2 Timothy 2:19 Nevertheless the foundation of God stands sure, having this seal, The Lord knows them that are his. And… It may be asked, how did it happen that under the direct observation of the apostles themselves, standing as they did on such exclusive ground, acting in the name and by the authority of the Lord Jesus Christ, and clothed with all the awful powers of their high office — how happened it that so many and such dangerous errors arose? It might be permitted — 1. To ascertain the faith and put to the test the obedience of the sincere. There must be heresies that these may be proved and made manifest. 2. To show that the claims of the religion of Jesus Christ are not guided or influenced by secular authority, and that men's minds are left perfectly free, at liberty to think and determine for themselves. 3. To illustrate the nature of the early discipline of the Christian Church. It was not such as affected men's properties or lives, as has too frequently been the case where ecclesiastical authority has been felt. Paul put down error by virtue of his authority as an apostle; but we find nothing carnal in any of his proceedings. 4. To furnish occasions for developing more clearly the essentials of Christianity. Three topics of reflection are suggested to us here — I. THE STABILITY OF GOD'S PURPOSE. The idea which we found on this part of the subject is, the certain continuance and continual accomplishment of God's purposes, spite of all difficulties, oppositions, and enemies. But it has respect chiefly — 1. To the truth of God; and 2. To the Church of God. II. THE SPECIAL OBJECTS OF GOD'S PURPOSE. "The foundation of God standeth sure; having this seal, the Lord knoweth them that are His," etc. 1. In speaking of the special objects of God's love, we shall notice chiefly the character under which they are described — they are "His." This implies knowledge, discrimination, approbation, acknowledgment. They are "His" — His by dedication. 2. His in consequence of a gracious influence on their hearts. 3. His in consequence of an interest in Christ. But this question is naturally suggested: How are we to determine whether we are His? How are we to know that we belong to the number of the called, and chosen, and faithful? The answer is ready — "Let every one that nameth the name of Christ, depart from iniquity," and this leads us — III. To consider THE HOLY CHARACTER WHICH OUGHT TO RESULT FROM CHRISTIAN PRINCIPLES. Consider here — 1. The profession assumed. They "name the name of Christ." This includes in it an admission of His authority — a reception of His doctrines — a public avowal of their sentiments and convictions. 2. The obligation enjoined. Let him "depart from iniquity." To depart from iniquity is to hate it — to be habitually opposed to the commission of it — to avoid it with the greatest circumspection — to seek and pursue whatever is opposed to it. 3. This is enjoined by the authority of Him whose name we bear. Can we think on that holy name without calling to mind the purity it should inspire? He gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity. Think of His character — it was holy and heavenly: of His doctrines — every word of God is pure: of His institutions — they are all designed to promote our sanctification: of the great ends and designs of His government — these are all connected with our purity. There is not a doctrine, not a testimony, not a precept which Christ has laid down, not a promise which He has caused to be recorded, which does not lead to the inculcation of holiness. On all parts of the Christian system we see inscribed, "Be ye holy, for I am holy." 4. This is enforced by the peculiar discoveries of revelation. Can you mention a doctrine which does not lead to holiness? 5. This departure from iniquity is an essential and constituent part of the salvation of the gospel. 6. This is provided for by the continual agency of the Holy Spirit. 7. This is the design of all gospel institutions. 8. This is the great end of all providential dispensations. 9. It is that without which all our professions would be nullified and useless. (J. Fletcher, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity. |
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