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 AFFLICTIONS OUGHT TO RE VIEWED, AND THE DISPOSITION WITH WHICH THEY OUGHT TO BE RECEIVED. II. CONSIDER THEIR TENDENCY, WHEN THUS VIEWED AND RECEIVED, TO PROMOTE OUR SPIRITUAL INTEREST. "That we might be partakers of His holiness"; that is, of the holiness which He requires. Holiness consists in conformity to the will of God. Afflictions have a tendency to promote the great work. 1. They teach you the evil nature of sin, on account of which they are sent, and point you to the Saviour. Practical lessons are the best of all lessons. 2. The utter insufficiency of this world, as a portion for the soul. In days of prosperity you may not be thoroughly convinced of this. 3. Afflictions excite and increase some of the most amiable and pious dispositions of the human heart. Such as resignation and patience. 4. When viewed in their true light, and received with a proper spirit, they are most satisfactory proofs of the love of God.Remarks: 1. In the light of this subject we see the reason why so many instances of affliction fail to produce any good and lasting effect. The agency of God is not acknowledged in them. 2. This subject furnishes solemn reproof and warning to such as have experienced affliction, and yet have not repented. 3. This subject affords instruction and peculiar encouragement to Christians. Those who wear the white robes in heaven came out of great tribulation. (John Matthews, D. D.) 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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