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I. By "THE WORD" I understand the Word of God; which Word of God may be considered either as it is written in the Scripture, or as it is preached by the ministers of Christ.

II. WE PROFIT by the Word when we get that good and spiritual advantage from it for which it was designed by God. Now, God hath appointed His Word —

1. For learning and instruction.

2. For conversion. The Word turns man unto God —

(1) As it discovers sin (1 Corinthians 14:24, 25).

(2) As it brings people to the confession of sins (Matthew 3:6; Acts 19:18).

(3) As it works a kindly mourning and sorrow for sin (Acts 2:37; Nehemiah 8:9; Jeremiah 3:21).

(4) As it works amendment and reformation (1 Thessalonians 1:9; Colossians 1:5, 6).

2. For the building up of those that are called, converted, and sanctified (Acts 20:32; Acts 18:27; 1 Timothy 4:6).

4. For consolation (1 Corinthians 14:31; Acts 8:5, 8). Now the Word comforts —

(1) As it opens God's attributes, such as His mercy, wisdom, faithfulness, and power:(2) As it discovers Christ, the promises and privileges of the saints.

(3) As it discovers and reveals the marks and characters of God's children.

(4) As it answers the doubts and fears of saints.

III. How WE SHALL PROFIT by hearing the Word.

1. Hear it attentively (Mark 4:2, 3: Acts 13:16; Revelation 2:7).

2. With meekness.

3. With a good and honest heart.

(1)  An understanding heart.

(2)  A believing heart.

(3)  A loving heart.

4. Keep what you hear of it (Luke 8:15; 1 Thessalonians 5:21; 1 Corinthians 15:2).

(1)  Repeat it in your families.

(2)  Talk of it as you go from hearing.

(3)  Pray to the Lord that He would preserve the Word in your heart by His Spirit.

(Thos. Senior, B. D.)

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KJV: Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls.

WEB: Therefore, putting away all filthiness and overflowing of wickedness, receive with humility the implanted word, which is able to save your souls.