1 Thessalonians 2:13 For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when you received the word of God which you heard of us… I. THE RECEPTION OF THE GOSPEL. 1. There is something in the source of the Word which claims our reverential regard. It is not the word of man, but of God. Yet the word of man claims to be heard. The utterances of the wise and good cannot be disregarded without blame; how much more the revelations of the supreme intelligence and goodness. 2. There is something in the intrinsic importance and manifest adaptation of this word which gives it claim to our regard. It speaks to our deepest wants and longings, and unfolds the "unsearchable riches of Christ" for their satisfaction. 3. There is something in the truthfulness of God's Word which gives it certainty. Man yearns for certainty, and is unhappy till he find it. He cannot find it in philosophy and speculation, but he can in Him who is "the Truth," who reveals Himself and speaks in the Word. 4. There is that in the nature of this Word which gives it authority. Mere human teaching has always wanted this: but the Word like its Author "speaks with authority, not as the Scribes." II. THE OPERATION OF THE GOSPEL. To be effectual it must be received, but being received it works — 1. The conviction of sin. To leave us in our spiritual slumber because of the unpleasant sensations of the awakening were false mercy; but the power which rouses conscience is beneficent. 2. It leads to reconciliation with God. There can be no happiness while the soul is estranged from God. The Word brings us back by revealing the fulness and sufficiency of redemption. 3. It sanctifies the heart (John 17:17). Pardon is not sufficient by itself. The Christian life is progressive holiness. The Word quickens holiness and promotes its growth. 4. It supplies consolation in time of trial. (G. Swinnock, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: For this cause also thank we God without ceasing, because, when ye received the word of God which ye heard of us, ye received it not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God, which effectually worketh also in you that believe. |
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