Luke 12:49 I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled? I. THE MISSION OF CHRIST WAS UNDERTAKEN FOR THE MOST IMPORTANT ENDS. 1. To present an atonement to the Divine government for the sin of man. 2. To overthrow the rebellious power which had usurped the dominion of this world. 3. The redemption of innumerable multitudes of our race from the consequences of their apostasy. 4. The formal assumption and complete discharge of His mediatorial characters. II. THESE ENDS COULD ALONE BE PROSECUTED AT A MOST PAINFUL EXPENSE. 1. We cannot conceal the fact that Christianity may affect political systems. 2. It is further admitted that Christianity must produce a variety of innovations. 3. Very unnatural divisions in society have apparently been fomented by Christianity. 4. Christianity must be viewed in connection with those persecutions which it has experienced. 5. Christianity has drawn forth some acts, on the part of its adversaries, which have more effectually exposed the depravity of human nature than any other occasion could have admitted. 6. The religion of Jesus Christ has very frequently been perverted to designs most estranged from its character, and abhorrent to its spirit. 7. The augmentation of moral responsibility has necessarily attended the establishment of Christianity. III. THE IMPORTANCE OF THESE ENDS JUSTIFIED THE VAST EXPENSE NECESSARY TO THEIR ACQUISITION. 1. Here, then, we find an apology for our warmest zeal and firmest courage, in extending Christianity. We but imbibe the spirit and follow the steps of our Exemplar. 2. And here, too, we learn that this unconquerable temper, this inexpressible ardour, is of the first importance in every department of missions. Nothing half-hearted should be betrayed in our institutions at home, or efforts abroad. 3. In this spirit of unshrinking courage, and unabating ardour, let us proceed. We carry the commission of Him who "came to send fire on the earth." We may blow the flame, we may spread the conflagration; what will he, if it be already kindled? All must yield to the gospel of Christ or be consumed by its progress. (R. W. Hamilton, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: I am come to send fire on the earth; and what will I, if it be already kindled?WEB: "I came to throw fire on the earth. I wish it were already kindled. |
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