Psalm 68:11 The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it. The occasion of this psalm — the carrying up of the ark to Jerusalem: the joyful procession is described. But it has a prophetic import as well as a literal one. It points on to the Ascension of Christ and to the gifts He has bestowed upon His Church. Our text is a glorious promise concerning the proclamation of the Gospel. I. IT IS AND EVER HAS BEEN THE WILL OF GOD THAT BY MAN THE MESSAGE OF MERCY SHOULD BE PROCLAIMED. This so ordained in mercy to man and for the glory of God. II. THIS WORD WILL NEVER BE PROCLAIMED, EXCEPT THE LORD SEND US. God has ever sent forth the men who preached His Word, and He is sending them forth now. III. THERE SHALL BE GREAT SUCCESS. See context. IV. SHE THAT TARRIED AT HOME DIVIDED THE SPOIL. Allusion is to Numbers 31:25; and for illustration see 1 Samuel 30:22. Some must stay at home, though there are many who ought to go forth to labour. But they who rightly stay at home, they shall be blessed through the missionary enterprise. Conclusion: Have we ourselves believed the Word which the Lord hath given? Let us give Him all the glory. What motives are here for fresh exertion! (F. Close, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: The Lord gave the word: great was the company of those that published it.WEB: The Lord announced the word. The ones who proclaim it are a great company. |
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