Jeremiah 20:9 Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name… I. MINISTERIAL DISCOURAGEMENTS DISTRESSINGLY FELT. 1. Here is a rash resolution formed. 2. An insuperable obstacle presented to his meditated abandonment of his work. II. POPULAR DETRACTION SENSITIVELY DEPLORED. 1. Explain the nature of popular detraction. 2. Adduce Scripture precepts respecting the evil of popular detraction. 3. Exhibit Scripture examples of individuals who have felt the scorpion's sting of popular detraction. 4. Analyse more particularly the ease of the prophet as exhibited in the text. III. DIVINE SUPPORT HAPPILY REALISED. 1. From a sense of the presence and power of God. 2. Expectation of the future failure and confusion of his opposers. 3. From a belief of the omniscience of God. 4. From the efficacy of prayer.Learn — (1) To expect detraction. (2) Follow the Saviour's rule: speak to the detractor alone. (3) Cultivate habits of circumspection. (4) Lay our cause before God. (5) Anticipate through the merits of Christ a world where there will be no defaming. (J. Redford) Parallel Verses KJV: Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay. |
    |