John 1:18 No man has seen God at any time, the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he has declared him. I. CHRIST'S PERSONAL MINISTRY. 1. Its contents — (1) God's nature, perfections, authority, and government; (2) The eternal councils of His will for the salvation of lost sinners; (3) The wonders of His love in sending His only-begotten Son into the world. 2. Its manner (1) Unique and authoritative; (2) Gentle and tender; (3) Complete; (4) Zealous; (5) Courageous; (6) Unanswerable; (7) Commanding. 3. Its credentials — (1) The fulfilment of types and prophecies; (2) His life; (3) The purity of His doctrine; (4) His miracles. II. His PROPHETIC OFFICE more extensively considered — 1. Before the Incarnation. 2. During His earthly life. 3. After His ascension — (1) By the ministry of inspired man; (2) By the ministry of uninspired men, pastors, teachers, officers of the Church; calling them, inclining their hearts to the work, giving them opportunities for engaging in it; (3) By internal illumination, removing the veil from men's heart, and quickening their apprehensions by His Spirit. III. THE USE. 1. To show the excellence and necessity of Christ's teachings. 2. To warn against the danger of refusing to hear the Divine Teacher. 3. To encourage us to attend to His teachings. (Dr. Guyse.) Parallel Verses KJV: No man hath seen God at any time; the only begotten Son, which is in the bosom of the Father, he hath declared him. |
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