1 Thessalonians 4:9-11 But as touching brotherly love you need not that I write to you: for you yourselves are taught of God to love one another.… I. WHAT IS THIS INCREASE? The law of growth stamped upon nature, and the human soul by the Creator. Nothing is stationary. Increase may be, and in most cases is imperceptible in its processes, but it is real. II. IN WHAT ARE WE TO INCREASE? In all the graces of the Spirit; in faith, knowledge, love, prayer, etc., and in all active duties. These particulars will vary in different men: some want growth in one grace, some in another. III. HOW ARE WE TO INCREASE? 1. By beginning to do what we have never done before. Pray. Keep holy the Sabbath, etc. 2. By doing more than we have done before: more frequently repeating acts of service, increasing the measure and number of them. 3. By doing what we have been wont to do in a better spirit, improving in the tone and temper with which we serve God. Increasing in fervour, life and love. IV. THE ADVANTAGES OF INCREASE. 1. It will bring us nearer to God. 2. It will secure more of God's blessing. 3. It will make heaven more secure. (J. Armstrong, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: But as touching brotherly love ye need not that I write unto you: for ye yourselves are taught of God to love one another. |
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