Ephesians 5:14 Why he said, Awake you that sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give you light. I. THE CHARACTER OF THOSE ADDRESSED. 1. If you allow yourself in the practice of known wickedness, your conscience is asleep. 2. If you live in the customary neglect of self-examination, you are in a state of slumber. 3. If you have never been in any degree affected with a sense of your guilt, and of your dependence on the mercy of God in Christ, you are among those who are asleep. 4. If you have no conflicts with sin and temptation, you are in a state of slumber. 5. The prevalence of a sensual and carnal disposition is a sign of spiritual death. 6. Stupidity under the warnings of God's word and providence, indicates such a state of soul as the Scripture compares to sleep. II. APPLY THE CALL. 1. This awakening must suppose and imply a conviction of your sin, and a sense of your danger. 2. This awakening from sleep, and arising" from the dead, implies a repentance of sin and turning to God. 3. They who have awoke from their sleep and risen from the dead will experience the properties, and maintain the exercises of a holy and spiritual life. III. THE ENCOURAGEMENT — "Christ shall give thee light," shall shine upon and enlighten thee. 1. This may be understood as a promise of pardon and eternal life on your repentance. 2. The words farther import God's gracious attention to awakened souls, when they frame their doings to turn to Him. The call is, Awake, arise from the dead, repair to the Saviour. Say not, "We are unable to discern the way." Christ will shine upon you and give you light. Say not, "We are unable to rise and walk." He will meet you with His grace. Arise, He calleth you. He will guide your steps. (J. Lathrop, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.WEB: Therefore he says, "Awake, you who sleep, and arise from the dead, and Christ will shine on you." |
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