Philippians 2:1-13 If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,… I. I ask the young CONVERT if there be any consolation in Christ. "Why there is no consolation without Him," they reply. When anguish took hold of us because of God's judgments we knew not whither to flee. We tried to stifle fear and silence conscience, but our misery increased. We then tried to soothe conscience by reformation, but we found no comfort. We resorted to the means of grace and called upon God, but the answer was, "Cursed is every one that continueth not," etc. Then almost in despair Jesus appeared to us, the burden was removed, and we were made happy. II. I appeal to the ACTIVE CHRISTIAN. He responds, "Yes: His yoke is easy," etc. All our ability to perform duty, and all our acceptance of it, are from Him, and we glory in Him as our righteousness and strength." III. THE AFFLICTED CHRISTIAN responds, "the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory that shall be revealed." My afflictions have been my greatest blessings. I have had the example of Christ before me, His patience with me, His everlasting arms underneath me. His word or His smile have either removed my afflictions or inspired me with fortitude and joy to bear them. IV. THE DYING CHRISTIAN will reply that he has only a desire to depart, and that while passing through the valley Christ's rod and staff are his comfort. V. THE GLORIFIED SAINTS ascribe everything to Him that brought them out of great tribulation. VI. What do You say? "There may be consolation in Christ, but I can say nothing of it from experience. I could never see any such excellence in Him as to induce me to give up my present enjoyment." But the day will come when you would give all the world for one smile of the consolation of Israel. Inferences: From what has been said — 1. We should thank God for His unspeakable gift. 2. We see what enemies they are to themselves who are enemies to Christ. 3. How greatly they mistake who represent religion as gloomy. 4. Let your lives declare this consolation. 5. If there be such consolation here, what must heaven be? (S. Lavington.) Parallel Verses KJV: If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love, if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies, |
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