American National Preacher Acts 5:32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God has given to them that obey him. I. THE RESPECTIVE WITNESSES — the apostles in the first case, and the Holy Ghost in the second. With regard to the APOSTLES: we may remark, that their evidence, as it will bear the strictest scrutiny, so it is worthy of universal credit. 1. These witnesses must have had the strongest reasons for what they affirmed, concerning the Saviour's resurrection — or they would not have espoused a cause so extremely unpopular and hazardous. 2. Next to their peculiar situation — the nature of the evidence which these persons gave affords the strongest grounds of confidence. They were eye-witnesses of the fact. 3. And this is further strengthened by the number of witnesses herein concerned. 4. The place where they declared the fact strongly confirms it. They chose the spot where the event happened — the city where dwelt the very murderers of the Son of God — as the first place in which to spread their report. 5. The time which they chose also is another evidence of their integrity. While the transactions of Calvary were yet fresh in the memory of all, and while the enemies of the Saviour were still in transports of joy on account of their supposed victory, His disciples boldly declared that He was raised from the dead, and ascended into heaven. II. But there is a higher kind of evidence: THE HOLY GHOST also (Mark 16:20; Acts 4:33). 1. This He did by enabling them to work miracles in confirmation of the truth. 2. The transforming effects of the gospel on the hearts and lives of men afford us another proof. 3. Consolation and peace afforded to the mourner are also in proof. His smile makes the poor, the needy, the trembling rejoice.Conclusion: 1. The evidence of an ascended Saviour gives us encouragement for faith and prayer, and love, and praise. 2. How dangerous for sinners to disobey and dishonour Him! (American National Preacher.) Parallel Verses KJV: And we are his witnesses of these things; and so is also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him. |
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