2 Timothy 1:18 The Lord grant to him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered to me at Ephesus… I. MEN ARE ALL ADVANCING TOWARDS A SOLEMN AND MOMENTOUS PERIOD. II. AT THAT PERIOD MEN WILL STAND IN NEED OF MERCY. When the apostle expresses a wish that his friend may receive mercy, it must be evident to every one that of course he needs it — that without its communication it is impossible that he can be happy. Another inference to be dragon from this principle is, that, in consequence of this transgression by which we are characterised, we are, of course, in danger of punishment by that great Almighty Being whom, in this manner, we have offended. But now, you must at once perceive the whole force of the statement from which these particulars have been deduced. For the purpose of escaping the condemnation of the last great day, there must be a communication of the mercy of the Lord. III. THE MERCY OF GOD IS DILIGENTLY TO BE SOUGHT IN THE PRESENT WORLD. 1. A portion in the provision of Divine grace ought to be sought by you as a matter of intense and impassioned desire. 2. A portion in the full provision of Divine grace should be sought in the spirit of fervent and importunate prayer. We must remark — IV. TO RECEIVE MERCY IS TO POSSESS THE ENJOYMENT OF A VAST AND INCALCULABLE BLESSING. I scarcely dare venture for a single moment to occupy your time by attempting to describe the blessed consequences of having the Judge for your friend on that day of eternal retribution, feeling, as I do, that the grandeur of the property may appear diminished by the feebleness of the description. V. THOSE WHO HAVE THE HOPE OF MERCY SHOULD DESIRE ITS PARTICIPATION BY OTHERS. It has already been observed, that the prayer of the apostle is that peculiar form of prayer which is known by the name of intercession. Here is a beautiful example of that spirit which we, as the possessors and heirs of mercy, should cultivate towards those in whom we feel an interest. (James Parsons.) Parallel Verses KJV: The Lord grant unto him that he may find mercy of the Lord in that day: and in how many things he ministered unto me at Ephesus, thou knowest very well. |
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