Mark 1:2 As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before your face, which shall prepare your way before you. The reference may be to the state of the Jewish Church and the Gentile nations. But what is applied generally to the nations is equally applicable to every human heart. I. THERE ARE FORMIDABLE OBSTACLES TO BE REMOVED. 1. Prejudice. The gospel is often viewed under a false light, or through a perverting medium. The self-denial, the purity, the separation from the world which Christianity inculcates begets prejudice in many. 2. Carnality. Base desires, carnal affections, etc., present formidable obstacles to the claims of the Lord (Luke 14:18-20). 3. Hardness of heart. By nature impenitent, blind to its own extreme sinfulness, and, even after confession of sin, unwillingness to forsake them (Isaiah 46:12, 13; Ezekiel 11:19). 4. Self-righteousness. Though spiritually diseased and dying, men imagine themselves "whole," and without need of a physician. They will not accept salvation by simple faith in the merits of another (Romans 10:1, 2). II. REPENTANCE IS NECESSARY TO THE REMOVAL OF THESE OBSTACLES. (A. Tucker.) Parallel Verses KJV: As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before thee. |
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