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I. A WRETCHED CONDITION.

1. Insensibility to the good. "Stout-hearted." The word "stout-hearted" does not mean courageous, intrepid, morally brave; it means hardness, obduracy, spiritual stubbornness. It represents a soul dead to all that is spiritually true and good.

2. Alienation from the good. "Far from righteousness." To be "far from righteousness" is to be far from all that is noble, Godlike, and happy; it is to be in the kingdom of darkness, and in regions under the ban of Heaven.

II. A GLORIOUS PROMISE. "I bring near My righteousness," &c. "Righteousness and salvation" are in morals convertible terms. The promise is, Divine deliverance to men in this wretched condition. This deliverance God brings near to the sinner. "Near" —

1. In the Gospel of Christ.

2. In the ministry of the good.

3. In the suggestions of conscience.

4. In the spiritual influence of events.

III. AN URGENT DUTY. "Hearken unto Me."

1. Earnestly. Withdraw thine ear from the din of worldliness, sinful thoughts, and carnal passions, and open it to Me when I speak. Adjust yourself in a listening attitude.

2. Constantly. I am constantly speaking in nature, in conscience, in history, as well as in the Gospel. All My voices are one in significance and aim. I am calling you to My "righteousness" and "salvation."

3. Practically. What I say attend to. Don't let My voice pass away in mere impressions. Act on My counsels, obey My behests.

(Homilist.)

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KJV: Hearken unto me, ye stouthearted, that are far from righteousness:

WEB: Listen to me, you stout-hearted, who are far from righteousness: