Hebrews 12:9-10 Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence… I. THE LIGHT IN WHICH AFFLICTION OUGHT TO BE VIEWED BY CHRISTIANS. 1. As coming from God. 2. As merited by our sins, 3. As the effect of fatherly wisdom and love. 4. With a desire that His gracious design may be fulfilled in us. II. THE TENDENCY WHICH AFFLICTION HAS TO BENEFIT US. "That we may be partakers of His holiness." Now the way in which affliction tends to produce this great end is — 1. By giving us a just idea, giving us a practical impression, of the evil of sin. 2. Affliction tends to convince us of the insufficiency of the present world. 3. Submission to the will of God. 4. Sympathy. 5. Affliction weans us from the world, and fixes our thoughts on another state.Lessons: 1. Let the afflicted derive comfort. 2. Let those who have been afflicted seriously consider what has been the effect of their trials upon themselves. If no effect has been produced, what can they expect but "sorrow upon sorrow"? (R. Hall, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: Furthermore we have had fathers of our flesh which corrected us, and we gave them reverence: shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live? |
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