3 John 1:4 I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth. I. To WALK IN TRUTH implies — 1. Sincerity of principle, honesty of intention, in opposition to all dissimulation or guile. 2. Decided attachment to evangelical doctrine. 3. Habitual regard to personal holiness. 4. Progress in Christian excellency. II. Why this walking in truth should occasion the JOY OF CHRISTIAN MINISTERS. 1. In your Christian walk we witness the reality of your personal religion. 2. Walking as Christians secures your personal happiness. 3. When you walk as Christians, we have evidence of ministerial fidelity — that the truth is spoken to you; that the way of truth is marked down and recommended. 4. In your walk as Christians, we observe the fruit of our efforts for your good. 5. When you walk as Christians, we behold the increase of the Redeemer's cause in the world. 6. Walking as Christians, we see in you the partners of the felicity we hope for in a future world.CONCLUSION — 1. If such as "walk in truth" are our joy, it is evident who are our grief — All they who walk not in truth; who "walk in darkness"; who "walk disorderly"; who "walk in the flesh"; who "walk after their own ungodly lusts." 2. By your walking, not in truth, but in unrighteousness, the cause of God is dishonoured, his enemies triumph, his friends are painfully affected. 3. Let us all look well to ourselves, and take heed to our own spirit and conversation. (T. Kidd.) Parallel Verses KJV: I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.WEB: I have no greater joy than this, to hear about my children walking in truth. |
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