Homilist Ezra 10:1-25 Now when Ezra had prayed, and when he had confessed, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God… Three general remarks — I. THAT THE CHRISTIAN MINISTER IS THE CHIEF INSTRUMENT IN THE MORAL RENOVATION OF SOCIETY. Four things show this. 1. He is originally endowed with powers which specially qualify him for his work. 2. He has been educated for his high vocation, 3. He has more time than others for such an end. 4. It is to the Christian minister that the world looks for moral and spiritual help. II. THAT THE TRUE CHURCH GLADLY CO-OPERATES WITH THE MINISTER IN HIS NOBLE AIM. The Church can co-operate with him — 1. By showing him practical sympathy. 2. By working out his flank. 3. By praying for him. III. THAT THE CO-OPERATION OF THE CHURCH IS A SOURCE OF JOY AND ENCOURAGEMENT TO THE MINISTER. 1. Co-operation is indicative of the spiritual health of the Church. 2. It shows that the Church appreciates the minister's exertions. 3. Co-operation is a necessary condition of success. (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: Now when Ezra had prayed, and when he had confessed, weeping and casting himself down before the house of God, there assembled unto him out of Israel a very great congregation of men and women and children: for the people wept very sore. |
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