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The prophet was looking forward to the Messiah and His times. It was customary for some kings to grant to favoured ones whatever they requested (Psalm 2:8). God's kingly Son is represented as having asked, and this is the answer

I. THE PROMISED UNIVERSAL DIFFUSION OF THE GOSPEL.

1. It was commenced in the apostolic age.

2. It has been continuing through the ages to the present hour.

3. It will be fully accomplished in "the fulness of time." What reasons have we for believing this?

(1)  The faithful and unerring promises of Jehovah.

(2)  The adaptation of Christianity, above all other forms of religion, to be universal

(3)  The present aspect of the world furnishes much reason to hope that the accomplishment of this promise is drawing nigh.

II. THE BLESSEDNESS OF THOSE WHO SHALL EMBRACE IT (vers. 9, 10). The promise includes —

1. Abundant provisions.

2. Careful protection.

3. Unerring guidance.

III. THE EXULTANT PRAISE WHICH SUCH GLORIOUS PROSPECTS SHOULD AWAKEN (ver. 13). We should raise this song —

1. Because of the glory which the fulfilment of this promise will bring to the triune Jehovah.

2. Because of the blessings the Gospel will bring to humanity. Conclusion — Has this Gospel come to you in saving power?

(A. Tucker.)

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KJV: Thus saith the LORD, In an acceptable time have I heard thee, and in a day of salvation have I helped thee: and I will preserve thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, to establish the earth, to cause to inherit the desolate heritages;

WEB: Thus says Yahweh, "In an acceptable time have I answered you, and in a day of salvation have I helped you; and I will preserve you, and give you for a covenant of the people, to raise up the land, to make them inherit the desolate heritage: