Congregational Pulpit 2 Corinthians 8:7-8 Therefore, as you abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us… Note — I. THAT LOVE IS THE ESSENCE OF REAL RELIGION. What we see is like the fruit of the vine, but there is a root. The gracious principle, though hidden, lives, grows, and operates. Observe — 1. Love Divine enkindles it. 2. The state (if the world expands it. 3. The Divine glory inflames it. II. THAT THE GENUINE CHARACTER OF CHRISTIAN LOVE IS TESTED BY CIRCUMSTANCES. These circumstances are like balances to the coin, a storm to the ship, the fire to metal, or a battle to the soldier. E.g., there is — 1. The necessity of self-denial and bearing the cross. Remember Paul's conversion and subsequent life. We cannot serve God and mammon. 2. The rival claims of the world and the worship of God. There are earthly claims. Must not be allowed to stand in opposition, nor to monopolise that which belongs to God. 3. The requirement of means for the extension of the Redeemer's kingdom.Conclusion — 1. Let us fairly prove the state of our hearts. 2. Let us carefully test all our performances. 3. Let us contemplate the decisions of the judgment day. (Congregational Pulpit.) Parallel Verses KJV: Therefore, as ye abound in every thing, in faith, and utterance, and knowledge, and in all diligence, and in your love to us, see that ye abound in this grace also. |
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