Colossians 3:11 Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all… The doctrine of the text — I. ACCOUNTS FOR THE ESSENTIAL SIMILARITY OF CHRISTIAN CHARACTER. Innumerable are the causes of diversity — constitutional peculiarities, external circumstances, accidental associations. But amidst all these, whether men are slaves or freemen, rude or civilized, etc., the Christian principle equalizes all, us forming a common centre, a standard under which all are enlisted, the source of their felicity, the rejoicing of their hearts. Christ is all in all. 1. To those who believe in Him. 2. In all the felicities of an eternal life. II. ILLUSTRATES THE TRUE UNITY OF THE CHURCH. To produce unity uniformity has been attempted, but this is different from oneness of spirit. No visible accordance by subscribing to formularies or uniting in observances can realize unity. There will be a period when this will be realized; but amidst all that separates, amidst all that enemies and friends have done to injure the cause', there is a real and effective unity between Christians. Bring believers of every age, class, name together, and one chord will vibrate in every heart, one topic be the theme of every song, one principle the life of all. They are all in Christ and therefore one: one in relationship, sympathy, joy, sorrow, hope. III. PROVES THE UNIVERSALITY OF THE CHRISTIAN DISPENSATION. This is the religion of man; adapted to him wherever you find him, whether scorched by Indian suns or blanched by northern snows. All men are lost; Christianity comes to save all men. The religion of Christ, unlike any other, has nothing local or restrictive. There are no circumstantials in it to narrow its range. This universality — 1. Is founded on the condition of man in all circumstances. 2. Is proved by its actual results wherever received. 3. Is provided for by the security of the everlasting covenant. 4. Is guaranteed to the Church by the presence of Christ. IV. CONSTITUTES THE GREAT SUBJECT OF THE CHRISTIAN MINISTRY, AND ASSIGNS THE TRUE CAUSE OF ITS EFFICIENCY. "I if I be lifted up," etc. V. EXHIBITS AN ADEQUATE SOURCE OF CONSOLATION AND SUPPORT IN THE PROSPECT OF DEATH AND ETERNITY. 1. It secures a victory over the king of terrors. 2. It ensures an abundant entrance into heaven. (J. Fletcher, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Where there is neither Greek nor Jew, circumcision nor uncircumcision, Barbarian, Scythian, bond nor free: but Christ is all, and in all. |
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