1 Thessalonians 4:13 But I would not have you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning them which are asleep, that you sorrow not… Our first thoughts have to do with the difference between the living and the dead. 1. In being. "There is a natural body and a spiritual body." We shall never be without a vehicle, a covering. Paul speaks about being "clothed upon." 2. In place. The place of the departed may not be far from us, if, as some have held, they are our guardian angels. The angel told John that he was his "fellow servant." As to the size of the place, what circumscribed, narrow, cramped notions we have! Don't speak of it as if it were not larger than Rutland, and of our meeting with each other there as if we were neighbours in the same street. The region is measureless, and the inhabitants "no man can number." 3. Those who have gone thither were once among the living here. I. HOW DESCRIBED. "Them which are asleep." This means more than is usually supposed. It means much about this life. 1. Not conscious of sin and sorrow, but wholly freed from them — "asleep." There can be no sleep where there is great pain: "if he sleep he shall do well." What consolation this for the bereaved! The last sigh breathed, groan uttered, pang felt. 2. Watched and protected by the heavenly Father as children "asleep." How easily and comfortably children go to sleep knowing that they will be cared for! So with them that "sleep in Jesus. 3. Without recurrence of pain and anxiety. Continuous sleep, undisturbed by roar of battle or tremor of earthquake. 4. But we cannot say of the lost that they are asleep. There is no peace to the wicked." II. WHAT OUR KNOWLEDGE IS ABOUT THEM. "Concerning." 1. In engagements. Not continual feasting and hymn singing. Variety of work. Tastes and capabilities find suitable spheres here: and surely in the other world we shall be ourselves, and every want will be met. 2. In powers. Present powers improved, memory more accurate, judgment more sound, perception more vivid. And from altered conditions of being, new powers will be developed. 3. In intercourse. "Sit down with Abraham"; "know as we are known." Similarity of view, thought answering to thought, feeling to feeling. Many here never seem to meet with their likes. "Then face to face." The mentally great drawn together, and others grouping according to their kind. (J. S. Withington.) Parallel Verses KJV: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope. |
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