Galatians 4:18 But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you. I. EXAMINE THE CHRISTIAN QUALITY SPOKEN OF. 1. Its foundation. Supreme love to Jesus Christ, the fruit of spiritual regeneration, is the only solid basis of true zeal. 2. Its nature. Sincere and warm regard for God's glory. A compound of strong faith and disinterested regard, manifesting itself by patient endurance and constant exertion. 3. Its objects. (1) Plain acknowledged truths, such as man's ruin by nature, his redemption by Christ, his renewal by the Holy Spirit. (2) Matters of real importance. Not the shell or garment of religion, but the life and heart of it. (3) The advancement of the Divine glory is the object nearest every true believer's heart, and he will use all his influence to uphold and support the means calculated to promote it. The instruction of the young, the distribution of the Scriptures, the propagation of the gospel at home and abroad, etc. 4. Its properties. (1) Enlightened and prudent. (2) Mild and gentle. (3) Modest and humble. (4) Warm and active. II. ITS VALUE AND IMPORTANCE IN THE CHRISTIAN CAUSE. 1. It facilitates the progress of those who possess it in their Christian course. 2. It makes the practical part of religion easy and delightful. 3. It promotes a Christian's usefulness. He feels a desire to do something for the interest and benefit of his fellows. Application: 1. Let those who possess this Christian quality cultivate it. 2. Let strangers to Christian zeal seek to become partakers in it. (T. Lewis.) Parallel Verses KJV: But it is good to be zealously affected always in a good thing, and not only when I am present with you.WEB: But it is always good to be zealous in a good cause, and not only when I am present with you. |
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