1 John 3:3 And every man that has this hope in him purifies himself, even as he is pure. I. THE PRESENT PRIVILEGES AND FUTURE HOPE OF THE CHRISTIAN. 1. The present privilege of the Christian is to look up to God as his Father. 2. But this state of privilege is preparatory to something still higher, more precious and valuable. II. IS WHOM AND ON WHAT BASIS IS HE PERMITTED TO ENTERTAIN SO GLORIOUS AND EXALTED A HOPE? 1. He has this hope in Christ Jesus our Lord; in God who hath given us His eternal Son to be the propitiation for our sins, and the Holy Spirit to them that obey Him. 2. His hope rests upon the work of Christ upon earth and His glorification in heaven. III. THE EFFECT OF THIS HOPE ON THE BELIEVER'S HEART AND LIFE. 1. This hope is calculated altogether to ensure his sanctification, to cleanse and sublimate his soul. 2. But what is the effect of hope in bringing about this purification? Much every way. The hope of the Christian is altogether calculated to elevate the soul and ennoble the character. Is he the inheritor of the kingdom of heaven, and shall he not prepare himself to take possession of his inheritance? IV. BUT AFTER WHAT MODEL MUST WE PURIFY OURSELVES? We must purify ourselves "even as He is pure." He must propose to himself no faulty or defective pattern. (H. J. Hastings, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.WEB: Everyone who has this hope set on him purifies himself, even as he is pure. |
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