Essex Remembrancer 1 Thessalonians 3:7-10 Therefore, brothers, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:… s: — There is a most beautiful harmony and dependence in the works of God; so there must be in civil relations; so there should be between minister and people. I. THE NATURE OF CHRISTIAN STEADFASTNESS. 1. It is distinct from an obstinate perverseness — the pursuit of a given course without reason, and against reasons when they favour a change. The Christian keeps his mind open to conviction even when strongly persuaded, and is ever ready to alter his conduct when truth commands. 2. It is consistent with advancement. Spiritual progress is the aim of every Christian. Having tasted the pleasures of Divine knowledge and grace he desires more. To stand still is not to stand fast (Philippians 3:10). 3. It is identical with constancy; firmness and immovableness in spite of outward circumstances. Opposition we are warned to expect, but we are to be firm to the end. II. IN WHAT RESPECTS CHRISTIANS ARE TO BE STEADFAST. 1. In our attachments. (1) To Christ. (2) To Christians. (3) To truth. (4) To duty. 2. In our zeal. Earnestness is commend able in worldly things, much more in religion. Here coldness is criminal. Stead fastness demands uniformity — not hot today and cold tomorrow. 3. In our Christian profession. Some make no public avowal of Christ; others make it but contradict it in their lives. III. THE MOTIVES WHICH SHOULD LEAD TO STEADFASTNESS. "Now we live if ye stand fast." It — 1. Confirms the truth and power of the gospel we preach. Every steadfast Christian is an evidence of it in circles which ministers cannot reach. 2. Indicates our call to the work. Usefulness is the best proof of Divine ordination. 3. Warrants of hope of meeting you in glory. (Essex Remembrancer.) Parallel Verses KJV: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith: |
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