John 4:1-42 When therefore the LORD knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John,… 1. This world is a place of weariness through sin; but love is a weariness that heaven approves, that of the Shepherd seeking the lost sheep. 2. There is a great mystery in this weariness: for the weary man was God; but He was weary that we might have rest. I. CHRIST'S WEARINESS AS IT REFLECTS OUR OWN. 1. Christ was weary in His work, not of it. 2. We need not be surprised, therefore, if we are weary. 3. When so, wait upon Him to renew thy strength. II. WEARINESS CAN BE PUT TO PURPOSE. 1. Under the most unlikely circumstances God can bring us work and refreshment at the same time. Christ had to all appearance turned His back on His work; but He had not, and when He seemed most unfit He did it most effectively. So Paul was taken from work to prison, but then he was instrumental in the jailers conversion. 2. The willing heart will often create its own opportunities. Christ was weary but watchful. A willing heart can find its work at any time and place. We think we could do more were we better placed. But Christ says, "He that is faithful in that which is least, is faithful also in much." 3. An earnest mind will avail itself of small opportunities, and through little things become really great. Christ was contented with a congregation of one. He did not preach sensational sermons, but sermons which created a sensation. He spake as earnestly to one as to a thousand. III. CHRIST ASKS US THROUGH HIS WEARY REPRESENTATIVES TO MINISTER TO HIS WEARINESS. The poor, sick, widows, orphans, overworked pastors, etc., in Christ's name cry, "Give me to drink." (W. Poole Balfern.) Parallel Verses KJV: When therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard that Jesus made and baptized more disciples than John, |
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