Matthew 12:30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathers not with me scatters abroad. Christ's words contain a principle and an appeal. We cannot occupy a neutral position in relation to either morals or religion now when life is before us, or by and by when the issues of life are manifested. I. THIS TRUTH. Border-countries are proverbially bad to live in. The two clauses of the text may be read thus: 1. He that is not in heart with Me is against Me. No externality of observance will suffice: no mere association will suffice. There must be personal heart-union with Christ. 2. He that is not in life-service with Me is against Me. Unpractical sentimentality will not suffice. Loudest professions will not suffice. Christ's words appeal searchingly to two classes. (a) Those who excuse wrong life by right creed. (b) Those who excuse wrong creed by good life. II. THE QUALIFICATIONS OF THIS TRUTH. Temporary uncertainty may be good, or at least may be excused. Such as comes in (a) Mental states of indecision; (b) Beginnings of religious life; (c) Occasions of religious doubt. There is no excuse for uncertainty or indecision in relation to Christ. We ought to follow Him wholly. (R. Tuck.) Parallel Verses KJV: He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.WEB: "He who is not with me is against me, and he who doesn't gather with me, scatters. |
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