Homilist Deuteronomy 4:32 For ask now of the days that are past, which were before you, since the day that God created man on the earth… 1. The past may refer to — (1) General history. So in context. (2) Individual life. So we take it now. 2. Inquiry of the past. (1) Some do not think of the past. This arises from — (a) Thoughtlessness. (b) Guilt. (c) A false philosophy. (2) It is our wisdom to "ask of the days that are past." (a) Because the past is in existence now. (b) Because for the past we are responsible. (c) Because the past is full of useful lessons. I. Ask of past BLESSINGS. How have they been received? 1. The blessings. (1) Material. (2) Spiritual.,Prayers answered, inspiring and uplifting influences imparted, help rendered, soul's need supplied, strength in trial, light in darkness, wisdom in ignorance, discipline to purify and perfect. 2. Their reception. Have they been received — (1) As from God? (2) As undeserved mercies? (3) In a thankful spirit? II. Ask of past OPPORTUNITIES. How have they been used? 1. Opportunities of getting good. (1) Mental good. (2) Moral good. Have they been turned to profit, or lost forever? 2. Opportunities of doing good. (1) To the bodies of men. (2) To the souls of men. Instructing the ignorant, guiding the perplexed, comforting the sorrowful, rebuking the sinner, reclaiming the citing, speaking the word in season, etc. III. Ask of past sills. Have they been repented of and pardoned? 1. Sins of omission. 2. Sins of commission. (1) Against God. Irreverence. Unsubmissiveness. Ingratitude. Unfaithfulness. (2) Against man. Injustice. Untruthfulness. Uncharitableness. (Homilist.) Parallel Verses KJV: For ask now of the days that are past, which were before thee, since the day that God created man upon the earth, and ask from the one side of heaven unto the other, whether there hath been any such thing as this great thing is, or hath been heard like it? |
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