Acts 13:48 And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord… On hearing the gospel the Gentiles — I. WERE GLAD. 1. This should be, but alas is not, the uniform effect of gospel hearing. (1) Some are indifferent, for they feel no need of it. (2) Some are critical. They may feel their need, but are not disposed to receive the gospel as a supply for their need. (3) Some are hostile and reject the gospel utterly as a possible supply for their need, and look elsewhere — to formalism, infidelity, worldliness. 2. These Gentiles were glad. (1) They heard attentively, with candid minds, with eager desire. They were convinced and so they believed, and the Word of God had its proper effect on them; it became "Good tidings of great joy."(2) This gladness was that of conscious pardon, satisfied longing, Divine acceptance, joyful anticipation. 3. If the gospel has not made those who profess to have accepted it glad, it is probably for one or two reasons. (1) They have not received the whole of it. A spoonful of water will not quench thirst, but will only aggravate it. (2) They have received it in an adulterated form. II. THEY GLORIFIED THE WORD OF GOD. This was the inevitable result of their gladness. 1. They were thankful for it. Thanklessness dishonours the gospel. The least that a man can do who receives a gift is to express his gratitude for it. 2. They praised it. Specimens of such praise we have in the Psalms — notably in Psalm 119. It is refreshing to turn to this record in an age of Bible disparagement. When a man receives a gift he is not only thankful for it, but examines it, or puts it to some use, so that he may properly appraise its value. Every candid examination of God's Word, and self application of its truth, will give it enhanced worth. 3. They made it known to others (ver. 49). The gospel is not meant for its immediate recipients. It is a gift for men. Only as it has "free course" is it fully "glorified." Conclusion: Gladness is the inspiration of true service. It is as steam to machinery. Has the gospel made you happy? Go then and make others glad. (J. W. Burn.) Parallel Verses KJV: And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord: and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed. |
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