Homilist Hebrews 6:4-6 For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift… I. PERSONAL CHRISTIANITY IS A SPIRITUAL PARTICIPATION OF DIVINE REALITIES. 1. It is an idea. 2. It is a feeling. 3. It is a power. II. APOSTASY FROM PERSONAL CHRISTIANITY IS AN IMMENSE SIN. 1. The falling away here mentioned is that of total apostasy. 2. The apostasy here spoken of is stated purely as an hypothesis. 3. Although the apostasy is spoken of only as hypothetical, it is, nevertheless, possible. The man who parts with Christ through the force of old prejudices, is the Caiaphas of the age; he who parts with Him for money, is the Judas; he who parts with Him for popular favour, is the Pilate. The tragedy of Golgatha has many actors; every generation every day reiterates these multiplied crucifixions. III. THE SIN OF SUCH AN APOSTASY WOULD ENTAIL THE MOST LAMENTABLE RESULTS. 1. The lamentable results of this sin would be irremediable. (1) Their first repentance could only have been produced by the whole force of the moral considerations contained in the gospel. (2) The supposed apostates have triumphed over the whole force of the most powerful considerations that can ever be addressed to them. 2. The lamentable results of this crime are consonant with character. Their doom answers to their state. 3. The lamentable results of this crime are terribly awful The conscience in flames! 4. The lamentable results of this crime are ever just at hand. "Nigh unto cursing." (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost, |
    |