Jeremiah 8:22 Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? I. Our mortal and evangelical resources. 1. No country in the world in all respects equal in privileges. 2. No age comparable to this. (1) Plenitude of God's Word (2) Good books. (3) Evangelical ministry. (4) Rich variety of social institutions. II. The fearful evils which still exist. 1. Avowed infidelity. 2. General neglect of Divine worship. 3. Juvenile precocity and profligacy. 5. Overwhelming intemperance. III. The affecting inquiry presented. "Why, then," etc. Three classes of reasons. 1. In the Church. (1) Prevalence of spiritual indifference. (2) Sectarian contentions. (3) Fewness of workers. (4) Want of spiritual self-denial. (5) Coldness in prayer. (6) Feeble faith. 2. Reasons in the persons themselves. Feel separated from other classes; neglected, despised on account of poverty, etc. 3. Reasons in the world. Seductive temptations, dissipating scenes.Applications — 1. We appeal to Church of Christ. Great responsibility. 2. Sinners are inexcusable. Every man must give account. 3. God's mercy and grace are all-sufficient. 4. The provisions of the Gospel are freely published. (J. Burnt, D. D.). Parallel Verses KJV: Is there no balm in Gilead; is there no physician there? why then is not the health of the daughter of my people recovered? |
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