S. S. Times John 11:1-6 Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.… I. THE SOURCE OF AFFLICTIONS. Not spontaneous (Job 5:6, 7). God appoints (Psalm 66:10, 11; Amos 3:6). God regulates their degree (Isaiah 9:1; Jeremiah 46:28). God determines their duration (Genesis 15:13, 14, Isaiah 10:25). Not willingly sent (Lamentations 3:33; Ezekiel 33:11). Consequent on sin (Genesis 3:16-19). II. AFFLICTIONS OF THE SAINTS. Saints must expect them (John 16:33; Acts 14:22). Tempered with mercy (Psalm 78:38, 39; Psalm 106:43-46). Comparatively light (Romans 8:18; 2 Corinthians 4:17). Are but temporary (Psalm 30:5; 1 Peter 1:6; 1 Peter 5:10). Are joyfully endured (Romans 5:3-5; James 5:11). Are shared with Christ (Romans 8:17; 1 Peter 4:13, 14). Express God's care (Hebrews 12:6, 7; Revelation 3:19). God with afflicted saints (Psalm 46:1, 5; Isaiah 43:2). God preserves them (Psalm 34:19, 20; Romans 8:37). Christ with them (Matthew 28:20; John 14:18). Christ delivers them (2 Timothy 4:17; Hebrews 2:18). They secure a crown (James 1:12; Revelation 2:10). III. AFFLICTIONS OF THE WICKED. Sent as judgments (Job 21:17; Jeremiah 30:15). Sent for impenitence (Proverbs 1:30, 31; Amos 4:6-12). Are multiplied (Deuteronomy 31:17; Psalm 32:10). Come suddenly (Psalm 73:19; Proverbs 6:15; Proverbs 29:1). Sometimes humble them (1 Kings 21:27). Sometimes harden them (Exodus 9:34, 35; Nehemiah 9:28, 29). Consummated in the judgment (Matthew 25:41; Luke 13:27, 23). (S. S. Times.) Parallel Verses KJV: Now a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany, the town of Mary and her sister Martha.WEB: Now a certain man was sick, Lazarus from Bethany, of the village of Mary and her sister, Martha. |
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