Exodus 28:31-35 And you shall make the robe of the ephod all of blue.… In considering the usefulness of church bells, it may be proper to say: First, that they render a worthy claim for their existence in promoting the temporal welfare of communities where their voice is heard. But, secondly, the worth of a bell is perhaps still more evident when we consider its use for religious purposes. The ways of its usefulness, when calling the people together for worship, are easily seen. I. IT CALLS ATTENTION TO THE CLAIMS OF GOD FOR LOVE AND SERVICE. NOTHING IS MORE MANIFEST THAN THAT MEN ARE APT TO BECOME CARELESS IN RESPECT TO THESE CLAIMS. II. IT IS USEFUL IN PROMOTING A LARGER ATTENDANCE UPON THE SERVICES OF THE SANCTUARY, THAN WOULD BE SECURED BUT FOR ITS INFLUENCE. III. ADDED TO AN INCREASE OF ATTENDANTS, THE BELL PRONOTES PUNCTUALITY. IV. THE BELL IS USEFUL IN THE INFLUENCE IT HAS IN PREPARING THE MIND OF THOSE WHO OBEY ITS CALL FOR WORSHIP. V. THE BELL IS USEFUL BECAUSE OF THE SACRED ASSOCIATIONS CONNECTED WITH ITS SOUND, AND THE HALLOWED MEMORIES ITS NOTES INSPIRE. (G. L. Foster.) Parallel Verses KJV: And thou shalt make the robe of the ephod all of blue. |
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