Malachi 3:2 But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appears? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: The coming of Christ was the trial-test of the world. Men never needed Him more; were never less prepared to receive Him. It was the age of force. Society was not in a condition to hear Christ favourably. We say the time was ripe for His coming. As to necessity, yes; as to preparation, no. This was the "historical" day of Christ. Few were able to abide it. Few could stand when He appeared. I. RIGID REQUIREMENTS OF HIS STANDARD. Christ's coming is represented as attended by healing, comfort, and blessing. An era of peace and goodwill. But these results were not immediate. God's promises are conditional. It is not easy to live by Christ's standard. What is the nature of these requirements? 1. Consecration, which implies self-surrender. The doctrine of the Cross is but faintly understood to-day. 2. Purity. Involves thought of the heart, speech, actions. Christ raised the white standard of chastity higher than ever before. 3. Non-resistance. Must not give blow for blow. Overcome evil with good. 4. Forgiveness of injury. We are actually to love our enemies. Must pray for them, and do them good. II. DUTY OF STANDING BEFORE HIM. Christ does not judge the world in person to-day. Does this through the Gospel. Christ is the great refiner of men. It is our duty to stand before Him. 1. Because He is the only perfect standard. 2. Because it is the only way to secure His favour. 3. Because by this we reach our proper place. To hate sin, and love the sinning one — this is a Christlike prerogative. To separate the one from the other — this is a Christlike work. To stand before the Son of Man implies — (1) That your life is in harmony with His. (2) Watching and prayer. (3) His favour and Divinest blessing. (Henry Schell Lobingier.) Parallel Verses KJV: But who may abide the day of his coming? and who shall stand when he appeareth? for he is like a refiner's fire, and like fullers' soap: |
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