2 Timothy 2:9 Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even to bonds; but the word of God is not bound. I. THE GOSPEL MAY OCCASION TROUBLE. 1. For it bruiseth Satan's head, discovereth his plots, overturneth his kingdoms. 2. Besides, it pulleth down the pride of man, provoketh to repentance, presseth him to deny himself, put confidence in Christ, and its worth is not known in the world. II. THE ENEMIES OF THE CHURCH AFFLICT THE GODLY UNDER A PRETENCE OF LAW. 1. For the conversation of the godly is holy, honest, harmless; that without such pretences they could have no seeming cause to afflict them. 2. The wicked, in their generation, are wise; therefore, to cover and cloak their mischiefs they must have some pretence of law. III. GODLY PREACHERS MAY HAVE GREAT PERSECUTIONS. 1. Because not many wise, mighty, or noble men are called neither to embrace the gospel nor preach it. 2. And godly preachers speak with power, curb men's raging corruptions, wound their rebellious spirits, and never prophesy of peace unto them. IV. THE LIBERTY OF GOD'S WORD IS GREATLY TO BE REGARDED. 1. For it is the instrumental cause of man's conversion. 2. It increaseth grace, supports in trouble, and directeth to heaven. 3. And by the Word are not our adversaries foiled? V. THE PERSECUTION OF PREACHERS DOTH NOT ALWAYS INFRINGE THE LIBERTY OF THE WORD. 1. Because then the Lord hath a special care to His own cause. 2. The example of some will embolden others. (J. Barlow, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound.WEB: in which I suffer hardship to the point of chains as a criminal. But God's word isn't chained. |
    |