Ecclesiastes 7:1 A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth. This statement must be understood not absolutely, but conditionally. It is applicable only to those who "die unto the Lord," and none can do so but those who are sincere believers in Christ, the sinner's Savior. I. THE DAY OF THE CHRISTIAN'S DEATH BRINGS DELIVERANCE FROM ALL SUFFERING AND GRIEF. The end of a voyage is better than the beginning, especially if it has been a stormy one. Is not then the day of a Christian's death better than the day of his birth? II. In the case of the believer in Jesus, THE DAY OF DEATH IS THE DAY OF FINAL TRIUMPH OVER ALL SIN, It is the day in which the work of grace in his soul is brought unto perfection; and is not that day better than the day of his birth? III. In the case of Christ's followers, THE DAY OF THEIR DECEASE INTRODUCES THEM INTO A STATE OF ENDLESS REWARD (Psalm 31:19; 1 Peter 1:4; 1 Corinthians 2:9; Revelation 3:21). (G. S. Ingram.) Parallel Verses KJV: A good name is better than precious ointment; and the day of death than the day of one's birth.WEB: A good name is better than fine perfume; and the day of death better than the day of one's birth. |
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