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The thought of soul-salvation in these verses is at once deeper and broader than that contained in ver. 5 of this chapter. There it was mainly deliverance from evil, and deliverance from evil of the individual soul. Here there is the reaching a blessed destiny, and that by many.

I. THE GREAT WORTH OF SOUL-SALVATION. This is seen:

1. From the illustrious beings interested in it.

(1) Prophets.

(2) Angels.

(3) Apostles.

(4) The Holy Spirit.

From this it follows, first, that soul-salvation is no modern invention, it was known to ancient prophets; no mean conception, it was the theme of exalted angels; no obscure dream, it was proclaimed by well-known apostles; no earth-born scheme, it was a revelation of the Holy Spirit. But the worth of soul-salvation is seen:

2. By our knowledge of the Savior by whom salvation came. Christ is Christianity. The Savior is the revelation of the worth of salvation.

(1) In his sufferings (Ver. 11).

(2) In his following glories (Ver. 11):

his conquest of temptation; his resurrection; his ascension; his triumphs by his Church; the restitution of all things.

II. THE GRADUAL DEVELOPMENT OF THE REVELATION OF SOUL-SALVATION. It has dawned upon us who now have its noontide brightness, just as every day brightens to noon - gradually. In this passage we are reminded how it was:

1. Predicted. By prophets who were taught

(1) gradually and separately;

(2) often unconsciously; but

(3) divinely. We have it as:

2. Fully declared. It was plainly "announced" and is widely "preached."

III. THE SIMPLE MEANS OF ATTAINING SOUL-SALVATION. "Faith" (Ver. 9). Salvation is the thing we trust for, and to which trust tends. It is not only assent of the mind, though it is that. Nor only consent of the heart, though it is also that. But it is response of the will. "Believe, and be saved." - U.R.T.

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KJV: Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.

WEB: receiving the result of your faith, the salvation of your souls.