1 Chronicles 5:2 For Judah prevailed above his brothers, and of him came the chief ruler; but the birthright was Joseph's:) I read of "the rulers of the darkness of this world"; "the rulers of synagogues"; the rulers that "set themselves against the Lord and against His Anointed"; but none of them are "Chief." Christ is the "Chief Ruler." I. HIS APPOINTMENT TO OFFICE (Proverbs 8:22-31; Psalm 2:6-9). 1. He rules in the Church. 2. He rules in the hearts of His people. II. HIS ESSENTIAL QUALIFICATIONS FOR THAT OFFICE. 1. Infinite wisdom. 2. Invincible power. 3. Order. III. THE MERCIES UNFOLDED IN IT. 1. By it is maintained the truth of God. 2. His empire is secured through it. He must rule until every enemy submits (Psalm 72:11; Isaiah 11:7). 3. Triumphs are secured to us and repeatedly realised by our Chief Ruler. (1) Over temptations (1 Corinthians 10:13). (2) Over every difficulty in providence (Isaiah 13:16). (Joseph Irons.) Parallel Verses KJV: For Judah prevailed above his brethren, and of him came the chief ruler; but the birthright was Joseph's:) |
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