOPES OF CHRIST'S WAITING CHURCH. All that hath been manifested as yet of the Divine condescension and glory is but a sample of the manifestations which this world is destined to receive. V. PRACTICAL THOUGHTS SUGGESTED. 1. What would be our deserving if God were to visit us according to our iniquities? 2. Will you not seek to experience the wondrous grace of God our Saviour? (W. Cadman, M.A.) Parallel Verses KJV: But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house which I have built! |
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