2 Corinthians 1:23-24 Moreover I call God for a record on my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet to Corinth.… I. THE CHRISTIAN'S PRIVILEGE — joy. 1. Its origin and nature. It is not the offspring of a fervid imagination, but the effect of a well-grounded conviction of the love of God. It has its root in faith: "the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing." And why? Because faith connects the believer with Jesus, who is all his salvation and all his desire. 2. This is the legitimate state of the Christian. Joy diffuses a beautiful and attractive lustre around every grace which ornaments the believer's character; it is the very atmosphere through which he should continually walk, proving that the ways of religion are "ways of pleasantness," and that "all her paths are peace." I know of nothing that recommends the gospel more than this; I know of no moral proof of its divinity more powerfully convincing than this. 3. Joy fits the believer for comforting and encouraging others. It was a great sin in those who were sent to take a survey of the Promised Land to return with an evil report. II. THE MINISTER'S OFFICE. "Helpers of joy," but not of salvation. Christ is the only Saviour; and He allows not of any helpers. But, though ministers are not helpers in the work of salvation, they are, as instruments, helpers in the application of it. Ministers act as helpers of joy — 1. By unfolding the Word of God. The Bible contains glad tidings, which are calculated to rejoice the heart. 2. By expatiating on the love of Christ. Nothing can fill the soul with so much gladness as this. 3. By giving a just interpretation of present trials. 4. By praying to the Author of every grace and Giver of every privilege (Romans 15:13). (D. Bagot, B. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Moreover I call God for a record upon my soul, that to spare you I came not as yet unto Corinth.WEB: But I call God for a witness to my soul, that I didn't come to Corinth to spare you. |
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