2 Corinthians 5:12-17 For we commend not ourselves again to you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf… I. THE GRAND OBJECT OF THE EFFORTS OF THE APOSTLES, AND OF OURS. The cause in which, as a missionary society, we are engaged, is the salvation of the human race. How much does this sentence comprehend! To emancipate the human race — to raise numerous hordes from barbarism to civilisation, etc. But this object will increase in magnitude if we consider — 1. The worth of the human soul. 2. The meaning of the word salvation. Deliverance from an infinite evil, and the enjoyment of an infinite good. 3. The immense multitudes who are hourly passing to their eternal destiny without a knowledge of the Saviour. 4. The lustre which their salvation will throw on the Redeemer's glories to all eternity. II. THE MOST PLAUSIBLE GROUNDS ON WHICH MANY PRONOUNCE THE MEMBERS OF THESE SOCIETIES TO BE ENTHUSIASTS. "We admit the object to be good; but is it feasible — is it possible? We give you credit for your intentions; but you are beside yourselves." 1. From what region will you gather a sufficient number of missionaries? Missions to the Ottoman Empire alone would require more men than all your various societies can muster, and yet you talk of filling the world with converts! 2. Where will you find resources sufficient for the magnitude of your enterprise? What all the societies put together raise is but as a drop to the ocean. The finances of an empire would not satisfy your demand. 3. How formidable are your difficulties! from the peculiarities of governments, usages, customs, etc. How will you persuade the Jews to embrace the gospel of Christ; how break the adamantine barriers thrown across China; how overturn the venerable establishments of India; how civilise savages? 4. Look at your own land — here you have Bibles, ministers, means; and what effects are produced? Physicians, heal yourselves, before you apply your remedy to the maladies of the world. III. THE SOLID REASONS WHICH OTHERS, MORE CANDID, HAVE FOR ESTEEMING THE ZEALOUS MEMBERS OF THIS SOCIETY SOBER-MINDED. The question at issue is — Is this cause the cause of God? If so, all difficulties vanish. They take their stand — 1. On the decrees of God (Ephesians 1:8, 10). Who shall contend against almighty power? 2. On this earth, which was formed in subserviency to the design of God. It is still preserved as the theatre on which the designs of redemption are carried on. Can that plan fail for which this universe was formed, and for which alone it is preserved? 3. On the hill of Calvary. There they see expiation made for the sins of the world. Now the channel is opened for salvation to the world. Redemption is purchased, and its application to the hearts of men is easy. 4. On the mount of Olives. And there from the lips of Christ they hear His last command, and motive to exertion (Matthew 28:18, 19). 5. With angels before the throne of glory. On the head of Christ is the crown of universal empire, and from all parts the shout is heard, "Hallelujah! for the Lord God omnipotent reigneth!" Cannot He break down every barrier and open the whole world to our labours? Shall He not have the heathen for His inheritance? 6. At Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost. And there they see the mighty power, on the success of which all their labours depend. "Not by power," etc. 7. On the hill of Zion, fast by the throne of God; and looking into the vista of prophecy, they see these wonders actually accomplishing — the whole earth filled with the glory of God; the idols utterly abolished; Christ having dominion from sea to sea; all nations blessed in Him, etc. What, then, becomes of all cavils of sceptics and mere nominal Christians? On whom does the charge of madness rest? IV. THE MOTIVES BY WHICH THE FRIENDS OF MISSIONS ARE ACTUATED. 1. Love to God. "If we be beside ourselves, it is to God." 2. Benevolence to man. "If we be sober, it is for your cause." 3. The constraining love of Christ. (W. Thorpe.) Parallel Verses KJV: For we commend not ourselves again unto you, but give you occasion to glory on our behalf, that ye may have somewhat to answer them which glory in appearance, and not in heart. |
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