Job 38:31 Can you bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion? Who can "bind" or "restrain" the light? The subject before us is the self-revealing power of the Gospel. Men may love darkness, but they cannot hide the advent of light, and can never be, in conscience and accountability, as if they had not seen the light. Evil men may wish the Christ out of the world, but they cannot hide His glory. All Christian light, whether its medium be teaching, or character, or life, or conversation, cannot be restrained. We cannot tell where influence reaches. It may leap forth long after we have finished our course. Men being dead, yet speak to us; facts in their history are disentombed, and we receive the light of their fidelity and heroism. I. THE LIGHT OF PLEIADES IN A HUMAN SENSE. What the world wants is more light — the light of love. That sweetens all relationships, and is the only cement of all classes in our crowded communities. Love is the light of the universe. Let the rosy beams of affection shine in the character, its potent charm will be as irresistible as is the health-giving, gladdening light. II. THE LIGHT OF THE PLEIADES IN A DIVINE SENSE. Love is never impotent — never doubtful of its triumph. Our Saviour never distrusted the issues of the Cross. While men are questioning about Him, His influences are going forth. Sin, grief, and death are still here. But men cannot take Christ out of the world. III. THE LIGHT OF THE PLEIADES IN A HISTORIC SENSE. Light does not die. The great influence of the reformers will never be lost. You cart bind mere opinion; you can bind mere ecclesiasticism; you cannot bind the renewed Christlike soul. IV. THE LIGHT OF THE PLEIADES IN A PERSONAL INFLUENCE SENSE. Words live long after their authors have uttered them. Deeds are vital long after great empires have passed away. Words and deeds go through the electric chain of schools, and families, and churches. None can bind the sweet influences of the Pleiades at home or abroad. (W. M. Statham.) Parallel Verses KJV: Canst thou bind the sweet influences of Pleiades, or loose the bands of Orion?WEB: "Can you bind the cluster of the Pleiades, or loosen the cords of Orion? |
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