Mark 1:40-45 And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying to him, If you will, you can make me clean. I. THIS UNOSTENTATIOUS PHILANTHROPY WAS CONSEQUENT UPON A REAL CURE. II. WAS ANIMATED BY A TRUE SPIRIT. Some people enjoin silence in reference to their philanthropy — 1. When they do not mean it. Mock humility. 2. Lest they should have too many applicants for it. Selfishness or limited generosity. 3. Others in order that they may modestly and wisely do good. So with our Lord. Much philanthropy marred by its talkativeness. III. WAS NOT ATTENDED WITH SUCCESS. Hence we learn — 1. That the most modest philanthropy is not always shielded from public observation. 2. That there are men who will violate the most stringent commands and the deepest obligations.Lessons: 1. To do good when we have the opportunity. 2. Modestly and wisely. 3. Content with the smile of God rather than the approval of men. (J. S. Exell, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou canst make me clean. |
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