John 1:35-51 Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;… The leading characteristics of the gospel were to be exhibited in the disciples; their selection, therefore, was a matter of vast importance. I. THE REDEEMER CHOOSES DISCIPLES OF MEN OF ENTIRELY OPPOSITE CULTURE AND DISPOSITION. In John dwells paramount the meek, the restful, and the happy. The indicating words of the Baptist were appropriate to this disciple — "Behold the Lamb!" Simon is quite another man, rock-like, rough, pressing through all hindrances, and recoiling from nothing. 1. If diverse temperaments were necessary at the beginning, they are necessary now. 2. Each is good when it is animated by the Spirit of God. Excess and onesidedness, however, are to be deplored. 3. There are many gifts but one Spirit. Sternness and gentleness, fiery strength and patient meekness, can, and ought, in like measure to glorify Christ. Let them not be polished down into similarity. Let each be content with his gift and do what he can without envying another's. Common love and zeal should bind all together and beget mutual toleration. II. THE REDEEMER CHOSE THOSE WHO ACQUIRED THE HIGHEST FAME AND THOSE WHOSE NAME ONLY HAS COME DOWN TO US. John and Peter on the one hand, Andrew and Philip on the other. 1. These silent and unknown workers are not to be despised. 2. Then among Christians such distinctions as famous and non-famous should have no place. The brilliancy of the one and the obscurity of the other does not lie in the difference of inner work, but in — (1) Outward circumstances. (2) Inclination.One mind is called to appear in the front; the other would rather conceal itself. The one works with quick and firm decision; the other is slow, silent, and sure. The one must have a wide field; the other keeps at home. Both are needful. III. THE REDEEMER'S CHOICE SHOWS US THAT THE MOST IMPORTANT EVENTS OFTEN BEGIN IN AN UNLIKELY WAY. It is a mistake to desire the important to proclaim itself so at first, and when this is not the case to yield to disappointment and discontent. Present effectiveness depends on the unbiassed prospect of the future. Out of the most modest part in Christ's work something glorious will unfold itself. (Schleiermacher.) Parallel Verses KJV: Again the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples;WEB: Again, the next day, John was standing with two of his disciples, |
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