Congregational Pulpit John 17:15 I pray not that you should take them out of the world, but that you should keep them from the evil. I. BECAUSE THE WORLD NEEDS THEM. It needs — 1. Their example. They are the lights of the world. In their character, duties, and sufferings they show the blessed influence of religion. A good example has a wonderful attraction. Godly men are living epistles. 2. Their testimony. They are God's witnesses. They go into the world and bring the truth in contact with men's minds. The world needs them as it needed the glorious mission of their Lord and Master. Think of the results of their labours. Be faithful, and testify fearlessly for God and truth. 3. Their prayers. The prayers of the Church are like Moses' rod. Israel needed Elijah's prayers. Jerusalem sinners needed the prayers which preceded the pentecostal visitation. May the Lord increase the number of praying ministers, teachers, and parents! 4. Their sympathies. See the glorious institutions of our Lord, the ministrations to the sick and dying, &c., &c. What is the source of such benevolence? The life of religion in the souls of men. II. BECAUSE THEY NEED THE WORLD. 1. For the trial of their faith (Hebrews 11.). The Christian's trials are necessary as a heavenly discipline. They come forth as gold. Reliance on Jesus is faith's first exercise; confidence in God as a Father is established as we pass through this world of care and temptation. 2. To prove the sincerity of their love. We are in a state of probation. Our profession of love must be tested. Thus it was with Peter: "Lovest thou Me?" — then go and give tangible proof thereof. Saints are sent into the gospel vineyard, and in the next world the Great Proprietor will say to the faithful, "Well done," &c. 3. For their progressive sanctification. High situations are attained by degrees; health promoted by exercise. Strength and skill are obtained by conflict. Storms clear the atmosphere. Thus with the book of "truth" as our guide and help, we struggle onward and upward, gathering strength as we go, and rejoicing in anticipation of that world where sin has never found an abode. Let the saint and the sinner, respectively, inquire, Am I improving the period of my earthly existence? (Congregational Pulpit.) Parallel Verses KJV: I pray not that thou shouldest take them out of the world, but that thou shouldest keep them from the evil.WEB: I pray not that you would take them from the world, but that you would keep them from the evil one. |
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