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I. THE CHANGE PRODUCED. The unlocking of the whole soul; the breaking down of all the barriers of pride, prejudice, and sin, which preclude the gospel, and prevent the cordial reception of its salutary truths.

II. THE AUTHOR OF THIS CHANGE. The Lord Jesus Christ, by His Spirit. Inward illumination is necessary, because of —

1. The insufficiency of human powers.

2. The inefficiency of outward means.

III. The END of this change; the object which its Divine Author particularly regards; and this is, a right acquaintance with the holy Scriptures. "Then opened He their understanding"; why? to what end and purpose? "That they might understand the Scriptures." Here let it be carefully noted — the holy Scriptures are a complete revelation of the mind and will of God. But what is this understanding of the Scriptures, this right acquaintance with the Word of God, which evinces the teaching of the Spirit of Christ?

1. It is impressive. It is knowledge which touches and interests the heart.

2. It is progressive. The Spirit of Christ teaches gradually. "More and more unto the perfect day."

3. It is practical. This knowledge has influence on the spirit and conduct of men, an influence most salutary and important.

(1)  It humbles for sin.

(2)  It endears the Saviour.

(3)  It promotes holiness.From the whole we remark —

1. The unhappy condition of those whose minds are yet closed against the light of the word and Spirit of Christ. Natural blindness is a melancholy affliction, but unspeakably more so this darkness of the soul!

2. The duty of such as desire Divine teachings. Think not highly of yourselves, but soberly as you ought to think.

3. The encouragement which the gospel gives to apply to Jesus Christ. This encouragement is large and free.

(T. Kidd.)

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KJV: And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.

WEB: As they said these things, Jesus himself stood among them, and said to them, "Peace be to you."