1 John 5:14-15 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he hears us:… I. PRAYER IS THE EXPRESSION OF CONFIDENCE IN GOD. 1. In general, the language of want, desire, and necessity. 2. Specially, the language of the soul enlightened by the Spirit of God to discover its necessities, and to desire what the Divine bounty has provided for them. 3. It is intelligent, discriminating, definite — embracing the exercise of faith in the Divine purpose and integrity. II. OUR PETITIONS, EMBODYING, THE SOUL'S CONFIDENCES, ARE REGULATED BY GOD'S PROMISE AND WARRANT. His will as revealed. Precepts concerning our progress in holiness to which everything else is subordinate. Promise — revelation of Divine intention in relation to the moral progress of the soul. God hath said — then faith may confide. III. FAITH BRINGS WITHIN THE RANGE OF OUR EXPERIENCE THE BLESSINGS WE THUS DESIRE. Faith, not an opinion, nor a bare persuasion, but an intelligent, active principle. 1. Apprehending the good promised and sought. 2. By its moral influence it prepares and qualifies for the enjoyment of the promised good. 3. The love thus relying on the promise becomes conscious of the blessings bestowed. (John A. Williams, B. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us: |
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