Revelation 11:19 And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightning… I. THE COVENANT ALWAYS NEAR TO GOD. 1. Whatever happens, the covenant stands secure. 2. Whether we see it or not, the covenant is in its place, near to God. 3. The covenant of grace is for ever the same, for — (1) The God who made it changes not. (2) The Christ who is its Surety and Substance changes not. (3) The love which suggested it changes not. (4) The principles on which it is settled change not. (5) The promises contained in it change not; and, best of all — (6) The force and binding power of the covenant change not. II. THE COVENANT IS SEEN OF SAINTS. We see it when — 1. By faith we believe in Jesus as our Covenant-head. 2. By instruction we understand the system and plan of grace. 3. By confidence we depend upon the Lord's faithfulness, and the promises which He has made in the covenant. 4. By prayer we plead the covenant. 5. By experience we come to perceive covenant-love running as a silver thread through all the dispensations of providence. 6. By a wonderful retrospect we look back when we arrive in heaven, and see all the dealings of our faithful covenant God. III. THE COVENANT CONTAINS MUCH THAT IS WORTH SEEING. 1. God dwelling among men: as the ark in the tabernacle, in the centre of the camp. 2. God reconciled, and communing with men upon the mercy-seat. 3. The law fulfilled in Christ: the two tables in the ark: 4. The kingdom established and flourishing in Him: Aaron's rod blossomed. 5. The provision made for the wilderness: for in the ark was laid up the golden pot which had manna. The universe united in carrying out covenant purposes, as typified by the cherubim on the mercy-seat. IV. THE COVENANT HAS SOLEMN SURROUNDINGS. 1. The sanctions of Divine power — confirming. 2. The supports of eternal might — accomplishing. 3. The movements of spiritual energy — applying its grace. 4. The terrors of eternal law — overthrowing its adversaries. (C. H. Spurgeon.). Parallel Verses KJV: And the temple of God was opened in heaven, and there was seen in his temple the ark of his testament: and there were lightnings, and voices, and thunderings, and an earthquake, and great hail. |
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