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I. THE NATURE OF THIS STEADFASTNESS. It comprehends —

1. Their steadfastness in the faith of the gospel. This faith is not merely the assent of the mind to its truth, but also the dependence of the heart on its salva tion. The latter depends indeed on the former; for if the word of the gospel be not received as true, the salvation of the gospel cannot be depended on as sure. Steadfastness, then, comprises a firm belief in the truth of revelation, and a firm reliance on the Saviour revealed; believing with the heart unto righteousness, having the heart established with grace.

2. Their steadfastness in the profession of the gospel. The gospel not only reveals truths to be believed, and a Saviour to be depended on, but presents claims to be recognized. It not only invites the confidence of the heart, but the confession of the mouth. It requires an avowed separation from the world and sin, and a professed subjection to the authority of Christ. Two separate interests divide the world — the kingdoms of Satan and of Christ. Christ has fully declared His determination to allow of no compromise. Many at different times have gone over to the enemy again. To stand fast is to maintain our profession, and not to deny the Saviour's name and desert His cause. In the early Church there was much persecution and apostasy. Now there is not much persecution, but temptation; and probably more have been induced to desert by the smiles of the world than were ever driven by its frowns.

3. Their steadfastness in the practice of the gospel. The gospel not only requires belief and profession, but action. Christianity is a practical religion. If our faith is genuine and our confession sincere, they will lead to obedience. The practice of the gospel includes —

(1) Self-government of the head, heart, hands; thoughts, words, and deeds must be brought into subjection to Christ.

(2) Relative duty. The gospel finds man a social being, and is adopted to his circumstances as such. His relative duties are —

(a) Natural; and the practice of the gospel consists in the discharge of duties owing to parents, children, etc.

(b) Civil. Such as relate to governors, subjects, masters, etc. These are comprehended in the golden rule.

(c) Religious — our duty to the Church.

4. Their steadfastness in the hope of the gospel. The religion of Christ is preeminently a religion of hope (Titus 2:12; Philippians 1:6; Hebrews 6:17).

II. ITS EFFECT. That of the text is only one out of many. The most important benefit would arise to themselves, but it would not terminate in themselves. It had a happy effect on their connections, especially on their spiritual instructors.

1. It increased their joy — "Now we live," we are happy. Who that seriously reflects on the nature and design of the ministry can avoid the conclusion that the prosperity of the people is the happiness of the minister (1 Thessalonians 2:19, 20).

2. It promoted their diligence: "Now we live," are alive in our work, and can apply ourselves with energy. When his people's faith is firm, their profession uniform, their prayers torrent, their practice consistent, etc., the minister goes forth to his work like "a giant refreshed."

3. It contributed to their usefulness. The early history of the Church proves this (Acts 2:41). The greatest obstacle to religion is the inconsistency of its professors, and their uniform consistency its most powerful auxiliary. Ministers preach to the Church; but the Church preaches to the world.

III. THE OBLIGATION OF CHRISTIANS TO MAINTAIN IT.

1. The authority of God enjoins it: "If ye love Me keep My commandments."

2. Their own interest is involved in it: "It is a good thing that the heart be established with grace."

3. The good of others requires it: "Look not every man on his own things."

4. A due regard for ministers demands it: They are to be esteemed very highly in love for their works sake.

5. Experience of Divine mercy and hope of eternal life add strength to all other obligations.

(Essex Congregational Remembrancer.)

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KJV: Therefore, brethren, we were comforted over you in all our affliction and distress by your faith:

WEB: for this cause, brothers, we were comforted over you in all our distress and affliction through your faith.