Hosea 12:10 I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets. Among the rest of God s agencies for striking the attention and con science of the people, was the use of similitudes. The prophets were accustomed not only to preach, but to be themselves as signs and wonders to the people. God is every day preaching to us by similitudes. Providence is God's sermon. I. BEGIN WITH THE EARLY MORNING. This morning you awaked, and put on your garments. By a similitude God reminded you that you needed a garment for your soul. Taking meals. Going to business. Returning home in the evening, all are similitudes. II. ALL THE YEAR ROUND GOD DOTH PREACH TO MAN BY SIMILITUDES. Seed-time. Then the time of blade; of ear, of full corn in the ear. The migration of birds. The wind, heat, etc. III. EVERY PLACE TO WHICH YOU JOURNEY, EVERY ANIMAL YOU SEE, EVERY SPOT YOU VISIT, HAS A SERMON FOR YOU. Journeying, the mountains, the sea, all have their lesson for us. IV. EVERY MAN IN HIS CALLING HAS A SERMON PREACHED TO HIM. Illustrate from the farmer, the baker, the butcher, the brewer, the salesman, the writer, the doctor, the builder, the jeweller, etc. ( C. H. Spurgeon.) Parallel Verses KJV: I have also spoken by the prophets, and I have multiplied visions, and used similitudes, by the ministry of the prophets. |
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