Philippians 3:16 Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. I. GOD HAS LEFT HIS CHURCH A RULE OF FAITH AND MANNERS. This is a rule whereby men must walk, otherwise we should be in a labyrinth of error, having no other light but the torch of nature. II. THE PROPERTIES OF THIS RULE. 1. Unchangeableness. Therefore we must bring all to it; not it to all. 2. Perspicuous. "A lamp unto my feet," etc. 3. Homogeneal. All things therein are spiritual and holy; and therefore, when the question is about religion, we must have recourse thereto as the only absolute complete rule. III. A CHRISTIAN WALKETH BY THIS RULE. He thinks it not sufficient to take a step, but keeps a right course steadfastly onward. How may this be done? 1. Let us treasure up the word in our consciences. Let us get the rule within us; get the articles of faith and assurance of the promises, and let this be betimes while we are young. It is the ordinary cry, "The Scriptures are hard, they cannot understand them." But the reason is they are bred up in earthly businesses, and are stuffed with them so as they find no place for the Word; and it is a miracle to see men thus brought up to live by this rule. 2. When we have once treasured up the knowledge of these things, we must learn to apply them upon several occasions; for where no practice is, there knowledge is idle, and makes us worthy of more stripes. Many have general truths in their minds, but coming to apply them, they find a great want. David knew adultery was a sin, and Peter knew it was dangerous for a man to rely on himself, yet how foully did they fall. 3. Let us compare our experience with our rule. We shall find there is nothing therein but is fulfilled; there is no suffering but for sin; and that besides heaven hereafter, God rewards particular obedience here with particular rewards; and particular sin with particular corrections. We shall know that His judgments are not scarecrows. 4. Be inquisitive and watchful over our particular steps. Take and hear admonitions and instructions. Those that are otherwise minded, no marvel if they, like libertines, spurn against all instruction and advice, and accordingly feel the smart of their ways before they see it. 5. Get a wonderful jealousy over our hearts. We often offend in thoughts and desires, which God, the searcher of the heart, looks into; and we must therefore be jealous of idle thoughts and words. (R. Sibbes, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: Nevertheless, whereto we have already attained, let us walk by the same rule, let us mind the same thing. |
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