Genesis 37:3 Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colors. It may remind us — I. OF THE DRESS WHICH EARTHLY PARENTS PREPARE FOR THEIR CHILDREN. Respecting which consider — 1. They toil to procure it, working hard and long. 2. They exercise thought in selecting. Have to consider size, season, material, appearance. 3. They have to inspect it often. How it has been used; how it wears; does it need repair. 4. They have to renew it often. The best will wear out or be out-grown (see 1 Samuel 2:19). II. OF THE ROBE WHICH OUR HEAVENLY FATHER PREPARES FOR THOSE WHO LOVE HIM. 1. We need clothing for the soul, as well as for the body (1 Peter 3:3, 4; 1 Peter 5:5). God knows what things we have need of, even if we are unconscious of our need (Revelation 3:17). 2. We cannot make, or purchase, soul-clothing. We must receive it as a free gift. Only God can give it (Revelation 3:18). 3. For earnest, persevering, asking — accompanied by watching — we may obtain the robe of righteousness, the garment of salvation. This robe Jesus wrought for us. 4. This robe will fit well, look well, wear for ever. It is a white robe. White includes all the colours (explain). Hence it is a coat of many colours. 5. It is a court dress (explain) in which to enter the great King's presence. Learn:(1) Be careful of clothes. Those who cannot earn them may lesson their parent's expenses and labour and anxiety by taking care of them. (2) Keep your soulclothes unspotted from the world. Beware of sin-stains, and of self-righteous cleansing and patching. (J. C. Gray.) Parallel Verses KJV: Now Israel loved Joseph more than all his children, because he was the son of his old age: and he made him a coat of many colours. |
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