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YALE
DIVINITY SCHOOL
LIBRARY

Gift of
Library of
Professor Henry Ha 11am Tweedy

NOW READY
SECOND SERIES
Acts to Revelation

PRACTICAL REFLECTIONS

ON EVERY VERSE OF

THE HOLY GOSPELS

Practical Reflections

ON EVERY VERSE OF

THE NEW TESTAMENT

BY A CLERGYMAN

BHirt) a Preface
By H. P. LIDDON, D. D.
CANON RESIDENTIARY OF ST. PAUL'S

FIRST SERIES

THE HOLY GOSPELS

RIVINGTONS
WATERLOO PLACE, LONDON
MDCCCLXXXIII [Third Edition)

" Quam formosum et in mea forma Te agnosco, O domme Jesu, non ob Divina
tanium quibus fulges miracula, sed et propter veritatem, et mansuetudinem, et
justitiant. Beatus qui Te in his hominem inter komines conversantent diligenter
obsefvans, seipsum pr<ebet pro virions imitatorem Tui." — Bernard (Sermon xxv.
in Cantica).
" Supernm illius Jerusalem^ qute est mater nostra, visibilis quadam imago et
species decoris ejus per Ipsum nobis et in Ipso nobis innotuit." — Bernard (Sermon
xxvii. in Cantica).
"Quomodo Christum amas, si Ipsius sanctam vitam non amas?" — Gerhard
(Meditation xxx)

TO THE
REV. EDWARD FRANCIS RUSSELL, M.A.,
LATE ASSISTANT CURATE OF S. ALBAN THE MARTYR, HOLBORN
THESE REFLECTIONS UPON THE HOLY GOSPELS ARE
INSCRIBED IN LOVE AND GRATITUDE.

preface*
Those persons who have made use of the First Edition of
this book -will probably agree with the present writer in
thinking that it does not stand in need of any recommenda
tion. But the Author's name is withheld for reasons which
those who know him will easily understand ; and whatever
may be the merits of a book, if it have not the guarantee
of a name, it makes its way under a disadvantage. That
there should be any obstacle to the wide circulation of this
volume appears to the present writer to be a serious mis
fortune, and accordingly he desires to do what he may to
invite attention to it. Perhaps he is the more at liberty, if not
bound, to do as much as this, since it was at his own sugges
tion, made some years since, that the work was undertaken.
Of late years the practical and devotional use of Holy
Scripture has, it is to be feared, been thrown somewhat into
the background, and with regrettable effects upon the lives of
Christiana This misfortune is probably due to two causes
in particular, among others.
It is due, first of all, to the large and indiscriminate use
of other devotional books which is made by good Church
people at the present day. There is no question as to the
value of such works as the " Imitation of Christ," or the
" Spiritual Combat," or Taylor's " Holy Living and Dying."
Masterpieces like these will always be prized by serious
Christians ; and they have had no inconsiderable share in
promoting the revival of spiritual life in our own age. But a

x Preface.
great many Christians now-a-days appear to be willing to make
friends with any devotional book that falls in their way ; and
to attempt to consult fugitively, for they cannot possibly use,
nothing less than a small devotional library. The conse
quence is that they have little or no time for the Book of
Books; and Holy Scripture is well-nigh superseded by
volumes which owe whatever light and warmth they may
possess to its inspiration. If two or three well-chosen books
are constantly read, concurrently with and in subordination
to Holy Scripture, they may do much to guide and quicken
those spiritual instincts by the exercise of which Scripture
itself is most fruitfully studied. But when that throne of
honour, which in the Christian oratory, as in the Christian
library, belongs" to the Bible, is occupied by some other
spiritual work, of whatever eminence ; an impoverishment of
Christian thought and life cannot but follow. The wisest
and most saintly of servants cannot help us as we may be
helped by the Divine Master.
The evil complained of is due, secondly, to the almost
exclusively critical character of modern studies in Holy
Scripture, at least among the educated classes. Such studies
are in themselves far too valuable to be even indirectly dis
paraged. And indeed when criticism is negative and destruc
tive, it often incidentally, and in spite of itself, throws
light upon the meaning of the Bible. No Christian can
survey the contributions which have been made by modern
scholars towards a better understanding of the Sacred Text—
the treasures of philology, of philosophy, of history, of paleo
graphy which have been lavished on its elucidation— without
feelings of deep gratitude to God. After all, it is to criticism
that we owe much- of the material of such noble works
as Dr. Pusey's "Commentary on the Minor Prophets" or

Preface. xi
Dr. Westcott's recent "Introduction to the Gospel of
St. John."
Undoubtedly criticism has its proper field of labour ; but
it does not by itself enable us to make the highest use that
we can make of Holy Scripture. Its action, as to this, is
negative and corrective : it checks mistakes in a devotional
use of Scripture : but to use Scripture devotionally we must
place ourselves under the guidance of some mind that lives
and moves in a higher sphere than that of literature. Here
we may perceive the merit of the Fathers, and of expositors
who, like the Author of these " Reflections," are patristic
in spirit, when we contrast them with most modern exposi
tors of Scripture. The Fathers do not merely think about
Scripture, they think with it : it furnishes them with the model
as well as with the material of sacred thought ; and as we read
them, we are not conscious of a difference of atmosphere be
tween the Sacred Text and the commentator, as is so often and
so painfully the case when we use modern commentaries. We
feel, on the contrary, that the thought of the patristic com
mentator is an extension of the thought which we have met
with in the Sacred Text The Fathers are no mere anatomists
of the structure and language of Scripture ; they live over
again its intellectual and moral life : and this great distinction
more than atones for any lack of critical erudition which
may be observable in their pages. Modern criticism knows
not the secret of their power ; and a generation which reads
Scripture only as a district of " Literature," is thereby con
demned to miss its highest significance and its highest
beauty. These "Reflections," then, are intended to help modern
Christians to read the New Testament as it was read by
Christians in the early ages, that is to say, devotionally.

xii Preface.
This volume is not a commentary ; least of all is it a critical
commentary, although it has not been compiled without an
eye to the results of criticism. Nor is it a storehouse of
illustrations of the Sacred Text, since it takes for granted
much of the information which an ordinary commentary
supplies. It represents an endeavour, not to impart critical
knowledge, but to stimulate religious thought ; such thought
as the Sacred Text is meant to beget and to encourage ;
such thought as tends to promote true self-knowledge, the
love of God and of man, and all that is meant by practical
religion. And thus each verse is approached with a view to
ascertaining, not its literary interest, but its exact relation
to the life of the soul. The Author does not ask and answer
the question, " What is the full historical or philosophical
import of these words?" He does ask and endeavour to
answer the question, "What do these words say to me?"
If the old maxim, " quserere Jesum in libris," is to be
remembered anywhere, it must be remembered in the use of
the Gospels. As we read those pages of priceless value, our
Lord Himself speaks to us, and we, if we will, may in turn
speak to Him. And they who, like the Author of these
"Reflections," teach us how to behave ourselves in His
Presence, and how to make the most of it, surely lay us
under an obligation for which we must often remember
them here at the Throne of Grace, and which we shall not
forget to acknowledge if, through His Redeeming Mercy,
we meet them in the life of the world to come.
H. P. LIDDON".

3 Amen Court, St. Paul's, E.O,
Lent, 1881.

a&t>mi0enutit*
The readers for whose benefit the following Reflections have
been collected are thus exactly described by Dean Burgon in
the preface to his " Plain Commentary : " "There is a class
of readers who resort to Holy Scripture neither to criticise
its historical statements, nor to acquaint themselves with its
linguistic difficulties, nor yet to have its hard places explained
to them. They read the Gospel chiefly for their soul's health,
and depend on it for their daily portion. ... In their sim
plicity, perhaps in their ignorance, they do but desire to lay
their hand on the Book of Life, as the poor woman laid her
hand on the hem of Christ's garment, and they know that
virtue must come forth to heal them. They read in a devo
tional spirit, and look for practical remarks on the sacred
text : or at least they wish to be assisted in drawing inferences
from it which may influence their own daily life and conver
sation." Such persons will easily tell if their needs are in
any way met by a work like the present. It is designed above
all to encourage young people to form the delightful habit of
reading daily a small portion of the Holy Scriptures, and this
deliberately and with attention. The Reflections are chiefly
derived from the precious and admirable book of P. Quesnel,
"Reflexions morales sur le Nouveau Testament" (which in
spite of Papal condemnation has been singularly dear to many
hearts in the last two centuries), but the compiler has freely
used whatever commentaries, whether Catholic or Protestant,
he found ready to his hand. His object was purely practical,

xiv Advertisement.
to provide a help for unlearned Christians in meditating on
Holy Scripture; therefore he does not profess to give
exhaustive comments, or to explain difficulties, or to enter on
critical questions. He desires only to suggest some simple
thoughts which may open the way for further meditation.
To those critics who may be inclined to blame what he has
done on the score of its lack of originality, or its poverty of
thought or expression, he would excuse himself in the words
of Bernard (Sermon xxii. in Cantica) : " Nonnullius profecto
fatigationis est atque laboris, quotidie scilicet exire, et
¦haurire etiam de manifestis rivulis Scripturarum, et ex eis
singulorum necessitatibus inservire, ut absque suo labore
quisque vestrum preesto habeat aquas spirituales ad omne
opus. ... Qui mente puriori per seipsos apprehendere sub-
limiora sufficiunt, quam per nos proferantur, non solum non
prohibeo, sed et multum congratulor, dum et ipsi nos
patiantur simpliciora simplicioribus ministrare." To those
who may read his pages for edification only, for which object
they are written, he would recall the following words of
Bishop Wilson (Instructions for an Academic Youth) : "There
are two things which I do most earnestly recommend to you,
as you hope to benefit yourself or others by reading the Holy
Scriptures. The first, that you always implore the assistance
of that Spirit by Which they were written for the true under
standing of them; and the second, that you apply every
Scripture as spoken to yourself. This is the very Word of
God. This is His command to me. It is what He requires
of me. This, by the grace of God, I will observe."
The compiler has not thought it necessary to put his name
to these Reflections, as they have little of his own but the
collection and arrangement, and are in no sense original. He
has, however, ventured to inscribe them to a dear friend

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whose name will recommend them far more than nis own
could do. He hopes that what he has written will meet with
a charitable interpretation, and that if any phrase appear
doubtful in meaning, that sense may be taken which is most
in accordance with the general sense of Scripture and with the
doctrines of the Church of England.

S. MATTHEW.

CHAPTER I.
I. The genealogy of Christ from Abraham to Joseph. 18. He was con
ceived by the Holy Ghost, and born of the Virgin Mary when she
was espoused to Joseph, ig. The angel satisfieth the misdeeming
thoughts of Joseph, and interpreteth the names of Christ.
TTTF, booh of the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of
David, the son of Abraham.
This is indeed a gospel, or message of good tidings. We read
histories and lives of great men who are dead, but here is One
Who lived long ago and is yet mighty to save — nay, the only
Saviour of the world. He came on earth at a distant time, in a
far country, nor have our bodily eyes ever seen Him, but we look
forward to beholding Him in His glory. Let us be true penitents
like David, and faithful worshippers like Abraham. Jesus Christ
belongs to them and to us ; to them, because they learned of Him
dimly in types and figures, and longed for His coming ; to us,
because we know the power of His life and death.
2. Abraliam begat Isaac; and Isaac begat Jacob; and
Jacob begat Judas and his brethren; 3. and Judas begat
P/tares and Zara of Thamar ; and Phares begat Esrom ;
and Esrom begat Aram; 4. and Aram begat Aminadab ;
and Aminadab begat Naasson ; and Naasson begat Salmon ;
5. and Salmon begat Booz of Rachab ; and Booz begat Obed
of Ruth; and Obed begat Jesse; 6. and Jesse begat David.
the king ; and David the king begat Solomon of her that had
been the wife of Urias; 7. and Solomon begat Roboam ; and
Roboam begat Abia; and Abia begat Asa ; 8. and Asa begat
Josaphat; and Josaphat begat J or am ; and J or am begat
Ozias ; 9. and Ozias begat Joatham ; and Joatham begat
Achaz; and Achaz begat Ezekias; 10. and Ezekias begat
Manasses; and Manasses begat Amon ; and Amon begat
Josias; 11. and Josias begat Jechonias and his brethren,
about the time they were carried away to Babylon : 1 2. and
after they were brought to Babylon, Jechonias begat Salathiel,
A

2 The Genealogy of Christ. [S. Matt. I.
and Salathiel begat Zorobabel; 13. and Zorobabel begat
Abiud; and Abiud begat Eliakim; and Eliakim begat Azor ;
14. and Azor begat Sadoc ; and Sadoc begat Achim; and
Achim begat Eliud; 15. and Eliud begat Eleazar; and
Eleazar begat Matthan ; and Matthan begat Jacob; 16. and
Jacob begat Joseph the husband of Mary, of whom was born
Jesus, who is called Christ.
The family of David, to which Joseph and Mary both belonged,
though most ancient and illustrious, had now fallen into poverty
and obscurity. Nor were Joseph or Mary discontented at this ; it
was enough for them to be God's instruments in the birth and
nurture of His Son, and so obtain rich spiritual blessings. Lofty
titles and great family names are of little profit in themselves ; those
who inherit such may indeed encourage themselves to noble acts by
remembering what their name requires, but the rest of us may more
safely rejoice in the thought that God is our Father, Christ our
Brother, heaven our inheritance. What do such connections, such
expectations, require of us ?
17. So all the generations from Abraham to David are four
teen generations ; and from David until the carrying away
into Babylon are fourteen generations ; and from the carrying
away into Babylon unto Christ are fourteen generations.
God worked out in due time the fulfilment of His promise. None
of the crimes, troubles, divisions of kings or people, not their
idolatry nor captivity, could hinder His wise Providence from carry
ing out the plan of salvation. God brings to nought the designs
of men, buttings to pass His own, and makes His truth manifest
in the end. Amidst the confusion of this world we may remember
that one day the Judge will appear, and wind up the long succes
sion of men's doings.
18. IT Now the birth of Jesus Christ was on this wise:
When as his mother Mary was espoused to Joseph, before they
came together, she was found with child of the Holy Ghost.
Though Christ our Lord came of the race of Adam, thus sharing in
the common nature of mankind, and of the family of David, which
represented the former glories of Israel, yet He came by a new
way, so as to take our nature without stain or blame. In all human
sympathy He was one with us ; but He was born of a virgin mother,
and so did not share our burden of sin and death, except by freely
taking it on His shoulders.
19. Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not
willing to make her a publick example, was minded to put her
away privily.
Thus Joseph and Mary had to bear their troubles for a while before
God made His will clear j the most holy household was not free

Ver. 25.] His Conception and Birth. 3
from suspicion, anxiety, and grief, though Joseph's patience pre
vented any hasty passion. God sends troubles on those whom
He loves best.
20. But while he thought on these things, behold, the angel
of the Lord appeared unto him in a dream, saying, Joseph,
thou son of David, fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife :
for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost.
The sacred human nature of Jesus was formed immediately by God
in a new and marvellous way by which no other ever came.
Mary, instead of deserving blame, had remained entirely pure,
though about to become a mother. Here are marvels passing
all understanding, which are only credible to us when we con
sider the unique holiness, majesty, and power over death and life
of this Son Who was about to be born.
21. And she shall bring forth a soil, and thou shalt call his
name JESUS : for he shall save his people from their sins.
His name should be Jesus, meaning a Saviour, or God will save.
Others had borne the name in an earthly sense, especially Joshua,
the great conqueror, who overcame the enemies of Israel and
settled them in the Land of Promise ; but here was the true
Deliverer, Who should vanquish a worse enemy and plant His
people in a more enduring home. This is a message of comfort
that there should be One to save us from our sins, and any one who
has known the power of evil, who has fallen frequently, who has
struggled painfully, will welcome the Saviour, and seek pardon
and freedom from Him.
22. Now all this was done, that it might be fulfilled which
was spoken of the Lord by the prophet, saying, 23. Behold, a
virgin shall be with child, and shall bring forth a son, and
they shall call his name Emmanuel, which being interpreted
is, God with us.
God being with us is indeed good news : what harm can happen if
God is with us? The incarnation of the Son of God brings
Him amongst us in a special manner ; let us keep Him with us
by prayer, and by frequent remembrance of His acts of mercy.
All the history of the Jews in old time pointed onwards, and could
not be fully understood till Christ came : now was the time of
fulfilment. Shall we not too one day look back on all God's pro
mises to us, and see how they have come true ?
24. Then Joseph being raised from sleep did as the angel of
the Lord had bidden him, and took unto him his wife : 25. and
knew her not till she had brought forth her firstborn son : and
he called his name JESUS.
The ready obedience of Joseph was pleasing to God. When we are
in trouble and distress of mind, the best remedy is to obey God's

The Wise Men out of the East. [S. Matt. II.
will, and we shall find peace again. When God speaks our human
reasonings and doubts disappear. Mary represents.both the mar
ried and the unmarried state ; she alone of all women was a tender
mother, yet remained a pure virgin. We may learn from her
example, from her purity and faith, her devotion to do God's will,
her gratitude for His mercies.

CHAPTER II.
i. The wise men out of the east are directed to Christ by a star. xi.
They worship him, and offer their presents. 14. Joseph fleeth
into Egypt, with Jesus and his mother. 16. Herod slayeth the
children : 20. himself dieth. 23. Christ is brought back again into
Galilee to Nazareth.
~YT OW when Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judosa in the
_L\ days of Herod the king, behold, there came wise men
from the east to Jerusalem,
Jesus was born in a small town, of a despised nation, in the
dominions of a cruel tyrant, and was little noticed by the world.
Yet some true worshippers were led by God from a distant
country to find Him out and pay Him honour. Those who have
most opportunities of religion sometimes benefit least, while others
with far less privileges yet seek God devoutly.
2. Saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews ? for
we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him.
We too should come and worship the Holy Child. The star of His
Word has shone upon us. Like these wise men we ought to let no
trouble, no risk, no difficulty, keep us back from serving God.
He is our gracious King, and we should behave as His loyal and
obedient subjects.
3. Wlien Herod the king had heard these things, he was
troubled, and all Jerusalem with him.
There are people to whom the news of Christmas, the good tidings
of a Saviour come into the world, brings only annoyance and
suspicion. They dislike religion, and cannot see what Christians
find m it. Is the name of Jesus, and the thought of His past
mercies and future glory, a source of joy to us, or only a vexation
and a weariness ?
4. And when he had gathered all the chief priests and scribes
of the people together, he demanded of them where Christ should
be born.
Herod inquired with jealousy, the chief priests answered with indiffer-
ence, but the Christian will consider the history of our Lord's child-

Ver. ii.] Herod's Inquiries concerning Christ. 5
hood joyfully and thankfully. It is a story well worth learning,
and telling, how the King of Glory came down to be a child among
men.
5. And they said unto him, In Bethlehem of Judma: for thus
it is written by the prophet, 6. And thou Bethlehem, in the land
of Juda, art not the least among the princes of Juda : for out
of thee shall come a Governor, that shall rule my people Israel.
The ancient city of David was in itself small and obscure, but it
became glorious as the birthplace of Christ. Its name, Bethlehem,
means House of Bread, and reminds us of the True Bread that
came down from heaven and gave life to the world. All this the
priests and scribes knew, yet it was of no profit to them. To some
a knowledge of Holy Scripture or of religious truth has been only
a source of condemnation.
7. Then Herod, when he had privily called the wise men,
enquired of them diligently what time the star appeared.
8. And he sent them to Bethlehem, and said, Go and search
diligently for the young child ; and when ye have found him,
bring me word again, that I may come and worship him also.
It is not of much use to know the exact time of the star, or the other
dates and facts of the Bible, unless we mean indeed- to worship the
King Who is there revealed to us. Herod concealed his design of
killing the Holy Child under a pretence of reverence, and was a
figure herein of those who come to God's Altar with an outward
show of devotion, but inwardly at enmity with Him. How many
communions are but this show of love concealing hatred and sin !
9. When they had heard the king, they departed; and, lo,
the star, which they saw in the east, went before them, till it
came and stood over where the young child was.
The star which they had seen in their own country now shone out
again upon them, and guided them on their road. Sometimes
God shows His people more light, more assurance, more sensible
comfort ; at other times their path is darker. In dark hours what
we have to do is to walk straight on and keep to the right way,
trusting that light will return again.
10. When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding
great joy.
God sends us times of brightness even here, and more often towards
the end of our journey. Then we see great truths more clearly,
and rejoice in God's goodness to us. Joy in this heavenly good
ness is a greater and better thing than the pleasures of the world ;
nothing can take it from us.
1 1. IT And when they were come into the house, they saw the
young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and wor-

6 Joseph fleeth into Egypt. [S. Matt. II.
shipped him : and when they had opened their treasures, they
presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.
At the end of their journey they reach the presence of Jesus, and
worship there. Such is the prospect which we look forward to.
The road of this world is long and difficult, the star of Faith often
overcast with clouds, the Way hard to find ; but what matters it if
we can but come at last to the presence of God, and glorify Him for
ever ? In these gifts lessons are to be found : they brought gold as
a, tribute of obedience to their king, incense to express prayer,
myrrh (which is bitter, yet fragrant and purifying) as a sign of re
pentance, without which our other gifts are not acceptable.
12. And being warned of God in a dream that they should
not return to Herod, they departed into their own country
another way.
When we have been converted to God, have felt His love, and de
voted ourselves to His service, let us take care to walk for the
future another way ; not that in which we have hitherto trodden,
but a new and better one. We should also, like these wise men,
obey God rather than man, not seeking earthly favour, but that of
God, Who trieth the hearts.
13. And when they were departed, behold, the angel of the
Lord appear eth to Joseph in a dream, saying, Arise, and take
the young child and his mother, and flee into Egypt, and be
thou there until I bring thee word : for Herod will seek the
young child to destroy him.
The Son of God, as a child, was pursued by deadly enemies, and had
to be saved by a secret flight. Is it strange that His people should
meet with hatred in this world, and have to give way to triumphant
wickedness for a while? Let us not complain of the treatment we
receive from men, since the Son of God was so little regarded.
14. When he arose, he took the young child and his mother
by night, and departed into Egypt: 15. and was there until
the death of Herod: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken
of the Lord by the prophet, saying, Out of Egypt have I called
my son.
When God's will is clear we have nothing to do but obey readily
and cheerfully, casting all our care upon Him, as S. Joseph did
At the time that God of old was with His children in Egypt and
brought them forth, He showed His protecting care by every kind
of marvel, sending terrible judgments and great deliverances: but
now He allows His Son to remain in entire obscurity and help
lessness. He is no less with us when there are no sensible tokens
01 His presence.
16. 1T Then Herod, when he saw that he was mocked of the
wise men, ivas exceeding wroth, and sent forth, and slew all the

Ver. 2i.j The Innocents slain.

children iliat were in Betldehem, and in all the coasts thereof,
from two years old and under, according to the time which he
had diligently enquired of the wise men.
Herod was of a suspicious temper, and had already put to death his
wife, two of his sons, and some other princes, on the pretext that
his throne was in danger from them. It was therefore a small thing
for him to have the infants in this village killed, in the hope that
the expected King of the Jews might be thus cut off. Passion and
hatred, if indulged, gain a mastery over the whole character, so
that a man shrinks from no cruelty to gratify it. Check the first
beginnings of evil, lest they grow into monsters of crime such as
have amazed the world.
1 7. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the
prophet, saying, 1 8. In Rama ivas there a voice heard, lamenta
tion, and weeping, and great mourning, Rachel weeping for
her children, and would not be comforted, because they are not.
The prophet in the days of the Captivity represents the desolate
country under the figure of Rachel, who was buried near Beth
lehem, weeping for her lost children, and the Evangelist takes up
the same thought and applies it to the mothers of Bethlehem
lamenting the infants whom Herod had slain. Christian mothers,
when they lose their children, should not weep as if they had no
comfort. The Lord Jesus has given their dear little ones a share
in His Cross, and taken them into a land of peace, and He will one
day restore them to our longing eyes again.
19. IT But when Herod was dead, behold, an angel of the
Lord appeareth in a dream to Joseph in Egypt, 20. saying,
Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the
land of Israel : for they are dead which sought the young
child's life.
The movements of the Holy Family were dependent upon God's will.
Our object should be, in the various occasions of life, to know the
Holy Will and obey it. We should consider what God would have
us do, and where go, and then we shall have good success. Herod
died in great misery, after a long life of great power and wicked
ness. He left behind him an evil name, and carried with him the
curses of those whom he had oppressed. The Church of God can
wait patiently till evil men pass away, and their violence with
them.
21. And he arose, and took the young child and his mother,
and came into the land of Israel.
In old times Moses had brought Israel out of Egypt with a mighty
hand and great wonders, and had led them to the land of Canaan.
The desert gave them food, enemies fled before them, Jordan
opened for their passage ; but now S. Joseph brings back the Holy
Child and the virgin mother in silence, and shuns observation.

8 The Return to Nazareth. [S. Matt. III.
God's ways are different at different times, yet His true servants
learn to recognise them. After all our sojourning in Egypt, and
journeyings through the desert of life, we desire to come to the
land of Israel at last, and abide there for ever.
22. But when he heard that Archelaus did reign in Judcea
in the room of his father Herod, he was afraid to go thither :
notwithstanding, being warned of God in a dream, he turned
aside into the parts of Galilee :
Do not leave a place, a calling, a good work, without God's will for
you to do so being clear : " In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and
He shall direct thy paths." Let Him be your guide in life ; con
sider carefully what appears to be His will before you act, and then
persevere bravely, relying on His help. The changes of the world
and events of life all carry out God's designs ; they are but instru
ments, working out His will without knowing it.
23 . And he came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth : that
it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall
be called a Nazarene.
He had been called cf old "Netzer," or the Branch, which should
spring out of the stem of Jesse and overshadow the whole world.
The Jews were a despised people and Nazareth a place little
regarded, yet out of that people and in that town grew up to
manhood the Flower and Perfection of Humanity, Jesus the Son
of Mary. There He lived for thirty years in obscurity, occupied
in work, in prayer, in obedience, not seeking for wealth or renown,
that we might learn how glorious in God's sight is a humble,
straightforward, obscure life of duty.

CHAPTER III.
1. John preacheth : his office : life, and baptism. 7. He reprehendeth
the Pharisees, 13. and baptizeth Christ in Jordan.
IN those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilder
ness of Judcea, 2. and saying, Repent ye : for the kingdom
of heaven is at hand.
This mighty preacher had little of human learning. He was broueht
up in retirement, chose the desert for the scene of his ministry
and the common people for his hearers. He had no ambition and
sought no preferment. If we would move souls to repentance we
should sit loose to this world, and show a pattern of disinterested
ness. Too many preachers pull down by their lives what thev
build up by their words. The kingdom of Jesus Christ is close to
us in His invisible grace, and soon to appear in His visible glory •
let us get ready for it. * * '

Ver. 9.] John's Preaching. 9
3. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias,
saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye
the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
Isaiah declared of old that God was about to bring back His people
unto their own land, and gave warning as a herald to prepare the
way for the great King marching before His hosts ; but S. John
speaks of a preparation of grace, and bids us make ready for
the spiritual coming of Christ into the heart. Sin and pride and
ignorance should be removed, truth and love planted, and a fit
dwelling raised for the Lord of glory.
4. And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and
a leathern girdle about his loins ; and his meat was locusts and
wild honey.
He lived in the desert, using what clothes and food it supplied, as
Elijah his forerunner had done of old times. In this retreat such
holy persons lived alone with God, they felt the nothingness of this
world, and could speak accordingly.
5. Then went out to him Jerusalem, and all Judma, and all
the region round about Jordan, 6. and were baptized of him in
Jordan, confessing their sins.
Those who met him found that he spoke to their hearts. He had
things to say about God, judgment, repentance, faith in a Christ
to come, to hear which they would go out into the desert. Thus
they began to come in crowds, and he baptized them in token of
their putting away their sins and leading a new and better life.
7. IT But when he saw many of ilie Pharisees and Sadducees
come to his baptism, he said unto them, 0 generation of vipers,
who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come ?
He spoke no smooth things to the respectable and intelligent classes,
but called them vipers, from their poisonous tempers and bitter
words, and warned them of the wrath to come, when God would
try their lives.
8. Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:
Feelings, promises, and professions are not enough. God requires
real fruits, a changed life, a pure heart, perseverance in well-doing.
He will not be contented with leaves only.
9. And think not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham
to our father : for I say unto you, that God is able of these
stones, to raise up children unto Abraham.
Rely not on your privileges or opportunities. God is able to make
those dull and ignorant and careless persons on whom you now
look down into saints and heirs of the promise. He has no need
of you, but you have need of His quickening grace every moment.

The Call to Repentance. [S. Matt. IV.

10. And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees:
therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn
down, and cast into the fire.
Our trial may end at any moment ; the decree goes forth, and our
time for work is over. God grant that we may not be found with
out fruit, and fit only for destruction. May He spare us a while till
we are ready.
n. / indeed baptize you with water unto repentance : but he
that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not
worthy to bear : he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and
with fire-
John's baptism was a mere outward form, signifying purity of heart
and a changed life ; but Jesus Christ gives us the Holy Spirit, which
makes us God's children and kindles love in our hearts. Christians
are the disciples and friends of God's own Son, Who heals and
sanctifies them with His almighty power.
12. Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge
his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner ; but lie will
bum up the chaff with unquenchable fire.
John's ministry effected a temporary separation, distinguishing out
wardly those who then repented from those who went on in their
sins ; but Jesus Christ knows the difference that exists within
though men see it not, and will one day make a lasting separation
between those who are His and those who love Him not. We are
becoming fit either for the one condition or the other, either for
God's garner as the good wheat, or for His fire of refuse as the
empty chaff.
13. IT Then cometh Jesus from Galilee to Jordan unto John,
to be baptized of him.
Our Lord waited in retirement and led a homely life till His
Father's time was fully come. This rebukes our haste and self-
pleasing. When called to do any work for God, we should pray
and seek to know His will, and give up ourselves wholly to His
leading. He came forth at last, not to declare Himself the
Christ, but to join the repenting sinners who flocked to John's
baptism. He was not ashamed to be reckoned as one of them.
14. But John forbad him, saying, I have need to be baptized
of thee, and comest thou to me ?
We all have need to be baptized by Jesus, viz. to be washed from our
sins in His cleansing Blood. There is no one, even though he be
as holy as John the Baptist, but has something to be forgiven,
and where else can we obtain forgiveness but from our Saviour ?
Let us, who know Jesus Christ, frequently seek this cleansing, and
strive to bring in those who as yet know Him not to the same
Fountain of mercy.

Ver. i.] Chris fs Baptism.

15. And Jesus answering said unto him, Suffer it to be so
now : for thus it becometh us to fulfil all righteousness. Then
he suffered him.
The Son of God came to humble Himself, to empty Himself of His
glory, and take the form of a servant, and so it became Him to be in
all things like us, obeying, working, suffering, and dying, as one of
the children of men. We must also try to fulfil all righteousness,
not seeking our own glory, but content to be despised and over
looked here, if God will but acknowledge us hereafter.
16. And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway
out of the water : and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him,
and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove, and light
ing upon him :
Christ our Lord, as man, received before He began His ministry the
sign of the Spirit's presence with Him. When we are baptized and
confirmed, we too have heaven opened to us, and receive the Holy
Spirit to fit us to be Christ's soldiers. Let us not by wilful sin drive
away the Heavenly Guide and shut fast again the heavenly doors.
1 7. And lo a voice from heaven, saying, This is my beloved
Son, in whom I am well pleased.
We can please God only in and for His dear Son. Through Him we
must offer prayers and praises and good works, joining them to
His perfect sacrifice, and praying God to accept them for His
sake. All peace and blessing and mercy come to man through
this Man Who is alone acceptable to God. If our Elder Brother is
in such favour, shall not we too find a kind regard and welcome ?

CHAPTER IV.
1. Christ fasteth, and is tempted. 11. The angels minister unto him. 13.
He dwelleth in Capernaum, 17. beginneth to preach, 18. calleth
Peter, and Andrew, ax. James, and John, 23. and healeth all the
diseased.
THEN was Jesus led up of the spirit into the wilderness to
be tempted of the devil.
Immediately after His baptism and the descent of the Holy Spirit
upon Him, Jesus is led into a bare and lonely wilderness, and
is there sharply tempted by Satan. We too after moments of
spiritual joy and progress must look for seasons of trial. The
kingdom of evil is near us so long as we live in this world, and it
requires all our watchfulness to fight against it. There is no harm
in being tempted if only we resist boldly.

The Temptation. [S. Matt. IV.

2. And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he
was afterward an hungred.
He was for forty days in an ecstasy of prayer and communion with
His Father, and felt no need of earthly nourishment, like Moses on
the mount, or Elijah in the. desert for a like time; but then His
human nature gave way, and He felt the pain and weakness of
hunger. The many who have to live very hardly, and often lack
sufficient food, may take comfort when they remember that their
pain was shared by their Master ; and let us who are better pro
vided take care not to indulge our appetites.
3. And when the tempter came to him, he said, If thou be the
Son of God, command that these stones be made bread.
The tempter first bade our Lord use His wonder-working power, and
this, not for His brethren's needs or as a proof of His Divine
mission, but to supply His own bodily wants. It is much the same
as when he says to us, "How desirable is such and such a
pleasure or indulgence ! it is in your power, enjoy it without fear."
We are tempted through our own bodies and their appetites.
4. But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not
live by bread alone, but by every word that proeeedeth out of the
mouth of God.
Not by bread alone shall man live, not merely on what pleases
the appetite, but by every word of God. He has something else
to look to, a heavenly nourishment, a Divine promise, something
better than earthly food to sustain him, if he will remain stedfast
to God's will. Life is not true life if spent in mere indulgence,
but requires a striving after higher things.
5. Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth
him on a pinnacle of the temple, 6. and saith unto him, If
thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down : for it is written,
He shall give his angels charge concerning thee : and in their
hands they shall bear thee up, lest at any time thou dash thy
foot against a stone.
The tempter urged our Lord to leap from the summit of the temple.
The angels would bear Him up, the people would admire, He
would be gloriously recognised as God's Son. This is the tempta
tion of pride, which inclines us to rely on our own privileges, to
despise others, to be confident of our own state. Satan misuses
these verses of Scripture, which encourage us to a quiet trust in God,
that he may lead us to a presumptuous security. He bids us think
"I am a favoured person, my salvation is assured, I cannot fall
away,' and so throws us off our guard.
7. Jesus said unto him, It is written again, Thou shalt not
tempt the Lord thy God.
" Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God." Avoid pride and singu-

Ver. i 3.] The Tempter overcome. 13
larity in religion, do not boast of special revelations, or lofty gifts,
or warm feelings, nor desire to be highly esteemed by men, but
walk in the common path of duty, humbly trusting that God will
protect you there whatever trials come.
8. Again, the devil taketh him up into an exceeding high
mountain, and sheweth him all the kingdoms of the world, and
the glory of them; 9. and saith unto him, All these things
will I give thee, if thou wilt fall down and worship me.
Again, the tempter placed our Saviour on a mountain, and showed
Him, by some strange power, all that was most rich and splendid
and mighty in the world, promising that he would make Him
master of it all on easy terms ; and he tempts us in the same way
whenever money or power are to be won by means which we know
are not right. He does not show us kingdoms, but baits his trap
more cheaply with some small advantage.
10. Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for
it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him
only shalt thou serve.
Worship and serve God only, He is the true Master and Lord to
Whom all those things belong, though Satan claims them and seems
to bestow them for a while. Do not be covetous or worldly-minded,
or follow dishonest ways to get rich, for the only safe prosperity
comes of serving the heavenly Master with a perfect heart. He
will reward His servants in due time.
11. Then the devil leaveth him, and, behold, angels came and
ministered unto him.
The temptation was over and Jesus had overcome. Then He was
left for a while in peace, and was refreshed by heavenly messengers.
Satan came back later on and assailed Him more fiercely, and He
then conquered even more gloriously. Let us resist evil after the
example of our Captain, knowing that all through this life we shall
never be long without temptation. God will help us. Jesus is with
us. The angels are watching by. There is a home of love and
purity awaiting us where the tempter will never enter.
12. IT Now when Jesus had heard that John was cast into
prison, he departed into Galilee; 13. and leaving Nazareth,
he came and dwelt in Capernaum, which is upon the sea coast,
in the borders of Zabulon and Nephthalim :
An interval of some months at least appears to come in before verse
12 ; for John the Baptist was not cast into prison till after the events
related in the first four chapters of S. John's Gospel, so that the
Lord had worked the first miracle, and then spent some time in
Judsea, before beginning His ministry in Galilee, which this chapter
goes on to relate. Notice, the principle of his movements was
obedience. He went nowhere of self-will, or to profit Himself,
but as His Father's will and the good of souls guided Him.

14 Peter called. [S. Matt. IV.
14. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias
the prophet, saying, 15. The land of Zabulon, and the land of
Nephthalim, by the way of the sea, beyond Jordan, Galilee of
the Gentiles; 16. the people which sat in darkness saw great
light ; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death
light is sprung up.
Our Saviour's teaching brings us "great light," light about God, our
duty, prayer, repentance, the world to come. All these most impor
tant subjects, on which we long to know something and yet grope
about in vain to find the truth, are lighted up for us by the words
of Jesus Christ. Those who listened to Him then, or we who read
His words now, find in Him peace and strength and grace. He
becomes our Guide and leads us through the dark valley. Nature
by itself is but darkness and gloom, but God's Word enables us to
see our way.
1 7. U From that time Jesus began to preach, and to say,
Repent : for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.
Repentance is the first step in the recovery of fallen man, no other
way for sinners but this only. We are told to repent if we would
become fit for the kingdom of heaven. It is close to us now, and
one day it will be revealed openly. Though earthly things seem
nearer, God and heaven are close by, even though unseen.
18. IT And Jesus, walking by the sea of Galilee, saw two
brethren, Simon called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting
a net into the sea : for they were fishers.
Here our Lord first began to call His ministers. They were not people
of learning or position, but they had found out Jesus and opened
their hearts to Him before this time (John i. 40), and then had
returned to their ordinary labour, waiting His further good pleasure.
A simple life, diligence in our employment, patient waiting for
God's time to come, such are a fit preparation for pastoral work.
Here are two brothers who worked together, sought Christ together,
and were called together to preach His Word. The ties of nature
were blessed and strengthened by grace.
19. And he saith unto them, Follow me, and I will make
you fishers of men.
That is a Christian teacher's object. He does not covet praise, or
honour, or wealth, but he wants souls. His object is to be a fisher
of men, bringing souls within the net of God's Word, so that they
may not wander away on the stormy sea of the world, but find
Jesus their Saviour and love Him for ever. Often the nets break,
or the storm sweeps them away, but the fisherman must go on per-
severingly, doing his best to gain men's hearts for Christ.
20. And they straightway left their nets, and followed him.
Such is the effect of Christ's voice. Lord, speak to me with this voice

Ver. 25.] Chris fs Ministry. 15
of power, that I may rise up at once and follow Thee. Of myself
I cannot come, but Thou canst give me strength to overcome all
the difficulties that lie in my way.
21. And going on from thence, he saw other two brethren,
James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, in a ship with
Zebedee their father, mending their nets ; and he called them.
These two brethren are not fishing, but mending their nets ; for that
also there is a fit time in the work of grace. Sometimes fish for
souls by preaching God's Word and persuading men to believe ;
sometimes again mend the nets, that is, pray, examine yourself,
study the Bible, think over your own defects and amend them.
22. And they immediately left the ship and their father, and
followed him.
God's Word does this at times. It separates hearts here below for
a while, and calls beloved ones away to work for God elsewhere ;
but there will be perfect union again in heaven. All else may be
cheerfully given up so long as we are with Christ and He with
us.
23. IT And Jesus went about all Galilee, teaching in their
synagogues, and preaching the gospel of the kingdom, and heal
ing all manner of sickness and all manner of disease among
the people.
Of this Divine teaching and preaching we have examples in the
chapters that follow. Our Lord taught about God's law, prayer,
forgiveness, life to come ; and He illustrated His words with
parables and figures suited to the people's understanding. Nor
was He content with this ; for He enforced what He had said by
performing acts of power and mercy, bringing life and health
wherever He came.
24. And his fame went throughout all Syria : and they
brought unto him all sick people that were taken with divers
diseases and torments, and those which were possessed with
devils, and those which were lunatick, and those that had the
palsy ; and he healed them.
Why did the Lord Jesus spend so much of His time in curing sick
ness? Partly to lead the sufferers whose bodies He relieved to
seek spiritual health and comfort from Him ; partly too as a figure
of His heavenly work, showing how He could cure the worst
sicknesses of the soul ; partly also because He was full of mercy,
and therefore naturally relieved the sufferings of those who drew
near to Him. Having all power as well as love, it was natural for
Him to heal and help the distressed.
25. And there followed him great multitudes of people from
Galilee, and from Decapolis, and from Jerusalem, and from
Judcea, and from beyond Jordan.

1 6 The Beatitudes. [S. Matt. V.
We too are bidden to follow Him, not by leaving our homes butby
leaving our faults. We may stop at home and work out our salvation
there, if we will take Jesus for our spiritual Guide and follow His
example in our life. His Name is adored and His example followed
by true disciples not only in Galilee, but in every country through
out the world.

CHAPTER V.
i. Christ beginneth his sermon in the mount: 3. declaring who are blessed,
13. who are the salt of the earth, 14. the light of the world, the city on
an hill, 15. the candle : 17. that he came to fulfil the law. 21. What it
is to kill, 27. to commit adultery, 33. to swear : 38. exhorteth to suffer
wrong, 44. to love even our enemies, 48. and to labour afterperfectness.
A ND seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain : and
j_i. ivhen he was set, his disciples came unto him :
We should "go up" with Christ by lifting up our hearts from this
world's cares and vanities to listen to His heavenly words ; and we
should listen as " disciples," with a humble and obedient heart, to
this Divine sermon which follows. He alone can enable us to profit
by it.
2. And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying,
When we open the New Testament, it is Jesus Who speaks and
teaches us. We are happy to have God's own Son for our teacher.
Let us listen to Him in preference to this world's wisdom. He is
going to tell us what His true disciples are like.
3. Blessed are the poor in spirit : for their' s is the kingdom
of heaven.
Feeling that they have nothing to trust to of their own, they humbly
look up to God, and beseech His grace and mercy, on which they
entirely depend He, in return, gives them, of His bounty, blessings
here and hereafter.
4. Blessed are they that mourn : for they shall be comforted.
They are deeply touched by their own faults and by the sins and
sorrows that they meet, and in return for their tears God eives
them everlasting peace and joy. Even in this world they have
much comfort, but who can reckon the greatness of their iov
hereafter ! ' ¦>
5. Blessed are the meek : for they shall inherit the earth
They do not remember insults or injuries, but treat their enemies
patiently putting up cheerfully with all vexations such as this
wretched world is full of, and taking no offence

Ver. i 3.] Blessings and Promises. 17
6. Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after right
eousness : for they shall be filled.
Righteousness is what we should long for above all things, that God
would fill our hearts with holiness, faith, and love. Let us seek to
become better every day. The Lord Jesus is our righteousness ;
a living faith in Him is the only way to renew our life after God's
pattern.
7. Blessed are the merciful : for they shall obtain mercy.
Assist those who are in need, bear with others' failings, have a kind
word for all, and God will deal mercifully with you when your
trial comes. How much you are yourself in need of forgiveness I
this thought should dispose you to be merciful.
8. Blessed are the pure in heart : for they shall see God.
O Lord, guard our hearts from all evil, and if they have been soiled,
cleanse them by Thy Blood. How great a thing it will be to see
God ! is it not worth while taking pains to keep away from sinful
thoughts now, that one day such a vision of love and glory may
satisfy all our longings ?
9. Blessed are the peacemakers : for they shall be called the
children of God.
Those who, as they go through the world, make up differences and
bring people to think well of each other, are dear to God. They
remind us that we are all His children, and therefore should live in
peace together.
10. Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness'
sake : for their' s is the kingdom of heaven. 1 1. Blessed are ye,
when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all
manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. 1 2. Rejoice,
and be exceeding glad : for great is your reward in heaven
for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.
If you are laughed at and despised, much more if you are ill-used, for
being a Christian, remember that you share the lot of the holy
Saints and Martyrs. If you remain stedfast, and persevere in
prayer, in honesty, and purity, God will help you to fight, and
will give you at last a crown of glory. We have now had put
before us eight ways of arriving at true blessedness, should we not
believe Jesus Christ when He tells us how we can reach it ?
13. H Ye are the salt of the earth: but if the salt have lost
his savour, wherewith shall it be salted ? it is thenceforth good
for nothing, but to be cast out, and to be trodden under foot of
men. A Christian, by his example, does good to those with whom he is,
and sets his face against all manner of evil ; only let him be on his
guard lest sudden temptation overcome him, and he too fall away
B

1 8 Fulfilment of the Law. [S. Matt. V.
and become the scorn of men and angels. He can persevere, if he
prays and trusts to God's strength, not his own.
14. Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an
hill cannot be hid. 15. Neither do men light a candle, and
put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it givetli light
unto all that are in the house. 16. Let your light so shine
before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your
Father which is in heaven.
To be a light to others we must be constantly fed by the oil of God's
grace. Consider if your prayers, conversation, and behaviour are
such as to be a good example to those around you. Do those who
live with you feel that you are Christ's servant, and walk the
steadier towards heaven for knowing you ?
17. IT Think not that I am come to destroy the law, or the
prophets : I am not come to destroy, but to fulfil.
Notice the perfect obedience of Jesus Christ. He kept the ordinances
of the law and fulfilled the prophecies. He will give us power to
obey, if we pray for it. His glory was to obey, fulfil, submit,
not to be independent or exalt Himself.
18. For verily I say unto you, Till heaven and earth pass,
one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all
be fulfilled.
God's Word is full of mysteries, and everything in it has a meaning.
Many things which we do not see the reason of now had a purpose,
and filled a place, in God's revelation when they were given.
19. Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least com
mandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least
in the kingdom of heaven : but whosoever shall do and teach
them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
We have not only to speak about and profess religion, but to carry it
out in heart and life. Jesus Christ ' ' began both to do and to teach "
(Acts i. 1), and the two must not be separate in His followers. We
should avoid even the slightest wilful faults lest they lead us to
greater.
20. For I say unto you, That except your righteousness
shall exceed the rigMeousness of the scribes and Pharisees, ye
shall in no case enter into the kingdom of heaven.
We should find it hard to exceed them in prayers, fastings, and other
outward duties, and yet we cannot enter heaven unless we are
more righteous than they. Notice, then, that the Gospel requires a
sincere devotion of heart. We may appear righteous before men
and yet be unfit for the heavenly kingdom.
21. If Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time,

Ver. 28.] Hatred forbidden. 19
Thou shalt not kill; and whosoever shall kill shall be in danger
of the judgment : 22. but I say unto you, That whosoever is
angry with his brother without a cause shall be in danger of the
judgment : and whosoever shall say to his brother, Raca, shall
be in danger of the council : but whosoever sliall say, Thou fool,
shall be in danger of hell fire.
The sixth commandment forbids not actual murder only, but also
feelings of hatred and reviling words. We may not be brought
before an earthly judge for killing any one, but God observes our
temper and conversation, and if He finds hatred there, He will not
fail to punish it. It is not the mere words " Raca "or " thou fool "
that are condemned, but all terms of abuse and contempt. Many
stop short of killing whose looks and words imply deadly passions.
23. Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there
rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee ; 24. leave
there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way ; first be reconciled
to thy brother, and then come and offer thy gift.
Our prayers and offerings are not welcome to God unless we are in
charity with all men. Let us do all that we can to make friends,
and then leave the matter in God's hands. Let it not be our fault if
the quarrel is not at an end. If Jews required a forgiving temper
to offer legal sacrifices rightly, what is required of those who come
to the Christian altar and share in a better offering ?
25. Agree with thine adversary quickly, whiles thou art in
the way with him ; lest at any time the adversary deliver thee
to the judge, and the judge deliver thee to the officer, and thou
be cast into prison.
Oh terrible judgment of God ! those who stand on their rights here,
and will not pardon their brethren, or make allowance for them,
shall one day find themselves before a strict Judge Who will treat
them with the same severity.
26. Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come
out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
There is then a place where sinners fall into the hands of God's
justice, never to escape, because they can never pay the debt that
they owe. Now is the time for mercy, in which we may have this
debt wiped out, by forgiving others as we hope to be forgiven for
Christ's sake.
27. 1T Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time,
Thou shalt not commit adultery: 28. but I say unto you, That
whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed
adultery with her already in his heart.
The seventh commandment forbids not only the actual taking of
another's wife, but also the dwelling on sinful thoughts and taking

Purity and Truth. \S. Matt. V.

delight in them. How many do not scruple to commit such sins
in the heart by giving way to evil desires and fancies, even in the
very house of God ! Fly from any temptation, lest you come at last
to take pleasure in it, and so fall. It is worth more than any treasure
to keep a pure heart, or recover its purity again.
29. And if thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it
from' thee : for it is profitable for thee that one of thy members
should perish, and not that thy whole body should be cast into
hell. 30. And if thy right hand offend thee, cut it off, and
cast it from thee: for it is profitable for thee that one of thy
members should perish, and not that thy whole body slwuld be
cast into hell.
What is as dear and useful as a right hand or eye must be parted
with if it gives us occasion to sin. Consider which is best worth
enjoying, a few pleasant moments now with men's applause and
the world's advantages, or, on the other hand, a quiet conscience,
God's presence in the heart now, and His face revealed for ever in
heaven? Which is worst, sometimes to feel dull, and be called
strict and over-particular, or to fall into endless misery ? Our Lord
does not mean that we should literally destroy our eye or hand, but
that we should give up much to save our souls.
31. It hath been said, Whosoever shall put away his wife,
let him give her a writing of divorcement : 32. but I say unto
you, That whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the
cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery : and who
soever shall marry her that is divorced committeth adultery.
God enjoined under the Law that a "writing of divorcement," or
legal document attesting the divorce, should be necessary, in order
to hinder men's lightly putting away their wives. Under the
Gospel He goes further in the same direction, and discourages
divorce at all. A Christian wife or husband should seek grace to
bear with their partner's failings, remembering how forbearing God
is with our own ungrateful souls. Marriage is a constant training
in forbearance and mutual charity, and is meant to knit souls in
one for heaven as well as for this fife.
33. IT Again, ye have heard that it hath been said by them
of old time, Thou shalt not forswear thyself, but shalt perform
unto the Lord thine oaths : 34. but I say unto you, Swear not
at all ; neither by heaven; for it is God's throne: 35. nor by
the earth ; for it is his footstool : neither by Jerusalem : for it
is the city of the great Ring. 36. Neither shalt thou swear by
thy head, because thou canst not make one hair white or black.
What right have we to take God's Name so lightly, and utter such
imprecations on ourselves and others as many do ? Some persons
cannot open their lips without an oath. Never let us forget that

Ver. 44.] A forgiving Temper.

God is above us, in the heavens which declare His glory, and
around us, by His watchful Providence, and in Churches, by His
special grace promised to prayer. If we remembered that God is
near, we should often check our tongues. The habit of using
foolish or bad words is easy to catch and hard to cure. God hears
all we say and requires an account of it.
37. But let your communication be, Yea, yea; Nay, nay:
for whatsoever is more than these cometh of evil.
Truth is simple, clear, and straightforward. How happy are those
who from their childhood upwards have always spoken the truth !
Equivocation gets us into endless difficulties and humiliations, from
which we should escape if we were to speak the plain truth.
38. IT Ye have heard that it hath been said, An eye for an
eye, and a tooth for a tooth :
The Law enjoined this, meaning to limit punishment to the exact
measure of the crime. So much penalty, and no more, might be
required ; but a Christian who remembers his own shortcomings,
and the Cross of Christ, and the day of judgment to come, will not
be eager to exact any revenge.
39. But I say unto you, That ye resist not evil : but whoso
ever shall smite thee on thy right cheek, turn to him the other also.
If he has received an affront, the Christian will put up with it quietly,
keeping this verse in spirit if not in letter, for it is often better kept
not by literally turning the other cheek, but by replying gently to
an insulting word.
40. And if any man will sue thee at the law, and take away
thy coat, let him have thy cloke also.
If he has lost money through another's dishonesty, he will not lose
his temper too ; he will cling to peace and goodwill, which no
one can rob him of.
41. And whosoever shall compel thee to go a mile, go with
him twain.
If he has suffered through the neglect or malice of others, he will still be
ready to do them a kind turn, whenever opportunity offers. _ The
vexations that they have caused him do not long remain in his
memory.
42. Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would
borrow of thee turn not thou away.
When it is not expedient to give money, give at least good advice,
kindness, good example. Ask God for wisdom to be able to give
with prudence and success, never send away harshly any one who
is in need. This precept requires good sense to obey it rightly
without doing harm, but it is meant to be obeyed.
43. IT Ye have heard that it hath been said, Thou shalt love
thy neighbour, and hate thine enemy. 44. But I say unto you,

22 The Divine Pattern. [S. Matt. VI.
Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them
that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you,
and persecute you;
Human nature, left to itself, finds this command quite impossible to
fulfil. We need to pray for God's grace, to remember what Jesus
Christ suffered for our sakes, to train ourselves in patience and
kindness, and thus only we shall be able to overcome our natural
resentment.
45. That ye may be the children of your Father which is in
heaven : for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the
good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
We are God's children, and so should copy our Father's forbearance
and liberality towards those who have long despised Him. If He
bears so patiently with affronts, why cannot we ?
46. For if ye love them which love you, what reward have
ye ? do not even the publicans the same 1 47. And if ye salute
your brethren only, what do ye more than others ? do not even
the publicans so ?
It is not true charity when we are kind to those only who love us
and treat us well. Charity goes much further than that, and has
hopes of the most disagreeable and unkind persons, prays for them,
and would gladly do them good. There is nothing hard in loving
those who praise us and are pleased with our company, but God
requires us to be friends with all who need our love, whatever may
have been their former behaviour to us.
48. Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in
heaven is perfect.
What a standard to set before us ! We have need to improve ourselves
a good deal yet. Our character and aims are not what they ought
to be. We must seek for a larger portion of God's grace to enable
us to live nearer to Him. He looks for His likeness in us, and
will, for His dear Son's sake, help us to rise above our present
selves.

CHAPTER VI.
1. Christ continueth his sermon in the mount, speaking of alms, 5 prayer
14. forgivmg our brethren, 16. fasting, 19. where our treasure is to be
laid up, 24. of serving God, and mammon : 25. exhorteth not to be
careful for worldly things : 33. but to seek God's kingdom.
TAKE heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of
them : otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which
is m heaven.

Ver. 7.] How to give Alms. 23
Do not speak of your charities, or take pleasure in being praised.
The heavenly reward will come in due time. Even if you cannot
prevent others knowing of any good thing that you do, still let
your whole object and desire be to please God and do good, not to
get praise from men.
2. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a
trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and
in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say
unto you, They have their reward.
Hypocrites in those days sounded a trumpet before them, either
actually to gather the poor together and relieve them with much
show, or else in this sense that they made much stir and talk about
their good deeds. What a pity it is to spoil a good action, and
deprive it of its due reward from God, by seeking the applause of
erring men 1
3. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what
thy right hand doeth : 4. that thine alms may be in secret : and
thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly.
Hide your good acts from your friends by not talking of them, and
from yourself by not thinking of them ; rather leave them to the
infinite mercy of God, and say " we are unprofitable servants." It
is a great honour to be allowed to offer anything to so great a
Lord. How glorious the reward will be which He will give at the
day of judgment to those who have shown true kindness for His
sake !
5. IT And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypo
crites are : for they love to pray standing in the synagogues
and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men.
Verily I say unto you, They have their reward.
Such persons like to be thought devout, they come to church not to
praise God and hear His Word, but to be seen by men and keep up
a show of religion. Their reward is that they are considered re
spectable and worthy people, but it ends there.
6. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and
when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Fatlier which is in
secret ; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee
openly. The true Christian will both pray in secret and come to God's house
openly, because he loves God and takes pleasure in speaking to
Him or hearing of Him. Prayer demands a certain retirement of
mind. Try to find a quiet place and time for it ; but if you can
not be actually alone retire into your own heart, put aside other
thoughts, consider yourself as alone in God's presence, and tell
Him as your Father what you need.
7. But wlien ye pray, use not vain repetitions, as the heathen

24

How to pray. [S. Matt. VI.

do: for they think that they shall be heard for their much
speaking. God does not regard the words so much as the heart. If you are
grieved for sin, if you ask earnestly for help, if you strive to love
God, your words will do well enough. You will be heard for your
earnestness and perseverance, according to His wise Providence,
and in good time.
8. Be not ye therefore like unto them : for your Father know-
eth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.
The object of prayer is not to teach God what we want, but to dis
pose ourselves to do His will. He will give us what we have
need of when we are fit for it. He knows our wants, yet still we
express them to Him, because He has bidden us do so, and we are
helped by doing it.
9. After this manner therefore pray ye : Our Father which
art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.
This is the model of all Christian prayers, and sums up all we should
ask. We should treat it with all possible reverence and attention.
First, we lift up our heart towards heaven, and address God as
His children, trusting in His wisdom and goodness ; and we ask
that all men may love and honour Him as they ought.
10. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is
in heaven.
We ask that men may obey God's commandments now, and so bring
about the perfect reign of righteousness, that they may take His
will as their rule in all patience and cheerful submission. Consider
what a pattern the Lord Jesus sets before us. He says " as it is in
heaven." He points out to us that we should do God's will as
readily, heartily, thoroughly as the blessed in heaven do it ; they
love whatever He orders, His good pleasure is theirs also.
1 1. Give us this day our daily bread.
Give us in Thy mercy what is needful for our bodily life, and, still
more, the help of Thy Word and Thy grace. Teach us to depend
entirely upon Thy Fatherly goodness for daily blessings.
12. And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.
Forgive us our many sins in thought, word, and deed, what wrong
things we have done, what duties we have neglected to do. Wipe
out the multitude of our offences, and give us grace to forgive from
our hearts all injuries and wrongs done to us.
13. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver 11s from
evil : For thine is the kingdom, and the power, and the glory,
for ever. Amen.
We are so frail, our enemies so strong, our falls so frequent, that we
can never arrive safe at the heavenly city but for God's constant

Ver. 2i.] True Fasting. 25
help. How many good resolutions we have broken already 1 yet
God can help us to overcome once more, for He alone has power,
and He will not forsake utterly those that trust in Him.
14. For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly
Father will also forgive you: 15. hit if ye forgive not men
their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.
Our Lord returns again to this duty of forgiveness, to show its
extreme importance. If you cherish the memory of an insult, a blow,
an unkind turn, and long to pay it back when you get a chance,
how can you expect God to pass over your many sins? The
revengeful shut the gate of heaven against themselves ; it will be a
terrible sentence for them to hear that God will not forgive them
because they did not forgive their brethren.
16. IT Moreover when ye fast, be not, as the hypocrites, of a
sad countenance : for they disfigure their faces, that they may
appear unto men to fast. Verily I *say unto you, They have
their reward. 17. But thou, when thou fastest, anoint thine
head, and wash thy face ; 18. that thou appear not unto men
to fast, but unto thy Father which is in secret : and thy Father,
which seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly.
Plainly, we are meant to fast, that is, to deny ourselves in pleasant
things, to give up what we like in order to please others, to observe
times like Lent, as we can — we should not be true Christians if we
lived to indulge our appetites — only, let our self-denial be simple,
and cheerful, and without any showing-off. God blesses sacrifices
that are made for His sake and in His sight only. Give up a
pleasure or endure a hardship for the love of Jesus, share His
Cross, and He will make you the happier for it.
19. IT Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where
moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through
and steal: 20. but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven,
where neitlier moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do
not break through nor steal :
How can we preserve our precious things from decay or loss? We
should so use them for God's glory, and the supply of our brethren's
need, that He may one day give us what is worth infinitely more.
The luxury and splendour of this world soon pass away. There is a
blessed home elsewhere which can never change, no decay or loss
enters there.
21. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
The Church says, "Liftupyourhearts,"letusobeythecall. Weshould
have our interests, and hopes, and fears concerned with another
world more than with this. A true Christian will be attracted by
the beauty of Christ's promises. There is nothing in this world fit to
take up our whole heart.

Against Over- Carefulness. [S. Matt. VI.

22. The light of the body is the eye : if therefore thine eye be
single, thy whole body shall be full of light. 23. But if thine
eye be evil, thy whole body shall be full of darkness. If there
fore the light that is in thee be darkness, how great is that
darkness I
The eye means here the intention, the purpose, and aim of a man's
life, and the body is the course of his actions. If he has a straight
forward purpose, a desire to do right and deal kindly and truly
with all, then whatever he does will tell of this, he will take a
straight course in all difficulties ; but if he have some other aim
which will not bear telling, he will get entangled in all manner of
deceit. What darkness is in the heart when sinful desires rule
there 1
24. IT No man can serve two masters : for either he will hate
tlie one, and love the other ; or else he will hold to the one, and
despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
For a time we may seem to serve both God and mammon (which
means money-getting), but when temptation or trial comes then it
is seen which of the two we really care for. The time comes at
last when we have to make our choice between religion and worldly
advantage. How hard it is for frail men to choose the right
Master and serve Him boldly.
25. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life,
what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink ; nor yet for your
body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat,
and the body than raiment ?
How ! should we not work to provide food and clothing for our
families ? yes, but do so in quietness of mind, trusting to God's
Providence, He creates us and has cared for us so long. The many
mercies that we have received in days past make us trust that He
will still help us.
26. Behold the fowls of the air : for they sow not, neitlier do
they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father
feedeth them. Are ye not mucli better than they ?
He provides for all creatures, will He not care for us who have souls
wherewith to love and adore Him ? If we do not live to do good
and be useful, but only to please our own appetites, we are lower
than the brute creatures ; they all serve God though they know it
not. We are able to acknowledge our Maker's goodness, we can
look forward to the world to come.
27. Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto
his stature 1
All our anxious care and hoarding cannot do much. The word
rendered "stature" means apparently in this place "length of

Ver. 34.] Against Over- Carefulness. 27
days '' rather than "height of body," so that the meaning is, Which
of you by ever so much anxious care can add a span to his
appointed days ? God brings our life to an end when He sees fit,
let us leave it contentedly in His hands.
28. And why take ye thought for raiment ? Consider the
lilies of the field, how they grow ; they toil not, neither do they
spin : 29. and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all
his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
The flowers in their beauty are more bright and delicate than the
royal robes of Solomon. Lessons of God's wisdom and power are
taught in all that we see in our walks. Our Saviour drew holy
teaching from every simple thing. He bids us open our eyes and
admire the works of God spread around us.
30. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which
to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much
more clothe you, 0 ye of little faith ?
We who are to live for ever may yet learn a lesson from the flowers
that perish. They shine their best and smell their sweetest just
where they are, if it be but for an hour only. Rich people who
are wholly taken up with their business, poor people who are
swallowed up with care and anxiety, are alike "of little faith."
We are bidden to trust in God, and then do our best in patience.
31. Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat?
or, What shall we drink 1 or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed ?
32. (for after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your
heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
Heathens might well be absorbed entirely with matters of this life,
but we have a heavenly Father, ' ' full of kindness, full of care, full
of power," and that makes the difference in our point of view. Do
you believe in the wise Providence of God which orders all things
well? if so, you will find peace whatever may happen.
33. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteous
ness ; and all these things shall be added unto you.
God's kingdom to spread throughout the world, His righteousness
to grow within us, these should be our first thought and deepest
care, not indeed that we are forbidden to seek for health of body,
peace in our time, things sufficient for us — these are all God's
good gifts — only we must not lose sight of the higher aim. The
soul that has found in God Himself comfort, support, and peace,
knows what is best of all, though earthly joys be wanting.
34. Take therefore no thought for tlie morrow: for the mor
row shall take thought for tlie things of itself. Sufficient unto
the day is the evil thereof.
Do not be anxious beforehand. Each day brings its own burden, let

28 Not to fudge others. [S. Matt. VII.
us, when it comes, meet it and take it up cheerfully, and so set
forward towards the heavenly Jerusalem. Let us rejoice in God s
present mercies, and trust that He will care for us equally m the
time to come. His past goodness "all our life long unto this day
is a pledge that He will help us still. A Christian should never fret
nor be despondent, but encourage himself and his friends to run
the race that is set before them.

CHAPTER VII.
I. Christ ending his sermon in the mount, reproveth rash judgment, 6.
forbiddeth to cast holy things to dogs, 7. exhorteth to prayer, 13. to
enter in at the strait gate, 15. to beware of false prophets, 21. not
to be hearers, but doers of the word : 24. like houses builded on a
rock, 26. and not on the sand.
TUDGE not, that ye be not judged.
We are reminded here that " every one of us shall give account of
himself to God," and so we should not condemn other men hastily,
nor be ready to suspect evil, nor think others worse than ourselves.
The thought that I shall have to appear before the Judge on that
great day, "quid sum, miser, turn dicturus?" inclines me to show
mercy as I would hope for it.
2. For with what judgment ye judge, ye shall be judged: and
with wliat measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you again.
But God will not condemn unfairly, as we do ? No, yet He will be
rigorous with the unmerciful. Our severity towards our fallen
brethren here will plead against us at that day. Patience and kind
ness should be our rule, if mercy is one day to be our portion.
3. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's
eye, but consider est not the beam that is in thine own eye ? 4. or
how wilt thou say to thy brother, Let me pull out the mote out of
thine eye; and, behold, a beam is in thine own eye? 5. Thou
hypocrite, first cast out the beam out of thine own eye ; and
then shalt thou see clearly to cast out the mote out of thy brother's
eye. This is the right order, to look at home first, know our own faults,
amend them, and serve God better ourselves. If we have set our
own house in order first, we shall be able to teach and correct
others with profit. God is not forbidding us to reprove when
needful, but He shows us the spirit in which to do it. Our own
faults find ready excuses, while we see all their wrongfulness else
where. Let us carry out first what is most in our power, our own
amendment, and then seek God's help to amend our friends.

Ver. 12.] Trust in Prayer. 29
6. IT Give not that which is holy unto the dogs, neither cast
ye your pearls before swine, lest they trample them under their
feet, and turn again and rend you.
The ' ' holy thing " and the " pearls " mean religion, with its doctrines
and sacred rites. Do not speak of them except reverently, and to
those who care to listen. Such subjects of conversation cannot profit
those who are living in sin. Fill us, O Lord, with reverence and
discretion when we treat of such great matters, and grant us to
find fit hearers.
7. % Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall
find ; knock, and it shall be opened unto you : 8. for every one
that asketh receiveth ; and he that seeketh findeth ; and to him
that knocketh it shall be opened.
Ask confidently, seek carefully, knock perseveringly. Divine mercy
listens, and is ready to give. Let us bring our burden of anxieties,
our needs of soul or body, and lay them before our Almighty
Friend. He will hear us in what manner His wisdom finds best.
He desires us to be importunate, and never despair or give up
asking.
9. Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread,
will he give him a stone? 10. or if he ask a fish, will he give
him a serpent ?
If there are no parents so unnatural as to give their children what is
useless or hurtful instead of food, yet there are many who set them
a bad example, neglect to have them taught, are utterly careless
about their souls; are not these still more unnatural? When we
neglect to teach the children about their Father in heaven, we
starve their souls ; when we lead them into evil, we give them
poison instead of food.
11. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto
your children, how much more shall your Father which is in
heaven give good things to them that ask him ?
We are by nature evil, are frail and inclined to sin, and yet have
been made God's children and have a right to call Him our Father.
We should pray with simplicity and faith, depending entirely on
His goodness, as children look to their parents for their daily
meals at home. We expect to be heard not for our own worthiness,
but because our Father loves us and has promised to care for us.
His " good things " are what is really best ; if He offers us some
times bitter medicine rather than dainties, still we will take it as
dutiful children, knowing that it is for our good.
12. Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should
do to you, do ye even so to them : for this is the law and the
prophets. This sums up all our Saviour's rules ; this is the end of the Law with

3° The Way of Life. [S. Matt. VII.
its types and precepts, and of the Prophets with their visions.
Care actively for your brethren, as you would yourself wish your
own good to be cared for ; treat them as in like case you would
wish to be treated. It is a simple rule, but Divine and golden.
13. 11 Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate,
and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many
there be which go in thereat: 14. because strait is the gate,
and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there
be that find it.
To bear contempt, to suffer loss and pain patiently, is hard ; it is a
strait gate to pass through and a narrow way to walk in, only it
is worth while if it leads to eternal life. Be careful lest you step
aside from the right path — it is easy to lose, and hard to find again
—only do not be discouraged, for it is Christ Who says "I am the
Door, "" I am the Way. " The right path is to find Him and keep
in His steps.
15. IT Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's
clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves.
When any one would persuade you, do not consider merely what he
says, but look at his character, and think Whether that is such as
you ought to trust. Do not be easily carried away by persuasive
words, but pray God that He would guide you rightly with heavenly
.wisdom. Remember that God's saints have * held stedfastly to
the catholic faith which was from the beginning, and distrust those
who bring strange doctrines and wish you to forsake the ancient
fold where you were first made God's child.
16. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather
grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? 17. Even so every good
tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth
evil fruit.
The tree is the heart or will ; the good fruits are " a godly, riffhteous
and sober life," that is a help and blessing to all around it There
are some people so useless and so troublesome that they are merely
thorns and thistles ; what will become of them when the Master
visits His garden ? For awhile we may appear respectable and
keep up a show of religion, but if we have not purified the heart
by true repentance our corrupt nature will soon break out again.
18. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a
corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
No, and yet God can do by His grace what is beyond the gardener's
power. He can change the nature of the tree, can renlw it can
water and tend it til it brings forth fruit unto 'perfection Lord
Thou canst do all things. I too am in Thy hand. GrarTt that mv
wasted and barren life may at last bear some good fruit *

Ver. 25.] Profession and Practice. 31
1 9. Every tree that bringeth not fortli good fruit is hewn
down, and cast into the fire.
How terrible is the end of a useless and self-indulgent life ! Think
what it must be to be torn from this world and thrust into
eternity without any love for goodness. Jesus was not afraid to
warn us of endless misery. He tells us of a state where it will be
too late to repent. Keep us, O Saviour, from ever falling into it.
20. Wlierefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
What has been the fruit of your life ? Can others see by your
patience, charity, honesty, and diligence that you are a Christian
and find your delight in serving God ?

21. IT Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord,
enter into the kingdom of heaven ; but he that doeth the will of
my Father which is in heaven.
Doing God's will cheerfully with all our heart and strength, seeking
to know it for ourselves and others, finding in it our comfort and
joy — such is true religion, is it not a noble object for which to live ?
What purpose should a creature have at heart so much as the doing
his Creator's will ?
22. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we
not prophesied in thy name ? and in thy name have cast out
devils i and in thy name done many wonderful works ?
There are many who have a great name for their holiness, who speak
powerfully on religious subjects, or give much to works of charity,
or make much outward profession, who are yet all the while uncon
verted in heart, and lack love. God has in horror many who are
much admired by men.
23. And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you:
depart from me, ye thai work iniquity.
What a surprise ! They thought that they were in God's favour, and
yet He had never known them ; and all that He Who is the Fountain
of mercy has to say is, "Depart from Me." He bids them leave
hope and peace, and go into outer darkness. Lord, grant us grace
to know our own faults here, and judge ourselves, lest we be
awakened too late by Thy awful voice in that day.
24. 1T Therefore whosoever heareth these sayings of mine, and
doeth them, I will liken him unto a wise man, which built his
house upon a rock :
A wise man is he who puts into practice the words of Jesus Christ,
and the house built on the rock is a good life rising out of an earnest
faith in the Saviour ; it is built up of good works, and joined to
gether by love, but its foundation is Christ alone.
25. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and tlie

32 The House on the Sand. [S. Matt. VIII.
winds blew, and beat upon that house ; and it fell not : for it
was founded upon a rock.
Such a one will not be utterly confounded by losses, trials, or tempta
tions ; he will remain inwardly at peace, for he knows on Whom
he has believed. God's strength is made perfect in his weakness.
26. And everyone that heareth these sayings of mine, and
doeth them not, shall be likened unto a foolish man, which built
his house upon the sand :
A foolish man is one who puts off his conversion, and delays to give
himself to God. He has no real faith, though he may conform
outwardly to religion. He has heard but does not put into practice.
He puts a decent profession in the place of love.
27. And the rain descended, and the floods came, and the
winds blew, and beat upon that house ; and it fell : and great
was the fall of it.
What a grave picture of the approach of death to one who has not
served God ! All he cared for is swept away, and he is exposed,
naked and destitute, to God's wrath. What he was in man's eyes has
all vanished, and he has found no acceptance elsewhere. This is
the conclusion of the Sermon on the Mount, and we are left with
an impression of fear ; it began with blessings, but its end is stern
and severe.
28. And it came to pass, when Jesus had ended these sayings,
the people were astonished at his doctrine: 29. for he taught
them as one having authority, and not as the scribes.
Our Lord's teaching does not deal much in arguments, nor appeal to
human authorities, He speaks straight to the heart as one who
knows it, and the sincere hearer feels that His words are true ; but
it is not enough to admire the beauty and power of His Divine
sayings, they require the homage of our practice, they are God's
rule for each of us.

CHAPTER VIII.
a. Christ cleanseth the leper, 5. healeth the centurion's servant, 14. Peter's
mother in law, 16. and many other diseased : 18. sheweth how ne is to
be followed : 23. stilleth the tempest on the sea, 28. driveth the devils
out of two men possessed, 31. and suffereth them to go into the swine.
WHEN he was come down from the mountain, great multi
tudes followed him. 2. And, behold, there came a leper
and worshipped him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst
make me clean.

Ver. 8.] The Centurion's Servant.

33

Here is a figure of one who knows the vileness of his own heart, and
turns to God with the deepest humility and a firm faith in the
Divine Power. Let this be our prayer, knowing that we cannot
change ourselves, but God can change us. Our great misery calls
to the depth of His mercy.
3. And Jesus put forth his hand, and touched him, saying,
I will; be thou clean. And immediately his leprosy was
cleansed. Here is a figure of God's pardoning grace, blotting out sin and
giving a new heart. Say over us, O Lord, these mighty and
gracious words which restore purity and peace to the sin-laden
soul. Thou alone knowest how vile we are, and yet canst love
us still, and renew us after Thine own likeness.
4. And Jesus saith unto him, See thou tell no man ; but go
thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer the gift that Moses
commanded, for a testimony unto them.
Why did our Lord bid him tell no man till he had shown himself to
the priest and been pronounced clean by him according to the Law ?
Doubtless for this reason, that He would have men obey the Law,
and obey it Himself, while it lasted. Let us too obey God in small
things as in great, and not forget, when we have received mercies,
to bring our sacrifice of thanksgiving.
5. IT And when Jesus was entered into Capernaum, there
came unto him a centurion, beseeching him,
This centurion, though a Gentile and a soldier, was religious and
devout, full of faith, humble, and charitable. What use he had made
of his opportunities ! Many Christians are self-condemned before
such a character as his.
6. And saying, Lord, my servant lieih at home sick of the
palsy, grievously tormented.
In a hard-hearted age this man cared for his slave, felt his pain, and
longed to have him cured. He reminds us to feel for suffering and
seek to relieve it. How many there are whom we might comfort
and assist in their helplessness ! God grant us a tender heart to feel
for the afflicted.
7. And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him.
Notice Christ's gracious readiness and condescension. He hastens to
come and beal the sick slave. How could our sick souls be healed
but for His merciful readiness to help us? None can be cured of
spiritual sickness unless grace draw near.
8. The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy
that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word
only, and my servant shall be healed.
The centurion sent a second time, saying that it was too much for
C

34 Marvellous Faith. [S. Matt. VIII.
him to expect the Lord to enter his house. Only a word from His
Divine lips was needed to work the cure. These excellent words,
" Lord, I am not worthy that Thou shouldest come under my roof,"
show that our Lord entered into his heart though not into his
house. They are fit for our use at the Holy Table, as signifying our
sense of our own unfitness for our Saviour's gracious presence.
9. For I am a man under authority, having soldiers under
me : and I say to this man, Go, and he goeth ; and to another,
Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this, and he
doeth it.
This good man reasoned thus : " I am under my officer's orders, and
have soldiers under mine. Thou, O Lord, art Captain over
heaven and earth. All things obey Thy bidding ; life and death,
health and sickness, wait on Thy word."
10. When Jesus heard it, he marvelled, and said to them that
followed, Verily I say unto you, I have not found so great faith,
no, not in Israel.
We do not read that Christ showed admiration at grand sights or
royal magnificence, but He marvelled at this man's faith. God
admires much that we do not notice, and disregards what seems
striking in our eyes. He looks at the inward man, and sees
wonders there.
11. And I say unto you, That many shall come from the
east and west, and shall sit down with Abraham, and Isaac,
and Jacob, in the kingdom of heaven.
Many of whose salvation we doubted may yet be called by God's
mercy. _ We must go on hoping and never give up praying for the
conversion of any. Let us consider whether we are doing
enough for the spreading of the Gospel in heathen lands and the
gathering in of souls into Christ's kingdom. Abraham, who
believed in the unseen promises ; Isaac, who patiently obeyed the
summons to be sacrificed ; Jacob, who hoped and waited for God's
salvation, are figures of those who enter there.
12. But the children of the kingdom shall be cast out into
outer darkness : there sliall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Many whom we thought secure may yet lose heaven, and have nothino-
after death but blank desolation, sorrow, and disappointment. We
cannot but fear for ourselves, knowing our frailty, and yet' cling
trustfully to God's infinite mercy. What would it be to feel that
we ourselves had wilfully thrown away our everlasting happiness !
13. And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as
thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was
healed in the selfsame hour.
What would not our prayers gain from God if we brought before
ILm a courageous, humble, and devout faith like this centurion 1

Ver. 21. ] The Sick healed. 35
Faint-hearted prayer gains little answer, while faith obtains all her
desire.
14. IT And when Jesus was come into Peter's houst, he saw
his wife's motlier laid, and sick of a fever. 15. And he touched
lier hand, and the fever left her : and she arose, and ministered
unto them.
The fever disappeared at Christ's life-giving touch. His grace alone
can quench tlie fire of sinful passions which ravage the soul. He
alone can heal us and make us serve Him heartily again. A zeal
to minister to Christ in His poor and suffering members is a mark
of true conversion.
1 6. IT When the even was come, they brought unto him many
that were possessed with devils : and he cast out the spirits with
his word, and healed all that were sick :
Christ's word has a Divine power to set free men's souls from the
devil's tyranny, and it has not yet lost its efficacy. Let us bring the
tempted and the sorrowful under our Master's gracious influence.
The very fact that they are in trouble inclines His compassion
towards them.
17. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias
the prophet, saying, Himself took our infirmities, and bare our

The words in Isaiah (liii. 4) refer literally to our infirmities of soul
rather than to those of the body, and to our Lord's atoning death,
not to His miraculous healings ; but S. Matthew applies them to His
merciful sympathy with men's bodily pains, as being a part of His
great errand of salvation. These sufferings on His journey through
this world He "took" and "bare away" by His untiring com
passion no less than by His Divine power. We cannot heal
sufferers with a word, but we can offer help and sympathy after
Christ's pattern, and so remove many burdens.
18. IT Now when Jesus saw great multitudes about him, he
gave commandment to depart unto the other side. 19. And a
certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow
thee whithersoever thou goest. 20. And Jesus saith unto him,
The foxes have holes, and the birds of the air have nests ; but
the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
This man trusted too much in his own strength. To follow the Lord
requires His calling and help. We cannot do it of ourselves ; and so
he was rebuffed at the answer, which showed what he would have
to undergo. Our Lord's poor and mean life is a. great rebuke to
our love of comfort. The poor may find in the Lord Jesus One Who
knows their trials from experierice.
21. And another of his disciples said unto him, Lord, suffer

36 The Storm stilled. [S. Matp. VIII.
me first to go and bury my father. 22. But Jesus said unto
him, Follow me ; and let the dead bury their dead.
This man was backward in following Christ, and he seemed to have
a good reason in the duty of returning home for his father's
funeral. Yet the Lord, Who enforced most strictly the command to
honour father and mother, now bade him leave that sacred duty
to wait on Himself. It is plain, then, that the call to follow Christ
and bring souls to Him is the most urgent of all ; even holy affection
and sacred ties must give way before it.
23. IT And when he was entered into a ship, his disciples
followed him. 24. And, behold, there arose a great tempest in
the sea, insomuch that the ship was covered with the waves : but
he was asleep.
Even good Christians who are travelling in their Lord's company
may expect to find storms and tempests in their way. This great
tempest represents sudden loss, or trial, or temptation, which may
beset us. And Jesus being asleep means that we seem left to
ourselves, and our faith grows weak. We have for a while forgotten
that He is near us.
25. And his disciples came to him, and awoke him, saying,
Lord, save us : we perish.
What is our remedy ? To fly to prayer. Christ is not asleep now; it
is our faith which slumbers and needs rousing. This short prayer
of the disciples contains in it the thought of the Lord's exceeding
power, and of His mercy, and of their own danger, and is therefore
very suitable for us.
26. And he saith unto them, Why are ye fearful, 0 ye of
little faith? Then he arose, and rebuked the winds and the
sea ; and there was a great calm.
They should have remembered that when He was with them they
would come to no harm. Let us remember that all things are in
our Master's hand, and so take courage. He can even in the
midst of trials give us peace and joy again. We are believers, and
in covenant with Him. His power is pledged to defend us.
27. But the men marvelled, saying, What manner of man is
this, that even the winds and the sea obey him /
They were thus taught higher thoughts of Jesus Christ. God
showed them by degrees the full truth about His Son. We also
can admire His power in turning evil into good and subduing
the passions of men. What but grace can still the storms that
lay waste the heart !
28. U And when he was come to the other side into the
country of the Gergesenes, there met him two possessed with
devils, coming out of the tombs, exceeding fierce, so that no man
might pass by that way.

Ver. 34.] Christ casts out Devils. 37
Being possessed with devils is more than merely being mad, or sick,
or sinful. We see by many examples that the evil one has at times
had a terrible power over men's will, so as to overcome their reason
and make them his slaves. Drunkenness, impurity, and violent
anger dispose men to something of this kind even now. God
keep us from allowing the evil one to enter in, lest we find our
selves unable to cast him out.
29. And, behold, they cried out, saying, What have we to do
with thee, Jesus, thou Son of God ? art thou come hither to tor
ment us before the time ?
The evil spirits came out of the tombs raving fiercely, but were
struck with fear at the presence of God's Son. They dreaded that
He would dismiss them from the souls they dwelt in and send
them back into hell. The time will come when they will be shut in
there never to come out. Let us keep on resisting for a little while
and we shall be safe from our enemies for ever.
30. And there was a good way off from them an herd of
many swine feeding. 31. So the devils besought him, saying,
If thou cast us out, suffer us to go away into the herd of swine.
The evil ones could not even enter the swine without God's permis
sion, much less can they overcome us. Let us resist them boldly.
Satan cannot hurt us if we call on God for help and fight manfully.
Our heavenly Friend fights for us, and is far stronger than the
enemy.
32. And he said unto them, Go. And when they were come
out, they went into the herd of swine : and, behold, the whole
herd of swine ran violently down a steep place into the sea, and
perished in the waters.
At our Lord's permission the evil spirits entered the swine ; but they,
as soon as they felt this new and strange influence, rushed violently
over the cliffs into the sea, and were drowned. What was the pur
pose of this marvel? Perhaps it was to prove to the sufferers that
they were really free. Now they could discern that the evil powers
were gone forth and would torment them no more.
33. And they that kept them fled, and went their ways into
the city, and told every thing, and what was befallen to the pos
sessed of the devils.
What happy news ! There are many now who are possessed by deadly
sin of whom we long to be able to tell that Christ has driven out
the devil, and that they are sitting at His feet in prayer, and clothed
with grace, and in their right mind again. What a change from the
tombs, and solitude, and frenzy !
34. And, behold, tlie whole city came out to meet Jesus : and
when they saw him, they besought him that he would depart out
of tlieir coasts.

38 Sins forgiven.  [S. Matt. IX.
This is a grievous request. They intreated the Lord of life and glory
to depart, and so missed a great store of gracious words and acts of
mercy. They were terrified at His great power, or vexed at the loss
of their swine, and thus put from themselves all the blessings of
His visit. Let us rather say, " Lord, abide with us, whatever else
we lose. Other friends may leave so long as Thou remainest."

CHAPTER IX.
2. Christ curing one sick of the palsy, 9. calleth Matthew from the receipt
of custom, 10. eateth with publicans and sinners, 14. defendeth his
disciples for not fasting, 20. cureth the bloody issue, 23. raiseth from
death Jairus' daughter, 27. giveth sight to two blind men, 32. healeth
a dumb man possessed of a devil, 36. and hath compassion of the
multitude.
AND he entered into a ship, and passed over, and came into
Xi. his own city. 2. And, behold, they brought to him a
man sick of the palsy, lying on a bed : and Jesus seeing their
faith said unto the sick of tlie palsy ; Son, be of good cheer;
thy sins be forgiven thee.
He had returned to Capernaum, and was in a house teaching, sur
rounded by a great crowd, when this sick man was brought to Him
(as the other Gospels tell us) by his bearers letting him down
from the roof at Christ's feet. He saw their faith. They were
assuredly convinced that the Lord could and would help their sick
friend, and He spoke words of comfort to the sufferer, going first
to the deeper evil, that of sin. These are gracious words wherewith
our Saviour comforts a doubting heart and assures it of forgiveness.
3. And, behold, certain of tlie scribes said within themselves,
This man blasphemeth.
God alone knows the greatness of our sins, and He alone can blot
them out. If Jesus had been a mere man like others these words
of His would have been arrogant and untrue, but He claims to
search hearts and set them free with sovereign power. Either He
blasphemes, or He is indeed our Lord and God.
4. And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think
ye evil in your hearts ?
We have to do with One Who knows our hearts' secrets. Often we
take too little care to control our thoughts, even when our words
a"£rlCtS are kept in order' The Lord means this reproach for us,
' Why do ye let evil thoughts, unkind, passionate, covetous, foul
desires and fancies, rest in your hearts?"
5. For whether is easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee;
or to say, Arise, and walk ?

Ver. ii.] Call of Matthew. 39
To say "Thy sins be forgiven thee" is easy, for no outward change
follows to prove that the words are true, but to say "Arise and
walk " admits of immediate trial. Jesus uses His healing power to
prove to us His saving grace.
6. But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power on
earth to forgive sins, (then saith he to the sick of the palsy,)
Arise, take up thy bed, and go unto thine house.
Glory be to Thee, O Lord, for Thy mercy bestowed on sick souls and
bodies ; it is our only consolation when we are tempted to despair.
Thy sacred Humanity, living and dying on earth for us, is the
pledge of God's forgiveness to us. Thy word still has power to
cleanse.
•j. And he arose, and departed to his house.
Let us when pardoned do like this palsied man. He bids us rise up
and walk in the right way stedfastly, and enter into our own hearts
to consider our own duty and God's will. Great is the value of ready
obedience.
8. But when the multitudes saw it, they marvelled, and glori
fied God, which had given such power unto men.
In the mercy, power, and wisdom of the Lord Jesus we see our
nature restored and exalted by Divine grace. In reading the Gospel
history let us not fail to thank God for sending us His Son. If
His other mercies deserve thanks, "above all His inestimable
love in the redemption of the world. "
9. IT And as Jesus passed forth from thence, he saw a man,
named Matthew, sitting at the receipt of custom : and he saith
unto him, Follow me. And he arose, and followed him.
Matthew left his profits at a word and became a follower of Jesus
Christ, whether influenced by the Lord's mighty works, or stirring
words, or only by a secret inspiration of grace. Let us obey this
Divine voice when it speaks to us in our turn. The way along which
we have to follow Christ may be a narrow and thorny one, but it
will bring us into ' ' peace at the last. "
10. IT And it came to pass, as Jesus sat at meat in the house,
behold, many publicans and sinners came and sat down with
him and his disciples.
The patience and kindness with which Jesus allowed such company,
in the desire to win them over to God, is a great lesson for us in
our behaviour towards careless people. All who had any desire to
be better than they were felt the attraction of His presence. He
drew men out of themselves and showed them a higher life.
11. And when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto his dis
ciples, Why eateth your Master with publicans and sinners ?
Do not be in a hurry to blame others, like these Pharisees, but rather

40

New Cloth and New Wine. [S. Matt. IX.

consider your own faults. There is ample room ^ Moment
within without stirring beyond our own hearts. Why, except of
His infinite mercy, does God still admit us to His house, His table,
His promises ?
12. But when Jesus heard that, he said unto them, They that
be whole need not a physician, but they tliat are sick.
O srood Physician, are we not sick and in need of Thee ? If we
know our own hearts, their secret sins, their great folly and
vileness, their lack of all that is good, we shall betake ourselves
to this wise Physician, Who has in His hands remedies of infinite
power.
13. But go ye and learn what that meaneth, I will have
mercy, and not sacrifice : for I am not come to call the righteous,
but sinners to repentance.
Mercy is the first and best of offerings— not that God forbids or
despises other sacrifices, but that this is the most necessary. Care
for our brethren's sinful souls, or suffering bodies, is an offering after
Christ's own pattern.
14. IT Then came to him the disciples of John, saying, Why
do we and the Pharisees fast oft, but thy disciples fast not? 15.
And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of thebridechamber
mourn, as long as the bridegroom is with them ? but the days
will come, when the bridegroom shall be taken from them, and
then shall they fast.
Christ our Lord is the true Bridegroom of souls, Whom they should
love and honour first of all with' an undivided heart. His absence
from us is but for a while, that we may exercise ourselves in repent
ance and self-denial. We cannot rejoice rightly unless we have truly
mourned first. What grieves our truest Friend should be a grief to
us also.
1 6. No man putteth a piece of new cloth unto an old garment,
for that which is put in to fill it up takeih from the garment,
and the rent is made worse.
The old garment is the Jewish Law and its outward ceremonies, which
were now decaying and waxing old; and the new garment is Christian
righteousness, which Jesus our Lord taught and bestowed. The two
could not be joined together. What Jesus offers us is a new dress
for our souls, not a mere patchwork of external form applied to an
unrenewed heart.
17. Neither do men put new wine into old bottles: else the
bottles break, and the wine runneth out, and the bottles perish :
but they put new wine into new bottles, and both are preserved.
The old leather bottles are unregenerate natures, which could not
receive the Divine precepts of Christ. The Gospel is like the

Ver. 23.] The Woman with an Issue of Blood. 41
fermenting wine, full of power and might. Unless God's Spirit gives
us new life, how can we carry out what Jesus commands ? His
words are too high and heavenly for our frail nature. Give us, O
Lord, hearts that can take in Thy saving message and live by it.
Divine truth preached by faithful lips has still power ; it has never
grown old.
18. IT While he spake these things unto them, behold, there
came a certain ruler, and worshipped him, saying, My daughter
is even now dead : but come and lay thy hand upon her, and
she shall live.
We should pray thus for others or ourselves, humbly declaring
our need in the presence of God, and trusting entirely in His
Divine power to supply it. In His grace and mercy He still lays
hands upon dead souls and they live.
19. And Jesus arose, and followed him, and so did his
disciples. He was ready at once to attend on any one who needed His help,
not sparing Himself trouble. Selfishness found no place in Him.
We who call ourselves His disciples should imitate Him in this, and
not reckon it too troublesome to interrupt our own ease for our
brethren's sake.
20. IT And, behold, a woman, which was diseased with an
issue of blood twelve years, came behind him, and touched the
hem of his garment : 21. for she said within herself, If I may
but touch- his garment, I shall be whole.
She came secretly and touched the fringe of His garment (Deut. xxii.
12), whether out of shame, or because she was unclean, or from
an imperfect faith which looked on His dress as the centre of a
magical influence. She lacked courage to come openly, yet still
she had a deep trust in His power to save her. In however imper
fect a manner, yet she came and found acceptance.
22. But Jesus turned him about, and when he saw her, he
said, Daughter, be of good comfort ; thy faith hath made thee
whole. And the woman was made whole from that hour.
With these comfortable words Jesus Christ relieves her fear, and
promises her entire freedom from her sickness. Nothing but faith
in His saving power can cure the long-standing disease of sin.
Let us take comfort even after many failures and fears. Our
Saviour is mighty to help us.
23. And when Jesus came into the ruler's house, and saw the
minstrels and the people making a noise,
Violent weeping and loud expressions of grief, as well as great pomp
and expense at funerals, are unsuited to Christian mourners. They
should grieve for their dead in a spirit of peace and hope. Has

42 The Girl raised to Life. [S. Matt. IX.
not God called them into that rest where we shall soon rejoin
them?
24. He said unto them, Give place : for the maid is not dead,
but sleepeth. And they laughed him to scorn.
She was not dead but sleeping, because her death was so soon over
that it was like a few moments' slumber. The voice and touch of
Christ could rouse the dead as easily as we wake a sleeper. Indeed,
in the hope of a resurrection to come all death seems like a sleep
that will soon end.
25. But when the people were put forth, he went in, and took
her by the hand, and the maid arose.
The Lord works His wonders in retirement for people who have
gone apart from the busy scoffing world. This life-giving touch of
His figures the power of Divine grace, which is able to rouse our
coldness and begin a new life in us. What if any one seems dead
to heavenly things, still Christ's hand may touch his soul and
wake him.
26. And th/e fame hereof went abroad into all that land.
How great is the marvel of a soul recalled from the other world ! It
almost terrifies us to think of it, to imagine one who had died
living again and walking amongst men. Yet this is not more
wonderful than the conversion to new life of one who was dead in
sin ; and is indeed only a shadow of that great day when all men
shall rise again with their bodies to give account for their own
works.
27. IT And when Jesus departed thence, two blind men
followed him, crying, and saying, Thou son of David, have
mercy on us.
These men were in affliction, and they called on our Lord as the
Son of David, the promised Messiah, and this with great earnest
ness, yet for some time He appeared to take no notice. He neither
stopped nor spoke, yet they continued crying to Him, and would
not give up. Let us pray on, even though for a while God seems
to take no heed ; in His good time we shall be heard.
28. And when he was come into the house, the blind men
came to him : and Jesus saith unto them, Believe ye that I am
able to do this ? They said unto him, Yea, Lord.
To obtain a blessing we must have a firm faith in God's power and
mercy. He is able to pardon, to convert, to strengthen, to remove
difficulties, to bring the most darkened souls into light. Let us cling
fast to this faith as our only hope of light in this dark world.
29. Then touched he their eyes, saying, According to your
faith be it unto you.
Faith opens to us the treasures of God's grace ; they are infinite, but

Ver. 35.] Many Miracles. 43
we only receive according to the measure that we bring. The well
is deep, but we draw much or little from it. His hand is not
shortened, but it is our scanty faith that can receive so little.
30. And their eyes were opened; and Jesus straitly charged
them, saying, See that no man know it.
" Lord, open Thou mine eyes, that I may see the wondrous things of
Thy law," may see my own self, and Thy way, and how to help
others, and go on my road towards heaven. Let me not fall back
into that darkness from which Thou hast once brought me.
31. But they, when they were departed, spread abroad his
fame in all that country.
No doubt these men were wrong in disobeying our Lord's command
to be silent, yet perhaps it was their very gratitude and wonder
which urged them to speak of what He had done for them. It
requires caution even to speak aright of the mercies that we have
received.
32. 1T As they went out, behold, they brought to him a dumb
man possessed with a devil.
In such a state are those who are subject to some deadly sin and
will not speak of it, either before God in humble confession and
prayer, or to their brethren, who might advise or help them. They
keep their misery in their own hearts, and so cannot get free.
33. And when the devil was cast out, the dumb spake : and
the multitudes marvelled, saying, It was never so seen in Israel.
May God chase the dumb spirit from us, that we may confess our sins,
and declare His praises, and what He has done for us. Why should
we talk to our friends of everything else except about God and
eternity ? It is a false shame to be always dumb on matters of the
greatest concern.
34. But the Pharisees said, He casteth out devils through tlie
prince of the devils.
Some persons sneer at any good works and find fault with them. Let
us rather praise God for them, and acknowledge His glory mani
fested there. The overthrow of Satan's power in any soul should
be a joy to us. Beware of the great sin of disbelieving a sinner's
conversion.
35. And Jesus went about all the cities and villages, teaching
in their synagogues, and preaching tlie gospel of the kingdom,
and healing every sickness and every disease among the people. •
He taught the new law of love and purity, He preached the
kingdom of heaven, setting it forth with many parables and
figures ; and after He had finished His Divine words about God,
and heaven, and duty, and the heart of man, He put what He had

44 Labourers needed for the Harvest. [S. Matt. X.
said into practice by performing works of mercy. His miracles
were meant to drive home His words.
36. IT But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with,
compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered
abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.
To do good we must begin by having, as Jesus had, a deep compas
sion for the cares and errors of the poor. Do not let us rail at
their faults, but try to understand them better, and see where they
have gone astray, and what their temptations are. We cannot do
them good unless we love them.
37. Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is
plenteous, but the labourers are few ;
So it is now. The harvest-fields waiting for reapers mean the ignorant
who need to be taught, the sorrowful who lack comfort, the sinner
who might be brought back from his evil ways. How few go
forth as labourers to do this work for God, while this world's
harvest finds abundance of reapers !
38. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will
send forth labourers into his harvest.
If we can do nothing else, we can pray earnestly to God to send
forth fit persons to work for His Name's sake at home and abroad.
All hearts are in His hand. Let us intreat Him to prepare and
guide Christian workers. How many noble gifts there are which
ought to be employed in God's service instead of being consumed
on the world 1

CHAPTER X.
1. Christ sendeth out his twelve apostles, enabling them with power to do
miracles, 5. giveth them their charge, teacheth them, 16. comforteth
them against persecutions : 40. and promiseth a blessing to those
that receive them.
AND when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he
1\. gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out,
and to lieal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease.
Here is the beginning of the Christian ministry, when men were first
set apart with prayer to be the representatives of Christ, to speak
and bless in His Name We should thank God for preserving to us
by His ministers the knowledge of redemption. Notice these
persons did not receive power to speak for Christ till they had for
a long while hemselves listened to His preaching and admired
His wonderful works Those who would bring other men to
Christ must themselves have dwelt with Him and known Him

Ver. 9.] Instructions to the Twelve. 45
2. Now the names of the twelve apostles are these ; The first,
Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother ; James
the son of Zebedee, and John his brother ; 3. Philip, and Bar
tholomew ; Thomas, and Matthew the publican ; James the son
of Alphosus, and Lebbceus, whose surname was Thaddceus ; 4.
Simon the Canaanite, and Judas Iscariot, who also betrayed
him. This last name, coming where it does, should make us fear. If Judas,
who had lived with Jesus Christ, and was chosen by Him to be an
apostle, and worked miracles in His Name, could yet fall away,
should we not be distrustful of ourselves ?
5. These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, say
ing, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of
the Samaritans enter ye not :
Not yet. We must not be impatient or strive to anticipate God's time.
The Gentiles and the Samaritans had their mission later. He will
leave none without the message of grace, but He has His own
time to approach each, His own method of sending messengers.
6. But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.
That was God's ancient fold, which He had separated from all the
rest of the world, and cared for with so many providences, but
where His name was now blasphemed by hypocrisy and unbelief.
The Good Shepherd was now seeking for the straying hearts of
His own people. We are but lost sheep if we live in the world
without God.
7. And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is
at hand.
A Christian should often repeat this same message, and look forward
to the manifestation of that kingdom. It is at hand in the Church,
where Christ reigns invisibly and rewards and guides souls ; it is at
hand in the other world, where angels and saints worship God and
pray for us. One day it will be revealed in glory. Let us set our
hearts on its coming. What are the world's transitory kingdoms to
that unchanging one?
8. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out
devils : freely ye have received, freely give.
The power of working miracles was given for a while to recommend
the Gospel amongst men, but it was soon withdrawn again. But
Christians must use all the power they have to help bodies as well
as souls, must do any good, bring any comfort that they can to
those who need. The infinite daily mercy and bounty of God to
us stirs us up too to spend ourselves for our brethren.
9. Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses,
Much less, like some, set your heart upon heaping up money. Yet

46 How the Tidings would be received. [S. Matt. X.
there are ministers of God's Word who are avaricious and grasping.
May God show them their dreadful mistake, and keep us all from
the sin and folly of setting our hearts on this world s goods.
10. Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither
shoes, nor yet staves : for tlie workman is worthy of his meat.
The lasting principle of this command is the order to trust entirely on
God's Providence. We are not forbidden now (as the Apostles
were on this occasion) to provide moderately for our needs,_ but we
should apply ourselves to our duty without anxiety, believing that
God will be near to help us.
n. And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire
who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence. ^ 12.
And when ye come into an house, salute it. 13. And if the
house be worthy, let your peace come upon it : but if it be not
worthy, let your peace return to you.
" Peace " was a familiar salutation among the Jews ; it meant pros
perity and happiness, but it was taken up in a higher sense as the
special message of the Gospel. " Peace on earth " was now pro
claimed, "peace to them that are far and them that are near,"
peace with God by reconciliation and repentance, and with man
by charity to all. Happy is he who, amidst all the jars of this
world, takes into his heart and cherishes the sweet tidings of
peace.
14. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear your words,
when ye depart out of that house or city, shake off the dust of
your feet. 1 5. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable
for the land of Sodom and Gomorrha in the day of judgment,
than for that city.
If our great cities are like Sodom and Gomorrha for their wealth
and crimes, we can yet believe that God will deal mercifully with
the many souls in them who have had no opportunity of hearing
His truth. Only let us who have the opportunity beware how we
use it. Great is the condemnation of those who wilfully and know
ingly reject God's Word.
16. IT Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of
wolves : be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves.
Friends who tempt us to sin by their advice or example are wolves
seeking to devour our souls. The first Christians were but as a few
sheep in the midst of numberless fierce wolves, yet they got the
better of them by their patience ; but notice, believers should join
prudence and good sense with their simplicity. Only God's Spirit
can give us this right judgment and this pure heart together.
17. But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the
councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues ;

Ver. 23.] Persecutions to come. 47
Jesus Christ does not conceal from His disciples what they should
have to suffer, but at the same time gives them inward grace and
strength not to be discouraged at such a prospect. This world's
teachers promise happiness to their followers, but Jesus bids us not
be surprised if we have to bear the Cross.
18. And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for
my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles.
We read in the Acts of the Apostles how all this was fulfilled. Amidst
shame and pain and enemies the first Christians must have looked
back to these Divine words and found comfort in them. Their
Master was with them, though unseen. His power bore them up.
All came true as He had said.
19. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or
what ye shall speak : for it shall be given you in that same hour
what ye shall speak. 20. For it is not ye that speak, but the
Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you.
We are not forbidden by these words to study Holy Scripture and
other good books, and to pray for wisdom when we have to speak
up for the truth. The command "Take no thought" here (as in vi.
31) means "Do not be anxious or despondent, speak boldly, and
trust in God. You are nothing in yourselves, but yet God's children,
and He will bless your words. Think of His power and love that
encompass you, not of your own weakness. "
21. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and
the father the child : and the children shall rise up against their
parents, and cause them to be put to death.
Sometimes, in evil days, persons who loved God have had to give up all
other love. They have been for conscience' sake hated and despised
by their nearest friends, but no doubt God was their sufficient help
and stay. His love made up to them for the loss of all else.
22. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake:
but he that endureth to the end sliall be saved.
If we are only stedfast 'and keep our faith in spite of mockery, or
hatred, or bad example, the end "will soon come, and we shall be
safe for ever. It is not very long if we will only be brave. Let us
keep on fighting to the end of the day, as brave soldiers do.
23. But when they persecute you in this city, flee ye into
another : for verily I say unto you, Ye shall not have gone over
tlie cities of Israel, till the Son of man be come.
There will still be in every age dark places which need the preaching of
the Gospel. The very flight of God's messengers from their perse
cutors served to make truth known more widely. We may find
plenty to do for His Name wherever we happen to be.

48 Our Lord encourages His Friends. [S. Matt. X.
24. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above
his lord.
This checks our discontent. If our Lord and Master was despised,
misunderstood, ill-used, it is not strange that we should have to
put up with the same usage. Let us console our offended pride
by calling to mind what sort of reception He had in this world.
25. It is enough for the disciple that he be as his master,
and tlie servant as his lord. If they have called the master of
the house Beelzebub, how much more shall they call them of his
household? True members of Christ's household have often been called by
names of reproach. If our Lord could endure them patiently, why
cannot we ? What hurt can hard words or contempt do if God
reckons us for His own? No violence of men can separate us
from His holy household or hide His face from us.
26. Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered,
that shall not be revealed ; and hid, that shall not be known.
One day the innocence of God's servants will be made known. They
made their appeal to Him from the injustice of this world, and He will
maintain their cause. The hidden sins of those who passed falsely
for righteous will come to light also. All will be laid bare before
men and angels, as it is now in God's sight. Those are happy who
have sincerely confessed their sins and made their peace with God ;
they will have no reason to fear the great unveiling.
27. What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light : and
what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops.
Learn God's truth in private by prayer and study of His Word, then
go forth boldly in His strength and declare it to men. There are
times for learning when God speaks to our ear in darkness and
alone, times too for speaking when we have to deliver His
words without fear of men. Only remember that learning comes
first. You must have learned from Him what you are to say of
Him.
28. And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able
to kill the soul : but rather fear him which is able to destroy both
sold and body in hell.
A part of us is subject to pain and suffering from men's malice or
the accidents of life, but it is the viler part, which must of
necessity soon decay and perish. The nobler part of us, which
reasons, hopes, and loves, is beyond the power of death. The
soul can be injured in no other way than by losing God and
embracing evil. Hell is the fixed and lasting choice of evil
instead of good. God keep us from it, and make us fear its
miseries.

Ver. 34.] Christ bids us be brave. 49
29. Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing ? and one of
them shall not fall on the ground without your Father.
It is a comfort to reflect that God's wise Providence orders all things.
He knows all, and we can wait in trust to see the end. He cares
for all, and nothing is trifling in His sight. Our Father guides all
the great universe to ends beyond our power to understand.
30. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered.
Much more does His special Providence watch over His people.
A Christian's last illness and death may seem dreary and sad to the
natural eye, yet God has so disposed it as to bring His servant
into peace by the best and surest road. Let us learn not to speak
of things as accidents, or regret such and such a chance, for God
does not leave us for a moment without His care.
3 1. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many
sparrows. Of such value that Christ gave His life to purchase us ; therefore we
trust in His tender love, and are at peace whatever happens.
Nothing can harm those who put their trust in God.
32. Whosoever therefore shall confess me before men, him will
I confess also before my Father which is in heaven.
How can we confess our Lord before men ? The days of persecution
are over ; yes, but there are many opportunities of behaving as a
Christian before those who hate religion, and these make trial of our
courage. Confess Christ by keeping from evil, by prayer, by
attending at His house and at His altar, by showing that you care
for -all these things and delight in them, even though all the world
is against you.
33. But whosoever shall deny me before men, him will I also
deny before my Father which is in heaven.
If there is a life to come, will it not be shame and misery to find our
selves on the wrong side there, to have given up Christ out of
cowardice, and lost our interest in His saving Blood? O Lord,
keep us stedfast, and strengthen our weakness when we. are
tempted. It is a grave matter to read this verse and to reflect that
if we mock at religion now before our careless, friends Christ will
cast us off before earth and heaven.
34. Think not that I am come to 'send peace on earth : I came
not to send peace, but a sword.
Indeed the Gospel is peace in the highest sense, peace made with God
and proclaimed within the soul ; but it is a sword separating between
evil and good, the world and the Church, a. man's dearest vices
and his converted self. God's Word is living and powerful, and
sharper than a two-edged, sword to pierce the heart and cut in
sunder worldly ties. D

50 Friends and Enemies. [S. Matt. XI.
35. For I am come to set a man at variance against his
father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daugliter
in law against her mother in law. 36. And a man's foes shall
be they of his own household.
When the time comes for us to choose between following dearest friends
or the will of God, grace bids us choose God and forsake man.
If it is very hard to offend loving hearts for conscience' sake, yet
union with God and with His saints can supply the place of earthly
love. Often our soul's enemies are to be found in our homes, when
kindred teach one another love of gain, or of pleasure, or indifference
to religion.
37. He that loveth fatlier or mother more than me is not
worthy of me : and he that loveth son or daughter more than
me is not worthy of me.
Who is it makes so tremendous a claim as this ? It is the Son of
God, Who died for us, and is still the living Saviour of the world.
No one else would dare to speak so. We can tell if we love Him
the best of all by considering whether we seek His counsel in
prayer, like to converse with Him in His Word, and meet Him
at His Holy Table. He should be the dearest friend we have.
38. And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me,
is not worthy of me.
Suffer patiently and cheerfully whatever may come, in the spirit in
which the Lord Jesus Himself suffered ; so shall you be His true
followers. The way of the Cross is the royal road. Jesus our King
trod it first and made it smoother for us.
39. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth
his life for my sake shall find it.
He that clings to life and enjoys it selfishly, and shrinks back when
x God calls him to labour or pain, such a one will find on the judg
ment day that he has missed his true happiness ; while he who
gives up his life for Christ's sake and his brethren's welfare will find
it one day given back to him in joy for ever. This is the last of
the burning words which fill this chapter about the trials to come
which should prove believers' faith and love. These are the weapons
with which the Lord Jesus supplied His followers to meet an
unkind world.
40. IT He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth
me receiveth Mm that sent me. 41. He that receiveth a prophet
m the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward ; and
he that receiveth a righteous man in tlie name of a righteous
man shall receive a righteous man's reward.
We can welcome Jesus Christ, and serve Him, and share in the
work done for H.m by His disciples. He is close to us, and still
in need of our succour. He will remember all the service we do to

Ver. 4-] John Baptist sends to Christ. 51
Him though He is hidden behind our brethren's affliction. It is a
great honour for us to do anything for the King of kings.
42. And wlwsoever shall give to drink unto one of these little
ones a cup of cold water only in tlie name of a disciple, verily
I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.
Even the poorest can share in this promise. God despises no gift,
however small, given to His people and for His Name. How full
of comfort it is to reflect that our Master sees and rewards any act
of devotion, any movement of love ! He makes His saints' wants
His own, and feels the refreshment that they receive from loving
hands.

CHAPTER XI.
2. John sendeth his disciples to Christ. 7. Christ's testimony concerning
John. 18. The opinion of the people, both concerning John and
Christ. 20. Christ upbraideth the unthankfulness and unrepentance
of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum: 25. and praising his Father's
wisdom in revealing the gospel to the simple, 28. he calleth to him all
such as feel the burden of their sins.
AND it came to pass, when Jesus had made an end of com-
J\. manding his twelve disciples, lie departed thence to leach
and to preach in their cities.
Christ our Lord carried His teaching into act. What He had just
set the Apostles to do He Himself performed with equal diligence.
What an excellent way of teaching this is, to set the example our-
self ! We all wish to see round us good temper, soberness, patience,
truthfulness, reverence. Now if we set to work to practise these
graces ourselves we shall do more to root them in the world than
by all manner of good advice.
2. Now when John had heard in the prison the works of
Christ, he sent two of his disciples, 3. and said unto him, Art
thou he that should come, or do we look for another ?
Had then Tohn while in prison lost his faith in our Saviour ? We are
not obliged to think "so, for this message might only show his
wish to transfer his disciples from himself and lead them to Christ.
His end was now approaching, and he made one more effort to
show them who our Lord really was.
4. Jesus answered and said unto them, Go and shew John
again those things which ye do hear and see :
Deeds, not words, are our Lord's answer. Christians should be able to
point out what the Gospel has done within and around them. The
experience which a Christian has of God's merciful dealings with
him is the surest ground of his own faith. Must not that Heavenly

5 2 The Praises of John Baptist. [S. Matt. XI.
Friend be true Whom I have trusted through a long experience and
found faithful?
5. The blind receive their sight, and the lame walk, the lepers
are cleansed, and the deaf hear, the dead are raised up, and the
poor have the gospel preached to them.
These miracles are continued spiritually among believers. Souls that
are blind learn to see God's truth, those that are weak and infirm
begin to walk in the right way, corruption is cleansed, the careless
hear with attention, the hardened sinner is roused to repentance and
new life, the humble and needy are consoled by God's Word. Stir
up, O Lord, our dying faith, that Thy power may be seen among us
again, as in the days of old.
6. And blessed is he, whosoever shall not be offended in me.
The Scriptures, the Sacraments, the Faith, are all matter of offence
to unbelievers. God keep us from giving up our faith under the
pressure of scandals or difficulties. Can we not win this blessing by
trusting our Master boldly and waiting till the world to come for
the clearing up of all that is perplexing here ?
7. IT And as they departed, Jesus began to say unto the
multitudes concerning John, What went ye out into tlie wilder
ness to see ? A reed shaken with the wind ?
John is praised for his firmness. Free or in prison, alone or with
multitudes, he was the same, not changing to one side or the other.
He put one object before him and followed that constantly. What
power a consistent life and character has !
8. But what went ye out for to see ? A man clothed in soft
raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings'
houses. He is praised, too, for his plain self-denying habits. He avoided
all luxury, and even comfort, showing an example himself of the
penitence which he preached to others. He could call on men to
deny themselves and give up worldly pleasures, as he had shown
the way.
9. But what went ye out for to see ? A prophet ? yea, I say
unto you, and more than a prophet. 10. For this is he, of
whom it is written, Behold, I send my messenger before thy face,
which shallprepare thy way before thee.
He is praised, too, for his prophetic power, in that he discerned and
pointed out to men the Son of God Himself. God had of old fore
told his work and sent him to prepare Christ's way. All these
praises are great, and are bestowed by Him Who is Truth itself.
Let Christian teachers see by John's pattern how they may prepare
a way for their Master into the hearts of men.
11. Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of

Ver. i 7.] God's Messengers. 53
women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist :
notwithstanding he that is least in the kingdom of heaven is
greater than he.
John's greatness did not consist in wealth, or power, or talents, but in
his intense earnestness, his courage, self-denial, clear apprehension
of Christ, patience in suffering. These are signs of true greatness.
Yet we who are under the full light of the Gospel have g'reater
privileges than he had, and can approach nearer to God.
12. And from the days of John the Baptist until now the
kingdom of heaven suffereth violence, and the violent take it by
force. How is heaven open to violence ? John showed the Jews that they
must not rely upon being children of Abraham, but must earnestly
repent, change their lives, seek for God's salvation. It is by the
violence of prayer, by denying ourselves, by encountering shame,
by enduring suffering, that the gates are forced open. Let us put
our whole heart into our efforts, scale the golden city, win the
unfading crown. What matters it that the way is steep and foes
many; we are with our Heavenly Captain and fight in His strength. .
13. For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John.
The time of figures lasted till John appeared. Faithful hearts lived by
hope and longing only, and waited for the Consolation of Israel to
draw near. Now has come the time of fulfilment.
14. And if ye will receive it, this is Elias, which was for to
come. Elijah appeared again in John. He was not literally the same person,
but had the same spirit and power. Both lived austere lives,
preached repentance to a corrupt age, rep'roved kings for their
faults, wrought a great change in Israel. God sends to us also
His messengers. We should look out for them and lay their words
to heart.
15. He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
Let us listen to Christ's words. We are happy if we have ears to hear
the message of salvation. On many it falls quite unheeded. While
these things move us let us be up and doing ; some day we might
be hardened and care no more.
16. IT But whereunto shall I liken this generation? It is like
unto children sitting in the markets, and calling unto their
fellows, 1 7. and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye have
not danced; we have mourned unto you, and ye have not
lamented. This figure represents the Jews as wayward children, who first say,
Now we are going to play a merry game, you must dance with us ;
and then, Now we are going to play a sad one, you must look

54 Heavenly Wisdom not known. [S. Matt. XI.
very grave. They always want their playfellows to do something
different from what they are doing, and are never contented.
1 8. For John came neither eating nor drinking, and they say,
He hath a devil.
John the Baptist, they complained, would not dance to their piping.
He was too grave and austere. He spoke too much of repentance
and self-denial. They called him severe and extravagant.
19. The Son of man came eating and drinking, and they say,
Behold a man gluttonous, and a winebibber, a friend of publi
cans and sinners. But wisdom is justified of her children.
Our Lord, they complained, would not lament to their mourning.
He did not assume such a grave severity as they expected. He mixed
with every one and dealt kindly with penitents, so they said that
He did not care about holiness, and was indifferent whether His
friends were good or bad. But in either case the children of
Heavenly Wisdom recognised God's dealings. The world cannot
understand, but the true heart approves what He does and discerns
His servants.
20. IT Then began he to upbraid the cities wherein most of
his mighty works were done, because they repented not :
Let us apply these upbraidings to ourselves. Many mighty works of
God have been spread before us and wrought in our days, yet we
have not laid them to heart. His marvels are great, our repen
tance has been small.
21. Woe unto thee, Cliorazin! woe unto thee, Bethsaidal for
if the mighty works, which were done in you, had been done in
Tyre and Sidon, they would have repented long ago in sack
cloth and ashes.
Tyre and Sidon were great heathen cities, full of pride and luxury.
If they had had our opportunities they would have turned to God
in repentance, but, in His mysterious judgment, they never heard a
call to repent. We have had such a call, and are more guilty than
they if we do not heed it.
22. But I say unto you, It shall be more tolerable for Tyre
and Sidon at the day of judgment, than for you.
At the day of judgment our past mercies and wasted opportunities
will come up against us. We should never forget that a day of
reckoning is coming, when we shall need God's mercy. Many on
whom we now look down will have more excuses to plead before
God than we have.
23. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted unto heaven,
shalt be brought down to hell : for if the mighty works, which
have been done in thee, had been done in Sodom, it would have
remained until this day. 24. But I say unto you, That it

Ver. 29.] Thanks and Promises of Christ. 55
shall be more tolerable for the land of Sodom in the day of
judgment, than for thee.
Here we are warned against the great danger of pride. Even the
deadly sins which prevailed in Sodom did not harden hearts so
hopelessly as pride does. We are in danger whenever we feel
satisfied with ourselves and trust in our own strength. These
words of Divine Wisdom should put us on our guard and make us
pray for the grace of humility. Many who trusted in themselves
have had terrible falls and never risen again.
25. IT At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee,
0 Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid
these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them
unto babes.
Jesus Christ considered and adored the ways of His Father's Provi
dence. He saw the ignorant and simple accept Divine truth, while
the great despised it. Heavenly mysteries are hidden from some,
while to others they are bright and clear. Lord, I desire to
approach with a meek, teachable, obedient heart. Let me be a
child in readiness to learn from Thee.
26. Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.
Let submission to God's will be our key to the difficulties of life. We
should do our own duty boldly ; but for all that is out of our power,
and seems hard or perplexing, we must submit to God's wisdom,
which is greater than ours. His Providence over ourselves, which
we have often felt, gives us reason to believe in it over others where
we cannot trace it.
27. All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no
man knoweth the Son, but the Father ; neither knoweth any man
the Fathei; save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will
reveal him.
All gifts come to us from God through Christ. It is a happy necessity
to have to receive them thus at the hands of a Friend. We willingly
depend on Thy goodness, O Lord Jesus, and expect blessings from
Thee. Thou alone art God's Son and canst declare God to us.
28. IT Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden,
and I will give you rest.
All who feel their burden are called to come and Christ will lighten
it for them. Whether it is sin, or sorrow, or fear, or pain that
distresses us, we are invited to come and seek help from this Good
Physician. There are many burdens which no human sympathy
can lighten, but the Lord can remove them or help us to bear
them better. His offer of rest means inward peace even in trouble
here, and perfect peace hereafter.
29. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am

56 The Disciples pluck Ears of Corn. [S. Matt. XII.
meek and lowly in heart : and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
Our own load is heavy, yet we lighten it by taking up that of Jesus
Christ. A Christian who embraces his cross in humility for the love
of Jesus becomes able to endure with hope and patience all that
comes. Pride is the root of our trouble. When we have come to
feel our own nothingness we can bear with unkind usage or sad
times, and return strife with kindness. This is the school of humility,
in which Jesus is the Teacher, and His saints have been learners.
Teach us, O Lord, this salutary lesson which will give us inward
peace.

CHAPTER XII.
1. Christ reproveth the blindness of the Pharisees concerning the breach of
the sabbath, 3. by scriptures, 9. by reason, 13. and by a miracle. 22.
He healeth the man possessed that was blind and dumb. 31. Blas
phemy against the Holy Ghost shall never be forgiven. 36. Account
shall be made of idle words. 38. He rebuketh the unfaithful, who
seek after a sign : 4g. and sheweth who is his brother, sister, and
mother.
AT that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the
J\_ corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to
pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.
The disciples of Christ were poor ; they were also much taken up
with doing their Master's work and listening to Him. On this
occasion they had nothing better to eat than dry ears of corn, still
they were contented so long as they were with Him.
2. But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him,
Behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the
sabbath day.
The Pharisees looked out for faults in others, and were ready to
blame whenever they had a chance. Let us not copy this temper,
but rather look out for what we can admire and praise in our
brethren They said that the disciples by plucking the corn had
broken Urod s day of rest.
3. But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did
when he was an hungred, and they that were with him • a
how he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread
which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were
with him, but only for the priests ?
Our Lord defended His disciples by the example of David who
with his soldiers, ate the holy bread when they cmud gelTo
other. In such cases of need God puts aside His ceremonifl law

Ver. io.]- Christ is Lord of the Sabbath. 57
and bids us care for our neighbour's necessities as He cares for
ours.
5. Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath
days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are
blameless ?
He defended them also by the example of the priests in the temple.
They broke the Sabbath by doing many things of the nature of
work, yet, being for God's service, it was allowed. The observance
of Sabbath rest was not the end, but only the means ; it was but a
figure of heavenly rest, and meant to prepare us for. that ; it might
be laid aside when man's need or God's service required.
6. But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than
the temple.
The reverence of the Jews for their temple and its ordinances reminds
us with what feelings we should approach Jesus Christ. He is
present with us now when we draw near to His altar. There we
find One so great that we cannot too humbly adore Him. The
highest privilege of our Christian Sabbath and Christian temple
is the opportunity which faith has of meeting our Saviour.
7. But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have
mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the
guiltless. He defends His disciples also by the law of charity, which is above
all other laws. True piety is shown not by multiplying outward
services, but by multiplying the love and faith with which we offer
them. Inward offerings must go with outward if the latter are to
be accepted. How many of our judgments are like those of the
Pharisees, too harsh, too sharp, and undeserved !
8. For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.
He had power to change the Sabbath. God had set apart for rest one
day in seven in order to keep men in mind of their Creator ; but
Jesus Christ did away with the old Sabbath, and left us instead
the Lord's day and other festivals of the Church, which keep us
in mind of our redemption and allow time for prayer and praise.
One day He will do away with these also and bring in the endless
Sabbath of eternity.
9. And when he was departed thence, he went into their
synagogue :
10. 1T And, belwld, there was a man which had his hand
withered. And they asked him, saying, Is it lawful to heal on
the sabbath days ? that they might accuse him.
This man's hand was wasted and had no strength or feeling. Some
of us never lift up our hands to God in earnest prayer, or stretch
them out to help and succour our neighbour. Are not such hands
withered in God's sight ? The Pharisees professed to come to the

58 The Withered Hand healed. [S. Matt. XII.
synagogue in order to pray and hear God's Word, but what they
really did there was to nourish their hatred of Christ and devise
traps for Him. They were the worse instead of better for going.
n. And he said unto them, What man shall there be among
you, that shall have one sheep, and if it fall into a pit on the
sabbath day, will he not lay hold on it, and lift it out? 12.
How much then is a man better than a sheep ? Wherefore it is
lawful to do well on the sabbath days.
What wisdom and kindness the Lord brings to decide the question
whether it is right to relieve pain on the Sabbath day ! How much
is a man better than a beast ? Infinitely better, for he is in God's
image, redeemed by Christ's blood, meant for heaven. No trouble
whereby we may help our brethren should be reckoned too great
for us. Some people reverse this text, and treat their dogs and
horses better than their poorer brethren.
13. Then saith he to the man, Stretch forth thine hand.
And he stretched it forth ; and it was restored whole, like as
tlie other.
God has but to command and what seemed impossible is done. He
Who gave power to the wasted hand can quicken into life our cold
and barren souls. Restore us, O Lord, to innocence again, make
us inwardly whole and pure, and able to feel Thy love and do
work for Thee.
14. IT Then the Pharisees went out, and held a council
against him, how they might destroy him.
Envy and hatred grow when we have once let them into our hearts.
We must guard against their first beginnings. Every good thing
that our Saviour did was found fault with; it was sure in some
way to give offence. Let us look out for what is good and welcome
it, lest we become blind to goodness.
15. But when Jesus knew it, he withdrew himself from thence:
and great multitudes followed him, and he healed them all ; 16.
and charged them that they should not make him known :
His object was to do good, not to be praised for it ; nor did He desire
to stir up strife or provoke His enemies till the hour of His great
conflict drew near. While the time of His earthly life lasted He
would rather do good quietly and remain in obscurity. He knew
how little men's praise was worth.
17. That it might be fulfilled which was spoken by Esaias
the prophet, saying, 18. Behold my servant, whom I have
chosen; my beloved, in wliom my soul is well pleased: I will
put my spirit upon him, and he shall shew judgment to the
Gentiles. God's Servant is set forth in Isaiah as a pattern for other ministers

Ver. 24.] Mercy and Power joined in Christ. 59
and servants of God. He did not thrust Himself into His office,
but was chosen and called by God. He was loved by God and
loved Him. The Holy Spirit rested on Him to fit Him for His
work. He declared to the world God's righteous law and promised
deliverance, and bore witness to it by His sufferings. Such is the
outline of that great Servant Who is set forth as the Messenger from
God to men.
19. He shall not strive, nor cry; neither shall any man hear
his voice in tlie streets.
A Christian should abhor pride and violence. He should not insist
upon his own rights, or make complaints about trifling affronts,
but imitate his Master's gentleness. No one can affront me unless
I choose to take it so. Why should dust and ashes be so proud ?
20. A bruised reed shall he not break, and smoking flax shall
he not quench, till he send forth judgment unto victory.
Bear with the weak, comfort the doubtful, encourage the faint-hearted;
do not despise any soul, though its strength is as weak as the broken
reed or its faith as dim as the smouldering wick. God's righteous
judgment will conquer at last if we will only wait His time. Now
is the day of disappointment, of failure, and of confusion, but one
day will come victory.
21. And in his name shall the Gentiles trust.
What other name can we trust in? This sweet and saving Name of
Christ Jesus represents to us God's holiness and mercy, the Passion
and Resurrection, Divine promises of grace, past experiences and
present comforts. It is for us to spread that Name throughout the
world.
22. 1T Then was brought unto him one possessed with a devil,
blind, and dumb : and he healed him, insomuch that the blind
and dumb both spake and saw.
Lord, drive out the devil which possesses sinners' hearts, enable
them to speak in praise and prayer and see the right way. All
round us are many souls who are in bondage to Satan and need Thy
saving grace to set them free.
23. And all the people were amazed, and said, Is not this
the son of David ?
These are the works of the promised Messiah. We recognise our
Deliverer in the union of majesty and mercy which Jesus Christ
exhibits. Is not this our Saviour ? We can find succour in no
other. None of all the sons of men have so fulfilled old truths and
brought out new ones as He has done.
24. But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow
doth not east out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.
They mocked at our Lord's works of mercy, and doubted if Satan had
really left the afflicted person. So nowadays, when a sinner is con-

60 Good casting out Evil. [S. Matt. XII.
verted to God there are some who laugh at his changed life and
ascribe it to unworthy motives.
25. And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them,
Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation ;
and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand :
26. and if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself;
how shall then his kingdom stand ?
Division ruins all, whether in a family or in a state, and so it is in
the Church of God. Christians ought "seriously to lay to heart
what great danger they are in by their unhappy divisions." God's
Word is hindered by the suspicion and dislike which prevails
between believers. O that we could agree to love and trust each
other and look out for whatever might set us at one. Satan is
much wiser. His kingdom holds together and is at unity with itself.
It could not stand otherwise ; and how can God's kingdom unless
His servants agree ?
27. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by wliom do your
children cast them out ? therefore they shall be your judges.
Our Lord spoke of His own disciples, and perhaps of some others
among the Jews who had this power over evil spirits. He
appealed to their work, and showed that His was of the same kind.
All true efforts against Satan are fruits of the one redeeming work
of Christ, and partake in its virtue. Let our work be to cast out
evil, not to make friends with it or plant it in any soul.
28. But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the
kingdom of God is come unto you.
Where God's Spirit is, there His kingdom is set up. We should
pray for that gracious Spirit of God to rule in us. How can we
escape from the malice of evil spirits unless the spirit of purity and
grace fill our hearts? We can trace His presence by the flight of
evil thoughts and the growth of good.
29. Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and
spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man ? and then
he will spoil his house.
My inward house is indeed Thine, O God, by all right and justice,
though the mighty powers of evil, pride, passion, and covetous
desire have stolen in to lodge there. Lord, bind them fast and
drive them out, and come Thyself to dwell within me, so shall I be
safe.
30. He that is not with me is against me; and he that
gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.
We must take one side or the other, be with Jesus or against Him,
gather in good thoughts and prayers and affections, or else scatter
abroad evil examples and wasted hours. It cannot always be seen
at once on which side any one is, but presently the time comes

Ver. 35.] Evil casting out Good.

61

when a choice must be made, and then it is seen whether we hold
with God or against Him.
31. 1T Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and
blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy
against tlie Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.
Here is full and free forgiveness, and yet some will not benefit by it.
To some the Lord's saving death and all His love bring no healing,
because they mock at His gracious offers. Seek forgiveness now,
lest your heart become hard and you cease to care for it, and so
lose its benefits.
32. And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man,
it shall be forgiven him : but whosoever speaketh against the
Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world,
neither in the world to come.
Christ came to suffer humiliation, and was despised by those who
misunderstood Him. There may have been some in those days,
and since, who loved goodness and desired to serve God, and yet
did not receive Jesus as their Saviour. They did not comprehend
who He was, and so refused Him. Far worse is their case who
hear of good done and revile it, of conversion and disbelieve it,
of peace and dissuade others from seeking it.
33. Either make the tree good, and his fruit good ; or else
make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt : for tlie tree is
known by his fruit.
The tree is the heart, the fruit is life and actions. Men observe oul
conduct and behaviour, and thus in the end get to know our true
character. Grace alone can change the nature of the tree and make
it bear precious fruits of goodness acceptable to God and men.
It is a humbling reflection to consider how little good fruit has been
gathered from our life.
34. 0 generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good
things ? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.
35. A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth
forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure
bringeth forth evil things.
To judge from the words that we hear said around us, what an
abundance of suspicion, jealousy, conceit, must occupy men's hearts l
Let us rather abound in kindness, in pure, loving, and upright
thoughts, and then our words will be of like nature. How beauti
ful a thing it would be to have the heart quite pure, and then all the
conversation would be upright and sincere ! There is no limit to
the goodness of the saints or the perversity of sinners. The heart
of either is like a deep well, full of good or of evil, meet to refresh
or to poison souls.

The Sign of Jonas. [S. Matt. XH^

36. But I say unto you, That every _ idle word that men shall
speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.
If we must give account of idle words that we speak, why not of idle
words that we write? for they live on longer, and are more lasting
for good or for evil. God grant that I may not be adding to the
Holy Gospel idle words to condemn writer and readers, but sound
words to build up the simple. A verse like this should be always
kept in mind to teach us the danger of overmuch talking, and the
great wisdom of sometimes being silent.
37. For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy
words thou shalt be condemned.
This is a righteous judgment brought on us by our own selves. Words
of pity, of purity, of kindness, of earnest faith, will be able to stand
in that day, when clever blasphemies, unkind detractions, and
foolish jokes will be the cause of endless remorse to their utterers.
38. IT Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees
answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.
That is not the spirit of a real seeker after truth. We ought not in
religious matters to look out for what pleases our fancy or fills
our memory only, but rather say, " What does God speak to my
heart ? What ought I to do ? I need God's grace to cleanse me
from sin and give me new life. I come not as a judge of His
Word, but as a child asking for his father's guidance. "
39. But he answered and said unto them, An evil and
adulterous generation seeketh after a sign ; and there shall no
sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas : 40. for
as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale's belly;
so shall the Son of man be three days and three nights in the
heart of the earth.
Jonah preached repentance, offered himself for his comrades' life
in the storm at sea, came out alive from the monster's belly after
three days, and afterwards imparted God's message to distant
countries. Whom do we find figured here ? Who was it began His
ministry by telling men to repent, devoted Himself to death to turn
away God's anger, rose again gloriously on the third day, and
afterwards sent out the glad tidings of pardon into every land?
Our Lord's Resurrection is the seal of His saving work, the one
miracle which is a part of Christian faith, and the pledge of glory
to come.
41. The men of Nineveh shall rise in judgment with this
generation, and shall condemn it : because they repented at the
preaching of Jonas ; and, beliold, a greater than Jonas is here.
Jonah came to Nineveh and warned the people of its approaching
destruction. At this the whole city repented ; they turned from
their evil ways, fasted and wore sackcloth, cried mightily to God

Ver. 46.] The Evil Spirit returning. 63
for pardon, and so they were forgiven. What shall we say of
Christians whom Jesus Christ has so often warned of judgment to
come, who have such great need to repent, and yet go on living easy
lives, and put off repentance till defcith comes suddenly upon them
and cuts off all opportunity of repentance ?
. 42. The queen of the south shall rise up in tlie judgment with
this generation, and shall condemn it : for she came from the
uttermost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of Solomon;
and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
The queen of Sheba came from afar to hear Solomon's wisdom and
have her questions answered by him. Expense, trouble, the long
journey and its dangers, seemed nothing to her so she might but
learn what he could teach her. What shall we say of Christians who
have Jesus Christ speaking to them in the Gospel, and preachers
explaining to them His words in the church, and yet care so little
to read or hear what is for the salvation of their souls ?
43. Wlien the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh
through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
If the evil spirit has been cast out from your heart, be not over-
secure. Watch and pray lest sin return. If that deadly habit of sin
which you once felt so mighty is now weakened, you should thank
God, but yet remember that it is only His power that can keep
you safe in future.
44. Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence
I came out ; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept,
and garnished.
That was the great mistake. The house was empty, and so the evil
one found entrance again. Beware of idleness, of wandering
thoughts, and a self-pleasing life. Fill your time with good
thoughts, useful books, honest work, and check foolish dreamings.
Let no hours be without occupation, strive by prayer and Holy Com
munion to have the Lord Jesus dwelling in your heart, and thus you
will be safe — Satan will be afraid to enter.
45. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits
more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there :
and the last state of tliat man is worse than the first. Even
so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.
How terrible is the state of a backslider! Once he loved God and
prayer, studied his Bible, hoped for heaven, delighted in religious
subjects ; now he laughs at such things, he follows his own passions,
and tries to drown care. Instead of the seven gifts of the blessed
Spirit seven deadly sins reign in his heart. This same hopeless
and awful condition might very easily be ours. If God were to
withdraw His hand which holds us up we should fall into utter ruin.
46. IT Wliile he yet talked to tlie people, behold, his mother

64 Christ 's Mother and Brethren. [S. Matt. XIII.
and his brethren stood without, desiring to speak with him. 47.
Then one said unto him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren
stand without, desiring to speak with thee.
The mother of Jesus and His cousins (for this is what the word
' ' brethren " seems to mean here) came near while He was teach
ing. Perhaps they wished to show that He belonged to them and
claim a share in His glory, or perhaps it was merely out of love
that they wished to see Him, or it may have been to warn Him of
the designs of His enemies. He had always been "subject to" His
holy mother, and loved her dearly. On the cross He thuught of her,
but now His work absorbed Him so much that she saw but little
of Him.
48. But he answered and said unto him that told him, Who
is my mother ? and who are my brethren ?
Christ did not, by this answer, mean to deny His relationship to
Mary and to His kindred ; for we see that at other times they
were with Him, and He loved them. What He meant was that His
work of teaching and helping souls came before all other ties. His
Father's business must be first, and nothing must interfere with that.
God's ministers, or missionaries called to go to distant countries,
indeed all who have work to do for God, should think of this
answer. When God calls, sweet home and dear friends must give way.
49. And he stretched forth his hand toward his disciples, and
said, Behold my mother and my brethren/ 50. For wliosoever
shall do the will of my Father which is in heaven, tlie same is
my brother, and sister, and mother.
By doing God's will we become dear to the Lord Jesus. He gives us
grace to do this Divine will, and loves us when we do it, and bids
us love Him in turn. The virgin mother of Jesus was a pure and
holy woman who believed God's word and obeyed His call. If we
follow her in these dispositions we shall obtain a share of her
bles'sedness. Christ our Lord shares with us His friends, His mother,
and His heart. All these treasures are ours if we are His,

CHAPTER XIII.
3. The parable of the sowe. and the seed : 18. the exposition of it. 34. The
parable of the tares, 31. of the mustard seed, 33. of the leaven, 44. of
the hidden treasure, 45. of the pearl, 47. of the drawnet cast into the
sea : 53. and how Christ is contemned of his own countrymen.
THE same day went Jesus out of the house, and sat by the
sea side. 2. And great multitudes were gathered together
unto him, so that he went into a ship, and sat; and the whole
multitude stood on the shore.-

Ver. 7.] Parable of the Sower. 65
Our Lord was never wearied of teaching while there were souls to
profit by it, and the people were never weary of listening to His
Divine words. It should be our delight to hear God's Word and
seek His face. He will reveal to us ourselves, and our duty< and
heaven, and Divine love, as He did to these listening crowds in
Galilee. Lord, touch our preachers' lips that they may be able to
deliver us a message from Thee.
3. And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying,
Behold, a sower went forth to sow ;
Christ drew His parables from the common pursuits of life, such as
sowing, reaping, or fishing. He Who is Lord of both worlds, that
of nature and that of grace, could trace out the likeness between
one and the other, could show how spring and summer, leaf and
fruit, earth and air, are all parables, having a spiritual meaning
hidden under their outward form. Our Lord's parables join together
simplicity of speech with depths of meaning. He is Himself the
Sower Who went forth.
4. And when he sowed, some seeds fell by the way side, and
the fowls came and devoured them up :
The wayside is a careless heart, where all manner of thoughts and
desires are allowed to enter, which is hardened by unrepented sin,
where vanity blows clouds of dust, and impurity leaves pools
of mud, and evil spirits come with mockery and extinguish any
chance impressions of good.
5. Some fell upm, stony places, where they had not much
earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deep
ness of earth : 6. and when the sun was up, they were scorched;
and because they had no root, they withered away.
The stony place, where the soil was thinly scattered over a surface
of rock, is a shallow heart which receives every new idea warmly but
does not persevere in anything long. For a while religious truth
seems to have found a home there, much fervour is shown, and
warm professions of love made ; then comes a blast of adversity or
temptation, hot passions or cold sneers assail the unstable soul and
wither up its devotion. Where are all the good resolutions gone ?
What trace of conversion is left ?
7. And some fell among thorns ; and the thorns sprung up,
and choked them :
The thorn-bushes are a heart that is too much taken up with worldly
business. If it is a rich man's heart, it will be full of cares for his
property, how to manage or increase it ; if it is a poor man's heart,
it will be full of care about the means of getting a living and keep
ing a home together. Either way, there is no room for the heavenly
seed. Prayer, God's Word, Holy Communion, preparation for
death, are laid aside and then forgotten, and the whole man is
given up to this world's affairs.

66 Knowledge given and denied. [S. Matt. XIII.
8. But other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit,
some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold.
The good ground is a sincere and honest heart where God's word
takes root, and grows, and shows itself in a good life. All religious
people are not the same, all are not equally free from faults, yet
by God's grace they keep, ' on the whole, to His side and advance
towards heaven. Some of God's people are more devout, more
in earnest, more full of love than others. Let us honour the fruits
of His grace in them, and follow their good example.
9. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
How can this be except God gives him ears to hear, enables him to
listen, learn, and profit? Without Thee, O Lord, we can
neither learn nor teach. Waken our ears to catch Thy voice
amidst the tumult of the world.
10. And the disciples came, and said unto him, Why speakest
thou unto them in parables ? 1 1. He answered and said unto
them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the
kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given.
How great is the mystery of God's judgments! The comprehension
of Divine things is a gift which all do not enjoy equally. Salvation
is offered to us in such a manner that those who delight in it are
drawn on to learn all its meaning, while colder hearts see less in
it. Indeed, religious knowledge requires study and application
on our part, yet it is a gift from heaven, won more by prayer than
study. '
12. For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall
have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall
be taken away even that he hath.
Use well your means of knowledge or of grace. God will bless and
increase them. Those who care little for privileges are likely
to lose them entirely. Now, while we can, let us read His Word
pray communicate lest the opportunity and the inclination too be
wholly withdrawn from us.
13. Therefore speak I to them in parables: because they
seeing see not; and hearing they hear not, neither do they
understand. "
G°ilSiUdi?mfentS.fnd mercies' the d^ly works of His wisdom, His
?£l n. 7£dtm sacraraents> His converting mercy, are al
going on close to us, yet many neither see nor hear^ thenT A
rto^ticTtSr d6PthS °f P°Wer and #>". ** -""sote
Jth i?Vn- ^^ \ %l¥ledt*the V^hecy of Esaias, which
saith, By hearing ye shall hear, and shall not understand; and
seeing ye shall see, and shall not perceive: 15. for this peopled

Ver. 19.] The Greatness of our Opportunities. 67
heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and
their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with
their eyes, and hear with their ears, and should understand
with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal
them. This prophecy is referred to in each of the four Gospels, and by S.
Paul in his words and writings. It is part of the great call of Isaiah
to the prophetic office, in which God shows him that His people
would disregard the warnings and promises which he was bidden
to utter. The prophet had to declare warnings of sorrow and
judgment, also tidings of peace and comfort to a remnant, and God
told him that few would pay attention to them. All this also fell
out true in the case of Jesus Christ, Whom the Old Testament
prophet represented, and Who had to declare judgments more
awful, mercies more bountiful, than of old.
16. But blessed are your eyes, for they see: and your ears,
for they hear.
We have not indeed seen Christ with our bodily eyes, nor heard His
actual words ; but we see His doctrines confirmed by the Church
throughout the world, and the lives of true Christians, and we hear
His precepts read and explained to us daily. If we compare our
opportunities with those of the saints who lived before His coming,
we have reason to be ashamed that we fall so far short of them.
17. For verily I say unto you, That many prophets and
righteous men have desired to see those things which ye see, and
have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and
have not heard them.
They had so little on which to rest, just a few obscure promises and
dark signs, for God's old dispensation was chiefly temporal, yet
they discerned its hidden meaning, and longed for the fulfilment to
come. They lived by faith in the promised Deliverer, and said,
"I have waited for Thy salvation, O Lord." We enjoy the full
truth, and see how all has been accomplished, yet we do not value
enough the blessings of grace.
18. IT Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. 19. When
any one hear eth the word of the kingdom, and under standeth it
not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which
was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the
way side.
Keep me, O Lord, from a profane heart, which does not care for what
is good, but freely admits the devil and evil thoughts. In such a
heart God's love can find no entrance; it is deaf alike to warnings
and entreaties. Lord, if I have ever been thus, let me be so no
more. Break up the ground of my heart by trouble, drive away the
foul enemy from it, soften it by pure and tender love, so that at last
I may come to find a pleasure in heavenly things.

68 Bad Ground and Good Ground. [S. Matt. XIII.
20. But he that received the seed into stony places, the same
is he that heareth the word, and anon with joy receiveth it; 21.
yet hath he not root in himself, but dureth for a while : for
when tribulation or persecution ariseth because of the word, by
and by he is offended.
Let it not be for a moment only that I enjoy religion, that the
promises are sweet to me, and the path of Thy commandments
easy. Give me grace to persevere. My heart is shallow and change
able ; for a while I am devout, I make good resolutions, I purpose
to overcome my faults, and then the first breath of temptation
overthrows all. Why cannot my modesty, or patience, or diligence
last longer and stand a trial better ? I long to be a more durable
Christian.
¦ 22. He also that received seed among the thorns is he that
heareth the word ; and the care of this world, and the deceitful-
ness of riches, choke the word, and he becometh unfruitful.
If I am poor, let me, with all my striving, provide the " Bread of
Life," " the one thing needful " for myself and my family. I need
God's Spirit and Word and the hope of heaven as well as earthly
necessaries. All work is blessed if done for Jesus and with Jesus.
If I am well off in the world, let me not be deceived by my riches.
Let me look stedfastly on death and eternity, and so this world's
wealth will not dazzle my eyes. Perhaps the good seed has been
choked within me by the thorns of care. Let me now root them up
and cherish it afresh.
23.. But he that received seed into the good ground is he that
heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth
fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some
thirty. This is a happy lot, not only to hear, but to understand and, still
more, to bear fruit plentifully. Lord, turn my heart into good
ground, till it with Thy grace, let it produce good thoughts and
resolutions that may grow into acts. From Thee only comes good.
. . My heart has been hard and dull for many a day, but Thy mighty
grace can quicken it. I long to do something for God, Who has
done so much for me.
_ 24. 11 Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, The
kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man which sowed good seed
in his field:
Thanks be to God for sowing us in His field, where we are tilled by
His care, and set to bring forth fruit. Our duty is to remain in God's
Church, and persevere in our profession, even though many round
us are evil. God has called us and given us many tokens of His
presence. He has still many good plants growing in His field
though weeds have grown up also. '
25. But while men slept, his enemy came and sowed tares

Ver. 31.] Parable of the Tares. 69
among the wheat, and went his way. 26. But when the blade
ivas sprung up, and brought forth fruit, then appeared the tares
also. Do not be surprised at false brethren, ungodly ministers, division
among believers, corruptions and scandals creeping in. It is sad, but
not strange. While faith and love grow and increase, so do also
the evil passions which Satan sows among Christians. Remember,
whatever evil happens in the Church to try your faith, that your
Master has warned you that so it should be.
27. So the servants of the householder came and said unto
kim, Sir, didst not tliou sow good seed in thy field? from
whence then hath it tares ?
When we discover this evil plant, which is a counterfeit of the true
seed, growing up with it and choking it, we should represent our
trouble to God and seek His counsel. Is not the Church the
Bride of heaven, the House of God, the Body of Christ ? How
is it in such a state of weakness and confusion as we now find it ?
In such moments we are tempted to think that God's plan has failed.
28. He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The
servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather
them up ?
This confusion is Satan's work. While the Church is still militant the
Tempter is allowed to lead Christians astray, so that sin and division
and error abound. This is a grievous trial, but must be endured for
a while, nor may we despair of any one yet. Sometimes we fail to
discern the good seed while yet it remains, and will appear in God's
good time.
29. But he said, Nay ; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye
root up also the wheat with them.
Persecution uproots Christ's true followers as well as heretics. If God
bears with our brethren's errors we may bear with them also. Let
us beware of mixing human passion with our upholding God's truth.
Many have done grievous harm by their hasty zeal to uproot error.
30. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the
time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first
the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them : but gather
the wheat into my barn.
God makes a profit out of this confusion. To be so mixed up with
the evil is part of the trial of the good, and brings about their perfec
tion. God's purposes are worked out by degrees, and those who
have chosen His side will find at last that they have done well. As
in the Church, so in the believer's heart, tares grow up with wheat,
evil is mingled with good, but all this is for a while. One day the
great fire of God's love or God's wrath will consume all that is evil.
31. U Another parable put he forth unto them, saying, Tlie

70 The Mustard Seed and the Leaven. [S. Matt. XIII.
kingdom of heaven is like to a grain of mustard seed, which a
man took, and sowed in his field:
This is a figure of the Gospel spreading in the world. It was first
taught to a few in an obscure and despised country by One Who
"had not where to lay His head," and Who suffered a death of
shame. And it was then committed to fishermen and other
simple persons to preach among all nations. Nothing could be
meaner in the world's reckoning than this.
3 2. Which indeed is the least of all seeds : but when it is
grown, it is the greatest among herbs, and becometh a tree, so
that the birds of the air come and lodge in the branches thereof.
Behold the Gospel now, how it has spread. The kings of the earth
proclaim themselves Christians, progress and power are found to
go with Christianity, the noblest souls bow down before the
Cross, the Scriptures are acknowledged to be full of wisdom
and beauty, the Catholic Church throughout the world has all
grown up from the little company of believers on the day of
Pentecost.
33. IT Anotlier parable spake he unto them; The kingdom of
heaven is like unto leaven, which a woman took, and hid in three
measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.
This is a figure of the power of heavenly truth. The meal or dough
is the heart, which is naturally dull and heavy as regards spiritual
things ; it has of itself very little love, or strength, or power to
persevere, but God's Spirit enters in. A word, a text, an incident,
becomes the occasion of grace. The leaven or yeast is the love of
God, which changes the whole character, not outwardly or with
display, but by a secret working. May it please God to fulfil this
heavenly change in us 1
34. All these things spake Jesus unto the multitude in
parables; and without a parable spake lie not unto them: 35.
that_ it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet,
saying, Twill open my mouth in parables; I will utter things
which have been kept secret from the foundation of the world.
The world without and the nature of man are parables having
hidden wit hin them inward and spiritual lessons besides what we
see. The history of the Jewish people, which Psalm Ixxviii. (here
quoted) relates, is a parable full of types of the Christian's life.
All the Jewish ordinances were parables, and so are the Chris
tian sacraments too Lord, give us discerning hearts to penetrate
beneath the outward appearance of things and learn what Thou
wouldst teach us.
36. Then, Jesus sent the multitude away, and went into the
house: and his disciples came unto him, saying, Declare unto
us the parable of tlie tares of tlie field.

Ver. 43.] Christ speaks of the Harvest. 71
So should Christians retire from the world into the company of Jesus
Christ, should draw near Him by faith, address Him by prayer,
and seek for the hidden meaning of His Word. He alone has the
key to all its mysteries and can reveal them to us.
37. He answered and said unto tliem, He that soweth the
good seed is the Son of man ;
Any good there is in us comes of the grace of Jesus Christ. He only has
sown it and cherished it. Of ourselves there is no good thing at all
that can find favour in His sight. We owe to His free love and
mercy all the good that we enjoy now and all our hopes for the
future. Let us, before His altar, rejoice to acknowledge this and
give Him all the praise.
38. The field is the world; the good seed are the children of
the kingdom; but the tares are the children of the wicked one;
We are the children of the kingdom, and should live suitably to our
title. What character is required of us who are heirs of glory ?
Surely a royal and generous disposition to which earthly honours
seem trifling, as we look for something better. Let us only beware
lest we lose our high calling and become children of the wicked
one, and so inherit misery with him.
39. The enemy that sowed them is the devil; the harvest is
the end of the world; and the reapers are the angels.
To sow evil by words and behaviour is the devil's work; it springs
up iR other hearts and produces a woeful harvest. There comes a
reckoning day to all alike, to God's children and Satan's children,
when the righteous Judge will decide on men's works. Then the
unseen world will appear, and all this visible world be as nothing.
40. As therefore the tares are gathered and burned in the
fire; so shall it be in the end of this world. 41. The Son of
man shall send forth his angels, and they shall gather out of
his kingdom all things that offend, and them which do iniquity;
42. and shall cast them into a furnace of fire : there shall be
wailing and gnashing of teeth.
If there is a life to come, it must turn out ill there for those who have
lived a selfish, or useless, or sinful life here. Actions must bring
about their natural consequences, and a life of sin can only end in
misery, here in this world in a measure, and after death completely
and past recovery. The ' ' furnace of fire " and ' ' gnashing of teeth '
are words to express hopeless remorse and bitter disappointment.
Better for us to suffer much pain and trouble here, if only we may
find peace in the day of God's judgment.
43. Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the
kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.
What infinite j oy and glory ! What a change from suffering here, and

72 The Treasure and the Pearl. [S. Matt. XIII.
the stillness and corruption of the grave, to a home of light and
love, and that for ever 1
" O sweet and blessed country,
The home of God's elect ! "
There all will be clear, all peaceful, all perfect. We have ears to
listen to tales of this world's conquests or discoveries, but Jesus our
Lord reveals to us something far more glorious.
44. II Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure
hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth,
and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and
buy eth that field.
Heaven is not given for nothing. The treasure-seeker had to sell all
that he had to make up the price of the field where he knew the
treasure was; so we must be willing to part with everything else
rather than miss God's love. Our time, our health, money, friends,
inclinations, must be as nothing when He requires them. His
friendship can make us abundantly rich.
45. IT Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant
man, seeking goodly pearls : 46. who, when he had found one
pearl of great price, went and sold all tliat he had, and
bought it.
Merchants search the world over for goods and for orders. Shall not
we bestow some time and trouble on the search for God's truth?
Human wisdom has found out many useful things, like the goodly
pearls which the merchant lighted on in this place or that ; but the
words of Christ are the pearl of great price which far exceeded the
rest. Some persons seek long and vainly for their true happiness ;
they find no lasting satisfaction in this world ; let us guide them to
a happiness which lasts for ever and is the best of all.
47. *\ Again, tlie kingdom of heaven is like unto a net, that
was cast into the sea, and gathered of every kind :
This is the Catholic Church throughout the world, in which professing
Christians are joined together by the common use of sacraments and
prayers and God's Word, yet not all by inward faith and love. Some
are joined to the Church for all eternity, they belong to Jesus in
heart and life, and never leave Him ; others are His only outwardly
and for a time. No one can certainly tell who are Christ's while
this world lasts, but we are bound, to spread the net and gather in
all we can catch.
48. Which, wlien it was full, they drew to shore, and sat
down, and gathered the good into vessels, but cast the bad away.
That will be a breathless anxious moment that will make our eternal
condition known. After the troublesome sea of this world comes the
quiet haven of eternity. Oh that, like Daniel, we might "rest and
stand in our lot at the end of the days ;" or, like the penitent thief,

Ver. 54.] Things New and Old. 73
be found with Jesus in Paradise I What kind of society do we
desire to be ours for ever ?
49. So shall it be at the end of the world : the angels shall
come forth, and sever the wicked from among tlie just, 50. and
shall cast them into the furnace of fire : there sliall be wailing
and gnashing of teeth.
Such company as we take pleasure in now shall be ours for ever,
either the company of those who love God and hate sin, or that of
the ungodly and profane. What a separation that final one will be,
when some shall bid adieu to all peace and hope and joy I Fire
and weeping and gnashing of teeth are but figures expressing the
sad state of those who have had other things but missed God. They
will find out too late that only He is a lasting friend, while all
those things in which they found their comfort are perished utterly.
Lord, chasten and try and purify us here, so we may but be spared
in eternity. Give us a holy fear of Thy judgment.
51. Jesus saith unto them, Have ye understood all these
things ? They say unto him, Yea, Lord.
Here is a question for the student of Scripture. We should pause at
times in our reading to see whether we have comprehended what
we have read and brought it home to ourselves. We are happy if
we can answer with truth as the disciples did. God will enlighten
us to understand yet more and more of His Holy Word.
52. Then said he unto them, Therefore every scribe which is
instructed unto the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that
is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things
new and old.
A teacher of God's Word should be like the father of a family, who
brings home and distributes to his children what they each need.
What we have learned about God is not to be laid by, or to profit
ourselves only, but to share gladly with others. In our Saviour's
words are " things new and old" — "new," because they are ful
filled at last ; ' ' old, " because they had been so long predicted. Or
again, "new," because no man ever spake as He did ; and "old,"
because He uttered what our own hearts have felt all along.
53. IT And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished
these parables, he departed thence. 54. And when he was come
into his own country, he taught them in their synagogue, inso
much that they were astonished, and said, Whence hath this
man this wisdom, and these mighty works ?
Let us ask this same question, but in a spirit of reverence, not of
unbelief. Whence has Jesus Christ this wisdom, that His words
search the heart, hold out a heavenly law, unveil life and death ?
Whence come these mighty works that are so full of power and
love ? What man has ever been what He has been to so many

74 Jesus called the Carpenter's Son. [S. Matt. XIV.
generations ? If God were to send a Divine Friend and Helper
among men to do them good, what else would He resemble but
this?
55. Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called
Mary? and his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and
Judas? 56. and his sisters, are they not all with us ? Whence
then hath this man all these things ?
The reproaches made against Jesus because the people of Nazareth
knew what Joseph's trade had been, and were acquainted with our
Lord's mother and kindred, turn in truth to His praise and glory.
This humiliation is indeed true. The Lord of Glory has con
descended to take our nature, become one of our family, and share
human sorrows and cares. We repeat this and glory in it. " God did
not think it unworthy of Him to stoop down to our level.
57. And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto
them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country,
and in his own house.
Let not the lowliness or outward infirmities of God's servants hinder
us from receiving their message ; and, on the other hand, if ministers
of the Gospel find themselves despised, let them be content, for it
happened so to their Master. They are not wiser or better than He,
and so must not be surprised if they are made little account of.
58. And he did not many mighty works there because of
their unbelief.
Unbelief binds the hands of the Almighty and stops the bounty of
the All-merciful. If we would but believe firmly in the power and
goodness of God our lives would be transfigured, and other souls
be changed through us. Lord, increase our faith that we may see
Thy grace working wonders within and around.

CHAPTER XIV.
x. Herod's opinion of Christ. 3. Wherefore John Baptist was beheaded.
13. Jesus departeth into a desert place : 15. where he feedeth five
thousand men with five loaves and two fishes : 22. he walketh on
the sea to his disciples : 34- and landing at Gennesaret, healeth the
sick by the touch of the hem of his garment.
AT that time Herod the tetrarch heard of the fame of Jesus,
XL 2. and said unto his servants, This is John the Baptist ¦
he is risen from the dead; and therefore mighty works do shew
forth themselves m him.
The poor and simple had heard of Jesus long before this, but the
great ones of the earth are so taken up by other cares [hat they

Ver. 8.] The Daughter of Herodias. 75
neglect to hear a message from God. Though Herod had im
prisoned and killed John, yet the opinion he had of his holiness
was such that he thought this new Worker of miracles must be John
come back from the grave with increased powers. Herod had
found in John a man to tell him the truth without fear, and though
he had not hearkened yet the impression remained.
3 IT For Herod had laid hold on John, and bound him, and
put him in prison for Herodias' sake, his brother Philip's wife.
4. For John said unto him, It is not lawfid for thee to have
her. This is the greatest service that can be done to the great, though
they may not acknowledge it, to remind them of their duty before
God. John said plainly and simply, ' ' This woman is not your
wife ; it is wrong for you to live with her." Let us pray for courage
to speak to sinners about their souls, and let us try our own in
dulgences by this same rule, "Is it lawful for me ? What does God's
Word say about it ? "
5. And when he would have put him to death, he feared the
multitude, because they counted him as a prophet.
Herod did not fear God, or fear sin, but only feared offending the
people. That kind of fear will not keep any one from evil for long ;
it is only an outward check to fear what people will say of us, but
the fear of God keeps us mindful of His eye, that sees through
darkness as through light.
6. But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of
Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod.
When we remember what kind of woman Herodias herself was, it is
not strange that she should let her daughter dress up and dance in
public before the court; but that Christian mothers should let their
daughters go into doubtful company, dress themselves gaudily, in
dulge in foolish talk and read bad books, spend their lives in idle
dissipation, this is the marvel ! How great a treasure is the heart
of a young girl for wise parents to watch over tenderly and guard
from evil !
7. Whereupon he promised with an oath to give her whatso
ever she would ask.
What a fool to give such a promise as this for nothing but a girl's
graceful dancing ! Yet what else do we do when we give up God's
favour, and a pure conscience, and the hope of heaven, for some
vile enjoyment of a moment ?
8.. And she, being before instructed of her mother, said, Give
me here John Baptist?* head in a charger.
She asks scornfully for John Baptist's head in a dish, as if it were
but mere provision for supper. Such is the world's estimate of him
whose birth was foretold by an angel, and who was the greatest of

76 John Baptist is beheaded. [S. Matt. XIV.
all the prophets, and the nearest to Christ Himself. He was the
Bridegroom's friend, the preacher who moved thousands to
repentance, yet so great a life is cut off to please a foolish girl.
How marvellous are God's judgments !
9. And the king was sorry : nevertheless for the oath's sake,
and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be
given her.
Here the king added one fault to another. It was wrong to make so
rash a promise, but'still worse to keep it by murdering the innocent.
If you are ever so unfortunate as to take an oath or make a promise
to do anything that is wrong, remember that you are bound to
break your promise, not to keep it. To keep it would be to add
a second sin to the first. Herod was ashamed that his courtiers
should reproach him with changing his mind, so he preferred to
incur the wrath of God.
10. And lie sent, and beheaded John in the prison. 11. And
his head was brought in a charger, and given to the damsel :
and, she brought it to her mother.
John was a martyr for righteousness' sake. Death was no loss to him,
for he knew that Jesus would take up his work and guide the souls
whom he had prepared. He lived long enough to teach us many
lessons. One is that of self-denial, to live in a plain and simple way,
as he did ; and a second is humility, to put others forward instead of
oneself, and be content to see them outshine us ; and one more is
that of courage, to speak up boldly for right and tell sinners their
real state.
12. And his disciples came, and took up the body, and buried
it, and went and told Jesus.
What else should we do when our friends die? We must bury them
with tears and prayers, committing them to God's infinite mercy,
and then we must go and tell Jesus, laying our bereavement before
Him and seeking for His gracious help and comfort.
13. 1T Wlien Jesus heard of it, he departed thence by ship
into a desert place apart : and when the people liad heard thereof,
they followed him on foot out of the cities.
Our Lord went apart at times. Surely believers in these busy days
need to make time to be alone with Him. It is not good to be
always taken up with business and never get a quiet hour for reflec
tion. Yet Christ's rest was soon broken in upon by the people
who longed to see and hear more of Him. These people felt that
He could teach them about God and help them in their needs, so
they put everything else aside and came out to seek Him.
14. And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and
was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed tlieir
sick.

Ver. 19.] The Loaves and Fis/ies. jy
He was not vexed at being interrupted, but went forth to meet them,
pitied their weariness and the pains of the infirm, gave them
healing, rest, and food. How can we do good except we imitate
this kindly temper ?
15. IT And when it was evening, his disciples came to him,
saying, This is a desert place, and the time is now past ; send
the multitude away, that they may go into the villages, and buy
themselves victuals.
What devotion this multitude had ! In listening to Jesus Christ and
beholding His mighty works they forgot their own wants, and
needed to be reminded that they were tired and hungry. Such is
the consolation of His Divine Presence that it makes the soul
forget all other cares. We must pray God to give us this hunger
and thirst after righteousness and to satisfy it with His grace.
16. But Jesus said unto them, They need not depart; give
ye them to eat.
In all times and occasions try to help those whom you know to be
needy and distressed. If you have nothing of your own to give but
a kind word or prayer do not deny that ; and remember how many
are in need of the Bread of Life, and that you can do something
towards providing them with it
17. And they say unto him, We have here but five loaves,
and two fishes.
The apostles lived very plainly and were contented with a little.
Christians should remember to be sober and moderate in their
eating and drinking and to avoid luxury. God's blessing attends
on the meals of many a poor household. All we enjoy comes of His
bounty.
18. He said, Bring them hither to me.
What ! should they give away all they had and leave nothing for
themselves ? Yes, if Jesus asks for it, for He is able to provide for
their wants, and they can perfectly trust His care for them. They
lend willingly what God's mercy has lent to them.
19. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the
grass, and took the five loaves, and the two fishes, and looking
up to heaven, he blessed, and brake, and gave the loaves to his
disciples, and the disciples to the multitude.
Jesus looked up to heaven and pronounced a blessing before the
meal. Let Christians not be ashamed to follow Him in this ; and
He intrusted the food to the disciples' hands, to be by them distri
buted among the people. So now He gives us many comforts and
helps both for body and soul through others' hands. We must not
expect to receive all graces direct from God, but must seek them in
the means that He has appointed.

78 Jesus on the Mountain. [S. Matt. XIV.
20. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up
of the fragments that remained twelve baskets full. 21. And
they that had eaten were about five thousand men, beside women
and children.
In this miracle we see — (1) The power of that same God Who makes
the corn to grow out of the earth and feeds us daily with His
bounty. (2) The excellence of charity. In helping others and dis
tributing our store to them God increases it and enables us to do more
than we had ever hoped. (3) A figure of the Bread of Life, which
faithful souls receive at God's altar, and which is never all spent
nor loses its virtue. The disciples gathered up the fragments, for
their Master allowed no waste though His bounty was so great.
22. IT And straightway Jesus constrained his disciples to get
into a ship, and to go before him unto the other side, while he
sent the multitudes away.
Jesus did not want the honours that the crowd would bestow on
Him either for Himself or His disciples. He avoided praise, and
at once sent the people away when He had fed them. Learn not
to linger over flattering words, or take delight in being praised for
what you may have done.
23. And when he had sent the multitudes away, he went up
into a mountain apart to pray : and when the evening was
come, he was there alone.
Do we love opportunities of prayer and seek for them, times when we
can go apart from the world and open our hearts to our heavenly
Father? Those were with Jesus Christ precious and welcome
seasons. He did not feel darkness or loneliness when so occupied.
24. But the ship was now in the midst of the sea, tossed with
waves : for the wind was contrary.
Such is the present life, tossed up and down with various chances,
meeting the rough wind of adversity, and seeming to make no
way; but have patience, Jesus is not far off, and He will appear to
help in His own good time. Christian soul, do not lose heart in
thinking over the calamities of the Church or your own tempta
tions. What matters a rough voyage if in the end we get safely to
the haven where we would be?
25. And in the fourth watch of the night Jesus went unto
them, walking on the sea.
It was a long night, and He seemed to have forgotten them, but He
came at last. Trouble and darkness encompass us, but yet only
for a night. In the morning watch Jesus appears and brings us
peace. We must remember that nothing can separate us from His
love. The bitterest affliction of soul or body is but a message from
Him, and tells of His nearness. He will help us through it thoueh
unseen, and bring back light and joy at last

Ver. 31.] Jesus walks on the Sea. 79
26. And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they
were troubled, saying, It is a spirit ; and they cried out for
fear. In Jesus walking on the sea we recognise a power greater than that
of nature. His great miracles should not distress our faith,
but should remind us that there is a higher world than this one
which we see. The Lord Jesus came to tell us of that higher world,
and by the strength of its laws He was able to triumph over all
things here, to subdue storm and pain and death. We know that
His mighty works are real, no mere dream or delusion, and so we
adore Him and trust in His saving love.
27. But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of
good cheer; it is I; be not afraid.
Say, O Lord, this word of comfort to the hearts of those who doubt
or are tempted. When we feel how hard it is to keep in the right
way, when we fear pain or danger, when we are perplexed with
unbelief, then this verse speaks to our hearts. It is a friend who
comes to us, not a mere phantom, not an enemy, but one who is full
of kindness and able to help.
28. And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou,
bid me come unto thee on the water.
Peter was always ready, so now he would go at once to Jesus; but
perhaps this was an instance of his rashness, and he should have
waited till his Master drew near. However, we may without
blame say, "Lord, I believe it is Thou Who art near me in this
trouble, this affliction, bid me come unto Thee and discern Thy
face amidst the darkness. Since Thou hast sent this storm upon
me, yet art near to help, uphold me till I have laid hold on Thy
saving hand."
29. And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down
out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus.
Lord, say to my soul " Come," direct me in a straight path to Thee
amidst all the waves of this troublesome world. When Peter stepped
upon it the water was like rock and sustained his weight, so great
was Christ's power. What can hurt him who is sure of God's Provi
dence and his Saviour's mercy?
30. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid;
and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me.
His faith wavered, and then he began to sink. So it was on another
occasion when he was afraid of our Lord's enemies, and so denied
Him. Courage and faith will uphold us in every danger. Let us
not fear, for the Almighty is on our side. We ourselves are utterly
feeble and can do nothing, but prayer enables us to lay hold upon
infinite power and mercy.
31. And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and

80 The Voyage ends. [S. Matt. XIV.
caught him, and said unto him, 0 thou of little faith, wherefore
didst thou doubt ?
Oh loving mercy of Jesus! In the judgment-hall He recalled Peter
by a look, here He caught him by His outstretched hand. It is not
the storm or the waves that he need fear, but only his own weak
faith. Before he doubted he could walk on the waters and take no
harm. Jesus rebuked him gently for his lack of faith and restored
him to a full trust again.
32. And when they were come into the ship, the wind ceased,
The soul that has been tossed and troubled by many cares finds in
Christ's presence a season of peace and refreshment. At times,
by His mercy, the fierce blast of temptation ceases, and we are
able to breathe again.
33. Then they that were in the ship came and worshipped
him, saying, Of a truth thou art the Son of God.
Such should be the effect of Christ's miracles upon us. There is in
Him such power and majesty and holiness, such a union of tender
ness with glory, that we bow down before Him and recognise God
manifest among men. Keep in our hearts, O God, this true
catholic saving faith in the Godhead and manhood of Jesus, and
grant us to end our mortal life with it on our lips.
34. IT And when they were gone over, they came into the land
of Gennesaret.
The perilous journey was over, and they had reached the harbour. So
will it be with life's journey one day. We shall look back on the
past voyage from a land of peace and count its sorrows as nothing.
35. And when the men of that place had knowledge of him,
they sent out into all that country round about, and brought
unto him all that were diseased;
These persons, having themselves experienced the healing powers of
Jesus, were anxious that their friends should benefit by them
Should not all those who have felt His grace in their souls and
learned anything of His love strive eagerly to make salvation
known ? We should lay before our Saviour in prayer, and urge to
draw near to Him, all diseased souls, not forgetting among them
our own. ° o &
_ 36. And besought him that they might only touch the hem of
his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly
WlbOllGt If even in the hem of His garment there was a healing virtue, what
effect must here not be in the reading His words, and still more
in the spintual partaking of His Body ! To Him alone we may
look for a perfect healmg of our infirmities; and if this mayTot
betide us yet, our Father's home will see the cure perfected

Ver. 6.] God's Commandment transgressed. 81

CHAPTER XV.
3. Christ reproveth the scribes and Pharisees for transgressing God's com
mandments through their own traditions: 11. teacheth how that
which goeth into the mouth doth not defile a man. 21. He healeth
the daughter of the woman of Canaan, 30. and other great multitudes :
32. and with seven loaves and a few little fishes feedeth four thousand
men, beside women and children.
THEN came to Jesus scribes and Pharisees, which were of
Jerusalem, saying, 2. Why do thy disciples transgress the
tradition of the elders ? for they wash not their hands when
they eat bread.
The Pharisees' tradition was that it was necessary always to wash the
hands before partaking of any food, and this not for the sake of
cleanliness, but out of scruple, lest perhaps something that was
legally unclean might have touched the hand, and so the food be
polluted. But the disciples were content to observe the law without
being troubled about such minute points. They washed their
hands when needful, and ate with a good conscience.
3. But he answered and said unto them, Why do ye also
transgress the commandment of God by your tradition ?
This is false devotion, to prefer one's own practices to God's law.
Let religious people beware of this danger, and consider not merely
whether their own devotions have been correctly observed, but
whether they love God and man, and do right with all their heart.
Faith and love and duty are the service which pleases God best.
4. For God commanded, saying, Honour thy f oilier and
mother : and, He that curseth father or mother, let him die the
death. Note the exceeding strictness of this requirement. God bids us
honour (which means respect, love, and succour) our parents and
speak no ill of them. He punishes the neglect of this duty. No
thing can atone in His sight for mockery, disobedience, hard-
heartedness at home. What judgments many young people have
brought upon themselves by their bad behaviour to parents ! They
will feel the fruits of it bitterly all their after-life. How shameful
it is when grown-up sons and daughters refuse to help parents
who are old and poor !
5. But ye say, Whosoever shall say to his father or his
mother, It is a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest be profited by
me ; 6. and honour not his father or his mother, he shall be
free. Thus have ye made the commandment of God of none
effect by your tradition.

82 Vain Worship. [S. Matt. XV.
What the Jews allowed was this, that a man might say to his parents,
"This money which I might otherwise have applied to your
help is God's. I have made a gift of it for His priests or His
temple, and this is a better purpose than keeping you with it.
They encouraged a believer to break God's law and let his parents
be in want, while he gave his money to religion, and thus drew on
themselves our Lord's grave condemnation. These verses should
be noticed by those who are going to make their will. Do not try
to please God by devoting to religious purposes what your poor
relations have a claim to. He will not accept such an offering.
7. Ye hypocrites, well did Esaias prophesy of you, saying,
8. This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and
honour eth me with their lips ; but their heart is far from me.
These words were written down in Holy Scripture hundreds of years
before, yet applied to the Jews in our Lord's time, and indeed to
many Christians since. They speak of a merely outward religion
consisting in vocal prayers, lowly reverences, rich offerings, loud
professions, but with no love. God says, " My son, give Me thine
heart. " He is contented with nothing short of that.
9. But in vain they do worship me, teaching for doctrines
the commandments of men.
A merely outward service that is religious only in men's sight and
insists only on outward observances is in vain, to the worshipper
himself it is of no profit whatever, though it helps to keep up
religion in the world. To go to church or to the Lord's Table for
human ends is wholly vain and thrown away as to any good to be
got by it. What a discovery it would be to find at the day of
judgment that so marry prayers said, alms given, communions
made, had been utterly thrown away ! God had kept no account
of them because they were without love.
10. IT And lie called tlie multitude, and said unto tliem,
Hear, and understand :
We should teach the people God's truth in simple language, and try
to bring it home to their hearts, and when we read or hear sacred
truths ourselves let us take pains to gather the meaning. We have
not only to read and hear, but to mark, learn, and inwardly digest,
those heavenly truths which the Lord Jesus reveals to us.
11. Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man;
but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.
Thisis a great truth. Defilement is not caused by touching or eating
this or that. Nothing in itself is evil, for a good God made all ;
but it is from ourselves that defilement comes, from the spirit in
which we use things. "To the pure all things are pure," but from
the impure heart comes an evil intention which turns all things alike
to mischief.

Ver. i 8.] Jesus explains about Defilement. 83
12. Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest
tlvou that the Pharisees were offended, after they lieard this
saying ?
They had filled religion with minute practices, and made far more
account of them than of God's law. They thought that serving
God consisted in using certain phrases, and observing certain
washings and ceremonies, and so they were quite confounded when
our Lord said those were of no account . Let us take care lest we
become Pharisees. We must not think to substitute anything in the
place of a pure, loving, earnest heart.
13. But he answered and said, Every plant, which my
heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.
Is your religion a plant of God's planting, rooted in faith, watered by
grace, bringing forth good fruits of love every day ? or is it merely
an outward show that will wither up in temptation and be easily
uprooted by storms of trouble ?
14. Let them alone : they be blind leaders of the blind. And
if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.
It is grievous to be blind to heavenly things, not to see the right way
to God, or the real value of this world as He sees it, and then for
a man in such a state to undertake to show his brethren the road
and enlighten their darkness, what monstrous folly ! What can
come of the spiritual guidance of those who are not themselves
guided by God ! To be able to lead your brethren towards heaven
you must have sought for light and found the right way yourself,
and then only will you be a safe adviser for them.
15. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto
us this parable. 16. And Jesus said, Are ye also yet .without
understanding ?
The doctrine that outward things are not unclean in themselves, but
that the uncleanness comes of the spirit in which we use them, was
so strange to the disciples that they called it a parable ; they could
not believe it was meant literally, so our Lord graciously repeated
it and explained it further.
1 7. Do not ye yet understand, tliat whatsoever entereth in at
the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught ?
18. But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth
from the heart; and they defile the man.
What particular substances we eat or drink or touch is a thing wholly
indifferent in itself, though we sin by using them in excess or against
God's law. Only then the fault is in us, not in the thing that we
use. We should keep our heart with all diligence, and use food or
drink with a pure intention, desiring to take only what is needful
for our support, and in thankfulness to the Giver.

84 The Woman of Canaan. [S. Matt. XV.
19. For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders,
adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:
Here is a terrible list given us by Him Who knew what was in man's
heart. Lord, I thank Thee infinitely not only for the good that has
come to me, but for the evil that I have escaped. All these sins,
and more than these, would have seized on me but for Thy restrain
ing grace. I know there is in my heart a store of unkind, bitter,
impure thoughts. It is only of God's exceeding mercy that they
have not utterly overwhelmed me.
20. These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with
unwashen hands defileth not a man.
In religion we should attend first to the great matters of salvation,
peace with God, and the service of the heart. In outward obser
vances we have to obey the commands of God and of the Church,
but we are left much liberty as to details. Let us behave reverently
and quietly, and not blame others for differing with ourselves in trifles.
21. IT Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts
of Tyre and Sidon.
Our Lord's mission to the Gentiles was not to be yet. It was not
carried out till some years after His Ascension, but this is a kind
of foretaste of it. He is the true Light of the world, and could not
be hid from inquiring souls in any place. Many were waiting for
Him to appear.
22. And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of tlie same
coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, 0 Lord,
thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a
devil. This woman of Canaan makes an excellent prayer, full of faith in
our Lord's power, full of love for her daughter and sorrow for her
sad case, full of humility. She does not prescribe to the Divine
Master, but merely tells Him her need. What else can we do when
the soul is grievously vexed by temptation but fly to the merciful
Son of David and tell our tale to Him ?
23. But he answered her not a word. And his disciples
came and besought him, saying, Send her away ; for she crieth
after us.
Jesus was full of pity to all, yet on this occasion He seems hard-
hearted._ At first He takes no notice, though she persists in crying
after Him. So it is at times with our prayers. God does not
appear to listen, yet let us keep on asking. We must not be dis
heartened though He seems to turn a deaf ear.
24. But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the
lost sheep of the house of Israel.
This is harder still. When He does speak, it is to refuse to have
anything to do with her. He, as Son of David, had come to

Ver. 30.] The Children's Bread. 85
minister during His earthly life only to the covenant people. He
had come to recall the lost sheep, the sinful, despised, and ignorant,
who were yet God's children and heirs of the promise. How many
of the spiritual Israel, Christ's Church, are nowadays lost sheep,
and need a hand to guide them back to the Good Shepherd's fold
and care !
25. Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help
me. The woman grew bolder and prayed more earnestly the less en
couragement she got. At first she had only cried from a distance,
now she comes close up to Jesus and worships Him, earnestly seek
ing help for her daughter, whose trouble she felt as her own. She
knew that the Saviour could and would help her.
26. But he answered and said, It is not meet to take tlie
children's bread, and to cast it to dogs.
Last of all, He addresses her with apparent contempt. His gifts and
mercies were for the children of God's family. The Gentiles stood
without thecovenant, they were unclean and unworthy to be reckoned
with believers. We Christians are God's children, we assemble at
His Table and eat His Bread; let us take care to live as befits our
Father's house, lest one day we be cast forth as unworthy to par
take of the Heavenly Feast.
27. And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the
crumbs which fall from their masters' table.
Each rebuff that she gets makes her more earnest in asking. She
turns our Lord's words against Himself and says, "It is true. I
accept the title. I am but unworthy and vile, yet as a dog looks
for the fragments from his master's table, so have I, as I am, a
claim on God's mercy." This was wonderful perseverance, which
led her entirely to disregard refusal and contempt, if only she might
gain her prayer.
28. Then Jesus answered and said unto her, 0 woman,
great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her
daughter was made whole from that very hour.
Jesus was conquered by that faith which He had Himself put in the
woman's heart. His mercy was even greater than her faith, for He
inwardly encouraged her to persevere in prayer, while outwardly
He appeared to reject her. He would have us pray in such a spirit.
Even though God seems to take no heed, yet we must strive
earnestly, must wrestle with Him, and so win a blessing.
29. And Jesus departed from thence, and came nigh unto
the sea of Galilee; and went up into a mountain, and sat
down there. 30. And great multitudes came unto him, having
with them those that were lame, blind, dumb, maimed, and many
others, and cast them down at Jesus' feet ; and he healed them:

86 Jesus pities the Hungry. [S. Matt. XV.
Jesus has now gone up into heaven and sat down at the right hand
of God, but we still have access to Him by faith, we can come to
Him to have the diseases of our souls healed. We should recog
nise our many infirmities and carry them before the throne of grace,
beseeching our merciful Lord to help us. We should bring, like
these sufferers of old, a full trust in His Divine power and good
ness, and He will not fail to grant our prayer.
31. Insomuch that the multitude wondered, when they saw
the dumb to speak, the maimed to be whole, the lame to walk,
and the blind to see : and they glorified the God of Israel.
Glory and praise be to Thee, O Lord, for Thy mercies still wrought
among us in nature and grace. Give us, we pray Thee, a tongue to
speak Thy praise, strength to walk in the way of Thy command
ments, eyes to see the meaning of Thy Word. There are many
still who need conversion, let us pray for them and seek God's
glory in their salvation. If His wisdom, as displayed on nature,
is wonderful and worthy of praise, what thanks ought we not to
render for His marvels of grace!
32. % Then Jesus called his disciples unto him, and said, 1
have compassion on the multitude, because they continue with
me now three days, and have nothing to eat : and I will not
send them away fasting, lest they faint in the way.
This was the spring of Christ's mighty works, His great compassion
for men's needs. These persons had come out into the wilderness
to be with Him, and hear His words ; they had trusted Him wholly,
and such He never forsakes. Lord, impart to us Thy mercy, the
comforts of Thy Spirit, and a sense of Thy love, lest we faint under
this world's trials.
33. And his disciples say unto him, Whence should we have
so much bread in the wilderness, as to fill so great a multitude ?
This world is a wilderness, and has nothing in it able to satisfy the
heart or give lasting rest. Where can we find love that will
always smile on us, a home secure from change, purity that can
think no evil, joy and peace that do not pass away? This life
offers none such.
34. And Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye?
And they said, Seven, and a few little fishes.
This store of food, which seemed so insufficient and yet satisfied so
many, represents to us God's mercies in the Church. Here we
have offered to our hungry souls God's Word and Sacraments, the
gifts of His Holy Spirit, the examples of saints, and the comforts of
grace. These seem little to worldly eyes, but are yet sufficient to
strengthen us and supply what we need.
35. And he commanded the multitude to sit down on the
ground.

Ver. 39.] The Four Thousand fed. 87
To receive God's blessing humble yourself, search your own heart in
quietness, turn aside from the world and wait upon God. This is
represented to us by the people sitting down and waiting till our
Lord's gifts were ready. He would still the hurry and confusion
within before He bestows His bounty on us.
36. And he took the seven loaves and the fishes, and gave
thanks, and brake them, and gave to his disciples, and the
disciples to tlie multitude.
Like the disciples, we should pass on God's gifts, whether for soul or
body. We must not keep them wholly for ourselves, but liberally
impart to others what God liberally has given to us. No one, in
nature or in grace, should receive a gift without sending part of it
onward. We are but channels and instruments to dispense God's
mercies.
37. And they did all eat, and were filled: and they took up
of the broken meat that was left seven baskets full.
Can it be always said of communicants leaving the altar, of hearers
after a sermon, of Christians rising from their knees after prayer,
that they have eaten and are filled ? Grant us, Lord, to find true
profit in these means, that we may meet Thee there and enjoy Thy
presence, and have thoughts of peace to carry with us for our
comfort in the world. After our communions we should keep a
sense of Christ's presence with us to be our support and stay.
38. And they that did eat were four thousand men, beside
women and children.
Let us be liberal without grudging. God's Providence blesses our
charity and makes it return into our own bosom. If we are anxious
about our own household and fear to give anything lest we should
impoverish them, let us remember also God's Providence and all
the creatures that depend on Him for their sustenance. He is able
to provide for us if we obey His Word. We should indeed provide
for our own living, yet with a liberal heart towards our brethren,
and a full trust in God's liberal mercy to us.
39. And he sent away the multitude, and took ship, and
came into the coasts of Magdala.
We cannot imitate Jesus in working miracles, but -we can imitate
Him in avoiding display, in seeking to be little thought of, in
diligent attendance on all parts of duty, in sympathy for the afflicted.
In journeying from place to place let us bear in mind that we are
always with God, though we have left all other friends behind, yet
He sees and cares for us. In every place alike God is at hand,
death also, and temptation, suffering too and pain are always near,
and wherever we go we cannot fly from ourselves.

88 Signs of the Times. [S. Matt. XVI.

CHAPTER XVI.
I. The Pharisees require a sign. fi. Jesus warneth his disciples of the
leaven of the Pharisees and Sadducees. 13. The people's opinion of
Christ, 16. and Peter's confession of him. 21. Jesus foresheweth his
death, 23. reproving Peter for dissuading him from it : 24. and ad-
monisheth those that will follow him, to bear the cross.
THE Pharisees also with the Sadducees came, and tempting
desired him that he would shew them a sign from heaven.
The Pharisees, who were superstitious, and the Sadducees, who were
unbelieving, joined together to oppose Christ's teaching. They were
not content with His gracious words and acts of mercy, but
demanded that if He were a prophet He should make manna come
down or fire fall from heaven, or the sun go backward, or in some
other marvellous way gratify their curiosity.
2. He answered and said unto them, When it is evening, ye
say, It will be fair weather : for the sky is red. 3. And in
the morning, It will be foul weather to day : for the sky is red
and lowring. 0 ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the
sky ; but can ye not discern the signs of the times ?
Our Lord said, " You are able to study the sky, you know the signs
of coming dry or wet weather, cannot you put together any signs in
the spiritual world ? Act on the same principles of forethought
and prudence in religion as you do in common life." He meant,
that as a farmer lays out his work, begins to sow or reap, according
as the natural signs of the time of year point out, so a Christian
should act on the evidence which God lays before Him. Look
into your own heart, and God's Word, and the world about you,
and make up your mind that now is the time to turn to God.
4. A wicked and adulterous generation seeketh after a sign ;
and there shall no sign be given unto it, but the sign of the
prophet Jonas. And he left them, and departed.
Our own faults keep us from seeing clearly. If we tried to be honest
and patient and true, and to keep our hearts from evil, light would
arise in the darkness, our way would be made plain. Do not
expect to know everything about God's ways, this world is not the
place for full knowledge ; but receive thankfully what lessons He
does give you, and act upon them, lest He withdraw even this light
5. And when his disciples were come to the other side, they
had forgotten to take bread.
They followed Jesus Christ readily and cheerfully, forgetting to pro
vide for their bodily needs. His gracious words were their suste
nance, and they knew all would be well with them where He was.

Ver. 12.] The Leaven of Pharisees and Sadducees. 89
6. IT Then Jesus said unto them, Take heed and beware of
the leaven of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.
The leaven means the false principles which they should beware of.
That of the Pharisees is the snare which besets persons who are
known to profess religion ; they are in danger of pride, formality,
and envy ; they are inclined to put outward duties in the place of
love; and the leaven of the Sadducees is the character of the
irreligious — profaneness, self-indulgence, and a careless temper.
A Christian should beware of both these, he must cherish his
religion in tlie heart and also carry it out in life.
7. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because
we have taken no bread. 8. Which when Jesus perceived, he
said unto them, 0 ye of little faith, why reason ye among your
selves, because ye have brought no bread ?
They took our Lord's words of literal leaven instead of reaching to the
spiritual meaning. They wondered how they should do without
their provisions, and thought that He was warning them where
they must not get their bread ; but He was thinking not of earthly
sustenance, but of the soul's needs, and how best to supply them.
We too want God's help before we can comprehend and rightly
apply His Word.
9. Do ye not yet understand, neither remember the five loaves
of the five thousand, and how many baskets ye took up? 10.
neither the seven loaves of the four thousand, and how many
baskets ye took up ?
What ! have we no confidence in God ? Do we not remember the
exceeding abundance of His mercies to us in nature and in grace.
He has fed us all our life long unto this day, has guarded us in
danger and multiplied His goodness towards us, and this thought
gives us confidence for the time to come. Seeing what He has
done, we trust Him to bring us safely through what yet remains of
our joumey. God's overflowing goodness to me in time past gives
me courage. I am weak and sinful, but I do not lose hope, as I have
had such large experience of His mercy.
1 1. How is it that ye do not understand that I spake it not
to you concerning bread, that ye should beware of the leaven of
the Pharisees and of the Sadducees? 12. Then understood
they how that he bade them not beware of the leaven of bread,
but of the doctrine of the Pharisees and of the Sadducees.
Our Lord's reproof opened their eyes, and they understood that He
spoke of false principles which spread through life, not of literal
leaven. Just as a little leaven penetrates through a mass of dough,
so the false views of the Pharisees and Sadducees affected their
whole life, all they did partook of their errors. Some Christians

9°

Who Christ is. [S. Matt. XVI.

are like Pharisees, they put everything in outward respectability
and formal phrases about religion ; others like Sadducees, they allow
themselves in careless living, in profane words and jests.
13. IT When Jesus came into the coasts of Cossarea Philippi,
he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son
of man am ?
Jesus is the Son of Man, we know well. He had a human body, a
human soul and affections. He toiled, suffered, and died as we do.
He veiled His Divine glory under a human nature, and so there
are many opinions abroad concerning Him ; these He bade His
disciples repeat, they were to say what they had heard.
14. And they said, Some say that thou art John the Bap
tist : some, Elias ; and others, Jeremias, or one of the
prophets. Some said He was John the Baptist, because of His powerful preach
ing ; some that He was Elijah returned to earth after His ascent
in the chariot of fire ; some that He was Jeremiah, the prophet of
pity and consolation, or perhaps some other of that goodly fellow
ship who had declared God's will of old. Yet these opinions were
mistaken ; He was indeed what these saints had been, yet much
greater than they. If He had only been a holy man like other
holy men He could not have been our Saviour.
15. He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am ?
Whom say y e ? ye who have seen My miracles, heard My teaching,
known Me well. It had been our Lord's work to train His dis
ciples to know Who He was. These few persons were afterwards
to go forth and declare Him to the world, and He therefore
gradually built up in them a true faith in His Divine glory. Whom
do you think Jesus is, O reader? what do you say of His words,
of His works, of the impression which they leave on your mind ?
16. And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the
Christ, the Son of the living God.
I adore and confess Thee, O Jesus, as true God and true Man, the
Christ or anointed King so long expected and foretold, the only
Son of the living God, Who made all things. Thou art my
Master, my Saviour, my Friend. Give me grace, O Lord, to die
in this faith and in the communion of Thy Holy Church. Grant
that as I have been by Thy great mercy brought to this faith, so
I may remain stedfast in it all my days. Though all else may
change, yet this faith remains sure, and we who rest on it find herein
a strong salvation.
17. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Blessed art
thou, Simon Bar-jona : for flesh and blood hath not revealed
it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.

Ver. 21.] The Promise to S. Peter. 91
' ' O gift of gifts ! O grace of faith ! " Not birth, nor money, nor natural
talents, nor learning, can bestow this priceless gift on a soul, but
only the exceeding love and mercy of God. How blessed a thing
it is to die in the sure faith of eternal life revealed to us in Jesus
Christ ! Lord, increase this faith in me, and let me persevere in it
to the end.
18. And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and
upon this rock I will build my church ; and the gates of hell
sliall not prevail against it.
Christ, Who is Himself the Rock and Corner-stone, lends His disciple
gifts and graces to fit him to be the founder of the Church. This
glorious confession of our Lord's true nature which Peter had just
made pointed him out as the first herald of the Gospel, who should
go forth and win souls to be placed in the walls of the spiritual
temple. Let us not be afraid for Christ's Church, it is founded
securely, and will last on in spite of shocks without and offences
within.
19. And I will give unto thee tlie keys of the kingdom of
heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound
in heaven : and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be
loosed in heaven.
Such are the powers of the Christian ministry, which S. Peter here
represents, power to declare God's law, to bestow His grace in sacra
ments, to admit penitent sinners into communion with Him again.
Let us not despise church ordinances because ministers are but
frail earthen vessels, but rather look beyond them at Divine grace,
which works by their means. Those who despise the Church are
in danger of despising Christ Himself, those who will not have their
sins loosed here may find them bound upon their conscience for ever.
20. Then charged he his disciples tliat they should tell no
man that he was Jesus the Christ.
That was a time of waiting till God's purposes were fully revealed.
Now we must go forth into the world and preach the Gospel to all
men. We must gather strength alone with God, by praying and
listening to His Word, then afterwards go out and declare Him to
men. There must be times of silence first for those who would
afterwards speak with power.
21. IT From that time forth began Jesus to shew unto his
disciples, how that he must go unto Jerusalem, and suffer many
things of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed,
and be raised again the third, day.
Such news was incredible to them, coming as it did after mighty
works and glorious promises, yet it was true and necessary. Their
Master " must go," must "suffer," must be " killed." Christians
too should in their brightest hours bear in mind the dark valley

92 Taking up the Cross. [S. Matt. XVI.
whichlies before them. The grave and gate of death are the road by
which they must go to enter on the new life to come.
22. Then Peter took him, and began to rebuke him, saying,
Be it far from thee, Lord: this shall not be unto thee.
This was a mistaken affection, to try and turn aside the Lord Jesus
from the path of duty because it was to prove one of pain also. It
is true love which desires for us that we may do God's will in all
things, not merely that we may be prosperous and respected.
23. But he turned, and said unto Peter, Get thee behind
me, Satan : thou art an offence unto me : for thou savourest
not the things that be of God, but those that be of men.
Satanmeans "adversary." He who was just before a pattern of faith
and a foundation-stone of the Church, becomes an adversary and a
stone of stumbling. Why is this ? Because he could not bear the
thought of shame and suffering to be endured for God's sake.
Promises, and glory, and a kingdom he liked to think of, but not
pain or death. Lord, enable us to take cheerfully all things that
Thou sendest, to rejoice even in suffering, to accept all that is most
bitter or grievous if it be from Thee.
24. IT Then said Jesus unto his disciples, If any man will
some after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and
follow me.
Here are three rules for a Christian's life : 1. To deny himself; this he
can do by giving up pleasure cheerfully, and taking as his rule others'
profit and comfort rather than his own. 2. To take up his cross,
whether it be one of pain, or labour, or sorrow, and to march away
boldly with it on his shoulders. 3. To follow Christ by constantly
remembering Him and desiring to act as He would have acted.
25. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it : and who
soever will lose his life for my sake shall find it.
Here are strange reverses. One man looks always to his own comfort,
peace, reputation, pleasure, and wakes up suddenly to find all
these are hopelessly lost ; another regards only God's glory and his
neighbours good, quite forgetting himself, he works for them not
for his own happiness, and in the end finds that he has secured
everlasting joy.
26. For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole
world, and lose his own soul ? or what shall a man qive in
exchange for his soul ?
What seems so sweet to us now will be wholly worthless when this
life is done. We ourselves only shall then remain alone with God!
. and if we are His enemies what remedy will there be? who will
| give us back what we have recklessly thrown away ?
27. For the Son of man shall come in the glory of his

Ver. 3.] Jesus is Transfigured. 93
Father with his angels ; and then he shall reward every man
according to his works.
On that great day of joy and sorrow we shall be happy if we have
looked forward to judgment and lived as those who have to give
an account. Then we shall reap as we have sown. Lord, keep in
our hearts a firm faith in Thy judgment to come, that the thought
of it may guard us against sin.
28. Verily I say unto you, There be some standing here,
which shall not taste of death, till they see the Son of man
coming in his kingdom.
Let our hearts be kindled by the gracious promises of Jesus. The
disciples on the mount, and after His resurrection, saw something
of His glory, but the fulness of it is reserved for the next life. What
does it matter that we have to taste the bitter cup of death if we
have a firm faith in the glory to be revealed afterwards ?

CHAPTER XVII.
1. The transfiguration of Christ. 14. He healeth the lunatick, 22. fore-
telleth his own passion, 24. and payeth tribute.
AND after six days Jesus taketh Peter, James, and John his
XX brother, and bringeth them up into an high mountain
apart, These are the three who afterwards beheld His agony. He prepared
them for that hour of trial by letting them see His glory first. All
their life afterwards they remembered this marvellous scene in
which they were eyewitnesses of our Lord's majesty. We who
read of it now are in a manner admitted of their company. Let us
follow them up the mount and see this great sight with reverence
and fear:
2. And was transfigured before them : and his face did shine
as the sun, and his raiment was white as the light.
Commonly our Lord hid His Divine glory beneath the veil of human
nature, but on this one occasion it shone forth in brightness. He
was the same as before, yet changed ; the same in person and
speech, yet wrapped in light and full of majesty. How merciful it
was of Him to clothe Himself at other times with our ordinary
aspect, that so we might bear to converse with Him 1
3. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias
talking with him.
Moses, the great lawgiver, who was not allowed to enter the Promised
Land in his lifetime, appears there after his death; and Elijah, the

y*

Joy and Fear. [S. Matt. XVII.

great prophet, who had been taken away from earth without dying,
returns from the unseen world. They both come to honour Jesus
Christ and point believers to Him. Those who died thousands of
years a"0 live on still. We can have communion with them and with
all God's saints since the world began. They believe and worship
and love as they did on earth, only in a far better way.
4. Then answered Peter, and said unto Jesus, Lord, it is
good for us to be here : if thou wilt, let us make here three
tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
His Master's glory, and the heavenly visitors, and the holy words they
uttered, seemed to S. Peter so delightful that he would gladly have
remained on the mount instead of descending to the work and
suffering of the world below. He did not remember that in this
life heavenly consolations are not meant to last. Moments of joy
and sweetness come, but after them long days of labour and sorrow.
If one glimpse of heaven so delighted him, what shall we feel when
we enter there to abide for ever !
5. While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed
them : and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is
my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased ; hear ye him.
The Law and the Prophets had their place, but now they are over
and gone. Jesus Christ is God's own Son, Whom He loves
perfectly, Who is the appointed Teacher of mankind. No one will
supersede Him as long as the world lasts. Grant me, O my Saviour,
to listen with entire faith to this Divine voice, and receive Thee
for my Lord and Master. I desire lo obey Thee in all things.
Whatever else changes or passes away, I find in Thee a strong
refuge.
6. And when the disciples heard it, they fell on their face,
and were sore afraid.
What else should men do who are brought so near to God? If our
religion has in it no fear, no adoration, no overpowering reverence,
then there is danger of its having little depth or reality. Surely
there are times when it becomes us to fall prostrate and adore the
Divine Majesty, times when our utter vileness is contrasted with
God's infinite glory, and we can only kneel and tremble !
7. And Jesus came and touched iliem, and said, Arise, and
be not afraid.
Thanks be to Thee, O Lord, for this kind and tender encouragement.
Thou knowest our hearts; and canst temper high matters to our
weakness. All the whole Gospel dispensation is of this character;
it relates how God's Son stepped forth from His glory, and visited
frail men to raise them up and encourage them to live a new life.
8. And when they had lifted up their eyes, they saw no man,
save Jesus only.

Ver. 15.] Elias is come already. 95
All had gone, the heavenly splendour, and the bright cloud, and the
saints from Paradise, and Jesus wore His ordinary aspect. He
was ready again to work and suffer amongst men, but the remem
brance of what they had seen and felt remained deep in the hearts
of the three disciples.
9. And as they came down from the mountain, Jesus charged
them, saying, Tell the vision to no man, until the Son of man
be risen again from the dead.
This vision was a kind of foretaste of that glory which the body of
Jesus should have after He rose from the dead. Strengthen our
faith, O Lord, that even in this world of decay and death, where
all perishes, we may set our hopes on the world to come. All
consolations and graces here are but glimpses and shadows of
something better which will be revealed after death.
10. And his disciples asked him, saying, Why then say the
scribes tliat Elias must first come ? 11. And Jesus answered
and said unto them, Elias truly shall first come, and restore
all things.
They had seen Elijah appear and vanish again, how was it then
that he was expected to go before the Christ and make ready the
people for His coming? Before the Lord could be discerned a
preparation by repentance was needful, a turning of parents to
children, of children to parents, and of all alike to God. This was
to be the work of Elijah.
12. But I say unto you, That Elias is come already, and
they knew him not, but have done unto him whatsoever they
listed. Likewise shall also the Son of man suffer of them. 13.
Then the disciples understood that he spake unto them of John
the Baptist.
Elijah had dwelt in the desert, had come forth to rebuke kings, and
thus had done the same work as John the Baptist did in his day.
The Jews, who spoke much about the coming of Elijah, did not
recognise Him in John's ministry, but neglected that and waited
for some one else. Let us consider every preacher as our Elias sent
by God to turn our hearts and make us ready against He calls for
us. We must pray for grace to understand God's message and
profit by it.
14. IT And when they were come to the multitude, there came
to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying,
On the mount were peace and glory and heavenly communion, but
down below strife and disease and disputing. One who comes
like Jesus, fresh from prayer and heavenly thoughts, into the outer
world, is able to do good there and heal souls.
15. Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and

96 Jesus cures the Lunatic Boy. [S. Matt. XVII.
sore vexed: for qfttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the
water. The boy's disease, which was epilepsy joined to a mad desire for self-
destruction, was not merely natural, but caused by the power of
Satan ; it represents to us the terrible power of bad habits, what
might evil passions acquire over us when they are allowed to go on
unchecked. How many are maddened by passion, or drink, or
evil desires, and cannot get free !
1 6. And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not
cure him.
So it is now very often with Christ's ministers. There are evils beyond
their power to cure, blasphemy, drunkenness, worldliness, on which
they make no impression whatever. Such failure should make
them more humble and more earnest in prayer to Him Who alone
can save. He can do all, even if we are unable to do anything.
1 7. Then Jesus answered and said, 0 faithless and perverse
generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I
suffer you ? bring him hither to me.
How long wilt Thou be with me, how long wilt Thou suffer me, O
merciful Lord ? How long wilt Thou still continue to visit me with
Thy mercy, to wash me in Thy Blood, to strengthen me with Thy
grace, while I still continue faithless and perverse ? O exceeding
patience of my Saviour ! but let me not go on for ever abusing it,
lest I wear out His long-suffering at last.
18. And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of
him: and the child was cured from that very hour.
Christ alone has power that cannot fail. There are many souls whose
conversion seems impossible to human judgment, but which He
can reach and deliver. Let us only with faith and prayer persevere
in presenting such cases before Him, and not give over till we
have won a blessing.
19. Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why
could not we cast him out ?
Examine yourself and see why you did no good to such or such a
person. Why could you not teach your child to be unselfish or
diligent, your friend to be sober, your servant to be honest, or
make these lads reverent, or those girls modest ? Why not ? Alas !
was not the fault in yourself? Did you love these precious souls
and pray earnestly for them ?
20. And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief:
for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mus
tard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to
yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be
impossible unto you.

Ver. 25.] The Passion foretold. 97
When their Master was away from them the disciples' faith was
weaker, and so their power also was less. The first necessity for
spiritual influence is faith, faith in God, in Christ, in the Holy
Spirit, faith that God's mercy can help us, faith in heaven to come,
in the possibility of goodness. Such a temper as this can remove
mountains of prejudice and sin and turn the world's evil into good.
2 1. Howbeit this kind goeth not out but by prayer and fasting.
Another element of power is the habit of communion with God, and
also that of self-denial. No one can cast out deadly sins from
others' hearts except he prays much for God's help and despises
this world's comforts. He cannot do the Lord's business success
fully while his heart belongs to the world.
22. IT And while they abode in Galilee, Jesus said unto them,
The Son of man shall be betrayed into the hands of men :
This is the second clear and distinct warning of the Passion. As
the first warning (xvi. 21) came immediately after S. Peter's first
confession of our Lord's true Godhead, so this second one comes
immediately after that Godhead had been so gloriously displayed
on the mount. From thoughts of Divine glory and miraculous
power He brings them back to the cross of shame. He often used
to prepare His friends for the great trial to come by speaking of
it and of its glorious ending.
23. And they shall kill him, and the third day he shall be
raised again. And they were exceeding sorry.
At the thought of Christ's death we also should be exceeding sorry,
for His sufferings were caused by our sins, and yet we should rejoice
at such a proof of God's great mercy to us. Christ's Passion is our
life, our deliverance, our comfort. Though we have yet to drain the
bitter cup of death, yet we can look forward to it calmly because
He died for us.
24. IT And when they were come to Capernaum, they that
received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your
master pay tribute ?
This was the offering of a half-shekel which all Israelites paid yearly
for the support of the temple at Jerusalem. Even when oppressed
by tyrants, or wandering in distant lands, they never failed to
remember God's house, and sent their offering for it. We should
imitate their care for God's service and be glad to contribute to it.
God accepts the offerings that we bring for His glory.
25. He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house,
Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon ? of
whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute ? of their
own children, or of strangers ?
The king does not require taxes from his own children, nor in his
own palace, they are free there. He receives such tribute from his
G

98 Jesus pays the Tribute. [S. Matt. XVIII.
subjects, and collects it outside his royal dwelling. Much more
then is God's own Son, Who is greater than the temple, and Heir
to all things, free from that payment which is made for the support
of the earthly temple. This was said to show S. Peter that our
Saviour stood nearer to God than any other man could stand.
26. Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto
him, Then are the children free.
Being free, God's Son became a servant ; being rich, He became poor;
being above all pain and grief, He subjected Himself freely to
suffering. All the whole Gospel history teaches us this, that He
took on Himself what He was free to avoid, in order to ransom us.
Do not always stand upon your rights, or do for others merely
what you are bound to. Where would you be if God had treated'
you on that plan ?
27. Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to
the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh
up ; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a
piece of money : that take, and give unto them for me and thee.
Our Lord had dominion over the fish of the sea as well as over the
rest of creation, and so His bidding was done by them also. Though
He had no money to pay the tribute yet He had all things in His
power and waiting on His good pleasure. They obeyed Him readily
as their true Lord, why should our hearts alone be disobedient ?

CHAPTER XVIII.
1. Christ warneth his disciples to be humble and harmless : 7. to avoid
offences, and not to despise the little ones : 15. teacheth how we are
to deal with our brethren, when they offend us : 21. and how oft to
forgive them : 23. which he setteth forth by a parable of the king
that took account of his servants, 32. and punished him, who shewed
no mercy to his fellow.
AT the same time came the disciples unto Jesus, saying, Who
J\ is tlie greatest in tlie kingdom of heaven ?
If those who had left all for Jesus' sake and had the benefit of- His
instruction and example, could still be ambitious and eager for the
highest place ought we not to fear for ourselves ? Our own experi
ence tells us how we love to be praised, how we speak of our own
good deeds and desire credit for them.
2. And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in
the midst of them,
This must have been a gentle, obedient, truthful boy, who came up
to our Lord at His call and was put forward by Him as a ™pe of

Ver. 7.] The Pattern of a Little Child. 99
the Christian temper. The remembrance of Christ's words and
look must have remained as a blessing with this child when he
grew up. When our children are baptized and brought up accord
ing to their profession, we may see by faith their Saviour calling
them into His kingdom and bidding us learn lessons from them.
3. And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted,
and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom
of heaven.
The little child is trustful, is pure from any knowledge of sin, bears
no grudge against any, is docile, loving, and easily pleased. In
this pattern a" Christian may see what he ought to be and how far
he has fallen short of it. Lord, take away our jealousies, fears,
and doubts, and restore us a childlike peace and trust again.
4. Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little
child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
This point our Lord insists on, the child's humility. He does not
seek for titles, or care what others say of him, or pretend to what
he has not got. He is content to appear what he is, and claim
no more. Humility makes us great in God's sight ; the more ready
we are to humble ourselves, the more He raises us up and heaps
favours upon us.
5. And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name
receiveth me.
In the world it is an honour to receive princes or rich men, but our
Master bestows on us as a favour the opportunity of receiving with
kindness the poor and simple. No kindness done in His Name is
forgotten by Him. Those who wait on His little ones for His sake
may win a great reward for their loving care.
6. But whoso shall offend one of these little ones which believe
in me, it were better for him that a millstone were hanged about
his neck, and that he were drowned in the depth of the sea.
Better to die by outrage and violence than to live on peaceably and
lead into sin any Christian soul. If it is so terrible to offend one
soul, what shall be said of those who have led many astray by their
profane words, their impurity, their recklessness? what of those
who laugh at the young for being religious, and so persuade them
to give up all the good they have been taught.
7. IT Woe unto the world because of offences/ for it must
needs be that offences come ; but woe to that man by whom tlie
offence cometh I
If the peril is so great, if it must need* be that offences come and that
iniquity abounds, how shall we escape except by the strength of
Jesus Christ ? Do not think that you can go through the world
safely, trusting in your own strength. You will not only fall your-

ioo How great is the Value of a Soul. [S. Matt. XVIII.
self, but will become a cause of ruin to many, unless you look up
for help to One above and lean daily on His mercy.
8. Wherefore if thy hand or thy foot offend thee, cut them
off, and cast them from thee : it is better for thee to enter into
life halt or maimed, rather than having two hands or two feet
to be cast into everlasting fire. 9. And if thine eye offend thee,
pluck it out, and cast it from thee : it is belter for thee to enter
into life with one eye, rather than having two eyes to be cast
into hell fire.
This means that we must part with any person, or any thing, however
useful or dear to us, if we are led thereby into sin. A friend on
whom we depend, a book in which we are interested, a pleasant
visit or amusing company, may be the occasion of sin to us. Then
our only safety is to put these precious things aside. No matter how
profitable or how pleasant they are, or how difficult to fly from,
yet persevere, remembering that your salvation is at stake. To
cling to God and reach heaven is the best choice, even if it costs a
great deal.
10. Take heed that ye despise not one of these little ones ; for
[ say unto you, That in heaven their angels do always behold
the face of my Father which is in heaven.
Do not treat the children w;ith harshness, or carelessly, or teach them
any evil, for they are precious in God's sight. If He has given
into your charge, as He does into that of His angels, these dear
souls, will He not ask an account of them ? This verse should be
pondered by all who have to do with children, so as to learn the
importance of their charge.
1 1. For tlie Son of man is come to save tliat which was lost.
If Jesus came from heaven to save souls, they are of an infinite value,
and worth all our care. When we are inclined to despise any one
as utterly foolish, or condemn any one as utterly bad, let us
remember that Jesus came to save that soul. He loves it still
cannot we find something in it worth notice ?
12. How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, awl
one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and
nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is
gone astray ?
The shepherd is anxious for his lost sheep. He forgets the others
in his care for it. He turns back and searches for it over hill and
valley. This is the temper of Christ Himself, and of a true Chris
tian, not to leave our brethren to perish in sin and ignorance, but
to go after them and use all means to turn them to God.
13. And if so be that he find it, verily I say unto you, he

Ver. 17.] How to deal with Wrongs.

rejoiceth more of that sheep, than of the ninety and nine which
went not astray.
Such is the joy of the Good Shepherd when the lost is found. If we
have by our sins caused grief to His Divine heart, shall we not add
to His joy now by a true conversion and by converting our fallen
brethren ? To understand the depth of heavenly joy at a sinner's
conversion, we should consider what sin and hell are, what a soul
is, what is the worth of Christ's Blood, and look on all things in
the light of these great facts.
14. Even so it is not the will of your Father which is in
heaven, that one of these little ones should perish.
" Take care," He has been saying, " lest you lead astray one of these
little ones ; for they are precious, their angels are mighty, their
shepherd is watchful, and," He ends, "their Father has prepared
heaven for them." By tempting them you would go against all
the power and love of God. Is it not a terrible mystery that
sinners should be able to resist God's will, and bring to nought His
saving power ? Grant to me, Lord, that I may carry out Thy will,
not resist it ; and myself be of those little ones who never perish.
15. IT Moreover if thy brother shall trespass against thee,
go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone : if he
shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.
What, if any one uses me ill, am I to take the trouble to go to him
in private, to reason with him gently, to persuade him to different
conduct ? Yes, our Lord requires this of you, because, as things
now are, you have lost your brother. He is separated from you
and from God by his fault. Will you not take trouble to find him
again, if it may be ? How much better to win him back and be
friends, than to revenge yourself fiercely, or give way to hatred and
strife.
16. But if he will not hear thee, then take with thee one or
two more, that in the mouth of two or three witnesses every word
may be established.
If the offender will not hear you or be reconciled, then call in others'
help. Be like a doctor, who when he finds his patient worse re
doubles his care and calls in other advice. Few quarrels would
grow up if at the beginning the parties endeavoured to understand
each other, and if both felt their membeiship in Jesus Christ ; they
are brethren still and have one Saviour.
17. And if he shall neglect to liear tliem, tell it unto the
church : but if he neglect to hear the church, let him be unto thee
as an heathen man and a publican.
The Christian Church in its better days exercised discipline by separat
ing ungodly members from Divine service and sacraments, and if
they remained obstinate in sin, cutting them off from all the benefits

102 Of Prayer and Forgiveness. [S. Matt. XVIII.
of the Gospel. Such persons had no longer God for their Father,
or the Church for their mother, or grace for their food, or heaven
for their end. All was lost to them, so will it be to us if we
persevere in deadly sin.
1 8. Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth
shall be bound in heaven : and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth
shall be loosed in heaven.
If you are tied and bound by sin, seek earnestly to be loosed, seek to
be free and to run the way of salvation. If in God's mercy you are
loosed now, beware lest the devil entangle you again and the Church
of God only confirm your bondage. None can be spiritually loosed
or bound except with his own consent and choice. The sentence
of Christ's Church only declares the state which the soul has chosen.
19. Again I say unto you, That if two of you shall agree on
earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done
for them of my Father which is in heaven.
How great is the profit of common prayer ! Christians should unite
together with heart and voice to seek for blessings from God. Let
their prayers be earnest, persevering, and in submission to God's
will, and no doubt they will have a gracious answer. The power
of the Church rests on its oneness, no marvel therefore if prayer
obtains less now that believers are so divided amongst themselves.
20. For where two or three are gathered together in my name,
there am I in the midst of them.
Happy is that Christian family which daily gathers together in prayer,
in reading God's Word, in mutual love and charity. They can be
sure of Christ's presence and blessing, and though they are soon
parted here, it is only to meet again in heaven.
21. IT Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft
shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him ? till seven
times ?
S. Peter thought that it was ample measure to forgive the same person
seven times over, and that after so much forbearance he might
justly be severe. Many people will not go so far as seven times, but
regard one or two injuries as matter for hatred and revenge. One
of our greatest trials is in this matter of forgiveness. Do I from
my heart forgive the insulting words, unkindness, opposition,
robbery, that I have met with, and wish to think no more of it ?
22. Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven
times : but, Until seventy times seven.
Ah, there is no limit. Seven times was quite too little. Charity is a
debt which we must always go on paying. God has always to go
on forgiving us. We too should never stop short in our readiness to
forgive. Even if we are reluctantly obliged in any case to resort

Ver. 28.] The Unmerciful Servant. 103
to the law for protection, still we can do so without any desire for
revenge.
23. 1T Therefore is the kingdom of heaven likened unto a
certain king, which would take account of his servants.
God takes account of us by bringing our sins home to our remem
brance. Illness, or the loss of friends, a striking sermon, a pious
book or conversation, impress us and make us feel our own position
before God. All at once what we are and what He is flashes
upon us. Lord, enable me to see truly how I stand with Thee.
24. And when he had begun to reckon, one was brought unto
him, which owed him ten thousand talents.
We owe ten thousand talents, an enormous debt which we can never
pay. So many years, opportunities, gifts, mercies, all wasted, and
nothing to show for them. Mind and body, money and time, life
and health, all were His and meant for His service. This is an
overwhelming discovery when it first comes home to us. We have
offended God and cannot satisfy His justice.
25. But forasmuch as he had not to pay, his lord commanded
him to be sold, and his wife, and children, and all that he had,
and payment to be made.
Our lot would then be, in strict justice, to be given over to endless
bondage and hopeless misery. We have no means of our own to
set ourselves right with God. The Jewish law which bade the
insolvent debtor and his family be sold as slaves was but a figure of
the hopeless slavery of unforgiven sin.
26. The servant therefore fell down, and worshipped him,
saying, Lord, have patience with me, and I will pay tliee all.
What else can a sinner do but recognise his helpless condition, pray
earnestly, promise to do all he can, throw himself with confidence
on the Divine mercy? In the infinite merits of Jesus our Saviour
there is a treasure that can pay all our debts.
2 7. Then the lord of that servant was moved with compassion,
and loosed him, and forgave him the debt.
When we acknowledge our guilt and misery then God's mercy meets
us. He does more than we ask. He is rich in mercy and forgives
us abundantly all that is past. All our great debt which we cannot
pay is wiped out ; all our sins, however many, deadly, and
obstinate, melt away before His mercy in Christ Jesus. That
precious Blood cleanses from all sin.
28. But the same servant went out, and found one of his
fellowservants, which owed him an hundred pence : and he laid
hands on him, and took him by the throat, saying, Pay me that
thou owest.

164 God's Wrath on the Unforgiving. [S. Matt. XIX.
This debt of a hundred pence (which is about one to a million as com
pared with the ten thousand talents) represents our brethren s
offences against us. All the shortcomings of others towards us,
their hard words, neglect or failure of duty, unkindness, do not
amount to very much ; and yet we seek revenge on them, quite
forgetting that we are greater offenders ourselves.
29. And his fellowservant fell down at his feet, and besought
him, saying, Have patience with me, and I will pay thee all.
Dear reader, if you have earnestly confessed yourself a sinner, pleaded
for pardon, thanked your Saviour for His free mercy, if your tears
and humble prayers have prevailed with God, you cannot possibly
be hard on others or refuse to forgive them. If you are thus unfor
giving you can never have truly sought pardon for yourself.
30. And he would not : but went and cast him into prison,
till he should pay the debt.
He would not forgive the debt, would not even have patience with
the debtor, but condemned him at once without listening to his
prayer. He had evidently quite forgotten his own condition and
the mercy shown to him. Have you ever said of any one, " I can
listen to no excuses. I can never forgive such conduct. He has
injured me, and I shall always feel hurt and vexed. He has used
me so ill that I cannot pass it over " ?
31. So when his fellowservants saw what was done, they were
very sorry, and came and told unto their lord all that was done.
All earth and heaven cry out against the unmerciful. All those who
have felt the blessing of God's mercy themselves condemn the man
who stands on his rights and treats his fellows harshly. The
prayers and tears of the saints go up before God, and He listens
to the cry of the oppressed, though He does not answer it at once.
32. Then his lord, after that he had called him, said unto
him, 0 thou wicked servant, I forgave thee all that debt, because
thou desiredst me.
One day God will call us into His presence, and we shall have to
obey the call. Whatever we may be doing we must rise at once
and go. How will His messenger find us occupied ? God grant
that we may be well employed, and ready for the call. He will
remind us on that day of all the mercies that He has shown us in
our life. How often He has blessed, helped, forgiven, guided,
with so much of Providence and grace.
33. Slwuldest not thou also have had compassion on thy
fellowservant, even as I had pity on thee ?
God forgave, made allowance, showed pity. And what did we do ?
We blamed sharply, put the worst construction on others' acts,
treasured up their faults, went through life in an unforgiving spirit,
and when it is too late our eyes are opened to see and regret
bitterly what we have done.

Ver. 3.] Jesus leaves Galilee. 105
34. And his lord was wroth, and delivered him to the tor
mentors, till lie should pay all that was due unto him.
For the unmerciful there is no mercy. Such a one has broken God's
covenant, cancelled his own pardon, brought back all the weight
of his sins on his own head. He can never pay what he owes, and
therefore will never be able to escape from those grievous tor
mentors and that hopeless prison. God keep us from being cast
into it, and from leading others towards it.
35. So likewise shall my heavenly Father do also unto you,
if ye from your hearts forgive not every one his brother their
trespasses. So likewise without doubt will God treat us, unless we from our
hearts, not outwardly alone but with sincere genuine kindness,
forgive every one his brother their trespasses. No one is exempt
from this rule, it is made for all on this earth. Give us, Lord, a
forgiving and charitable heart, that we in our hour of judgment
may find mercy with Thee.

CHAPTER XIX.
¦*. Christ healeth the sick : 3. answereth the Pharisees concerning divorce
ment : xo. sheweth when marriage is necessary : 13. receiveth little
children : 16. instructeth the young man how to attain eternal life,
20. and how to be perfect : 23. telleth his disciples how hard it is for
a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God, 27. and promiseth re
ward to those that forsake any thing to follow him.
AND it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these
J_A_ sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the
coasts of Judosa beyond Jordan; 2. and great multitudes
followed him ; and he healed them there.
We have come now to the concluding part of our Lord's ministry,
when He had left Galilee and was shortly about to go up to Jeru
salem for His Passion. He knew well the designs of His enemies
and the nearness of His death, but His mercy, wisdom, and courage
remained the same. He refused help to none, nor is His goodness
less now than it was then. Multitudes since that time have followed
Him and proved what He is.
3. IT The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and
saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife
for every cause ?
This question was much disputed among the Jews, some saying that
the law allowed a man to send away his wife if he had had any
disagreement with her, others that it was only lawful in grave cases
of sin. Our Lord was asked which side He took. His enemies hoped

106 Divorce, why permitted. [S. Matt. XIX
to find some occasion against Him, whatever answer He might
give.
4. And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read,
that he which made them at the beginning made them male and
female, 5. and said, For this cause shall a man leave father
and mother, and shall cleave to his wife : and they twain shall
be one flesh?
Jesus Christ refers to God's institution of marriage, not to the corrup
tions which man had afterwards brought in. God made man and
woman at the first to be joined each to each in a solemn union,
which represents our union with Himself. He bids us, in any
disputed question, ask, what is God's will? what does Scripture say?
what was done in better days than these ? such thoughts will help
us to a better answer than the corrupt maxims of the world.
6. Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What
therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
A Christian husband and wife are joined together in a sacred tie by
God Himself. Marriage should be undertaken with consideration,
and prayer, and a firm resolve to let nothing weaken the tie once '
made. How sad it is that souls whom God has joined together
should let the devil or man split them asunder.
7. They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to
give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away ? 8. He
saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts
suffered you to put away your wives : but from the beginning
it was not so.
Many things in the law of Moses were allowed for the hardness of
men's hearts. God raised His people by degrees as they were able
to bear it. The law was a great step for the Israelites and raised
them from a herd of slaves into a nation of freemen, but Jesus
Christ came to lift man up still higher and bring in again the rules
which had been made for man in Paradise. Do not blame God
because He permitted under the old covenant many things which
are not right now, but rather thank Him for showing you the better
way which was not revealed then.
9. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife,
except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth
adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth
commit adultery.
Christ's words seem clear and plain that a husband may not cast off
his wife except in case of her adultery, and even then that the parties
are not free to marry again. I know that human laws give more
licence than this, but I see not how to reconcile them with my
Master's words.

Ver. i 5.] Christ welcomes Little Children. 107
10. IT His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be
so with his wife, it is not good to marry.
If marriage is so binding, its harmony so uncertain, its cares and trials
so many, what shall we say of the wisdom of entering on such a
state ? Yet do so without fear if God calls you. For most people it
is indeed good to many ; it is the way appointed by God for their
sanctification ; it will exercise them in patience, kindness, and all
manner of pure affections. God will temper the trials that it may
bring, it is His own way of training souls for heaven.
1 1. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this say
ing, save they to whom it is given. 12. For there are some
eunuchs, which were so born from their mother's womb : and
there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men : and
there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the
kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him
receive it.
There are no doubt some (of whom our Lord here speaks) to whom
a single life is appointed, either by their bodily constitution, or by
others' requirements, or by their own voluntary choice of such a life,
as leaving them more free to serve and love God. Let those who
live thus be pure in heart and unselfish, and let them take Jesus
Christ as the Bridegroom of their souls. He can love them with a
greater love than that of wife or child. He can far more than make
up for all that they lose.
13. IT Then were there brought unto him little children, that
he should put his hands on them, and pray : and the disciples
rebuked them.
In holy Baptism we bring the infants, and in Confirmation the boys
and girls, that the Lord Jesus may through His appointed ministers
lay hands on them and bless them. Christian parents should long
to win God's blessing for their children, and teach them about
Jesus at an early age. True disciples of Christ should not rebuke
the children harshly, but gently lead them on to love H im.
14. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them
not, to come unto me : for of such is the kingdom of heaven.
Here is a gracious command for us to bring children to Christ. How
grave is the fault of those who bring up children without religion,
or set them against it by mockery and profaneness ! Children show
us the temper of simplicity and faith which we should strive after.
They accept what is told them, they are without care for the
morrow.
15. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.
How powerful must have been that blessing which the Lord of Glory
then pronounced on these children 1 all their life after it must have
been a guard to them. Those children whom the Lord Jesus

108 The great Question. [S. Matt. XIX.
noticed were indeed highly favoured ; and yet our children in these
days also receive His blessing and feel His care. Those who lead
a child into sin tear it away from Jesus' arms and make His bless
ing void.
1 6. IT And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good
Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal
life? This young man was rich and of good position, he had heard of Jesus
Christ as a wise teacher, so he came and put this question to Him.
It was a good question, and put to the person Who could best
answer it. Young men may learn from this example to seek for
good advice and good company, to keep heaven in their thoughts
and consider whether they are on the road thither, and what good
action there fs that they might do.
i "j. And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there
is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into
life, keep the commandments.
Our Lord answered that it was not the lessons of any wise teacher
but the power of God only that could make us good. He is all
goodness, and alone can impart it to us. Go to God and ask Him
in prayer to make you good and show you the right way. He has
given you a plain rule of duty; if you wish to be saved there is but
one way, to follow that.
1 8. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do
no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not
steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, 19. Honour thy father
and thy mother : and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Our Lord taught him no new rule, but those of the old Ten Com
mandments, which declare the duties between man and man, and
bade him examine himself by these. Instead of the tenth com
mandment He gave a wider rule, saying, "Thou shalt love thy
neighbour as thyself," that is the spirit of them all. Christians
should try then- own lives by these same rules. We shall be iudeed
not by what others say of us, nor by our feelings, but t>y our
lives. God will inquire if we have lived without hatred, in purity,
khaT with all g tmth' performinS home duties, dealing
20. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I
kept from my youth up : what lack I yet?
Was this pride? or did he speak in simplicity, not knowing the
excellence of God's law and the weakness of his own heart ? If
1ZSZ mJr\ ?°Ung -T bee" kePt from deadly si"> remember
that it is of God's specal grace and mercy alone, no your own
doing^ and that there is very much more for' you still to give he™
to. You are happy dear friends, if you have indeed kept God's law
from your youth. Think what He would have you do for H°m low

Ver. 25.] The Counsel of Perfection. 109
21. Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell
that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure
in heaven : and come and follow me.
This is what is called a counsel of perfection. Our Saviour invited
him not merely to keep the commandments, but to part with all
his wealth to the poor and become His disciple. God calls for
great sacrifices at certain times. We should seek to know His
will for us, and carry it out obediently. Things which seem too
hard now, He can make easy, if we follow the leading of His
Spirit.
22. But when the young man heard that saying, he went
away sorrowful : for lie had great possessions.
Jesus Christ had touched on the young man's weak point. He could
do very much for God, but he could not give up his wealth, so he
went away sorrowful. He had asked what good thing he could
do ; what he lacked yet ;¦ and our Saviour took him at his word
and told him. But it was more than he could endure to hear.
Such, O Lord, are our weak frail hearts. We shrink from the
Healer's touch.
23. 1T Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto
you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of
heaven. Who will persuade rich men, or those who are trying to become
rich, of this truth? and yet it is uttered by Him Who is Truth
itself. To have plenty of money at command, all wants supplied,
no anxiety about the future, to enjoy influence and position, all
this makes it harder to be religious. As a man's property grows,
his heart often becomes harder. What a strange teacher is Christ
to put things thus !
24. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to
go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into
the kingdom of God.
In this verse it is stated still more strongly, it is not only difficult but
impossible. The great beast of burden could not pass through the
needle's eye, no more can a heart that is full of the thought of
money and money-getting enter in at the strait gate or walk along
the narrow way.
2 5 . When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed,
saying, Who then can be saved ?
No wonder they were amazed, so are we when we consider the
words. What, when riches are the reward of honest labour, and
contribute so much to the welfare of the world, to say that a rich
man cannot be religious ! if that is so, who can serve God ? Does
the Gospel really say that salvation cannot be extended to the rich?

First and Last. [S. Matt. XX

26. But Jesus beheld, them, and said unto them, ^With men
this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
In hunian reckoning it is impossible. The power of riches to occupy
the mind wholly, the snares of luxury and pride, the many tempta
tions which beset the rich, all these make it impossible for them
to be religious, but God's grace can do all things. He can give rich
men true poverty of spirit, make them live for others, make them
view their wealth as lent by God and to be used in His service.
Let those who are well off pray earnestly for Divine grace, which
alone can sanctify their gains and turn them to good.
27. IT Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we
have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have
therefore ?
They had given up what they had, though it was not much. Could
they claim treasure in heaven as a reward for that humble sacrifice ?
Let us sit so light to our earthly joys that we may give them up
readily when God calls, cheerfully embrace His Divine will, and
look to Him only for a recompense when and how He pleases.
28. And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That
ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of
man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon
twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Jesus Christ here opens the view of a glorious state to come after all
this world's sorrows are over ; that will be a regeneration or new
birth of all things, and those who have given up wealth and honour
for His sake will find themselves honoured there. Let us extend
our views beyond this world and its passing glories.
_ 29. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren or
sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands' for
my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit
everlasting life.
If you are obliged for Christ's sake to give up fine prospects, part
with dear friends, differ from those you love most, yet persevere
remembering that to be on God's side is true' happiness both here
and hereafter. Never mind losing pleasure for His sake, one dav
you will find again more than all you lose. Religion has its own
joys here 'an hundredfold," and somewhat further in the next
world that passes our power to understand as yet.
30. But many tliat are first shall be last; and the last shall
be first.
Only God knows who will persevere. One seems without faith now
who will in the end inherit glory, one who seems now a great sah^
will fall away. We must fear and walk humbly so long as we are
in the flesh, and yet trust to God's mercy to keep us^afe No
harm can ever befall those who trust in Him.

Ver. 5.] The Parable of the Labourers. 111

CHAPTER XX.
1. Christ, by the similitude of the labourers in the vineyard, sheweth that
God is debtor unto no man : 17. foretelleth his passion : 20. by
answering the mother of Zebedee's children teacheth his disciples to
be lowly : 30. and giveth two blind men their sight.
FOR the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man that is an
householder, which went out early in the morning to hire
labourers into his vineyard.
God is the Master, the Church the vineyard, we His labourers. Our
duty here is to work for our Master. An idle person who dreams
life away has no place in the heavenly kingdom, only workers are
needed there. Many are called early in the morning ; this means,
they are brought up from infancy in the knowledge of God.
2. And when he had agreed with the labourers for a penny
a day, he sent them into his vineyard.
He promises them everlasting life, makes them inheritors of the
kingdom of heaven, and bids them use their tender bodies and
opening minds for His love and service. Even the children are
sent into God's vineyard, and should do their work as for Him.
We must teach them that they have by God's mercy been called to
be His in the early morning of life. Their education should bring
forth in them good fruits of grace.
3. And he went out about the third hour, and saw others
standing idle in the marketplace, 4. and said unto them ; Go
ye also into the vineyard, and whatsoever is right I will give
you. And they went their way.
The third hour is opening life, when a young man or woman is start
ing in the world. Sometimes they have so far stood idle and not
heard God's call, but now it comes home to them. God by His
Spirit, whether in Confirmation or at a first Communion, or by good
example and teaching, speaks to their hearts and bids them be
strong to overcome evil. Listen to the voice, for if you despise it
perhaps it will not sound again.
5. Again he went out about the sixth and ninth hour, and
did likewise.
Some again have been careless till middle life or declining years, and
yet then they hear God's merciful call and tum to Him. He never
ceases pleading with us. Even if we have lost many years let us
go forth boldly now and do what we can for His service. It is
never too late to love God. True, these have done much less work
than the others, yet still God's mercy and Christ's Passion are able
to make up all defects.

ri2 The same Reward is offered to all. [S. Matt. XX,
6. And about the eleventh hour he went out, and found others
standing idle, and saith unto them, Why stand ye here all the
day idle ?
Some there are who draw to their end, and yet have never served
God. What shall we say to such ? How terrible it is to have
spent all the day of life unprofitably, and to be about to give an
account of it to our Judge ! Does He not speak to us in this
question? Reader, consider of what use you are in the world,
whether you advance God's glory, profit men's souls, help their
needs, do good to all round you by your example ; if not, why not?
7. They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He
saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever
is right, that shall ye receive.
Can we say truly that we have not been hired? Some perhaps can
say so, but too often we have been hired and have not gone to the
field. Yet it is never too late to set to work while life lasts. If
you have but a few moments, up and love God and do good,
trusting to His infinite mercy. O Lord, I will rise to-day and go
forth to work with entire confidence in obedience to Thy gracious
call. "Love too late can never glow."
8. So when even was come, the lord of the vineyard saith unto
his steward, Call the labourers, and give them their hire, be
ginning from tlie last unto the first.
Happy will the evening be to him who has worked heartily for God.
He will lay down his tasks and set off in peace and trust for that
gracious Master's presence. Soon the shades of night will close
round us, and God's messenger will summon us to receive a reward
according to our works. He who has done very little may yet
hope to secure eternal life, if he has but learned in his last hour to
love God.
9. And when they came that were hired about the eleventh
hour, they received every man a penny.
Do not put off your conversion till the end of life. Yet if you have
little time left, at least be converted now ; never lose hope, it is
perhaps the eleventh hour, you may have lived without God almost
all your life, yet He calls you in His mercy and offers you pardon
and hope. Now at least, if we have never said it before, we can
say with the penitent thief, "Lord, remember me."
10. But when the first came, they supposed that they should
have received more; and they likewise received every man a
penny. 11. And when they had received it, they murmured
against the goodman of the house, 12. saying, These last have
wrought but one hour, and thou hast made them equal unto us,
which have borne the burden and heat of the day.

Ver. 19.] Mercy and Judgment. 113
This temper of jealousy and discontent, because those who have
worked less time receive the same reward, cannot indeed find a
place in heaven. None of those who receive the eternal
reward will murmur against the Judge, but the temper which is j
here expressed is one which good people on earth need to guard 1
against. However long you live in God's service, however much '
you have done for Him, never trust in your own works, never
grudge His free love and mercy shown to sinners. Consider the
mercies that God has shown you, which are so infinite, rather than
the very little which you have been enabled to do for Him.
13. But lie answered one of tliem, and said, Friend, I do
thee no wrong : didst not thou agree with me for a penny ? 14.
Take that thine is, and go thy way : I will give unto this last,
even as unto thee. 15. Is it not lawful for me to do what I
will with mine own ? Is thine eye evil, because I am good ?
So long as I am just to thee, may I not be liberal to others ? What
hast thou to complain of in the freeness of My mercy ? Nay, indeed,
everything is of God. Our calling, our power to do any good, grace
to persevere, are all His, as well as the everlasting reward. We are
unprofitable servants at best, and those who have done and suffered
most should not look down upon the humblest penitent. Lord,
it is all Thine, and I am Thine. I submit my reason to Thy wise
Providence, entreating only for a place, if it be the lowest, among
those who have loved Thee to the end.
16. So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many
be called, but few chosen.
If it so happens that the last get as much reward as the first, the
same principle may go on further still, the first-called may lose
the reward by their pride, and the late-comer be chosen in their
stead. Never presume, for you may easily fall. Indeed in your
own strength you cannot stand. But never despair, for His great
mercy can pardon any sin. This should be a Christian's feeling,
full of fear, knowing God's ways are unsearchable, yet full always
of hope and trust.
17. 1T And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve
disciples apart in the way, and said unto them, 1 8. Behold, we
go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of man shall be betrayed unto
the chief priests and unto the scribes, and they shall condemn
him to death, 1 9. and shall deliver him to the Gentiles to mock,
and to scourge, and to crucify him : and the third day he shall
rise again.
Here our Lord is on the way up to Jerusalem to suffer death for us,
and He foretells it for the third time, in the clearest and most
solemn -manner. His ministry with its saving words and mighty
acts is now ending, and all that remains is for Him to suffer
patiently what had been ordained for Him. He does not put
H

114 A Mother's Prayer. [S. Matt. XX.
away the thought of His death, but dwells upon it even in its details
— "betrayed," "condemned," "mocked," "scourged," "crucified."
Why, O Lord, this abundance of shame ? Was it not enough to
die once, without all these insults and tortures ? It was to show
thee, O Christian soul, two lessons. One is the value of suffering,
there is nothing like it to cleanse and purify ; and the other is that
Christ feels for thy sufferings, whatever they are, for He has drunk
the same cup. Learn this also, not to fear death. Survey it care
fully, count the steps of its approach, yet look beyond it to the
glorious rising again.
20. IT Then came to him the mother of Zebedee' s children
with her sons, worshipping him, and desiring a certain thing
of him.
Mothers form plans for their children's future, they would like to see
them rich and prosperous and respected in the world. So this
mother brought her twO sons, James and John, whom she knew that
the Lord Jesus loved, and begged Him to promise them some
thing. She wished to see her two sons highly placed, nay, raised
above all the other disciples.
21. And he said. unto her, Wlidt wilt thou? She saith unto
him, Grant that these my two sons may sit, the one on thy riglit
hand, and the other on the left, in thy kingdom.
She regarded Jesus Christ as about to be an earthly king, Who would
be seated in a grand palace, on a costly throne, with His court
around Him, and hoped to see her two sons in the most honourable
places, close^ to the King. How much she had yet to learn of our
Lord's kingdom, and what true greatness is and true nearness to
Him ! Her request suits ill with the Lord's words about His
scourging and crucifying which had been uttered just before.
22. But Jesus answered and said, Ye know not what ye ask.
Are ye able to drink of tlie cup that I shall drink of, and to be
baptized with tlie baptism that I am baptized with ? They say
unto him, We are able.
Heaven is different from what we imagine. Honour and dignity there
are won by faith, not bestowed as mere favours. What we have
to do is to drink patiently the cup of suffering, and pass boldly
through the sea of trouble, after Christ's example. He will take
care to reward us, only all that we must leave to Him.
23. And he saith unto tliem, Ye shall drink indeed of my
cup, and be baptized with the baptism that I am baptized with :
but to sit_ on my right hand, and on my left, is not mine to
give, but it shall be given to them for whom it is prepared of
my Father. J
Our Lord offered His chosen friends a share in the bitter cup and
the baptism of blood. This was His way of dealing with those whom

Ver. 30.] True Greatness 115
He loved. Do not be surprised if the same cup is put to your lips,
but accept it as a salutary medicine which His hand has prepared ;
all is ordered by His wise Providence. How great is the comfort
to feel in all that comes the decrees of His wisdom preparing us
for heaven and heaven for us !
24. And when tlie ten heard it, they were moved with indigna
tion against the two brethren.
We are often displeased at those very faults in others to which we
are subject ourselves. Let us be slow to condemn or blame any
except in the case of open sin, and even then be rather sorry than
angry. How eager we are to condemn our brethren, how slow to
correct ourselves !
25. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Ye know
tliat the princes of the Gentiles exercise dominion over them, and
they that are great exercise authority upon them.
This is earthly greatness ; it consists in power, high place, the com
mand of wealth and force. These men lord it over their fellows,
and think that the world is theirs. Yet all this greatness is but a
shadow and less than nothing in God's sight. What does it profit a
man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul ?
26. But it shall not be so among you : but whosoever will be
great among you, let him be your minister ; 27. and whosoever
will be chief among you, let him be your servant :
Christian greatness is measured by no outward signs. He is the greatest
who is first in loving his brethren, in seeking their good, in wait
ing humbly on their needs. Though a believer may be poor and
humble outwardly, yet he may be highly honoured in God's judg
ment. He honours those who forget themselves and think only
of their brethren. Though you are not called to be noble or rich
in this world, yet the path to true glory is open to you, if you seek
it in God's way.
28. Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto,
but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
Christ gave Himself entirely to His work, cared for all, did not refuse
hardship, endured weariness and pain, met death patiently, and
all this for our sakes. His whole mission was the spending Him
self for our good. Here is a. pattern for us to follow. One who
devotes himself to kindness and charity, as far as his means go, is
following the example of the King of Glory.
29. And as they departed from Jericho, a great multitude
followed him.
30. IT And, behold, two blind men sitting by the way side,
when they heard that Jesus passed by, cried out, saying, Have
mercy on us, 0 Lord, thou son of David.

1 1 6 Two blind Men healed. [S. Matt. XXI.
There are a great multitude of spiritually blind who cannot see the
right way, but wander without a guide and are in danger of being
utterly lost. What should any one do who feels his blindness
but cry to Jesus, Who is the Fountain of mercy ? Our ignorance
and darkness cry out for that bright Light to shine upon us.
31. And the multitude rebuked them, because they should
hold their peace : but they cried the more, saying, Have mercy
on us, 0 Lord, thou son of David.
One who is in earnest will not be prevented by hard words or scoffs
from coming to Jesus. He will pray only the more heartily to that
Friend Who can hear and help. Others may try to stop his mouth
and hinder him from being religious, but he perseveres.
32. And Jesus stood still, and called them, and said, Wlial
will ye that I sliall do unto you ?
The Lord would have us know our own wants, and declare them
humbly in prayer. Then He prepares to supply them. If we will
but call on Him earnestly we shall find that He listens. He will
give us a sweet sense of His presence.
33. They say unto him, Lord, that our eyes may be opened.
That is the right prayer for us also. Lord, let our eyes be opened
that we may see the wondrous things of Thy law, how to live and
how to die. I desire not riches, nor influence, nor pleasure, but a
clear sight of Thee and of my duty. Heal my eyes, which are
clogged and darkened by vanity.
34. So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their
eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they fol
lowed him.
O gracious and mighty power of God, which is set in motion by His
love, and which acts on our hearts, making us see what is right,
embrace it freely, and persevere in living by it ! His grace works
daily marvels in faithful hearts. Let me not remain dark and cold,
shut off from its heavenly influence ; and when His light has shone
on me, let me follow Him gratefully and readily.

CHAPTER XXI.
». Christ rideth into Jerusalem upon an ass, 12. driveth the buyers and
sellers out of the temple, 17. curseth the fig tree, 23. putteth to silence
the priests and elders, 28. and rebuketh them by the similitude of the
two sons, 33. and the husbandmen, who slew such as were sent unto
them.
AND when they drew nigh unto Jerusalem, and were come
XA_ to Bethphage, unto tlie mount of Olives, then sent Jesus
two disciples,

Ver. 8.] Christ rides on an Ass. 117
This is the first day of that great and holy week in which Jesus Christ
encounters all the powers of evil, and works out our salvation.
Before this He had appeared in Jerusalem secretly and as a private
person, but now His death is approaching, and He goes forth boldly
to meet it. There is a. time for God's servants to be quiet and
avoid notice, but there is a time also when they must meet the
world face to face and declare their true character.
2. Saying unto them, Go into the village over against you,
and straightway ye shall find an ass tied, and a colt with her:
loose them, and bring them unto me.
Thou hast power, O Lord, to loose the bond-slaves of Satan, and
subject them to Thy easy yoke and light burden. How many
there are who need to be loosed from their sins and brought to
Jesus that they may enter with Him into the heavenly Jerusalem !
3. And if any man say ought unto you, ye shall say, The
Lord hath need of them ; and straightway he will send them.
If the unknown owner of these beasts so willingly lent them to serve
the Lord on His royal entry, should not we cheerfully give up what
the Lord has need of now ? Perhaps He has need of our money
for works of charity, or our friends to take them to another
world, or our bodies for the grave. Can we not part with what
He has lent us, or rather trust it to Him again to keep for us a while?
4. All this was done, that it might be fulfilled which was
spoken by the prophet, saying, 5. Tell ye the daughter of Sion,
Behold, thy Xing cometh unto thee, meek, and sitting upon an
ass, and a colt the foal of an ass.
Here is a royal procession of a very humble kind. The Divine King
appears not in the terrible glory of Sinai, nor with the pomp and
splendour of an earthly prince, but riding upon an ass and sur
rounded by the poor and simple. He shows us that true greatness
consists in meekness, obedience, and simplicity, not in any outward
display.
6. And the disciples went, and did as Jesus commanded
them, 7. and brought the ass, and the colt, and put on them
their clothes, and they set him thereon.
There can be no greater happiness for us than to obey Christ's com
mands by bringing in souls to bear His yoke and serve His Divine
purposes. It would seem that He rode on the colt only, which
had never yet been ridden, and that it was led quietly along beside
its mother. Christ would have us use animals with kindness,
remembering that they are, as ourselves, creatures of God and
instruments for His service.
8. And a very great multitude spread their garments in the
way; otliers cut down branches from the trees, and strawed
them in the way.

n8 The Cleansing of the Temple. [S. Matt. XXI.
They welcomed their King by spreading a carpet over the rough road
along which He was to pass. They had nothing costly to lay down
before Him, but only their cloaks and the leaves of palm and
olive, yet He received it graciously. If we cannot bring to our
Divine Lord precious offerings and worthy praises, let us bring
what we can and trust Him to welcome our sacrifice.
9. And the multitudes that went before, and that followed,
cried, saying, Hosanna to the son of David : Blessed is he that
cometh in the name of the Lord ; Hosanna in the highest.
These shouts on the Sunday are full of devotion and praise, but on
the Friday following will be heard others of a different sort.
"Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him." Here He is
the Son of David, the expected King, the Heaven-sent Prophet ;
there He will be reckoned an evil-doer, mocked, crowned with
thorns, deserted by His friends. Such are the ways of this world.
God's servants must take the bitter with the sweet, and prepare
themselves for either lot.
10. And when he was come into Jerusalem, all the city was
moved, saying, Who is this ?
We too are sometimes moved by a call from God, and yet it often
proves a barren wonder, nothing comes of it. Let us not only
say of Christ "Who is this?" but go on to seek for the answer,
and prove its truth by finding out for ourselves that He is a Saviour
and Friend.
11. And the multitude said, This is Jesus the prophet of
Nazareth of Galilee.
We have assisted in spirit at Christ's entry, we have studied His life,
we have followed His steps in humility and in glory, let us beware
that this turn not to our condemnation. This is God the Saviour,
the Prophet of truth, the Pattern of meekness. Christians, behold,
and profit by the sight.
12. IT And Jesus went into the temple of God, and cast out
all them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the
tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them tliat sold
doves. Jesus Christ abhorred with fiery indignation the filling God's temple
with buyers and sellers. What would He say to the conversation,
the laughter, the idle looks, and worldly tempers of Christians
assembled in His house ? what of the evil thoughts which so often
occupy our hearts, which are His temple ?
13. And said unto them, It is written, My house shall be
called the house of prayer; but ye have made it a den of thieves.
The church is a house where prayer dwells, not a den of robbers
where evil thoughts lurk and make inroads into our hearts. Clergy

Ver. i 8.] Children worship Christ. 119
and choir and congregation should all come to pray, feeling their
needs and lifting up their hearts to God, Who can hear and help.
It would be robbery to steal our hearts from God and merely offer
an outward service.
14. And the blind and the lame came to him in the temple ;
and he healed them.
Such should be the work of Christian ministers, to draw to God's
house those who cannot see His truth or walk in His way, and
restore them to a clear sight and upright walk again. As erring
men themselves they can only do this by seeking out the Good
Physician and bringing their patients to Him.
15. And when the chief priests and scribes saw the wonderful
things that he did, and the children crying in the temple, and
saying, Hosanna to the son of David; they were sore displeased,
Even the children could adore Jesus Christ and praise His wonderful
works. Let us join with them in their simplicity, rather than stand
apart with scoffers who despise religion. When we hear of the
wonderful things which our Lord has done, and listen to the praises
and hymns of His church, let us not be ashamed to praise Him too.
The children had courage to be on our Lord's side when the great
ones of the world were against Him.
16. And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say ? And
Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the
mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise ?
In the 8th Psalm David says that the signs of God's glory in heaven
and earth are so plain that even children can discern them and learn
that they have a wise Creator and Governor. The Lord applied
these words to the children of His own day who were able to rejoice
in His good works and praise God for them. They were but
babes, yet still could feel His goodness. God grant us hearts like
those of children, simple, pure, and grateful. From such hearts
comes perfect praise.
17. IT And he left them, and went out of the city into Beth
any ; and he lodged there.
He found no home in the great city, but retired again to the village,
where Martha, Mary, and Lazarus gladly received Him. Often He
leaves great and learned people to dwell with the humble. O
Lord, abide with me; pass not away, I pray Thee, from Thy
servant
18. Now in the morning as he returned into the city, he
hungered. Those who are hungry, and those likewise who suffer pain or sorrow
or unkindness, or who lie on a bed of death, may reflect that their
Saviour Himself went through the same trials and can feel for
them. He did not live in abundance or have every want supplied,
but often fared scantily and slept hardly.

120 The Fig-tree withered. [S. Matt. XXI.
19. And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it,
and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it,
Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently
the fig tree withered away.
Good desires that come to nothing, religious words without practice,
a mere outward profession, those are the leaves, but our Lord asks
for something farther. He is not content without fruit, He asks
for a holy life and deeds of love and patience. If for so long a
time we have given Him no solid results, nothing of real true
godliness, let us beware lest the day come suddenly upon us when
we no longer have the power to serve Him.
20. And when the disciples saw it, they marvelled, saying,
How soon is the fig tree withered away I
One day people will say of us, " How soon so and so has been taken ! "
Grant, O Lord, that before that day comes we may bear some fruit
for Thee. We need to be always ready lest the Great Gardener
come and find nothing brought to perfection.
21. Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto
you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this
which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this
mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into tlie sea ; it
shall be done.
Not only did the apostles, after the resurrection of Christ, do such
great miracles, but it was through their faith and preaching that
the Christian Church came in the place of the Jewish, while the
latter withered up like the unfruitful tree, and was cast out of its
place like the mighty mountain.
22. And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believ
ing, ye shall receive.
Lord, increase our faith. The springs of mercy are open to us, but
we do not draw from them as we might. Grant us to believe
heartily in the abundance of Thy goodness. Let prayer be our
daily support and comfort
23. IT And when he was come into the temple, the chief priests
and tlie elders of the people came unto him as he was teaching,
and said, By what authority doest thou these things 2 and who
gave thee this authority ?
Our Lord's authority was proved by His mighty miracles, and the
holy words He spake as a messenger from God, and the old
prophecies He fulfilled. His ministers prove theirs nowadays by
the Scripture, and by the same doctrine and government having
been handed down ever since the apostles' time ; but if they want
their claims to be allowed, they must add, as Jesus did, the authority
of a holy life in accordance with their teaching.

Ver. 30.] The Question of Authority. 121
24. And Jesus answered and said unto them, I also will ask
you one thing, which if ye tell me, I in like wise will tell you
by what authority I do these things. 25. The baptism of John,
whence was it ? from heaven, or of men ? And they reasoned
with themselves, saying, If we shall say, From heaven ; he will
say unto us, Why did ye not then believe him? 26. But if we
shall say, Of men ; we fear the people ; for all hold John as a
prophet. Our Saviour put this counter-question partly to silence their per-
verseness, partly to lead them on to believe by recalling John's
testimony about Himself. A like question may be addressed to
Christians on many subjects. There are commands to love Jesus
Christ, to receive Holy Communion in remembrance of His death,
to deny ourselves, to keep from all appearance of evil ; are these
of heaven, spoken to us by God, or not ? If we acknowledge these
precepts are from God, why do we not act upon them ?
27. And they answered Jesus, and said, We cannot tell.
And he said unto them, Neither tell I you by what authority 1
do these things.
In any temptation, if you know what is the right way, answer boldly
and fear not, and God will lead you on to see His way more and
more clearly ; but if you shrink back in cowardice and will not take
God's side, saying that you are not sure which is right and which
is wrong, then you draw down on yourself a sentence of blindness.
Is such a word or act right or wrong, such a person one whom you
ought to make a friend of? God bids you decide.
28. IT But what think ye? A certain man had two sons ;
and he came to the first, and said, Son, go work to day in my
vineyard. Such is the law laid upon all Adam's children. Miserable is he who
thinks to lead an idle life instead of working at his appointed task.
Indeed it is our heavenly Father Who appoints us our work, and
this out of His love, and for our own profit, let us do it heartily
as in His sight
29. He answered and said, I will not: but afterward he
repented, and went.
Some are led astray in early life. They are happy in having the
opportunity of repentance, only let them embrace it earnestly. If
I have despised my heavenly Father's bidding, let me now grieve
over my fault and work for Him while the day lasts. Lord, I repent
of my disobedience and wish that I had earlier begun to serve Thee.
30. And he came to the second, and said likewise. And he
answered and said, I go, sir : and went not.
There are those who profess with their lips reverence and obedience,

122 Repentant Sinner entering the Kingdom. [S. Matt. XXI.
yet in their works deny God. How much there is in God's vine
yard that wants attending to now, how many ignorant, how
many sick and helpless, how many in heathen darkness, what
a. work to do in purifying one's own heart! There are such
calls to come and work, yet many love to please themselves, and
do not stir a finger to do good.
3 1 . Whether of them twain did the will of his father? They
say unto him, The first. Jesus saith unto them, Verily I say
unto you, That the publicans and the harlots go into tlie king
dom of God before you.
How many whom I now despise are before me in God's sight 1 Their
opportunities have been few, and their falls far more to be excused
than mine. I have known God's will, and have not done it. Our
great cities contain very many who have grown up without the
knowledge of God; they would welcome and dearly prize the
blessings that I have had and have disregarded.
32. For John came unto you in the way of righteousness, and
ye believed him not : but the publicans and the harlots believed
him : and ye, when ye had seen it, repented not afterward, tliat
ye might believe him.
If burning words and lofty example were sufficient to convert sinners,
John the Baptist would have done it. And indeed he did convert
many, but pride and hypocrisy withstand all God's invitations.
Grant us, Lord, faithful preachers to declare Thy truth boldly, and
repentant humble hearts to listen and obey it.
33. IT Hear another parable: There was a certain house
holder, which planted a vineyard, and hedged it round about,
and digged a winepress in it, and built a tower, and let it out
to husbandmen, and went into a far country :
All this is a figure of the Jewish Church as it was in our Lord's time,
but it signifies also the Christian Church, and the soul of each
believer. Here God has planted faith, and set round a fence of
holy precepts, and given sacraments to refresh, and angels to keep
guard, and looks for lives and hearts to correspond with His grace.
God has given us so many mercies and opportunities in order that
we may bear fruit for Him.
34. And when the time of the fruit drew near, he sent his
servants to the husbandmen, that they might receive the fruits of
it. 35! And the husbandmen took his servants, and beat one,
and killed another, and stoned another. 36. Again, he sent
other servants more than the first: and they did unto them
likewise. This is spoken literally of the Jewish prophets whom their country
men persecuted, but it signifies also our disregard of God's holy

Ver. 42.] The wicked Husbandmen. 123
inspirations, our contempt for His true servants. Happy are
those who have to suffer for Christ's sake, or are at least despised
and opposed. Consider how great is God's forbearance, how He
perseveres in pleading with us, though we have often despised His
voice. If you are a servant of God, deliver your Master's message
boldly, and do not fear the bad husbandmen, all their fierceness is
restrained by God's hand.
37. But last of all he sent unto them his son, saying, They
will reverence my son.
Shall we not reverence God's Son ? He came once in His incarna
tion, now He comes invisibly by His Word, by means of grace,
and specially in the Holy Communion. He is close by us now to
be our life and strength. We look forward to beholding Him one
day in glory. What reverence is lowly enough to pay to our Lord
and Saviour !
38. But when the husbandmen saw the son, they said among
themselves, This is the heir; come, let us kill him, and let us
seize on his inheritance.
When we lead any souls into deadly sin, or persuade them to forget
God, we are like these wicked men, we kill the Son of God, and
seize on His inheritance. Pure and innocent hearts are His portion.
There He abides and receives the fruit of good works. Woe to
those who by their evil influence attack Him there and conquer
the place for His enemies !
39. And they caught him, and cast him out of the vineyard,
and slew him.
We abhor the guilt of the Jews who crucified our Saviour, yet we in
dulge in the same tempers which caused so great a crime. It is
possible by wilful deadly sin to crucify Him afresh and put Him ta
shame again. He was rejected and despised in His life, and cast
out of the holy city in His death, and all this for our consolation
when we suffer.
40. When the lord therefore of the vineyard cometh, what
will he do unto those husbandmen ? 41. They say unto him,
He will miserably destroy those wicked men, and will let out his
vineyard unto other husbandmen, which sliall render him the
fruits in their seasons.
Let us render God His fruit in due season, lest we also fall under
such a sentence. Life is the season for rendering fruit, death is the
winter when no work can be done. God requires of us fruit accord
ing to our opportunities. Lord, make our lives fruitful of good,
and let us ascribe every good thing that is in us lo Thee only. We
must not claim the credit of it for ourselves.
42. Jesus saith unto them, Did ye never read in the scrip
tures, The stone which the builders rejected, the same is become

124 The Corner-stone. [S. Matt. XXII.
the head of the corner : this is the Lord's doing, and it is mar
vellous in our eyes ?
It was marvellous when Christ our Lord by His very depth of humilia
tion triumphed over death and became the foundation of the Catholic
Church. He Who had been utterly despised and had died an out
cast's death was exalted above earth and heaven. Not less
marvellous will be the changes and reverses of the last day, when
many who are despised among men will be glorified before God.
43. Therefore say I unto you, The kingdom of God shall be
taken from you, and given to a nation bringing forth the fruits
thereof. They lost what we gain. Since we are now the possessors of the
vineyard, let us beware lest we despise God's messengers, keep
back any portion of His glory, and idle over His work. God
spared not the former husbandmen, let us take heed lest He also
take vengeance on us !
44. And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken :
but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
To fall on that stone is to neglect Jesus, and despise His Word, which
cannot be without spiritual injury and loss. If we have done this,
let us rise again by a timely repentance, lest the stone fall on us
and crush us into ruin beyond remedy. Let us as living stones be
joined to and built up in Him, then every trial will only make
our hearts more firm and more at rest.
45. And when the chief priests and Pharisees had heard his
parables, they perceived that he spake of them.
We often think we should be better than we are, if we had ourselves
heard the words or beheld the glorious acts of Jesus Christ, and
yet so many who saw and heard Him got no profit by it. Let us
rather accept Him by faith since it is His will, and we may be
better off than those who lived with Him in those days. He speaks
of us, too, as He did of His hearers then. His Divine words
search the heart.
46. But when they sought to lay hands on him, they feared
the multitude, because they took him for a prophet.
The best rule is to fear God and not men. Do not think so much
what men will say of you, or do to you, as of God's Word and your
plain duty. To be restrained only by the fear of men is not a
sufficient safeguard in temptation. Those who would murder
Christ were not long kept back by their fear of the people.

Ver. 4.] Parable of the Marriage Feast. 125

CHAPTER XXII.
The parable of the marriage of the king's son. g. The vocation of the
Gentiles. 12. The punishment of him that wanted the wedding gar
ment 15. Tribute ought to be paid to Csesar. 23. Christ confuteth
the Sadducees for the resurrection : 34. answereth the lawyer, which
is the first and great commandment : 41. and poseth the Pharisees
about the Messias.

K

ND Jesus answered and spake unto them again by parables,
and said,
Once more, and for the last time, our Saviour utters a parable to the
people (for those in chap. xxv. are for His own disciples only), but it
is more grave and stern than before, and warns them of judgment to
come. His gracious discourses begin with blessings and promises,
but if unheeded lead up to. grave warnings at last.
2. The kingdom of heaven is like unto a certain king, ivhich
made a marriage for his son,
The union of God with the soul is expressed by marriage. As the
wife is knit to the husband by the most tender and intimate union,
so is the soul of the believer to God. The Son of God came down
to take our nature and win our hearts. To despise or disobey Him
is like the conduct of a wife who should turn against her husband.
The marriage supper of the Lamb will be the perfect joy and glory
of heaven, where believers' souls will be knit to their Saviour, never
more to part.
3. And sent forth his servants to call them that were bidden
to the wedding : and they' would not come.
The Jews had been bidden by the prophets, and called by our Lord
and His disciples, yet they held back from the heavenly feast.
We too, under the Gospel, receive God's gracious invitation, and
often neglect it
4. Again, he sent forth other servants, saying, Tell them
which are bidden, Behold, I have prepared my dinner : my oxen
and my fadings are killed, and all things are ready : come
unto the marriage.
God is not easily tired out. He perseveres in His efforts to have our
hearts. The apostles and early Christians went out after the
Saviour's ascension and spoke of the blessings offered in the
Church of Christ, told of grace and pardon and communion with
God. Here is food to strengthen the weak. Here Christ's own
body is spiritually offered and partaken by the faithful. Taste and
see how gracious the Lord is.

126 Guests are called in. [S. Matt. XXII.
5. But they made light of it, and went their ways, one to his
farm, another to his merchandise : 6. and the remnant took his
servants, and entreated them spitefully, and slew them.
Many of the Jews received the heavenly message thus, with contempt .
or with outrage. Many too amongst Christians prefer their pleasure
or their business to religion, and even treat those who speak of it
with hatred or reviling. If you speak to men about their souls
do not expect a more favourable reception than the saints had.
They were thought fools or deceivers, why should we be thought
better of?
7. But when the king heard thereof, he was wroth: and he
sent forth his armies, and destroyed those murderers, and
burned up their city.
This destruction was to happen to the holy city, the perfection of
beauty, the home of God and His saints ; it became a den of
murderers, and so was burned up. This was a figure of God's wrath
upon sinners. Those who despise Him here will find one day
that all the world which they loved is destroyed, and themselves
left alone to face His anger.
8. Then saith he to his servants, The wedding is ready, but
they which were bidden were not worthy.
Religion is not wanting in love and joy; it does not lack a cure for
ills, and a gift of peace, and a friend ever at hand ; it does not fail
those who try it, it is only you who are not fit to discern its beauty.
God has great gifts ready, it is only your blind and deaf heart that
will not draw near to receive them.
9. Go ye therefore into the highways, and as many as ye
shall find, bid to the marriage. 10. So those servants went out
into the highways, and gathered together all as many as they
found, both bad and good : and the wedding was furnished with

When the Jews rejected the Gospel, then the apostles turned to
the Gentiles and gathered out of them the Holy Catholic Church
throughout the world. Salvation is open to all, however widely
they have strayed, however sinful and ignorant they have been. All
alike are called to be God's children. Let us do our best to gather
in some wandering souls of His.
j 1. IT And when the king came in to see the guests, lie saw
there a man which had not on a wedding garment :
The man without a wedding garment, seated among the other guests,
but in mean or foul apparel, signifies a Christian attending church
or coming to the Holy Table without inward fitness. He comes
with others, he looks like them, but he has no love, no purity, no
faith. Human eyes cannot discern this difference, but God knows
who are His.

Ver. 17.] The unworthy Guest cast out. 127
12. And he saith unto him, Friend, how earnest thou in hither
not liaving a wedding garment ? And he was speechless.
There will~be nothing for us to answer at the last day to such a question.
God offers us Christ's righteousness for a wedding garment. He can
clothe our hearts with purity, and cover all their defects, if we will
but accept this gracious gift. How can we dare to come to Holy
Communion, to pray, to live, or to die, without having sought His
pardoning mercy in Christ !
13. Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and
foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness;
there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Yes, there is such a state possible for us, where it will be no more in
our power to do good, or atone for evil, or seek pardon, a stale
without hope or joy, with no love to God or wish to be better.
Indeed this hopeless condition begins on earth, and if it is not
done away by forgiveness here, will continue for ever in the other
world. What is hell but endless loss, the ruin of happiness and
peace, and this of our own choosing ?
14. For many are called, but few are cliosen.
I who read this am called, O Lord, into Thy Church, but who knows
if I am chosen into Thy kingdom ? I do not presume to know Thy
counsels, but I am in Thy hands and will not despair. I fear my
own weakness and the strength of sin, but I know Thy mercy is
infinite.
15. IT Then went the Pharisees, and took counsel how tliey
might entangle him in his talk.
Instead of profiting by our Lord's Divine words, His enemies planned
how they might best turn them to His harm. Such opportunities
they threw away which might have been blest to their endless good,
and made them only occasions of sin. All they could think of
while with Him was how to overthrow His influence. O deaf ears
and blind eyes ! and yet there are many like them.
16. And they sent out unto him their disciples with the
Herodians, saying, Master, we know that thou art true, and
teachest the way of God in truth, neither carest thou for any
man: for thou regardest not the person of men. 17. Tell us
therefore, What thinkest thou ? Is it lawful to give tribute unto
Caisar, or not ?
The Pharisees, who did not like to acknowledge any earthly king,
and the Herodians, who upheld the heathen dominion over Israel,
joined together against Jesus Christ. They put aside their own
differences, and came together to ask which the Lord agreed with,
whether it was right to pay taxes to the emperor or not, meaning
to turn against Him whatever He might say. They began with
flattery, praising up Christ's sincerity, and then they put this delicate
question.

128 Ccesar's Due and God's Due. [S. Matt. XXII.
1 8. But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, Why
tempt ye me, ye hypocrites ?
How much that we say sounds hypocritical before God ! He alone
knows our intentions, how often we speak in a plausible or even
devout way, with a hidden meaning, either to glorify ourselves or
depreciate others, or bring about some crooked ends. Give us, O
Lord, a sincere and honest heart, that we may speak the simple
truth in love and kindness.
1 9. Shew me the tribute money. And they brought unto him
a penny. 20. And he saith unto them, Whose is this image
and superscription ? 21. They say unto him, Cossar's. Then
saith he unto them, Render therefore unto Cossar the things
which are Caesar's ; and unto God the. things that are God's.
The head and name of the emperor stamped on the coin marked it
as his ; it was a sign of his authority in earthly things. Render to
all who are set over you what is their due, only remember that
there is a higher Sovereign Whose image is stamped on your sou],
and Who claims all your time, all your love, all your profits.
Perform your duties as a citizen of this world, only bear in mind
that there is something higher than this world, a kingdom of God
which gives laws to conscience.
22. Wlien they had heard these words, they marvelled, and
left him, and went their way.
Thus God's wisdom overthrows the plans of cunning men, and sets
free those who are on His side. Some when they cannot get their
own ends leave the Lord Jesus and go on their own way, but we will
keep stedfastly to Him and find all our good in His company.
23. 5T Tlie same day came to him the Sadducees, which say
that there is no resurrection, and asked him,
Such are found among us also. How terrible a thing it would be for
mankind if the doctrine of the Sadducees prevailed, and men lost
their faith in the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world
to come ! into what depths of sin and despair we should fall if that
hope was lost. God keep it ever burning brightly in our hearts.
24. Saying, Master, Moses said, If a man die, having no
children, his brother shall marry his wife, and raise up seed
unto his brother.
This .was the law among the Jews, to keep a man's name and inherit
ance from being lost, for the first-born son of the second marriage
inherited from the elder brother and bore his name. We mtv
perhaps see figured here the work of Christian ministers in raising
up spiritual children to Christ, not to themselves. They only
represent Him, and must not pretend to claim hearts for their own.
25. Now there were with us seven brethren : and the first,

Ver. 33.] The Sadducees' Question. 129
when he had married a wife, deceased, and, liaving no issue, left
his wife unto his brother : 26. likewise the second also, and the
third, unto the seventh. 27. And last of all tlie woman died
also. 28. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife shall she be
of the seven ? for they all had her.
This is their difficulty, how to suppose a resurrection life, because
earthly relations will all be confused there. Human life is based
on succession, one stepping into another's place, as in this story
where a woman is several times married. How could she and her
several husbands live all together in the world to come ? No doubt
the questioners invented this particular case, but yet the difficulty is
a real one ; let us strive to meet it in the same spirit that Christ did.
29. Jesus answered and said unto them, Ye do err, not
knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.
They did not know the Scriptures, they read them indeed, but only
in the letter, and they did not know God's power. He Who made
all things at first is able to remake the body though it has perished.
Scripture has great depths. God's power is unsearchable. Let us
keep these two thoughts in mind, and our faith will remain stedfast
30. For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are
. given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven.
O blessed answer ! Lord, Thou hast opened the door of heaven and
given us a glimpse of that glorious state. Thou hast taught us
more in one short word than all the world's learning could teach.
We shall be as angels, and lead a life with no death, no pain, no
fear nor sorrow. All will be love and purity, all things will be made
clear, and faith shall see God.
31. But as touching the resurrection of the dead, have ye not
read that which was spoken unto you by God, saying, 32. I
am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and the God
of Jacob ? God is not the God of the dead, but of the living.
When God revealed Himself to Moses by this great Name, Abraham,
Isaac, and Jacob had long been dead, and yet He says, "I am their
God, they trusted in Me, and I have not failed them. I am theirs,
and they are Mine." Where then, O Lord, for their bones are
long since turned to dust in the Hittite's cave ? And God does not
tell us where, but yet does tell us plainly that the faithful departed
are still His, and He theirs. If we die in God's love, what can
separate us from Him ? He gives us a share of His immortality.
33. And when the multitude heard this, they were astonished
at his doctrine.
Listen to the words of Jesus Christ, not only with admiration but
with obedience. His doctrine is that we shall live for ever and
that our bodies will rise again. We should therefore look forward
to the eternal world, and prepare for it in purity and reverence.
I

130 The Great Commandment. [S. Matt. XXIII.
34. IT But when the Pharisees had heard that he had put
the Sadducees to silence, they were gathered together. 35. Then
one of them, which was a lawyer, asked him a question, tempt
ing him, and saying, 36. Master, which is the great command
ment in the law ?
This is the last of the questions which were put to the Great Teacher
in the temple, on the last day of His teaching there. There are
hundreds of precepts and rules in God's law, would He say which
is the most important and most necessary to be observed ? Some
thought it was the command to offer sacrifices, some that to keep
the Sabbath ; to others the rules about washing, or about wearing a
border on their garment seemed the first of all. Beware of refin
ing away God's commandments and making distinctions between
those you will obey and those you will neglect.
37. Jesus said unto him, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God
with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind.
This is the fountain of all obedience, this is the rule of God's Word
and of our own nature too. What else but love can we feel towards
Him Who is infinitely good, and has displayed so much goodness
towards us? God is our Father, He has redeemed us, has given us
so many blessings, watches over us as a friend, cares for our
sorrows, has a home in heaven for us. He is more wise, more
kind, more forbearing than our other friends are. Can we not
spare Him any love?
38. This is the first and great commandment.
No time when it may not be practised, no claims that can dispense
with it, no tie so deep or lasting as this. Give love and it is suffi
cient. God will be contented with that. To love Him is just and
right, and our bounden duty and our highest pleasure; it will be
our comfort here and our everlasting joy hereafter.
39. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy
neighbour as thyself.
It is not robbing God of the love we owe Him when we love others
dearly and seek their good. No, it is a part of the same love, and
a proof that we have it. We should treat those round us not
merely with justice and honesty, but with true kindness, as we
should wish to be treated ourselves.
40. On these two commandments hang all the law and Hie
prophets. Love God and love your neighbour. Here is a short Bible, an easy
summary of duty a universal rule, a measure to suit all ranks and
ages This is the spirit of all Scripture, and the law that a
Christian should have written on his heart. Practise this, and you
will understand mysteries and be able to trace the dealings of God's

Ver. 3.] David' s Son and Lord. 131
41. U While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus
asked them, 42. saying, What think ye of Christ ? whose son is
he ? They say unto him, The son of David.
Our Lord wished to lead them on to a truer notion about Himself.
They expected an earthly king like David, but He spoke to them
of a Divine King, Who would be God's Son and reign in the heart.
Looking at our Saviour's mighty acts and the history of His Church,
we can answer this question better than the Pharisees could, we
can reply, " The Son of God, not a mere man but God's own co
equal Son clothed in our nature. "
43. He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call
him Lord, saying, 44. The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou
on my right hand, till I make thine enemies thy footstool ? 45.
If David then call him Lord, how is he his son ?
David in spirit called Christ his Lord, and spoke of Him as a mighty
King, an eternal High Priest, a glorious Conqueror. If we have
fought on His side, we too shall share His glory ; if we have been
His enemies, we shall be utterly confounded and overthrown before
Him. Let us live as His faithful soldiers, never being ashamed
of His service, and looking forward to His coming triumph.
46. And no man was able to answer him a word, neither
durst any man from that day forth ask him any more questions.
So will it be with us at the judgment-day, we shall not be able to
answer God's requirements or excuse ourselves. Happy will those
be who have found an advocate to undertake their cause, and that
in the Judge Himself. As the Lord Jesus was stern and awful to
unrepentant sinners while on earth, so He will be then ; but in His
recorded love and mercy and forgiving grace we can gather hope
for the penitent when they come to stand before His throne.

CHAPTER XXIII.
1. Christ admonisheth the people to follow the good doctrine, not the evil
examples, of the scribes and Pharisees. 5. His disciples must be
ware of their ambition. 13. He denounceth eight woes against their
hypocrisy and blindness : 34. and prophesieth of the destruction of
Jerusalem.
THEN spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, 2.
saying, The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat :
3. all therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe
and do ; but do not ye after their works : for they say, and
do not.

132 Religion that seeks Men's Praise. [S. Matt. XXIII.
Bishops and pastors now sit in the apostles' seat, and we should listen
to their teaching, respect their office, seek means of grace at their
hands, believe the catholic faith which they put before us. Only
if we find a minister of religion whose life contradicts his teaching
we should beware of following his practice. Follow the old teach
ing of Christ's Church about the way of salvation, but do not copy
the sins of unworthy ministers. God's gifts are His, even though
evil men are the messengers who bring them to us.
4. For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne,
and lay them on men's shoulders ; but they themselves will not
move them with one of their fingers.
One who would lead his brethren towards heaven must be forbearing
and patient, he must feel for their weakness, must take account of
their difficulties and make much allowance, but he must be true
and upright in his own practice. The right way is, first to bear
the burden ourselves, and start on the road, and strive manfully in
the fight, and then to exhort and gently lead on other souls. Give,
O Lord, to Thy ministers this spirit of sincerity joined with tender
ness.
5. But all their works they do for to be seen of men : they
make broad their phylacteries, and enlarge the borders of their
garments, 6. and love the uppermost rooms at feasts, and the
chief seats in the synagogues, 7. and greetings in the markets,
and to be called of men, Rabbi, Rabbi.
The phylacteries are texts of Scripture which Israelites tied round
their hands and heads, and the borders or fringes of their dress were
the marks of their Jewish nationality which the law enjoined, but our
Lord blames them because, in this and other things, they lived only
for praise. They turned religion itself into a means of vainglory.
Let us seek in all things God's praise, not man's. A Christian will
be afraid of high place, will refuse praise, will be grieved when
others regard him as holy, and this not for pretence but because he
knows too well his own vileness and God's goodness. If we know
anything rightly about God and about ourselves we shall not set
much store on the esteem of men.
8.^ But be not ye called Rabbi : for one is your Master, even
Christ; and all ye are brethren. 9. And call no man your
father upon the earth: for one is your Father, which is in
heaven. 10. Neitlier be ye called masters: for one is your
Master, even Christ.
A Christian will not seek to be the master over other souls, the
father on whom they depend for help, the teacher and guide who
gives them light. He should rather lead them to depend on the
one true Guide and Friend and Master Who cannot fail. His desire
is to put them in communion with Christ. Grant to Thy Church,
Lord, teachers who may entirely sink themselves in Thee, and desire

Ver. 15.] The Woes denounced. 133
not praise and reverence paid to them, but greater devotion paid to
God. To repose trust in man is but to lean on a broken reed ; we
should put our whole trust and confidence only on the Divine mercy.
11. But he that is greatest among you shall be your servant.
Authority in this world may be used in two ways, either it ministers
to pride and makes a man satisfied with himself, or else it makes a
man tremble at the account that he has to give, and look on his
power only as a means of doing service to his Master. This last
is the Christian way. A high station does this, it makes us able to
serve our brethren more widely, and to show them more courtesy
and forbearance.
12. And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased ; and
he that shall humble himself shall be exalted.
If then I am despised or slighted I ought to consider it a favour, since
this is a mark of God's love to me and His design to exalt me. I
should welcome an obscure position, reproachful words, failure of
my plans, as occasion for me to humble myself and so become fit
for blessings to come.
13. IT But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites/
for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men : for ye
neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering
to go in.
Our Lord began His public ministry with eight blessings, but He
closed it with eight woes. He showed on the mount in Galilee
what kind of character was truly blessed and approved by Him.
Here in the temple He shows the character that brought down His ¦
heavy condemnation. Let us when we read His words watch lest
there be in us some trace of the same temper. One woe is
denounced on those who hinder souls from serving God, who by
their bad example and persuasions keep men back from being
religious. This woe concerns those who will not come to the Holy
Table themselves, and do all they can to hinder their friends from
approaching it.
14. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites/ for ye
devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make long prayer :
therefore ye shall receive the greater damnation.
Another woe is on those who profess religion in order to get men's
goodwill, their long prayers and observances are only for a pretence,
that they may have an appearance of piety and so be trusted and
obtain wealth. What good can come out of this sort of devotion,
which has no love, no faith, and only looks to this world for a
reward ?
15. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites/ for ye
compass sea and land to make one proselyte, and when he is
made, ye make him twofold more the child of hell than yourselves.

134 Oaths are all alike binding. [S. Matt. XXIII.
Woe also on those who gain influence over others and use it ill !
They win men to follow them, and in the end lead them away from
God into worse errors than their own. What will be the remorse
too late of one who finds that he has taken a soul over to the devil's
side and cannot undo his work ?
1 6. Woe unto you, ye blind guides, which say, Whosoever
shall swear by the temple, it is nothing ; but whosoever shall
swear by the gold of the temple, he is a debtor/ 17. Ye fools
and blind : for whether is greater, the gold, or the temple that
sanctifieth the gold ? '
Woe to the Pharisees for saying that an oath need not be binding if
sworn by the temple, but must be if sworn by the gold that was
offered there ! The temple was holy as being God's dwelling-place,
so too is the Christian Church, where He is spiritually present, and
where He will one day manifest His perfect glory. God's temple
was the centre of worship under the law, the hearts of all believers
turned to it ; but what idea can we form of the holiness and glory of
the heavenly Jerusalem that will one day be revealed !
18. And, Whosoever shall swear by the altar, it is nothing ;
but whosoever sweareth by the gift that is upon it, he is guilty.
1 9. Ye fools and blind : for whether is greater, the gift, or the
altar that sanctifieth the gift ?
They made the same false distinction between an oath sworn by the
altar only and one by the gift that was offered there, making the
latter more binding than the former. The spiritual altar by which
all offerings of Christians must be sanctified is the human nature of
Jesus Christ. God accepts only such gifts as are offered through
Christ, and in union with His life and death. This makes our
offerings acceptable, though they are unworthy in themselves.
20. Whoso therefore shall swear by the altar, sweareth by it,
and by all things thereon. 21. And, whoso shall swear by the
temple, sweareth by it, and by him that dwelleth therein. 22.
And he tliat shall swear by heaven, sweareth by the throne of
God, and by him that sitteth thereon.
All the creatures are God's, and every oath calls Him to witness ;
therefore never swear lightly, or without necessity, and remember
that every oath is a solemn appeal to God, Who is the Truth. Our
hearts, our bodies, our churches, belong to God and must not be
profaned by sin. Teach us, Lord, to bear in mind that we are
consecrated to be Thine, and must live as redeemed creatures
in whom Thy Spirit dwells.
23. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites/ for ye
pay tithe of mint and anise and cummin, and have omitted the
weightier matters of the law, judgment, mercy, and faith: these
ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.

Ver. 29.] Cleanness must be within. 135
These are three weighty matters, woe to those who neglect them !
Judgment, which means justice or strict truth and honesty in
all our dealings ; mercy, which means forbearance, forgiveness,
tenderness to the poor and afflicted ; and faith, or a constant remem
brance of God's presence. Our first object should be to lay hold
of these three virtues which are here commended by Jesus Christ.
What are outward observances in comparison with these ! Not that
we should leave undone any reasonable practice of the Church or
of common life, yet strive for the inward perfection most of all, it
is that which God requires.
24. Ye blind guides, which strain at a gnat, and swallow a
camel. You are careful about trifles and yet allow yourselves in the gravest
sins. Such a warning as this should make us desire to know our
own hearts, lest perhaps some great sin may have crept in unawares.
Who can tell how oft he offendeth ? It is easy to deceive ourselves
just as these Pharisees did, who were so particular about lesser
duties and yet lived on in sin without knowing it
25. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites/ for ye
make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within
they are full of extortion and excess. 2 6. Thou blind Pharisee,
cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the
outside of them may be clean also.
Woe to those who indeed keep up a fair reputation, but allow their
hearts to be filled with sinful thoughts and take pleasure in them!
Men see only the outside of life and conduct, but God sees what is
within. With how many Christians there is this terrible contrast
between what man knows of them and what God knows ! Yet
sincere repentance, earnest confession of sin, prayer for pardon and
grace, may make clean the inmost heart and wash away all that
now defiles it.
27. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites / for ye
are like unto whited sepulchres, which indeed appear beautiful
outward, but are within full of dead men's bones, and of all
uncleanness. 28. Even so ye also outwardly appear righteous
unto men, but within ye are full of hypocrisy and iniquity.
Christ our Lord read hearts, so that He saw an amazing difference
between what people appeared to be and what they really were.
Many were like tombs carved and painted without, while inside
lies the decaying body turning to corruption. What an overthrow
of human judgment there will be at the last day! then the outward
appearance will be broken down and the true character of all men
revealed.
29. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites I because
ye build the tombs of the prophets, and garnish the sepulchres

136 God's Prophets persecuted. [S. Matt. XXIV.
of the righteous, 30. and say, If we had been in the days of our
fathers, we would not have been partakers with them in- the
blood of the prophets.
This last woe is denounced on those who honoured dead saints and
yet persecuted living ones. It is little profit to honour the memory
of holy persons departed unless we live after their pattern. They
were men and women in flesh and blood like ours, contending
with sin and unbelief while they lived on earth. Would they
have found us on their side or against them ? It is easy to speak
of the saints and their glory, but hard to live lives like theirs.
31. Wherefore be ye witnesses unto yourselves, that ye are the
children of them which killed the prophets. 32. Fill ye up
then the measure of your fathers.
They were about, by their sins, to fill up the measure of their fathers.
The sins of the Jewish people had been gradually growing, mean
while God bore with them, till at last the appointed time came,
when His wrath descended and swept them away. Let us beware
lest we provoke His patience too far, and put a limit to the Divine
mercy. He has often pardoned us as a nation, as a church, and for
our own particular faults, yet it is possible to wear out His patience.
33. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape
the damnation of hell?
Why does our merciful Lord speak so bitterly and warn so sharply?
Because He knew the sin and the danger of His hearers. If you
saw your child or your friend just about to touch a poisonous
reptile, or taste a deadly fruit, you would cry out sharply too. It
is His love that warns us against serpent hearts and fire of hell.
34. IT Wherefore, behold, I send unto you prophets, and
wise men, and scribes: and some of them ye shall kill and
crucify ; and some of them shall ye scourge in your synagogues,
and persecute them from city to city.
The Jews dealt thus with the apostles and evangelists. Some they
killed, some they scourged, some they drove forth as outcasts ; yet
these were God's messengers sent to guide their souls into peace,
but they knew them not. May God give us grace to know His
opportunities and obey His servants. When God speaks to our
hearts, let us not harden ourselves against His voice, but hearken
and obey.
35. That upon you may come all the righteous blood shed
upon the earth, from the blood of righteous Abel unto the blood
of Zacharias son of Barachias, wliom ye slew between the temple
and the altar. 36. Verily I say unto you, All these things
shall come upon this generation.
As in God's providence we enjoy blessings through our parents and
ancestors, because their diligence, piety, good character, has

Ver. i.] Woe on Jerusalem. 137
improved our position, so we also share in the losses caused by
their sins ; yet this will not hurt us if we ourselves live to God.
The Jews followed their fathers' faults, and so shared in their
punishment. If you enjoy many mercies through your parents'
good life, thank God for His promise kept ; if you suffer through
their fault, yet still give Him the glory and He will turn your tears
into joy.
37. 0 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets,
and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I
have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her
chickens under her wings, and ye would not I
God would have us to be saved, and He has proved this by seeking
our souls in so many ways. How often has He pleaded with us,
reproved, warned, instructed us by so many means, by guides,
troubles, mercies, opportunities, and yet we have not obeyed His
gracious voice. Do not distrust His love, nor yet His power. He
is able to bear us through all temptations, unless we wilfully set
ourselves against Him. Change, O Lord, our stubborn will that
it may be one with Thine.
38. Behold, your house is left unto you desolate. 39. For
I say unto you, Ye shall not see me henceforth, till ye shall say,
Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
In what state is the soul when left to itself? It is dark and.devoid of
good, without love or peace, with nought but evil desires, and at
times a "fearful looking for of judgment." The holy city and the
glorious temple were left desolate on account of sin. Let us beware
lest we grieve God's Holy Spirit and provoke Him to leave us.
May God convert sinners' hearts before it is too late, that they may
know His call and rejoice to serve Him. We must not despair of
God's ancient people, it may be that He has preserved them so
wonderfully all these years on purpose to show them His salvation.

CHAPTER XXIV.
1. Christ foretelleth the destruction of the temple : 3. what and how great
calamities shall be before it : 29. the signs of his coming to judgment.
36. And because that day and hour is unknown, 42. we ought to watch
like good servants, expecting every moment our master's coming.
AND Jesus went out, and departed from the temple : and his
Xi disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of
the temple.
This was His final departure from the temple. The opportunities of
grace offered in it had come to an end, its sacrifices would hence
forth have no blessing, its day was over ; but it still stood in its

138 Signs of the last Days. [S. Matt. XXlV.
great splendour, covered with gold, adorned with carving, and
surrounded by arched cloisters. The disciples tried to call then-
Master's attention to all this magnificence.
2. And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things ?
verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone
upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
He told them that the temple was near its end. Within a few years all
that great building should be so done away that the very site of it
should scarcely be known. If God spared not His own temple, the
only place in the world where His glory was revealed, ought we
not to fear His judgments on ourselves if we despise our privileges?
3. IT And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples
came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these
things be ? and what shall le the sign of thy coming, and of the
end of the world ?
Here begins that great discourse in which our Lord speaks (1) of the
destruction of Jerusalem and the signs which should attend it; (2)
of the history of the Church throughout the ages ; (3) of the end of
the world. We should prepare for our own end rather than seek
curiously to know God's times and seasons, and yet there seem
now to be many signs of the last days.
4. And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that
no man deceive you.
Keep to the old ways. Let not new teachers beguile you into following
them, but keep to the faith once delivered to the saints, and be on
your guard against those who would lead you astray from it.
5. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ;
and shall deceive many.
Know Jesus Christ well, study His gracious words, be with Him in
prayer, meet Him at His Holy Table, and then you will not be
deceived by any pretenders to His Name. If you have found a
friend in Him you will not give Him up, nor take another master
in His place.
6. And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars : see that
ye be not troubled : for all these things must come to pass, but
the end is not yet.
How can we help being troubled at the visitations of war? it brings
with it so much ruin, misery, bloodshed, and crime. Yes, but a
true Christian can in the midst of desolation trust himself in God's
hands, confessing sins which have brought down this judgment, and
praying for those who are appointed to suffer and die. When such
trials come, then is seen the faith of those who are able to remain
quiet and rest upon God, though all around is in confusion.
7. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against

Ver. i 3.] The Beginning of Sorrows. 139
kingdom : and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earth
quakes, in divers places.
Besides ware there will come great convulsions of nature, God purify
ing our hearts through trouble, and the devil and unbelievers using
the same events to tempt us to blaspheme. Famines, plagues,
earthquakes, storms, can, after all, only work out our Father's
will.
8. All these are the beginning of sorrows.
O Lord, send us grief and trial here, if Thou wilt, but spare us in
eternity. Despair, remorse, fear, blasphemy, ingratitude, as we see
them here, are but the beginning of what will make hell wretched
for ever.
9. Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill
you : and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name's sake.
Believers should have their own special share of sufferings. We read
how for hundreds of years they were treated with outrage and
insult, were often put to death ; yet still their Master was with
them, His love consoled them for the world's hatred.
10. And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one
another, and shall hate one another.
Many of them failed under the trial and gave up their religion.
Perhaps of all difficulties none is worse than this, to see people who
have been in earnest now throwing up God's side and scoffing at
His saints. It is the most painful trial that faith has to bear.
11. And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive
many. There should be false teachers also who should deceive many, so we
need not wonder at the crowds that follow this or that newly-
devised error. A preacher or writer may be much run after and
influence many, and yet be none the less false. Jesus Christ has
said so. God keep us from listening to such teachers and open our
ears to the truth.
12. And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall
wax cold.
Last and not least of all these foretold sorrows is the lukewarmness
that should come upon Christians ; instead of the zeal and love and
faith of early days, there should come a widespread coldness and
indifference. So we see it now. In these days this sign is ful
filled. How cold our love to God and man has grown !
13. But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be

He that shall endure unto the end, who is not turned aside by sorrow,
or judgments, or persecutions, or false brethren, or bad examples,
but still keeps his faith and love, such a one shall find peace and

r4o Command to fly. [S. Matt. XXIV.
be secure for ever. God give us grace to persevere. The end of
the race is at hand.
14. And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the
world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come.
Before Jerusalem was destroyed God sent the message of salvation
abroad through the world, so as to make plain that the reality was
come before the shadow passed away. And there is a further sense
in this verse ; it also means that Christian teachers will have declared
God's Word in every country before the end of the world comes.
Let not the Word that we have heard preached be a witness against
us in that day.
15. Wlien ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation,
spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso
readeth, let him understand.)
Daniel (ix. 27) foretold the coming destruction of the holy city after
the temple had been profaned by horrible crimes, and the country
seized by the Roman armies. The most holy place, where God's
presence dwelt,, was to be given over to crime and then made
desolate, and believers were to flee far from it. Sin and blas
phemy profaned utterly what had once been most holy.
16. Then let them which be in Judcea flee into the mountains.
They were to flee. And we read that the Christians, before the siege
began, did escape from Jerusalem and were saved. There are times
when it is needful for us to go apart, to quit the company and ways
into which we have fallen, and fly to the Great Rock for refuge.
1 7. Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take
any thing out of his house: 18. neither let him which is in the
field return back to take his clothes.
Haste to escape, delay not. Life is more precious than goods or clothes.
So in comparison with God nothing earthly is worth clinging to.
Be ready to give up friends or comforts when God calls.
19. And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that
give suck in those days I
Such would find it harder to escape the pressing danger. Let us try
to live in readiness to do whatever God may appoint for us.
His call may come at any moment, and we may have to rise and go.
A Christian should be always ready to set out on his last journey,
and have all things' in order within.
20. But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither
on the sabbath day.
We should not put off serving God till old age, which is the winter
and resting-time of life. There are great hindrances in the way of
any who put off their flight from sin till they grow old or approach
death. God would have us give up sin now.

Ver. 28.] False Christs. 141
21. For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since
the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.
22. And except those days should be shortened, there should no
flesh be saved: but for the elect's sake those days shall be shortened.
The terrible miseries which accompanied the destruction of Jerusalem
were to be shortened for the sake of God's chosen who should make
use of their calamities to repent and believe the Gospel. God
watches over His people through all the changes of life, lays on
them no more than they are able to bear, and turns suffering to
their good.
23. Then if any man shall say unto you, Lo, here is Christ,
or there ; believe it not. 24. For there sliall arise false Christs,
and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders ;
insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.
However great is the power, or eloquence, or apparent holiness of
those who would teach us new doctrine, nay, even though they
work miracles, let us not follow them. There is one God, one
Redeemer, one Church, one Bible, one Holy Catholic Faith, let us
cling to these and we shall be safe. Keep fast to the old ways, love
and adore Jesus Christ our Lord, true God and true Man, Who
died for us, and will come again to judge us. There is salvation
in no other.
25. Behold, I have told you before.
Has He not told us ? Can we wonder at persecutions, scandals, false
teachers? The wonder would be if there were not such, after
what Christ has said. He has told us that the Church's way will
not be smooth.
26. Wherefore if they shall say unto you, Behold, he is in
the desert; go not forth: behold, he is in the secret chambers;
believe it not. 27. For as the lightning cometh out of the east,
and shineth even unto the west ; so shall also the coming of the
Son of man be.
No fear lest we should fail to recognise Him when He comes in His
glorious majesty. At the present time He is to be found in the
united worship of His Holy Church throughout the world, not in
the little societies of those who separate themselves from their
brethren, and vainly seek perfection of their own devising. And
at the last day He will be seen by all. His coming will be sudden,
glorious, and overpowering.
28. For wheresoever the carcase is, there will the eagles be
gathered together.
As the vultures discern their prey from an immense distance with a
sharpness of sight far exceeding human vision, so Christians,
wherever they may be, will feel and know that the Lord is come
and hasten to His presence. When a carcase falls in the desert,

142 The Son of Man will come in Glory. [S. Matt. XXIV.
there may be no birds of prey anywhere within sight, but they
come suddenly in numbers as by some unseen guidance. So shall
we be brought together on that day.
29. IT Immediately after the tribulation of those days shall
the sun be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light, and
the stars shall fall from heaven, and the powers of the heavens
shall be shaken.
All this fair world will pass away, for it is not our lasting home. What
seems most fixed and certain here will one day be destroyed. Our
hearts must have found elsewhere a ' ' continuing city " to repose in.
We need faith to remain at peace when all changes and is shaken
around us.
30. And then shall appear the sign of the Son of man in
heaven : and then shall all the tribes of the earth mourn, and
they shall see the Son of man coming in the clouds of heaven
with power and great glory.
Not now as once He came despised and lowly, but in His glorious
majesty. Faith in that reappearance enables us to bear the con
tradictions of this world, knowing that He will one day put all
things right. We shall behold Him with fear and yet with comfort,
mourning for our sins, yet not as those without hope of pardon.
We shall be able to rejoice in His great glory.
31. And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a
trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four
winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
It is sweet for us when we are lonely or despised here, to look forward
to that gathering of the elect, where all shall be truth and peace
and love, whence no one can separate us any more. Listen now
¦ to the still small voice of grace, so as not to be confounded by that
great and awful voice which shall summon the world to judgment
32. Now learn a parable of tlie fig tree ; When his branch is
yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is
nigh: 33. so likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things,
know that it is near, even at tlie doors.
Amidst this world's winter there are signs which show that the eternal
summer is approaching. There .is but a short season of darkness,
pain, and sadness here, with an eternity of joy and glory to follow.
Death and judgment are at the door, let us live as those who must
soon be called away.
34. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass,
till all these things be fulfilled. 35. Heaven and earth shall
pass away, but my words shall not pass away.
Our hope is founded on the words of the Son of God. Truth itself

Ver. 42.] The Flood a Type of Judgment. 143
has said that the end of the world will come thus, and we are sure
that so it will be. Whatever difficulties and delays there are, yet
our faith stands sure, and will be justified at last Heaven and
earth, with all their wonders, are created and must be changed, but
a soul that lives on Christ's words partakes of an undying life.
36. IT But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not
the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
God has not revealed the time when the world shall end, nor is it
possible for us to discover it. We are told to be always ready, and
then it will not take us by surprise. It is a comfort in this uncertain
world to feel that all times and seasons are known to God and that
nothing happens without our Father.
37. But as the days of Noe were, so shall also the coming of
the Son of man be.
There is instruction for us in the events of old days, then there was a
deluge of water which swept away the sinful world. There is
another deluge approaching, one of fire, which will make a greater
destruction. As surely as the one came, so will the other.
38. For as in the days that were before the flood they were
eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until
the day that Noe entered into the ark, 39. and knew not until
the flood came, and took them all away ; so shall also the com
ing of the Son of man be.
Then the Flood came on people unprepared in spite of warnings. They
were employed in their ordinary work and pleasure, not regarding
God, nor avoiding sin, nor paying heed to Noah's preaching, when
suddenly the destroying waters rose round them. So will it be at
the end of the world. Let us pray God that our hearts be not
utterly taken up with business and pleasure, but that we may keep
watch and listen for the Lord's voice. To many death comes un
expectedly, they know not their danger till it is too late,
40. Then shall two be in the field; the one shall be taken,
and the other left. 41. Two women shall be grinding at the
mill; the one shall be taken, and the other left.
One taken to be with God, the other left in outer darkness. No
condition of grandeur or poverty, of learning or ignorance, can of
itself fix our eternal state. In every occupation, rank, and age
God has some true lovers, and others who do not care for Him.
One day will show who are His, and part them from the others
for ever.
42. IT Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your
Lord doth come.
Any moment may be our last. Let us be ready every morning and
every night in case it should please God to call us during its course.

144 Servants waiting for their Master. [S. Matt. XXV.
We can be ready, yet at peace and without fear. We are waiting
for a Friend.
43. But know this, that if the goodman of the house had
known in what watch the thief would come, he would have
watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.
44. Therefore be ye also ready : for in such an hour as ye
think not the Son of man cometh.
If the householder had reason to expect that his house would be
attempted, he would take all precautions and sit up watching so as
not to be surprised. We know that the Lord will come as a thief,
and must be ready lest He should take us unawares. We should
copy for spiritual things that watchful care which a man bestows
on his property.
45. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord
hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due
season ?
Here ministers, and all who have influence or authority, are told of
their duty. It is God who has placed them where they are. They
are set to guide souls rightly, to provide what their brethren need
for mind and body. They must do this in due season, with regard
to the necessities of each. The sacred ministry, or a position of
power, or the enjoyment of wealth, are but the places of upper
servants, from whom the Master expects more.
46. Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh
shall find so doing. 47. Verily I say unto you, That he shall
make him ruler over all his goods.
We are happy if death surprises us doing our Master's work. It will
be a joyful end of labour and the beginning of an eternal reward.
Who can tell how great will be the happiness which God will then
bestow upon those who have served Him faithfully here ?
48. But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My
lord delayeth his coming; 49. and sliall begin to smite his
fellowservants, and to eat and drink with the drunken.
Woe to us if we give way to unbelief, if we oppress or ill-use others,
if we indulge our evil passions ! These are temptations which
beset those whom God has placed in authority. It is dangerous
to be in high places either in the world or in the Church. Give us,
O Lord, pastors and rulers according to Thy will, who shall guide
us rightly in a humble spirit.
50. The lord of that servant shall come in a day when he
looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of,
5 1. and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion
with the hypocrites : there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Ver. 5.] The Ten Virgins. 145
Those who misuse the opportunities God has given them shall find a
sudden end to their pleasures. They will have to face an offended
Master, and be separated from the company of the blessed, and
from all hope and peace for ever. Too late they will feel bitter
remorse, when they understand what they have lost. All these are
warnings uttered by Christ Himself. Must we not believe Him
when He speaks of the pains of hell as well as when He tells of
the joys of heaven? These are indeed set forth in figures, but
there must be a great reality hid under them.

CHAPTER XXV.
1. The parable of the ten virgins, 14. and of the talents. 31. Also the
description of the last judgment.
THEN shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins,
which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bride
groom. Our Lord continues His discourse on the need of being ready, that
His coming may not overtake us unprepared. All Christian souls,
whether single or married, are described here as virgins, since
they are all bound to love God above all, and to keep themselves
pure from sin. Their hearts are the lamps which they must have
bright and ready when Christ the Bridegroom comes in the middle
of this world's night to call them to the heavenly feast.
2. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.
The Church below is mixed, some careful for heavenly things, some
careless. Some are true believers, others professors only. True
wisdom is to consider our latter end, to purify our heart and stir up
our faith. It is the greatest folly to be living only for this world.
We call people wise or foolish according to a different standard
from that by which God judges.
3. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil
with them:
The oil is charity or true love to God and man, which the Holy
Spirit sheds on the hearts of those who pray and believe. The
foolish virgins have their hearts destitute of this, or what they had
soon became dried up.
4. But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
Let us be wise, and fill our hearts with heavenly love, seeking con
stantly fresh supplies of it from God. This is a worthy object of
life, so to pass our days that our hearts may be still burning within
us in earnestness and purity when the Lord shall call us.
5. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept
K

146 Too late. [S. Matt. XXV.
The Lord seems to delay a long while, and very few of us retain our
first fervour. The slumbering means a certain inattention or dis
traction of mind that is wont to surprise even the good. If our
life has been a quiet and peaceful one it is hard not to be lulled
into indifference. Sometimes indeed God's judgments thunder
near us, and we wake for a time.
6. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bride
groom cometh ; go ye out to meet him.
It will be a grave voice which tells us that our hour is come to
appear before God. Happy shall, we be if in that day He comes to
us as a Bridegroom, full of peace and love, not as an offended
Judge.
7. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.
At the prospect of death a Christian makes some effort to prepare.
He examines his heart, he tries to exercise repentance and faith, he
gets ready for that last dread journey. Let us now, while we have
time and our last illness has not yet seized us, trim our lamps, by
looking into our own heart and seeking a fresh supply of grace.
8. And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil ;
for our lamps are gone out. 9. But the wise answered, saying,
Not so ; lest there be not enough for us and you : but go ye
rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
This is the deathbed of those whose religion has become a mere out
ward show, with all the light and strength and power of it extin
guished. God calls, but they dare not answer, they cannot go out
to meet Him, they seek in vain from friends and spiritual guides
that assistance which will not profit them now. Our own repent
ance, our own faith and prayers are required, others' religion will
not suffice for us in the place of our own.
10. And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came ; and
they that were ready went in with him to tlie marriage : and
the door was shut.
The door will _ be shut, the gulf fixed, the final separation made.
Now is the time of conversion, the door is open, the Voice bids us
enter ; but a time will come when it will be no more in our power
to change.
11. Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord,
Lord, open to us. 12. But he answered and said, Verily I say
unto you, I know you not.
Wishes and plans will be fruitless then ; God will not know us if we
have no likeness to His Son. Those who have refused to love
Him during this life will be strangers to Him evermore. Alas,
Why should any despise such a Friend !

Ver. 19.] The Talents. 147
13. Watch therefore, for ye know neither tlie day nor the hour
wherein the Son of man cometh.
This is the lesson of the whole parable, that we should look into our
hearts and stir up our devotion, so as to be ready when God calls
us to appear before Him. If the best of us have been slumbering
and need to be awaked, what shall we careless ones say I There is
a passage awaiting us, on which our eternal interest depends. God
bring us safely through it.
14. IT For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into
a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto
tliem his goods.
We are all God's servants, set here to do His goodwill and pleasure,
not our own ; and all that we have in mind or body or goods is
lent us by Him. Let us never forget that we must render an
account for all.
15. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and
to another one; to every man according to his several ability ;
and straightway took his journey.
Some have many talents, their influence and means and opportunities
are great ; others again have but one talent, their learning or their
span of life is very limited, they cannot do so much for God. Still
everybody has at least one talent. And our Master is away, we
cannot see or hear Him now, and thus we seem left to ourselves to
employ His gifts as we choose.
16. Then he that had received the five talents went and traded
with the same, and made them other five talents. 17. And
likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.
The trading with the talents means doing work for God. Whether our
opportunities be great or small, still we all have some chances of
doing good, of teaching the right way, of setting a good example,
of advancing in God's love. Such are the successful traders, they
grow in grace and in the number of souls whom they have won.
Yet nothing can be done by us without the help of our unseen
Master, Who is not far off, though we see Him not
18. But he that had received one went and digged in the
earth, and hid his lord's money.
This one lived a profitless idle life. It is not said that he committed
any great crime, but he did no good ; indeed he had only one talent,
yet he did nothing with it, and it remained useless. This is the
character of one who passes through this world without doing any
good. It may be that our life has been so far wasted, yet we may
now before the Lord comes back turn it to some profit.
19. After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and
reckoneth with them.

148 The Faithful Servant. [S. Matt. XXV.
In the end God is sure to require an account. For a long while we
fancy that our money, our time, our health and strength are our own
to do as we like with, but a time comes when we perceive that they
were but lent us by God, and that He requires an account of their use.
20. And so he that had received five talents came and brought
other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five
talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more.
21. His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful
servant : thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make
thee ruler over many things : enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Whatever good we are able to do should be offered up to God as being
His, not claimed by ourselves. It all comes of His mercy, and is
only valuable when He beholds it graciously. Let us take care not
to steal for ourselves God's honour. The faithful servant must
remember this, and must notice also that it is but "a few things"
that make up our life and trial here. A few years, a few friends, a
few victories, a few sorrows, will suffice to bring us to heaven if only
we use them faithfully. Here joy enters into our hearts now and
then by drops, but there we shall enter upon a boundless sea of it.
22. He also that had received two talents came and said,
Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents : behold, I have gained
two other talents beside them. 23. His lord said unto him,
Well done, good and faithful servant ; thou hast been faithful
over a few things, I will make thee rider over many things :
enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
Even if our talents are but moderate, there is enough given us with
which to do work for God. We have a mind and body to use for
Him, we can save our own soul and our neighbour's. Here we
have often fears and doubts as to our spiritual state, our heart
seems weak and our faith dark. What joy it will be to hear the Voice
that cannot err calling us "good and faithful servants"! That
will put an end to scruples and bring us everlasting peace. But,
Lord, if I am ever to be good and faithful, Thy grace must do it.
I cannot find a spark of goodness in myself.
24. Then he which had received the one talent came and said,
Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where
thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed:
Instead of acknowledging his fault and asking pardon of his master,
the slothful servant accuses him of being too exacting, and says
that he was afraid to traffic for an employer who required so much.
This is a picture of those who blame God's Providence, they say
that He requires so strict an obedience and gives so little help that
it isnot worth while trying to keep His commandments.
25. And I was afraid, and went and hid thy jalent m the
earth : lo, tliere thou hast that is thine.

Ver. 31.] The Slothful Servant. 149
So they pass idle lives, not striving to resist sin or do good, but
resolving that God's service is too hard a task and they will have
none of it. To hide our talent in the earth means to waste our
strength, or time, or money, so that we do no good, God gets no
profit by us. And this is not only neglect, but a grave sin in His
eyes.
26. His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and
slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not,
and gather where I have not strawed: 27. thou oughtest there
fore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my
coming I should have received mine own with usury.
Knowing that life is short and temptation strong, and many things
against us, there is all the more need not to dream away our life,
but to fight the good fight now, and make the best use of what
time there is. If the laws of nature seem terrible, and the works
of Providence too deep for our understanding, still let us all the
more strive to do our plain duty, to work and pray, so as to get
something done with the gifts which God has given us. To help
some one who is afflicted, to lead a tempted soul into the right
way, this is to put out the money and get interest on it.
28. Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him
which hath ten talents. 29. For unto every one that hath shall
be given, and he shall have abundance : but from him that hath
not shall be taken away even that which he hath.
The law of God's gifts is, use them or lose them. The powers and
graces and opportunities which are neglected by the slothful will
quit him one by one never to be recalled. The rule of God's
kingdom is " Habenti dabitur. " Let us make but one conquest, one
step in grace, and His mercy will lead us on to do what is yet
beyond our power.
30. And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness :
there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Several times Christ our Lord Himself spoke of this terrible lot in
order to warn us against it. What precise pain and loss are meant
by the outer darkness, and unending tears, and vain regret we
know not, but it is evidently an incalculable misery brought on
men by their own fault, and from which our merciful Friend would
keep us. What He says (and He knows the truth) is, that to live
for our own pleasure here will bring us one day into a state where
no joy will be found, no hope be possible.
31. 1T When the Son of man shall come in his glory, and all
the holy angels with him, then shall lie sit upon the throne of
his glory :
How different from the scene of Calvary, where the same Son of Man
was seen, despised and alone, and hanging on a cross of shame !

150 The Scene of Judgment. [S. Matt. XXV.
Those who have believed in Him and loved Him during the time
of His humility will rejoice when they see Him return in glorious
Majesty.
32. And before him shall be gathered all nations: and he
shall separate them one from another, as a shepherd divideth
his sheep from the goats :
That great meeting and that great parting pass the power of our
minds to understand ; but one day it will all be made clear by
being accomplished. The only tie that will not part then is a
common faith in God, a common love of prayer and good works,
a common hatred of sin. Those who are thus knit together will
not be severed in that day.
33. And he shall set the sheep on his right hand, but the
goats on the left.
Let us strive to be of that blessed company who are set on the Judge's
right hand, where peace and joy and purity reign, and all that
is evil is cast out for ever. Now while the day of salvation lasts,
we must win our place there, it will be too late when the judgment
comes to change our character. Think of the feelings which will
animate those two companies, on the one side joy and hope and
amazement at God's mercies, and on the other shame and sorrow
at their infinite loss.
34. Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand,
Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared
for you from the foundation of the world :
God's eternal election to life will not fail. Those who feel in them
selves anything of repentance, of faith, of charity, may take
courage to persevere in spite of all difficulties by remembering their
Father's eternal purpose. He has prepared a kingdom for them,
and will bring them safely to it. It is all His choice, His blessing,
His gifts, not any merits of their own.
35. For I was an hungred, and ye gave me meat: I was
thirsty, and ye gave me drink : I was a stranger, and ye took
me in : 36. naked, and ye dothed me : I was sick, and ye visited
me : I was in prison, and ye came unto me.
The Judge speaks here only of works of mercy, not of a right faith,
or of religious duties, in order to show us the absolute necessity of
exercising mercy if we would find it ourselves. It is not as if other
qualities did not go to make up a righteous character beside this
one of compassion, but that this is essential. Without it no other
gifts will suffice. It is not merely the actual bestowing of food, or
drink, or clothing, or lodging, that is meant here, but also guidance,
teaching, pardon, good example, any benefits done to our brother's
soul or body.
37. Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when

Ver. 43-] Christ relieved. 151
saw we thee an hungred, and fed thee ? or thirsty, and gave
thee drmk ? 38. when saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in ?
or naked, and clothed thee ? 39. or when saw we thee sick, or
in prison, and came unto thee ?
The righteous are surprised at their good works being thus praised,
and the King Himself remembering so well what they had forgotten.
They had often done good without any notion that they were assisting
Christ Himself. We should have patience with the defects of the
poor, remembering that they represent Christ to us . God does not
mean us to encourage vice, or waste alms in foolish profusion on
those who will use them ill, but always to be kind, and ready to
help those who are in real distress. Let it be said of us after we
are gone that we had sympathy for trouble, and never turned a deaf
ear when Christ spoke to us in His suffering members.
40. And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily 1
say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of tlie least
of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.
Not merely have they entertained angels unawares, but their Lord
Himself. Strange disguise of rags, poverty, and suffering, which
Christ puts on, to find a way unrecognised into our hearts. Like a
letter or parcel rightly directed and sent off by the proper packet
into a distant country, so our gifts bestowed on the needy are safely
delivered to the Lord of angels in heaven. Bear in mind the
lonely hours and wakeful nights and many wants of the sick poor,
and try to make their lot more tolerable ; Christ will reward such
love.
41. Then shall he say also unto them on the left hand, Depart
from me, ye cursed, into everlasting fire, prepared for tlie devil
and his angels :
They are not cursed by God. He has not prepared hell-fire for them, it
is they who have brought about their own wretchedness, and plunged
themselves into that woeful dwelling which was prepared for spiri
tual wickedness only. The sentence " Depart from me " means
"depart from all love and hope and joy; you have chosen the wrong
side, and now you are fixed on that side and will never change. "
The thought of these awful words being spoken to any soul is enough
to make us tremble.
42. For I was an hungred, and ye gave me no meat: I was
thirsty, and ye gave me no drink : 43. / was a stranger, and
ye took me not in : naked, and ye clothed me not : sick, and in
prison, and ye visited me not.
Not only grave crimes exclude from heaven, but a selfish life that cares
not for others' distress. It is that which has brought lost souls into
so hopeless a condition. To live at ease, and to be without care,
without trying to bear others' burdens or help them, is a lot that is

152 Christ neglected. [S. Matt. XXVI.
full of danger. O Lord, rather thunder on us with thy judgments
and scourge us with Thy visitations than leave us to live for our
selves only.
44. Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw
we thee an hungred, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick,
or in prison, and did not minister unto thee ?
If they had seen Christ the Lord Himself, they would not have passed
Him by with indifference, but He was concealed beneath the out
ward aspect of some poor brother, about whom they did not trouble,
and so they missed the chance of serving Him. We cannot bestow
too much care and pains on serving the afflicted, as we are in reality
doing service to Christ Himself.
45. Then shall he answer them, saying, Verily I say unto
you, Inasmuch as ye did it not to one of the least of these, ye
did it not to me.
Before this grave reproach the avaricious and pleasure-loving will be
speechless, all heaven and earth will witness their confusion and
see that they are fools. They)have disregarded the needs of Christ's
little ones who could not make their complaints heard on earth,
but one day they are taken up by the voice of the Lord Himself.
46. And these shall go away into everlasting punishment :
but the righteous into life eternal.
Let us hold firm the Christian faith concerning these two great oppo-
sites, that for those who hate God and live for self there is a fixed
unending misery, an infinite loss. We must believe that, and take
care not to fall into it. And, on the other hand, that for those who
desire to be better, who long to help others, who have purified
themselves by repentance, there is a joy that never ends and that
words cannot express. We must believe that and strive to reach it
Lord, I deserve punishment and therefore tremble, but I trust to
Thy mercy for pardon and life.

CHAPTER XXVI.
i. The rulers conspire against Christ. 6. The woman anointeth his head.
14. Judas selleth him. 17. Christ eateth the passover: 26. instituteth
his holy supper : 36. prayeth in the garden : 47. and being betrayed
with a kiss, 57. is carried to Caiaphas, 6g. and denied of Peter.
AND it came to pass, when Jesus had finished all these
XX. sayings, he said unto his disciples, 2. Ye know that after
two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is
betrayed lo be crucified.
Our Saviour now passes from mighty works and saving words to His
sufferings, which were yet more powerful and more salutary for the

Ver. 9-] The Supper at Bethany. 153
world. We should enter on the history of the Passion with reverent
and grateful hearts, remembering that it was ' ' for us men and for our
salvation" that these things were done. See how quietly and simply
Christ speaks of the near approach of His sufferings. His mind is
wholly set on fulfilling His Father's will.
3. Then assembled together the chief priests, and the scribes,
and the elders of the people, unto the palace of the high priest,
who was called Caiaphas, 4. and consulted that they might take
Jesus by subtilty, and kill him.
These men were blinded by prejudice and jealousy, so that they could
not see the greatness of Jesus Christ. God's mighty works were
going on all round them, yet they took no heed. Let us pray for
a teachable heart that we may observe God's ways and follow His
gracious guidance. The plans of Christ's enemies brought about
at last His glory and the redemption of the world, though they
meant it not God's wisdom overruled all.
5. But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an up
roar among the people.
This is only human respect. They did not seek to do what was most
just and right, but only what would avoid scandal and yet satisfy
themselves. Take care in all you do to keep God's judgment in
view, not merely the opinion of men, and observe His feasts from
your heart, not only by a new coat or smart dress.
6. IT Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon
the leper, 7. there came unto him a woman having an alabaster
box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he
sat at meat.
This supper seems to have taken place some days before our Lord's
betrayal. When He was at Bethany, Lazarus, whom He had
raised from the dead, sat with Him. Martha waited upon them, and
Mary brought the precious perfume and poured it on His head. Kings
and great men were honoured thus, and she thought that nothing
was too costly to express her gratitude and reverence to her Saviour.
It was the best thing she had, so she spent it in doing honour to
Him.
8. But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, say
ing, To what purpose is this waste ?
Judas it was (we learn from S. John) who said this, for he was
covetous and dishonest, and would therefore have preferred this
gift in the shape of money. There are many hearts like his, that
were once devout, but have been possessed by the love of gain, till at
last they lost all their love of God. Beware of the great danger of
a grasping covetous temper. Pray God to enlarge your heart.
9. For this ointment might have been sold for much, and
given to the poor.

154 The precious Ointment. [S. Matt. XXVI.
It is true that Jesus Christ always refused luxuries, put away even
comforts, enforced the claims of the poor, but yet He accepted
this offering, though it was a costly one, and devoted to Himself
alone. He did so to show us that we may spend on His service
the best we have, and that what love offers He will gladly receive.
10. When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble
ye the woman ? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.
She did not defend herself, so the great Advocate undertakes her
cause. She had been thinking of Christ's goodness to her brother
and to herself, of His Divine glory, His holy words, His works of
mercy, and the great danger in which He now was, and it was
this temper of love and faith and gratitude that made her offering
a good work in His sight.
n. For ye have the poor always with you ; but me ye have
not always.
We have Him still though not in a visible form, for by His Spirit and
Word He is always present. We have the poor always with us
that we may teach, relieve, and help them, and in doing this we
minister to Jesus Himself, though His bodily presence is withdrawn
from us. In these ways we have Him still, but we hope to see
Him again and keep Him for ever.
1 2. For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body,
she did it for my burial.
Only a week after these words were spoken Christ's body was resting
in the grave. Mary had no opportunity when that time came to
bury Him honourably, but she already foreboded His death in her
heart. The sweet ointment which she brought now took the
place of the myrrh and spices which she had no time to pour on
His body then.
13. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be
preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this
woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.
Self-sacrificing love which devotes its best to God and counts treasure
well spent on His service is rewarded by a glorious remembrance.
This simple act of reverence has been made famous wherever
Christians hear God's Word, while so many mighty conquerors
and heroic deeds are absolutely forgotten.
14. 1T Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went
unto the chief priests, 1 5. and said unto them, What will ye
give me, and I will deliver him unto you ? And they covenanted
with him for thirty pieces of silver.
Many who are our Lord's disciples outwardly, are yet willing to
betray Him for some trifling pleasure or some petty gain. Judas

Ver. 2i.] Preparing for the Passover. 155
had once left the world and followed Jesus and preached His
kingdom. Now he reckons how he can sell Him to His enemies
for a little silver.
16. And from that time he sought opportunity to betray him.
If you are bent on committing a sin opportunity will not fail you.
We read with wonder of a disciple associating with the Lord Jesus
in such a disposition as this, attending upon His holy prayers and
discourses only that he might seize the right moment for appre
hending Him. Yet what else does a Christian do when he comes
to the Holy Table, or attends church, or reads God's Word, with a
heart sold to evil? He is there in the Lord's presence doing His
enemies' work.
17. 1T Now the first day of the feast of unleavened bread the
disciples came lo Jesus, saying unto him, Where wilt thou that
we prepare for thee to eat the passover ?
The season had come round for that great feast which reminded the
Jews of their deliverance from Egypt. It was to be memorable
to us by a holier feast and a greater deliverance. We have been
freed by Christ from sin and death and despair, and so we keep
the Christian Passover in memory of our redemption.
18. And he said, Go into the city to such a man, and say
unto him, The Master saith, My time is at hand; I ivill keep
the passover at thy house with my disciples.
What an honour for this man to receive the Lord of Glory into his
house on this great occasion ! Our hearts must be made ready by
prayer for His spiritual coming, which is as real and life-giving as
was His bodily presence. The words " My time is at hand " refer
to the hour when He should die for the world, that hour which He
had foreseen from all eternity.
19. And the disciples did as Jesus had appointed them;
and they made ready the passover.
The Last Supper was the Passover in a spiritual sense, not the strict
legal one, for that was to be kept on the next day (Friday), and the
Jews were only making ready for it on this Thursday evening. Nor
was there here any literal lamb, yet it was a feast in which the
old types and shadows of the law appeared and passed away, and
a better ordinance was instituted in their place.
20. Now when the even was come, he sat down with the twelve.
To sit down with Jesus at His Holy Feast, to listen to His Divine
words, and receive his Body and Blood, we need to be His true
disciples. Woe to us if, like Judas, we only pretend to be His
disciples ! What feelings of reverence and gratitude a Christian
should bring when He comes to observe the memorial of His Mas
ter's dying love '
21. And as they did eat, he said, Verily I say unto you,
that one of you shall betray me.

156 Judas warned. [S. Matt. XXVI.
Lord, awake me by a salutary warning when I am in danger of betray
ing Thee. In my heart there is a capacity for every crime, and
only Thy power and love can hold me up. I know too well from
sad experience how ready I am to fall, but do Thou, O Lord, guard
me from ruin.
22. And they were exceeding sorrowful, and began every one
of them to say unto him, Lord, is it I?
The disciples feared and grieved at these words, for they felt their
own weakness. Each felt that he might be the one to fall, and that
only his Master knew the depths of his heart. What are we that
we should trust in our own resolutions ?
23. And he answered and said, He that dippeth his hand
with me in the dish, the same shall betray me.
Such was the custom of meals in the East, the guests took for them
selves food out of a common dish placed in their midst. Judas did
so at the same moment as our Lord, apparently in friendliness and
love, but his heart was full of hatred. Christ bids us to His Table
now, let us see that our hearts go along with our actions, lest we
betray Him after partaking the signs of His love.
24. The Son of man goeth as it is written of him : but woe
unto that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed/ it had
been good for that man if he had not been born.
There must then be a woe to be feared, or our kind Master would
not have said such words. He says that it were better never to have
been born than find the end that Judas found. How frightful, then,
that must have been 1 Woe to us if we betray our Master and so
earn endless misery! Do not deceive yourself, there is a hell
where sin and misery never end, only God's grace and mercy can
keep you from falling into it.
25. Then Judas, which betrayed him, answered and said,
Master, is it I ? He said unto him, Thou hast said.
He asks in a blind hardened way, and the answer does him no good.
Most loving Lord, if I have so far been kept from betraying Thee
utterly, I ascribe the praise of it to Thee only, and intreat Thee
to warn me of my danger before it is too late.
26. IT And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed
it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take,
eat ; this is my body.
This is the mystery of mysteries, it is truly bread and yet the life-
giving Body of Jesus. His Word and blessing consecrate it for our
comfort. Just as His Body was visibly and materially on earth
once, bestowing health, suffering pain, at last dying and being
buried for us, so it is now present in the Lord's Supper, but "in
a heavenly and spiritual manner," to supply us with strength and

Ver. 32.] The Holy Communion. 157
peace. Let us not dispute over this verse, but worship and
reverently partake. Here is a great gift from God, let us receive it
rightly and live by it.
27. And he took tlie cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to
them, saying, Drink ye all of it ; 28. for this is my blood of
the new testament, which is shed for many for tlie remission of
sins. This wine is also Christ's Blood, and seals the New Testament which
our Master signed before He died, and in which He disposed all
things for our good. It is the Blood which can wash away all
stains of sins, however great or many. When we taste that cup in
faith it is as though the precious Blood flowing from Christ's side
had been newly applied to our souls, there is no limit to its cleans
ing power. Let us then give thanks for it, and taste it without
fear.
29. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this
fruit of the vine, until tliat day when I drink it new with you
in my Father's kingdom.
Sacramental Communion is a foretaste of heaven, where we shall
enjoy the reality of that mercy which we now receive under signs
and figures. There strength and pardon and joy will be ours after
a new manner, quite beyond what we can imagine here. When
we come to die we must bid farewell to our dear ones, and hope
to meet them again in a new life in our Father's kingdom.
30. And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into
the mount- of Olives.
This hymn is thought to have been a. psalm, or series of psalms,
such as the Jews were wont to sing after the Paschal supper. It
puts us in mind of the duty of offering thanks and praise after com
munion. Before we go out again to encounter trials or cares we
should in our hearts praise God for His great goodness to us,
devote ourselves afresh to His service, ask Him to abide with us.
31. Then saith Jesus unto them, All ye shall be offended
because of me this night: for it is written, I will smite the
shepherd, and the sheep of the flock shall be scattered abroad.
It is easy to be a Christian in peaceful times, but hard to encounter
danger or ridicule for our faith. When trial comes our love for
Christ is apt to grow cold, and we leave His service for easier
ways. How oft have we given way already when temptation came !
32. But after I am risen again, I will go before you into
Galilee. Jesus encouraged and comforted His disciples by speaking of life
beyond the grave and a joyful meeting again. He has gone before
us along that road that we may not fear to follow.

158 Warnings and Troubles. [S. Matt. XXVI.
33. Peter answered and said unto him, Though all men shall
be offended because of thee, yet will I never be offended.
We do not -know ourselves. God grant us humility that we may see
our defects and put our trust in Him only. Let us rather consider
that if temptation has so great power over others, we are not likely
to escape ; we are weaker and more inclined to fall than they. If
Christ's saints fell how shall we stand ?
34. Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That this
night, before tlie cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
He knows our hearts better than we do. He saw in S. Peter that
presumption and want of faith which made him to fall so grievously.
All our weakness is known to our Master, yet He does not hate nor
forsake lis.
35. Peter said unto him, Though I should die with thee, yet
will I not deny thee. Likewise also said all tlie disciples.
So we feel in moments of fervour. But soon trial, or ridicule, or
strong temptation assail us, and then our good resolutions vanish.
Let us look only to God, and trust in Him lest we fall and perhaps
never rise again.
36. IT Then cometh Jesus with them unto a place called
Gethsemane, and saith unto the disciples, Sit ye here, while 1
go and pray yonder.
Our Lord had now come to the olive-garden which was to be the
place of His apprehension, and He prepared Himself by prayer for
His approaching sufferings. Let us not be ashamed of being known
to pray. When God's hour comes we should wait upon Him. Our
earthly friends will be none the worse cared for, if we are careful
to attend to our heavenly Friend.
37. And he took with him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee,
and began to be sorrowful and very heavy.
Those three who had seen Him glorified on the mount were now
called to a very different sight. In the Christian life we must
expect not only comforts and delights but times of desolation. If
the Lord and His saints have had to pass through such, shall we
expect always to be happy?
38. Then saith he unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful,
even unto death : tarry ye here, and watch with me.
Jesus in His sorrow leans upon human companionship, yet His friends
go to sleep and fail to sympathize with Him. What was the cause
of this mortal sorrow which disturbed His holy- soul? We should
have thought that nothing could have overcome His calmness, yet
He is here so sad and depressed that He is forced to speak of' His
pain. We do not wholly understand this mystery, but it comforts
ns to remember it when our own sufferings come.

Ver. 44.] Christ's Agony. 159
39. And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and
prayed, saying, 0 my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass
from me : nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt.
We should pray thus when we suffer, using the humblest reverence,
yet speaking to God as to our dear Father, Who still loves though
He afflicts us. We may ask indeed (for we are weak creatures)
that the bitter cup of pain may pass from us, but yet submit our
selves wholly to His Divine will. This bitter draught, though
abhorrent to nature, is yet compounded by the Wise Physician.
40. And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep,
and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour?
Jesus returns for the first time. He thinks of His disciples, though
they are forgetful of Him. He addresses to us also this question,
Could ye not watch with Me ? You give up rest for worldly cares
or pleasures, but you should be ready to give it up in order to make
time for prayer, for reading God's Word, for attending on an early
service, for watching by the sick. O slothful Christian, He says,
could you not rise early enough to give a little time to Me !
41. Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the
spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
Here is the secret of strength. Watch, keeping your guard against
temptation; and pray, intreating for a greater strength than your
own. You are but weak flesh, and the world and the devil are strong,
look for help where alone it can be found. I know, O Lord, from
my own sad experience how weak I am, and what power tempta
tion has over me, how is it I do not pray more I
42. He went away again the second time, and prayed, say
ing, 0 my Father, if this cup may not pass away from me,
except I drink it, thy will be done.
Jesus is more resigned, and prays no more that the cup may pass
from Him, but that His Father's will may be done. When we
have to meet trouble we must seek God's face again and again, and
thus learn to give ourselves wholly up into His Divine hands.
Do not fear, though the cup seems intolerably bitter, your Father
can sweeten it and give it a healing virtue.
43. And he came and found them asleep again : for their
eyes were heavy.
He returns to His disciples for the second time. All is still and quiet,
and they have gone to sleep. Their minds are weighed down by
care as well as weariness, for they wondered what their Master's
distress could mean, and yet they were not able to help Him by their
sympathy and prayers.
44. And he left them, and went away again, and prayed the
third lime, saying the same wends.

i6o The Traitor comes. [S. Matt. XXVI.
We do not need, in order to pray, eloquent expressions, warm feel
ings, or entire satisfaction of mind. It is a great thing to be able
to pray at all, even if we have but a few plain words and simple
requests to offer. We may use often the same words, if only our
heart speaks with them. From this wonderful scene of the Lord
Jesus at prayer let us carry away this one lesson, to keep on pray
ing though we do not find comfort at once.
45. Then cometh he to his disciples, and saith unto them,
Sleep on now, and take your rest : behold, the hour is at hand,
and the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of sinners.
For the third time He returns, and tells them that their sympathy
could help Him no longer. The time for them to watch and pray
with Him was over. He had endured His agony and was now going
forth to meet His Passion. They had not helped Him when they
might, and now the time for it was past. Let not our brethren
have to reproach us that we did not care for their sorrows, but
rather let us help them by a kind word or deed.
46. Rise, let us be going : behold, he is at hand tliat doth
betray me.
Jesus is ready now to meet all that iscoming upon Him. Such is the
effect of turning to God and casting our care on Him. If we
have learned to pray we shall be able to meet bad news, unkindness,
pain, or disappointment, without losing heart. It is but natural
that we should feel trouble, but God will give us grace to meet and
overcome it.
47. IT And while he yet spake, lo, Judas, one of the twelve,
came, and with him a great multitude with swords and staves,
from tlie chief priests and elders of the people.
The darkness and stillness of the garden were now broken by the
trampling of feet, by lights and loud voices, for Judas had brought
armed men to seize his Master. Yet how vain all this force had
been unless the Lord Jesus had been pleased to give Himself up !
He Who could rule the winds and waves, Who was Lord of life and
death, was now stripped for a while of His Divine power and help
less in His enemies' hands. God's power and Providence seem for
a while to be obscured and wicked men to rule as they please, yet all
this is not for long.
48. Now he that betrayed him gave them a sign, saying,
Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he : hold him fast. 49.
And forthwith he came to Jesus, and said, Hail, master ; and
kissed him.
What shall we say of that kiss ? It was the sign of peace and love, but
now made use of to betray a friend. The world is full of such
kisses, signs of kindness meant to conceal hatred. Let our love
and duty be real, not a mere pretence ; and above all, when we"
spmtually approach our Divine Master at His Holy Table, let us

Ver. 55-] Christ is apprehended. 161
draw near with a sincere heart. A communicant who receives the
Lord's Sacramental Body into a careless and unbelieving heart is a
kind of Judas.
50. And Jesus said unto him, Friend, wherefore art thou
come ? Then came they, and laid hands on Jesus, and took him.
" Wherefore art thou come ? " This reproachful question is useful to
put to ourselves. Say sometimes to yourself, "Wherefore art thou
come into this world, into this house of God, to this holy altar ? "
" Wherefore art thou come into this business, or this household ? "
Seek an honest answer to this question, such as may reveal God's
purpose for you, and then resolve to fulfil it.
51. And, behold, one of them which were with Jesus stretched
out his hand, and drew his sword, and struck a servant of the
high priest s, and smote off his ear.
No doubt he did this to protect his Master, but his rash blow did no
good, and Jesus interposed to heal the mischief that His hasty
servant had done. Religion must not be defended by worldly
means, no blessing rests on such, even when they seem to succeed
for the time.
52. Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into
his place : for all they that take the sword shall perish with the
sword. Not those who take the sword in lawful war, or to administer justice,
but those who resist lawful authority or do violence to their
brethren. Jesus forbids us by these words to repay blow for blow
or otherwise revenge ourselves for an insult. It is very hard to be
patient when we ourselves, or our friends, or truths that we hold
dear, are reviled and mocked at, yet God bids us restrain ourselves.
53. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and
he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels ?
The Almighty God knows all that happens, and we, like our Master,
can commit ourselves trustfully into His hands. A great host of
angels are near, watching the fight, though as yet we see them not.
Let us not take to heart lack of success here, for the invisible
armies of God see the truth, and know which side will win at last.
54. But how then shall the scriptures be fulfilled, that thus
it must be ?
Jesus had always before His eyes the Scriptures as the revelation of
God's will, and as marking out what should be. We too should
regard Scripture with reverence, and often trace God's wise purpose
marked out in it. All the prophecies of His suffering and death
were present to our Lord's mind, and He devoted Himself to fulfil
them. Obedience was His plan in death as in life.
55. In tliat same hour said Jesus to the multitudes, Are ye

162 Flight of the Disciples. [S. Matt. XXVI.
come out as against a thief with swords and staves for to take
me? I sat daily with you teaching in the temple, and ye laid
no hold on me.
No need for all this great array to apprehend Him. He could not
be seized by them before, however violent their hatred, for His
time was not yet come, but now He freely gives Himself into their
hands. The Christian may be sure that while he has any work to
do for God he will find protection, and when the hour of trial
comes he may commit his cause into the hands of a merciful
Father.
56. But all this was done, that the scriptures of the prophets
might be fulfilled. Then all the disciples forsook him, and fled.
The Prophets traced the course of God's Servant through suffering
and shame ; they represented the righteous man as surrounded by
enemies, afflicted, and forsaken ; they spoke of typical sacrifices
and atonements for sin ; and in all this, though they understood it
not, God's Holy Spirit was describing the sufferings of Christ.
But the disciples could find no encouragement in such thoughts ;
they had been waiting for their Master to display His miraculous
power, and when they saw that He submitted and was made
prisoner their hearts failed them utterly.
57. IT And tliey that had laid hold on Jesus led him away'
to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders
were assembled.
Christ our Lord was insulted, betrayed, and forsaken, yet all through
was full of dignity and patience, and mindful both of friends and
enemies. Give us, O Lord, in our trials something of that self-
possession, that brave and gentle endurance which shone forth in
Thee. God's high priest and the scribes and elders of His people
were now on the wrong side, busy in persecuting the Truth. Let
us, when great powers in Church or State forsake God's side,
cling all the more stedfastly to it.
58. But Peter followed him afar off unto the high priests
palace, and went in, and sat with tlie servants, to see the end.
He followed, out of regard for his Master, and yet afar off, for he
was afraid; and as he looked on and saw Jesus treated as a help
less captive, his faith began to give way. How hard it is to go by
faith, not sight ! how hard to take things as God's Word puts
them rather than go by the judgment of men ! In this world, how
ever long we look, we cannot see the end ; that is hidden from
us as yet.
59. Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council,
sought false witness against Jesus, to put him to death;
These men of position and dignity were reduced to welcome falsehoods
m their zeal to destroy Him Whom they feared and hated. Let us

Ver. 65.] Jesus before the High Priest. 163
welcome truth and look out always for it, and seek to defend the
oppressed, not to overbear them.
60. But found none : yea, though many false witnesses came,
yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses, 61.
and said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of
God, and to build it in three days.
They gave our Saviour's words (John ii. 19) such a turn that they
appeared like a threat, or like a boast, and yet He was able to
fulfil them, and in truth did so. By His Passion He opened the
veil, and made the temple itself decay and wax old ; and in His
rising again He set up His spiritual Temple, the Holy Catholic
Church. We must not be amazed when our words are misrepre
sented or false witness borne against our character, for our Lord
had to suffer the same.
62. And the high priest arose, and said unto him, Answer est
thou nothing ? what is it which these witness against thee ?
Sometimes it is the season to answer, to defend the truth by
argument and evidence ; sometimes again it is best to keep silence.
We must pray and reflect before we speak, so as not to betray
God's truth by our haste or folly. Be not in too great a hurry to
speak about religion or to vindicate your own conduct, but choose
a fitting time and occasion with prayer.
63. But Jesus held his peace. And the high priest answered
and said unto him, I adjure thee by the living God, that thou
tell us whether thou be the Christ, the Son of God.
To make Jesus speak the high priest uses the holy Name of God,
leaving the other accusations, and conjuring his prisoner, for God's ,
sake, to say whether He was the expected Christ and Son of God.
But all this is only to procure an admission which he could use
against Him. Thus God's holy Name, and the saving titles of
Messiah, and the high priest's sacred robes and office, could all be
used by a wicked man for his evil ends.
64. Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said: nevertheless I say
unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of man sitting on the
right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven.
This is the "good confession" which our Lord witnessed before
Caiaphas, as afterwards before Pilate. This is the hardest test of
courage and faith, when a man perseveres to the bitter end in saying
the truth, knowing that it will bring him to death. Here is " the
faithful and true witness " standing firm to His words, though all
had turned against Him. " Thou hast said," means " It is true, I
am what thou sayest, and though I now appear mean and helpless,
yet hereafter I shall return in power and great glory."
65. Then the high priest rent his dothes, saying, He hath

1 64 Jesus condemned. [S. Matt. XXVI.
spoken blasphemy; what further need have we of witnesses?
behold, now ye liave heard his blasphemy.
The high priest rent his robes to express (as the Jewish manner
was) his horror at the words of Jesus, which claimed Divine power.
But he signified in doing so that the blessing and glory of Aaron's
priesthood was now gone for ever.
66. What think ye ? They answered and said, He is guilty
of death.
What a specimen of rash and cruel judgments ! The Healer of men,
the Teacher of love, the Pattern of mercy, is pronounced too bad to
live. Here is an example of the way in which we condemn others
without examination, judging only on some word or act miscon
strued. Here too is comfort for those whom men condemn unjustly.
67. Then did they spit in his face, and buffeted him; and
others smote him with the palms of their hands,
How do you behave under affronts or contempt? Will you, after
considering what insults your Master suffered, resent so keenly
every slight, every cool word or unkind act? Will you still bear
offences in mind, and magnify them in telling them to others ? Let
us cherish a more patient humility that can take contempt even
with cheerfulness.
68. Saying, Prophesy unto us, thou Christ, Who is he that
smote thee ?
They had covered His eyes', and so defied Him to find out who struck
Him. Just so the wicked think that God's face is hid, and that they
may sin without fear. One day they will find out that His eye has
been on them all the time. He knows who it is that has done this
or that wickedness.
69. IT Now Peter sat without in the palace : and a damsel
came unto him, saying, Thou also wast with Jesus of Galilee.
70. But he denied before them all, saying, I know not what
thou sayest.
This was Peter's first denial. Not long before he had professed his
readiness to die for his Master, and now he was frightened by the
maid-servant's words into denying any knowledge of Him. He
had relied on his own strength, and that had ebbed away now that
enemies were round him and his Master seemed powerless to help.
We too have received countless mercies from Jesus Christ, yet
scarcely dare to speak up for Him. A Christian who is persuaded
to join in sin says, in effect, "Jesus was my friend once, but I will
not have anything to do with Him now, for I am afraid of men."
71. And when he was gone out into the porch, another maid
saw him, and said unto them that were there, This fellow was
also with Jesus of Nazareth.

Ver. 75.] Peter's Denial. 165
If you would serve Christ, make up your mind to bear contempt. Do
not give up, though men despise you and mock at your religious
duties. Never let ridicule shame you into denying your Master,
but renew the sign of His Cross which was marked upon you, and
pray Him to give you strength.
72. And again he denied with an oath, I do not know the
man. Not know Him ! not know the Friend Whose wise words and mighty
acts and loving behaviour he had rejoiced in for three years ! Not
know Him Whom he had confessed to be the Son of God and
seen transfigured in glory ! Such is the power of fear. Peter
dared not say that Jesus was his friend. O Lord, strengthen me,
lest in the hour of trial I forsake Thy side. I see in this sad
history how great a coward I am when tempted.
73. And after a while came unto him they that stood by, and
said to Peter, Surely thou also art one of them ; for thy speech
bewrayeth thee.
Still Peter did not come to himself, or leave the scene of temptation,
and so he fell once more. In spite of his denials they recognised
his speech as Galilean, and insisted that he was a disciple of Jesus.
When we have found out our weakness the best way is to fly from
any occasion of sin and betake ourselves to prayer. If Peter had
only cried out as of old, "Lord, save me," he would have obtained
help.
74. Then began he to curse and to swear, saying, I know
not the man. And immediately the cock crew.
This is the worst downfall of all, and shows how we go from one sin
to a greater. It is written down in order that we might distrust our
own strength and look only to God for help. Here is a good and
earnest man, long taught by, and loving much, Jesus his Saviour,
who yet with oaths and imprecations calls God to witness that he
does not know the Man. Grant, O Lord, that in the great day of
judgment I may not hear Thy voice saying to me, " I know you
not" That would be a terrible answer to my folly in saying when
tempted that I know not Thee.
75. And Peter remembered the word of Jesus, which said
unto him, Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
And he went out, and wept bitterly.
If we have imitated Peter in his fault, let us also imitate his repentance.
Let us recall Christ's words to heart, retire from what led us into
sin, and be deeply grieved and ashamed of our fall. The chief
apostle is our pattern of repentance as he was of faith. The Good
Shepherd had not forsaken him, but still pleaded in his heart, and
so he repented, and was restored to his place, and had the charge
of Christ's sheep given to him again.

1 66 Vain Remorse of Judas. [S. Matt. XXVII.

CHAPTER XXVII.
I. Christ is delivered bound to Pilate. 3. Judas hangeth himself. 19.
Pilate, admonished of his wife, 24. washeth his hands : 26. and
looseth Barabbas. 29. Christ is crowned with thorns, 34. crucified,
40. reviled, 50. dieth, and is buried : 66. his sepulchre is sealed, and
watched.
WHEN the morning was come, all tlie chief priests and elders
of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to
death : 2. and when they had bound him, they led him away,
and delivered him to Pontius Pilate the governor.
Here is the holy and just One condemned to 'die by the rulers of
God's people, His hands tied, Himself shunned as a condemned
criminal, and dragged away to be still further abused. To be
fettered, to be despised as a fool, to be ill-treated, becomes more
tolerable for us sinners when we compare ourselves with Him. All
God's saints who have been unjustly accused or persecuted have
in every age found their consolation here.
3. IT Then Judas, which had betrayed him, when he saw
that he was condemned, repented himself, and brought again the
thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
Why was this repentance of no profit ? Judas regretted what he had
done, he disavowed it, he returned the money, and yet he found
no pardon. This was because he had no faith in God's mercy ;
if he had sought forgiveness he would have found it. What was
wanting was that he had no sense of his Master's love and power,
which are able to blot out any sin in those who believe. Without
this faith all is blank and hopeless.
4. Saying, I have sinned in tliat I have betrayed the innocent
blood. And they said, What is that to us? see thou to tliat.
If you have led any one into deadly sin, you too have betrayed
innocent blood ; yet be comforted, be not afraid to confess your sin*
however enormous. There .is full pardon for all sins, if you will
but humbly seek it. We should learn also never to treat any
penitents with coldness or contempt as these priests did. We should
rather pray with them and encourage them to trust in the infinite
mercy of God.
5. And he cast down the pieces of silver in the temple, and
departed, and went and hanged himself.
Judas came to so terrible an end, after such privileges and oppor
tunities and so Divine a calling. This is enough to make us fear
for ourselves, and yet we must never lose hope, as he did.

Ver. 12.] Jesus before Pilate. 167
Covetousness and dishonesty had led him gradually on till he lost
all faith, and when he perceived his sin he knew of no remedy.
6. And the chief priests took the silver pieces, and said, It is
not lawful for to put them into Hie treasury, because it is the
price of blood.
They were careful not to put among the offerings of God this sum of
money which had bought the betrayal of Jesus, while yet they were
not afraid to procure the death of Jesus Himself. When men get
gain from any traffic that ruins souls, what is this but the price of
blood?
7. And they took counsel, and bought with them the potter's
field, to bury strangers in. 8. Wherefor.e tliat field was called,
The field of blood, unto this day.
The money for which Jesus had been sold was used in God's providence
to supply a burying-place for poor Jews who might die in the Holy
City, far from their own homes, where they would naturally have
rested. Jesus, by His death, has provided a quiet rest and lasting
home for us, who are strangers and pilgrims. His death alone
makes us able to enter into rest without fear.
9. Then was fulfilled that which was spoken by Jeremy the
prophet, saying, And they took tlie thirty pieces of silver, the
price of him that was valued, whom they of the children of Israel
did value; 10. and gave them for the potter's field, as the Lord
appointed me.
Ancient prophecy had dreamt of the Lord's death before He came,
and had drawn an image of the sinless Sufferer, despised and sold
by His brethren. All that happened had found some place in the
visions of old time. Judas sold Christ for thirty pieces of silver,
but it is incredible for how little men are willing now to sell their
Saviour and all peace and joy with Him. They value Him as
nothing in comparison with a trifling fancy.
1 1. And Jesus stood before the governor : and the governor
asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the Jews ? And Jesus
said unto him, Thou sayest.
Here is the King of Heaven standing bound and helpless and in
danger of His life before the representative of this world's sovereign.
Jesus is despised and alone among accusers, the governor in pomp
and majesty with his soldiers round him, yet Jesus is not afraid to
declare His own royalty though it may bring Him death. He is
the Founder and Ruler of a kingdom that will outlast this world's
empires.
12. And when he was accused of the chief priests and elders,
he answered nothing.
He was silent under these vain charges of which His accusers brought

1 68 Jesus silent. [S. Matt. XXVII.
no proof. We have indeed the right to defend ourselves when falsely
accused, yet there is such a thing as being too ready to justify
our conduct. Let us listen patiently when we are blamed, and con
sider whether we (unlike our Saviour) may have given reason for it.
13. Then said Pilate unto him, Hear est thou not how many
things they witness against thee? 14. And he answered him
to never a word; insomuch that the governor marvelled greatly.
This patient persistent silence amazed the governor more than miracles
would have done. We may see in it Christ our Lord making
reparation for our faults of the tongue. We have many charges to
meet which are, alas ! only too true, and we are too ready to cast the
blame from ourselves on others. Jesus our Master might easily
have confounded His accusers, but He remained silent in our stead
and for our pattern.
15. Now at that feast the governor was wont to release unto
the people a prisoner, whom they would.
At that feast when their deliverance from the house of bondage was
commemorated, they were wont to obtain as a favour from the
governor the release of some one prisoner who was pardoned in
honour of the day ; but at this passover the whole human race was
to be set free from the chains of sin and death.
16. And they had then a notable prisoner, called Barabbas.
17. Therefore when they were gathered together, Pilate said
unto them, Whom will ye that I release unto you ? Barabbas,
or Jesus which is called Christ ?
It is a strange choice to offer, Barabbas, who was a robber and
murderer, or Jesus Christ, Whose life was full of love and mercy to
all. One who stirred up men to crime, or One Whose sole object it
was to make them good. Strange that these two should ever be
put in comparison, and stranger still that the wrong one should be
chosen.
18. For he knew that for envy they had delivered him.
They were jealous of the influence of Jesus, of His reputation for
goodness, of His wonder-working power. They hated Him because
so many loved and followed Him. Envy then can crucify Jesus,
let us beware of it. It makes us grudge others' happiness, depre
ciate their character, blame everything they do. Rather let us set
ourselves to look out for what is good and to praise it.
19. IT When he was set down on the judgment seat, his wife
sent unto him, saying, Have thou nothing to do with that just
man : for I have suffered many things this day in a dream
because of him.
This Roman lady joins in with the other witnesses of our Lord's
innocence. That very morning, just before awaking, she had had

Ver. 24.] Barabbas chosen. 169
anxious and painful dreams, in which she had felt the awful con
sequences of putting to death the Son of God. Perhaps her dreams
had warned her to guard her husband from committing such a
crime. At least she knew well that Jesus was a just man, and that
it would be a terrible thing to condemn Him to die.
20. But the chief priests and elders persuaded the multitude
that they should ask Barabbas, and destroy Jesus.
Such was the perverseness of the priests who were appointed to
praise and worship God and teach the people His holy law, yet
now they urged on the multitude to do evil, bade them destroy the
innocent and release the guilty. Are not bad pastors worse than
other Christians now ? Does not a minister of God who loves sin
and neglects souls cause his brethren to go astray? The life of
such priests persuades men to unbelief.
21. The governor answered and said unto them, Whether of
the twain will ye that I release unto you ? They said, Barabbas.
Barabbas is preferred to Jesus when we choose our own pleasure, or
bad company, or any favourite sin, before God and His service.
How often we have taken pleasure in what is vile and put from
us holy thoughts ! God give us grace to choose Him and His
saints for friends, and never give them up.
22. Pilate saith unto them, What shall I do then with Jesus
which is called Christ ? They all say unto him, Let him be
crucified. " What shall I do with Jesus?" Here is the answer, if you ask this
same question that Pilate asked. Make Him your Friend, your
daily Helper and Guide, your Intercessor with God, your Hope and
Joy for ever. He is full of goodness, and will never leave nor
forsake you.
23. And the governor said, Why, what evil hath he done ?
But they cried out the more, saying, Let him be crucified.
He has done no evil, nothing indeed but good ; yet our sins cry out
against Him, and require an atonement to be made. Not only
the madness of the people, but the words of psalms and prophets,
and His own predictions, and the needs of guilty souls, all joined
together in demanding that He should die.
24. IT When Pilate saw tliat he could prevail nothing, but
that rather a tumult was made, he took water, and washed his
hands before the multitude, saying, I am innocent of the blood
of this just person : see ye to it.
Washing the hands does not cleanse the heart. What we owe to the
innocent is an earnest open support, not mere passing words of
pity or praise. Let us not be afraid to take the Lord's side boldly,
and stand up for truth and right whatever people may say.

170 Jesus outraged. [S. Matt. XXVII.
25. Then answered all the people, and said, His blood be on
us, and on our children.
Let that saving Blood be on us, not in wrath and imprecation, but to
cleanse us from all our sins. Let it be on our heart and tongue,
on our life and actions, to wash away all that is evil. In Thy
Blood alone, O Lord, I find pardon, and I desire to feel more and
more its cleansing power.
26. IT Then released he Barabbas unto them: and when lie
had scourged Jesus, he delivered him to be crucified.
Here is the beloved Son of God, in Whom He is well pleased, stripped,
cruelly beaten, and outraged by all. Shall we be surprised if pain
or disgrace befall us who have well deserved them ? Rather let us
learn to submit cheerfully to God's chastening hand. Let our
Master's sufferings stir us up to bear patiently whatever pain comes.
" I have not complained, and I won't complain," was the frequent
saying of a Christian who had, like his Master, to bear cruel agony.
27. Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus into the
common hall, and gathered unto him the wlwle band of soldiers.
28. And they stripped him, and put on him a scarlet robe.
Jesus our Lord was treated by the soldiers with contempt as a mock
King. The idea of His royalty seemed so utterly absurd in their
eyes that they dressed Him up as a King in cruel ridicule. The
scarlet cloak was to stand for a royal robe. Why should insults or
contempt frighten us ? One day Christ will return in power and
great glory, and His faithful servants will triumph too.
29. IT And when they had platted a crown of thorns, they
put it upon his head, and a reed in his right hand: and they
bowed the knee before him, and mocked him, saying, Hail,
King of the Jews /
This was His coronation-day and these His courtiers. The sharp
thorns made Him a crown and the reed a sceptre, mockery and
reviling were the greetings that He received. This atonement was
needed for our pride. We lord it over others and enjoy their
praise of us. We are vain of bur supposed goodness. Therefore
it was that Jesus suffered the extremity of shame, that He might
make amends for us.
_ 30. And they spit upon him, and took the reed, and smote
him on the head.
How changed is this face from that which shone as the sun at the
Transfiguration, and these blood-stained robes of mockery from those
which were dazzling and whiter than snow I But we will be His
as faithfully in dark hours as in days of joy. The more shameful
are His humiliations, the more we can adore the wonders of His
love which brought Him so low for us.

Ver. 36.] Golgotha. 171
31. And after tliat they had mocked him, they took the robe
off from him, and put his own raiment on him, and led him
away to crucify him.
In all cruelty to the helpless, Jesus is again outraged. In profaneness
He is again mocked and made a jest of. Let us persevere in
following Him, though we may have to share in His reproach. It
will be to us riches and blessing and peace.
" Smile on us, Lord, and we will fear
Nor scorn nor shame whilst Thou art near.
Reproach is glory, suffering rest,
If borne for Thee, if by Thee blest"
32. And as they came out, they found a man' of Cyrene,
Simon by name : him they compelled to bear his cross.
God in His wisdom lays the Cross on us and compels us to bear it. It
is for us to submit cheerfully and enter into its lessons. What should
we be without the precious lessons of affliction ? God wishes us to
share in the benefits of Christ's death, and so lays a part of His
Cross on our shoulders. Do not complain though it seems heavy.
He will bear it with you.
33. And when they were come unto a place called Golgotha,
that is to say, a place of a skull,
34. IT They gave him vinegar to drink mingled with gall :
and when he had tasted thereof, he would not drink.
They had now reached the place of death outside the city, and the
Cross was set down on the ground, and Jesus stripped and laid upon
it. But they, first offered Him a bitter draught to benumb His senses,
so that He might feel the pain less, yet He would not drink it.
When Christians are dying, they should look death in the face like
their Master did, and accept with goodwill and patience the
manner of their end as being ordered by their Father for them.
35. And they crucified him, and parted his garments, casting
lots : that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet,
They parted my garments among them, and upon my vesture
did they cast lots.
He chose to be nailed on the Cross and hang there naked, so as to
bear the fullest weight of shame and pain. In any great trial think
of Jesus on the Cross, and unite your pains with His. If He was
stripped of all, you must bear well the loss of this world's comforts.
36. And sitting down they watched him there ;
We must do the same, not in hatred but in love and reverence, spend
ing some of our time in thinking over His sacred acts and sufferings.
When our Saviour's death is remembered at His altar, there are some
who attend as the soldiers did, only to gaze, with no love in their
hearts. Let us be of the number of those who come there to renew
the memory of His sufferings with hearts full of gratitude.

172 The King of the Jews. [S. Matt. XXVII.
37. And set up over his head his accusation written, THIS
IS JESUS THE KING OF THE JEWS.
He had always claimed to be a King, though not in this world's sense,
a King Who gave laws, Who required obedience, Who rewarded and
punished, Who founded a state for His followers. His royalty still
continued even on the Cross of shame. Let me, O Lord, be in the
number of the true Israelites who are Thy faithful subjects. I dfesire
that Thy kingdom may come, and that all men may do Thy will.
38. Then were there two thieves crucified with him, one on
the right hand, and another on the left*
Thus He was numbered with the trangressors, and j*t the Cross on
which He hung between the thieves was a figure of His judgment
throne, on which He will one day sit with the pardoned on His
right hand, but the lost on the left.
39. U And they that passed by reviled him, wagging their
heads, 40. and saying, Thou that destroyest the temple, and
buildest it in three days, save thyself. If thou be the Son of
God, come down from the cross.
He would indeed destroy the temple, yet in order to set up a better
one instead. He did not save Himself from death, but yet saved
others by His death. He was God's dear Son, even though He
remained on the Cross. Such are the conclusions of faith, which
sees in Christ's Passion mysteries above sense and reason.
41. Likewise also the chief priests mocking him, with the
scribes and elders, said, 42. He saved others ; himself he cannot
save. If he be the King of Israel, let him now come down from
the cross, and we will believe him.
They reproach Him with His very works of mercy, saying that He
saved others, but could not save Himself, and mock His claims to
royalty, now that He is dying as an outcast. But Christians find in
the Cross the bulwark of their faith; it is to them no stumblingblock,
but the most wonderful exhibition of God's power and love.
Christ is our King, and we believe in Him all the more surely
because He did not descend but remained to suffer.
43. He trusted in God; let him deliver him now, if he will
have him : for he said, I am the Son of God.
Carnal minds cannot see that a suffering agonized soul may yet be
God's child and upheld by His mercy. God's children trust in Him,
yet He does not spare them pain, though He loves them. God
will manifest His chosen ones in His own good time.
44. Tlie thieves also, which were crucified with him, cast the
same in his teeth.
Suffering makes some blaspheme like the impenitent thief. Either
the Cross converts us and makes us turn to God, or it hardens our

Ver. 50.] Christ's Death. 173
hearts and makes us desperate. We should pray God for grace to
use suffering rightly. Our cross when it comes will either make us
turn to the Lord Jesus or take His enemies' side.
45. Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the
land unto the ninth hour.
During these three hours Jesus hung on the Cross in silence and
darkness. We do not know much of what He thought and suffered
then, we know only this, that our pardon, our life and hope de
pend upon what He was doing. Those were the precious moments
in which He made atonement for our sins.
46. And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice,
saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachtliani ? that is to say, My God,
my God, why liast thou forsaken me ? 47. Some of them that
stood there, when they heard that, said, This man calleth for
Elias. Even God's children can feel forsaken. Low spirits and lack of in
ward comfort do not make believers unlike their Master. Jesus on
the Cross expressed His anguish in the words of Psalm xxii. to show
us that the sufferer there spoken of represents Himself. Those who
are in distress and feel the light of God's face hidden from them
may find inexpressible comfort in this cry, which brings before them
the heart of Jesus made for a time desolate.
48. And straightway one of them ran, and took a spunge,
and filled it with vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him
to drink. 49. The rest said, Let be, let us see whether Elias
will come to save him.
A bitter draught was all that the world could offer my Master in His
extremity of thirst, yet I have myself every refreshment and comfort
that I need. When there is any bitter in my cup, I will at least
accept it cheerfully, and will put aside luxuries, choosing rather
what is plain and simple. Let me not, when I find any of Christ's
poorer members in trouble, offer them the vinegar of reproachful
and unkind words, but rather show them tenderness and help
them.
50. IT Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice,
yielded up the ghost.
This is the death of Jesus, and it comforts us when we ourselves come
to die. One day we too shall enter on that unknown journey. We
shall go the way of all the earth, but we can say, " Though I walk
through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil : for
Thou art with me." He died that we might not fear to die. Deliver
us, O Lord, in that last hour from the malice of the devil, and
from all sin and evil, and grant us a happy and peaceful end for
Thy loving mercies' sake.

174 Signs after the Crucifixion. [S. Matt. XXVII.
51. And, behold, the veil of the temple was rent in twain from
the top to the bottom; and the earth did quake, and the rocks
rent ;
By the death of Jesus a way was opened into heaven, and the wrath
of God against sin revealed, and hearts deeply stirred to repentance.
What wonder then if the veil flew asunder, and the ground trembled,
and the rocks rent ! We should be duller than these lifeless things
if the events of Good Friday wake no feeling ill our hearts.
52. And the graves were opened; and many bodies of the
saints which slept arose, 53. and came out of the graves after
his resurrection, and went into tlie holy city, and appeared
unto many.
The open graves and risen bodies represent the corrupt and lifeless
hearts which the death of Jesus should quicken to new life. He
began His risen life not alone, but taking with Him certain of the
old saints to share His triumph. One day all who sleep will arise
and stand before God.
54. Now when the centurion, and they that were with him,
watching Jesus, saw the earthquake, and those things that were
done, they feared greatly, saying, Truly this was tlie Son of
God. What else can we say after meditating on our Saviour's death?
There is such weakness and yet strength, such a union of power
and glory with a death of shame, such thrilling words and behaviour,
and all in accordance with prophecy. So many mysteries unite
round the death of lingering pain which Jesus suffered for us, that
we cannot but acknowledge His Divine glory.
55. And many women were there beholding afar off, which
followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him: 56. among
which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James
and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee' s children.
During His life they had followed the steps of Jesus, listened to His
instruction, supplied His wants from their own means. They had
the courage now to stand near His Cross. And then, after He rose
again, they were favoured with an early sight of Him. In con
sidering the Passion let us unite ourselves in spirit to these pious
lookers-on, and renew in ourselves the sorrow and love with which
they contemplated it.
57. When the even was come, there came a rich man of Ari-
mathosa, named Joseph, who also himself was Jesus' disciple :
58. he went to Pilate, and begged tlie body of Jesus. Then
Pilate commanded the body to be delivered.
Joseph, though he was rich and had plenty to lose, yet was not
afraid to declare himself on the side of the Crucified. It is easy to

Ver. 64.] Christ in the Grave. 175
stand up for religion when all men speak well of it ; but when it is
mocked, despised, and hated, then to be a lover of Jesus exposes
to suspicion and shame, then is the proof of our courage. Follow
Joseph's example, and do not be afraid to declare yourself a
believer, a communicant, a lover of God's Church and Word.
59. And when Joseph had taken the body, he wrapped it in
a clean linen doth, 60. and laid it in his own new tomb, which
he had liewn out in the rock : and he rolled a great stone to the
door of the sepulchre, and departed.
So should we at the Holy Table sacramentally receive Jesus into our
hearts. He should find there a " new " dwelling, renewed by grace
and where sin has no hold, "clean" affections that cling to Him
above all and forsake all love that is against His will, after Com
munion the heart's door closed and evil thoughts kept out. It
was a great honour for Joseph to receive and bury the sacred Body
of Christ, but we enjoy no less when we receive the same Body
spiritually under sacramental signs.
61. And there was Mary Magdalene, and tlie other Mary,
sitting over against the sepulchre.
True Christians will occupy themselves in meditating on Christ's
death after the pattern of the holy women. Jesus was now
hidden from their sight, yet they still thought of Him. Death
could not destroy their love. So we, when we lose our friends out
of sight, may remember that they still live with God and are
praying for us. We do not sorrow as those that have no hope.
62. 1T Now the next day, that followed the day of tlie pre
paration, the chief priests and Pharisees came together unto
Pilate, 63. saying, Sir, we remember that that deceiver said,
while he was yet alive, After three days I will rise again.
It is for our consolation that Jesus Christ was called a deceiver. If
any speak or think ill of us without cause, we can remember that
our Master fared the same. Notice how Christ's enemies remember
His warnings of the Resurrection, let us who are His friends not
be slower to remember His words and comfort ourselves by them.
St. Paul's most persuasive argument in his most touching last
appeal to his friends was, "Remember the words of the Lord
Jesus, how He said."
64. Command therefore that the sepulchre be made sure until
the third day, lest his disciples come by night, and steal him
away, and say unto the people, He is risen from the dead : so
the last error shall be worse than the first.
What profit are all these wise precautions against the almighty
power of God? it is like straws thinking to stop the course of a
strong river. Do not be afraid of men, they and their plans are as
nothing against God's will, He overrules and disposes of all. In

176 Easter Morning. [S. Matt. XXVIII.
the world's history many welcome truths have been repressed by
violence and thought to be dead and buried, yet God has brought
them out to light in His good time.
65. Pilate said unto them, Ye have a watch : go your way,
make it as sure as ye can. 66. So they went, and made tlie
sepulchre sure, sealing the stone, and setting a watch.
There are some whose hearts are barred against Christian faith.
They will not believe in our risen Lord. We can but pray God to
roll away the stone from within and let His light shine on them.
It is not arguments so much as prayers and love that can lead them
to Jesus. So ends the history of Christ's Passion. Soon we shall
have to follow the same road of death. In that solitary and awful
hour of our departure hence, when the world and friends and means
will all be as nothing to us, will not our Saviour's Cross and
burial and rising again be our only support ?

CHAPTER XXVIII.
X. Christ's resurrection is declared by an angel to the women. 9. He him
self appeareth unto them. 11. The high priests give the soldiers
money to say that he was stolen out of his sepulchre. 16. Christ
appeareth to his disciples, 19. and sendeth them to baptize and teach
all nations.
IN the end of the sabbath, as it began to dawn toward the
first day of the week, came Mary Magdalene and the other
Mary to see the sepulchre.
What wonderful things they saw in that visit ! Rise early to serve
God and you will not repent of it. You will find in those early
morning hours God's Presence, with all the comforts and blessings
of grace more ready for you than at any other time. These women
started in sorrow, but came home with great joy. Such is God's
way for us, through tears into everlasting happiness.
2. And, behold, there was a great earthquake : for the angel
of the Lord descended from heaven, and came and rolled back
the stone from the door, and sat upon it.
Jesus had risen silently in the darkness, and this angel was the first
preacher of the Resurrection, sent to tell men of it. At our
Lords birth, in His temptation, in His agony, angels attended
on Him, so, now that He is glorified after all His sufferings, they
rejoice with Him. '
3. His countenance was like lightning, and his raiment white
as snow :
Above frail men there are other creatures like this angel, full of

Ver. 9.] Heavenly Greetings. 177
majesty and glory. Many orders of beings there are beneath us,
and some above. We can be one with the heavenly host in
praising God, in obedience, and in purity, now, and so be preparing
to form one body with them hereafter.
4. And for fear of him the keepers did shake, and became as
dead men.
If the keepers had only known what treasure they had been guarding,
then they would have felt joy, not terror. How many priests are
intrusted with the keeping of the Lord's Word and Sacraments,
and yet profit little from being so near Him ! They are close to
heavenly things, yet get no good by them.
5. And the angel answered and said unto the women, Fear
not ye : for I know that ye seek Jesus, which was crucified.
Ye seek the Crucified. You are not ashamed of Him Who died a death
of shame, therefore God gives you comfort and encouragement. In
sudden dangers and trials others may be alarmed, but God says to
true Christians, " Fear not ye. " What can hurt the risen Saviour's
friends ?
6. He is not here : for he is risen, as he said. Come, see
the place where the Lord lay.
The bones of the mightiest princes remain in the grave till the resur
rection day ; of Jesus only can it be said, " He is not here : for He
is risen." Earth is now only the place where He once dwelt, and
where He will be seen again in His glory.
7. And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from
tlie dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee ; there
shall ye see him : lo, I have told you.
Now we have to tell others that He is risen, and that they must live
in that faith. As yet we do not see Him, for He is gone before us.
We are travelling towards a better place, where we shall meet Him
again.
8. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear
and great joy ; and did run to bring his disciples word.
In our Easter there should be "fear." We should fear our sins, the
strength of temptation, the difficulties and burdens of the world,
God's awful holiness ; but yet there should be " great j oy " on account
of God's goodness, Jesus' love, the means of grace, the hope of
heaven, the triumph over death. When we have made the Divine
tidings our own we should run to make others partakers of them also.
9. IT And as they went to tell his disciples, behold, Jesus met
them, saying, All hail. And they came and held him by the
feet, and worshipped him.
The first kindly greeting of the risen Saviour is for those who had
M

178 An Easter Journey. [S. Matt. XXVIII.
stood by Him in His sufferings and death. He met the holy
women with a welcome, and let them touch His sacred feet and
assure themselves that His risen body was real. Now they
worshipped Him, for they saw He was mighty to save.
10. Then said Jesus unto them, Be not afraid: go tell my
brethren that they go into Galilee, and there shall they see me.
Weak nature was still afraid of so strange a triumph over death, so
that Christ encouraged them and strengthened them and gave them
a message to bear for Him. He calls the disciples His brethren,
and tells them to meet Him. What are Christians thinking
of who give themselves up wholly to this world when they are
brothers of the risen Jesus, and called to share His heavenly home ?
ii. 5T Now when they were going, behold, some of the watch
came into the city, and shewed unto the chief priests all the
things that were done.
When the chief priests heard these unwelcome tidings, the earthquake,
the angels' visit, the opened grave, they should have recognised
God's hand, and confessed that they might have been wrong.
They should have turned to God in prayer and sought for more
light. But they were too proud to confess their fault or admit that
the Crucified One might have been a messenger from heaven.
1 2. And when they were assembled with the elders, and had
taken counsel, they gave large money unto the soldiers, 13. say
ing, Say ye, His disciples came by night, and stole him away
while we slept. 14. And if this come to the governor's ears, we
will persuade him, and secure you.
Money is often Christ's enemy. He was blamed for preaching
against the love of money. .He was sold for money Himself.
Money hushed up the glorious Resurrection news. Money corrupts
the hearts of His disciples now. The sacred ministry has been
degraded by avaricious money-loving priests. If it please God to
increase our store, let us intreat Him that our hearts be not made
false or hard by it.
15. So they took the money, and did as they were taught : and
this saying is commonly reported among the Jews until this day.
Such is the course of a lie. It goes on and on, spreading through
wider circles, and has an influence for all time. How many Jews
were turned away by this falsehood from believing on our Lord's
resurrection ! Take care lest you set on foot any untruth. It will
be out of your power to stop its progress.
16. TT Then the eleven disciples went away into Galilee, into
a mountain where Jesus had appointed them.
They went more readily on this Easter journey than they had gone
to the Mount of Agony, or that of Death, in their Lord's suffering
days. It was like a renewal of His early ministry when He first

Ver. 20.] The Great Commission. 179
won their hearts. He is ready still to give us comfort and peace after
trouble ; let us only wait patiently on Him, and light will return.
1 7. And when they saw him, they worshipped him : but some
doubted. Probably this was the appearance to five hundred brethren at once
which S. Paul mentions, for there are still doubts and fears in the
minds of some. ' ' Could it really be Jesus ? " they asked ; '.' could He
have literally risen ? " Yet they all alike joined in worshipping Him,
and then He came near and taught them again. Let us ask of
God a living faith in His Son, that we may triumph over un
belief and persevere in adoring our dear Saviour. Do not give
way to doubts, but love and serve Jesus, and He will help you to
believe more firmly.
18. And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power
is given unto me in heaven and in earth.
I believe in Thy power. O Lord, make it manifest. Extend the
Church, convert sinners, guide the erring into truth, subdue all
things to Thy will, show Thy power on earth as it is shown in
heaven. Above all, subdue my stubborn heart, and make it truly
Thine.
19. IT Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them
in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy
Ghost :
This is the great commission given to the Church on which Christians
have acted ever since. They go forth to make disciples, not from
one or two nations only, but from all nations in every quarter of the
earth. They baptize with water in the Name of the Holy Trinity,
and so admit into the privileges of the heavenly kingdom. They
teach saving doctrine about God the Father, Jesus Christ His Son,
and the life-giving Spirit. Here we observe the power of Christ's
resurrection. It was by the strength of this only that a few persons
of humble birth and no learning, with all the powers of this world
against them, were able to persuade mankind to believe such hea
venly mysteries and live after so high a pattern.
20. Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have
commanded you : and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the
aid of the world. Amen.
The substance of the message is Jesus Christ, what He did and said
and is still doing. Nothing can be added to or taken away from
this ; and the support of it is also Jesus Christ, His unseen presence,
His powerful grace, His tender love. What can Christians do
without the thought of His nearness to strengthen them? He is
not a good man who lived once, but a living Saviour ever able to
help and befriend us. Be with us, O Lord, in all our works, and
in our prayers, and at Thy holy altar, and when we lie on a bed
of death, and in the world beyond the grave. Leave us not, we
beseech Thee, for Thy tender mercies' sake. Amen.

S. MARK.

CHAPTER I.
x. The office of John the Baptist. 9. Jesus is baptized, 12. tempted, 14. he
preacheth : 16. calleth Peter, Andrew, James and John : 23. healeth
one that had a devil, 29. Peter's mother in law, 32. many-diseased
persons, 41. and cleanseth the leper.
THE beginning of tlie gospel of Jesus Christ, the Son of
God;
The word Gospel means good news. Good news of what? That there is
a Saviour for burdened souls, that God promises forgiveness of sins
and eternal life, that His dear Son has become man to share our life
and to feel for us. Is not this good news ? What messenger could
bring us better ? Now we are beginning to study it afresh, let us
stir up afresh our faith and love, and ask God's grace to read it
in the same spirit that pious Christians did in other days.
2. As it is written in the prophets, Behold, I send my
messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before
thee. What a great honour to be the forerunner of God's Son, and prepare
a way for Him into believers' hearts ! That is His lodging. He
asks for room there. What John did was to knock at the door, and
bid men be ready to entertain their gracious Saviour when He
came. Such is still the work of Christian teachers : they tell men
of the Lord's approach, and bid them put away worldly cares and
find space for thoughts of good to come in.
3. The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye tlie
way of the Lord, make his patlis straight.
No wonder he cries so loud. Thorns and briers of unkindness,
floods of evil passions, stones of offence, block up all the way.
The enemy has barred it across, and made it hard to find. Lord,
rouse us with this mighty cry, that we may apply ourselves to the
work of salvation. Do thou clear away what is amiss in us, and
enter into our hearts and dwell there as our gracious Master.
4. John did baptize in the wilderness, and preach the baptism
of repentance for the remission of sins.
John's baptism signified sorrow for past sins and desire to lead a new

Ver. 9.] The Beginning of the Gospel. 181
life hereafter. Many Christians still need preaching like His.
They have to learn that death is near and judgment certain, that
now is the time to repent, that a fresh beginning should be made
and some true self-denial practised. Oh for a plain and sincere voice
like John's, to put us in mind of our duty and make us repent !
5. And there went out unto him all the land of Judosa, and
they of Jerusalem, and were all baptized of him in the river of
Jordan, confessing their sins.
To confess our sins is a hard thing for pride. Yet how else can we
begin a new life ? The Jews were deeply moved by John's preach
ing ; they sought his guidance, opened their hearts to him, sought
his baptism, which was asign of purity, and asked him for instructions
how to live. We have just as much reason to give heed to the
voice now as they had then. The promises will not profit us unless
we have obeyed the warnings first.
6. And John was clothed with camel's hair, and with a girdle
of a skin about his loins ; and he did eat locusts and wild honey;
We can at least avoid vanity and expense in dress and daintiness
about our food. Those who preach of heavenly joys ought to show
that they are in earnest by despising earthly ones. Lord, help us
to deny ourselves. We have lived too much for our own pleasure
in past days. Let us avoid luxuries in future, or share them among
the sick and poor.
7. And preached, saying, There cometh one mightier than I
after me, the latehet of whose shoes I am not worthy to stoop
down and unloose.
John's preaching led up to a Saviour to come. He did not keep
men always looking into themselves, but pointed them on to One
Who is mighty to save. His work was to impart a sense of sin, but
peace and love and hope can come only through accepting Christ.
Consider how great was His dignity before Whom the Baptist
trembled, and said he was not worthy to render Him the humblest
service.
8. I indeed have baptized you with water : but he shall bap
tize you with the Holy Ghost.
Christians are at baptism made members of Christ, and receive His
Spirit. Grant, Lord, that we may not quench it. Forgive us the
many sins by which we have grieved Thy Spirit. Let it abide in
us and guide us all our life. John Baptist can speak of repent
ance, Jesus can give grace and power.
9. And it came to pass in those days, that Jesus came from
Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan.
How strange that the sinless One should come to be baptized with
sinners ! Yet when God's Son had once determined to become

182 Jesus with the Wild Beasts. [S. Mark I.
man and live here like us, all the other humiliations followed
naturally. The complaint under which we suffered is pride, and
so the Saviour began to teach us humility by His example first,
then by His words.
10. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw tlie
heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon
him: n. and there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou
art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased.
Alas I for our sins, which have closed heaven to us, and driven away
the gracious Spirit, and stilled the heavenly voice which told us
we were God's children. Where is that sure hope which opens
heaven, and that tender love which tells us of the Spirit's presence,
and that faith in the Son of God by which we become acceptable
to His Father? All this gracious scene is a picture of what our
life ought to be.
12. And immediately the spirit driveth him into the wilder
ness. Before Jesus began to comfort the souls of others He had made
trial of the wilderness Himself. He left behind Him His peace
ful home and the favour of men. He obeyed the voice which bade
Him give up all and set Himself to convert and save the world.
While I go through life's changes let my journey be under God's
guidance, and after His Son's footsteps. He will make the desert
blossom for me.
13. And he was there in the wilderness forty days, tempted
of Satan ; and was with the wild beasts ; and the angels minis
tered unto him.
Glory be to Thee, O Jesus, for having experienced temptation ! Satan
puts deadly thoughts of evil into my heart. Men's passions rage
around me like wild beasts. The world's pleasures rise up before
me, but I remember that my Master felt all this and overcame.
He was not persuaded, nor frightened, nor deceived. So at last
the temptation ended and messengers of peace came to sustain
Him.
14. Now after that John was put in prison, Jesus came into
Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God,
Welcome to this good news of the kingdom ; it is not for Galilee
only, but for believers everywhere. God is our King. True
happiness lies in obeying Him, misery in rebelling against Him.
Pardon is offered to us now and a way back to His presence. His
kingdom is full of power and mercy. Let us accept it now in faith,
and hope one day to behold it victorious over sin and death.
15. And saying, The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of
God is at hand : repent ye, and believe the gospel.
Here are the four heads of Christ's first sermon. The first is, God

Ver. 20.] Fishers of Men. 183
does all things in order, signs and warnings and prophecies are all
coming to a fulfilment. God's promise comes true at last. And the
second is, God's kingdom is at hand. He alone can and ought
to reign over us. And the third, Repentance is the way into that
kingdom. Put away sins and seek for pardon. And the last, Believe
the Gospel, accept the truths that Jesus brings. They are beyond
reason, but faith can approve and live by them.
1 6. Now as he walked by the sea of Galilee, he saw Simon
and Andrew his brother casting a net into the sea : for they
were fisliers.
He saw them as He passed one day, but His eternal purpose had
chosen them long before to be His instruments in converting the
world. Lord, I know not what Thy gracious purpose is for me,
let me at least be glad and ready to fulfil it when I do know, mean
while I am sure that honest work at my calling is the best prepara
tion for Thy service.
17. And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will
make you to become fishers of men.
The Lord had caught them, and now set them to catch others. First
they learned how good it was to be His friends, and then they were
able to persuade other men to follow their example. Only remember
that we ourselves must go after Jesus and become His before we
can gain Him any other followers.
18. And straightway they forsook their nets, and followed him.
They had not much to leave, so it was easier. Rich men, or those
who fill a high place and have much honour, find it very hard to
give up themselves to Christ. What a blessing it is to have a
humble station in life like Jesus and His saints had !
19. And when he had gone a little farther thence, he saw
James the son of Zebedee, and John his brother, who also were
in the ship mending their nets.
Perhaps these two brothers had as boys made plans for their future
life. They must have grown up together as obedient, honest, pure-
minded lads, learning all about the sea of Galilee and their work
there. They cared for the boats and nets, but God designed them
to be saints ; for the one he had Herod's sword, for the other the
glorious Revelation, and for both at last a crown in heaven.
20. And straightway he called them: and they left their
father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went
after him.
Let us be on the watch for the heavenly voice. It may bid us give up
little or much, it may call us to work or to suffer, to life or death,
or patient waiting ; but we should follow it with a perfect heart,
and trust that nothing will be lacking to us if we have God for our
friend.

184 A Miracle in the Synagogue. [S. Mark I.
21. And they went into Capernaum ; and straightway on
the sabbath day he entered into the synagogue, and taught.
Happy Capernaum, to have such a Preacher. How devoutly He
joined in prayer and praises, how earnestly He spoke of God His
Father, how truly He disclosed men's hearts ! When we attend
His house we are still able to hear Him and speak to Him. He
has a blessing for those who come there rightly.
22. And tliey were astonished at his doctrine: for he taught
them as one that had authority, and not as the scribes.
Lord, where is this holy freedom in Thy ministers ? When shall we
see them put aside empty phrases, and speak directly from God to
the soul of man ? This is the preaching that will do wonders, the
words of one who does not appeal to men's vanity or tickle their
fancy, but speaks sincerely as in God's presence. Grant us, Lord, to
hear such a message as this and obey it.
23. And there was in their synagogue a man with an unclean
spirit ; and he cried out, 24. saying, Let us alone ; what have
we to do with thee, thou Jesus of Nazareth ? art thou come to
destroy us? I know thee who thou art, the Holy One of God.
How this evil spirit clung to the man, how he flattered and cringed
before the Redeemer 1 Shall we not be on our guard lest such a spirit
get power over us ? If we indulge our own evil desires, and so fall
into deadly sin, we become slaves to a mighty power of evil. What
has a heart where uncleanness dwells to do with the holy Jesus ?
25. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and
come out of him.
This is the purpose of His coming, to drive out Satan's power from the
soul of man. Speak this same word, O Lord, to those evil passions
which lay hold on us, still their filthy suggestions and give us strength
to resist them. We must not flatter sin, but rebuke it plainly.
26. And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried
with a loud voice, he came out of him.
Do not be amazed if the struggle is hard and the evil one fights for
his possession ; so long as we do not lose faith in the Redeemer
Satan cannot destroy us. What a happiness it will be at last to arrive
at the presence of Jesus, and enjoy the purity of heaven, where foul
temptations will cease to assail us !
27. And they were all amazed, insomuch that they questioned
among themselves, saying, What thing is this ? what new doctrine
is this? for with authority commandeth he even the unclean
spirits, and they do obey him.
What life is this so full of love, Whose words so mighty, Whose death
so awful and yet comforting ? How is it that this Man's Name

Ver. 34.] The Healer of Men. 185
has enabled weak mortals to overcome sin and suffer death and rise
to a heavenly life while on earth? What is the secret of His power?
28. And immediately his fame spread abroad throughout all
the region round about Galilee.
Fame could not disturb the modesty of the Lord Jesus, but it is a
great snare for us. If God has given us any talents for which we are
admired or praised, let us beware. Praise is unhealthy for us ; we
should remember at such times to consider our own folly and humble
ourselves frequently before God.
29. And forthwith, when they were come out of the synagogue,
they entered into the house of Simon and Andrew, with James
and John.
Christ went to a fisherman's cottage, though many rich men lived in
Capernaum who would have given Him better accommodation.
What would He say to our luxurious lives ? Would He have found
a place to rest in among costly furniture ?
30. But Simon's wife's mother lay sick of a fever, and anon
they tell him of her.
He knew there was some one there in need of His help. A woman
tossing in all the misery of fever, that was enough to bring Him in.
He bids us care for the sick, refresh their thirst, be patient with them,
relieve their pain. No one's sufferings ever found Him unsym-
pathizing. God sends sickness on purpose to draw out our love in
ministering to it and in pleading for it.
31. And he came and took her by the hand, and lifted her
up; and immediately the fever left her, and she ministered
unto them.
What peace and joy instead of burning pain and dreadful fancies !
What strength to do her business instead of a weary head laid on
the pillow ! How full of gratitude she must have been to the
merciful Saviour Whose hand had led her back to health ! Does
not God raise up souls too from the fever of sin, and give them power
to love Him and do His work ?
32. And at even, when the sun did set, they brought unto
him all that were diseased, and them that were possessed with
devils. 33. And all the city was gathered together at the door.
What a scene of suffering ! The narrow street was crowded with
human misery in its various forms, each poor sufferer endeavouring
to catch the eye or touch the hand of the merciful Jesus. Let us
follow at least His mercy, though we have not His power to heal.
We can seek out and comfort many sufferers, and so do something
to lessen the great mass of the world's wretchedness.
34. And he healed many that were sick of divers diseases,

1 86 Our Lord's Morning Prayers. [S. Mark I.
and cast out many devils ; and suffered not the devils to speak,
because they knew him.
This was the root of faith in many of the first believers. They had
themselves felt Christ's healing power. He had driven the fever
or the frenzy from them. They themselves knew how good He
was, and how mighty to save. They were drawn to each other
and to God by the remembrance of a common mercy. And have
we no such experience ? Who has guarded, helped, and cleansed
us, and borne with us so long ?
35. And in the morning, rising up a great while before day,
he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.
The day was busy, and the house small and crowded, therefore
Jesus sought a lonely place, and a quiet hour before daylight, in
order to pray. This was the first necessity with Him. What shall
we say of our scanty prayers and lazy morning hours ? That is the
sweetest time of all for communion with God. Let us take care
not to lose it. Lord, quicken our dull prayers with some spark
of that earnestness which was in Thine.
36. And Simon and they that were with him followed after
him. 37. And when they had found him, they said unto him,
All men seek for thee.
Work soon comes. But we are happy if we have spent a little time
apart with God first Our life must take in both sides— one, that
of inward communion with our heavenly Friend ; and one, that of
active duty and obedience. Even the Lord Jesus could not long
enjoy seasons of rest. The world's cares and sorrows called Him
back to minister to them.
38. And he said unto them, Let us go into tlie next towns,
that I may preach there also : for therefore came I forth.
This was Christ's purpose. He did not seek honour, or riches, or
power, but He came down from heaven to spread everywhere the
Word of life and recommend it by acts of love. He had not done
His work till every place in the country had been stirred up by
the heavenly message. Let us look on life as having a meaning in
it. What is God's purpose in putting us here ?
39. And he preached in their synagogues throughout all
Galilee, and cast out devils.
We think if only we had listened to those words of grace and seen
those mighty acts we should have been truly converted Those
men of Galilee had such great opportunities when Jesus was among
them. No. His power and love are the same now as ever If
we turn away from His Word now, it is unlikely we should have
profited by it then.
40. And there came a leper to him, beseeching him, and

Ver. 45.] Christ's Healing Touch. 187
kneeling down to him, and saying unto him, If thou wilt, thou
canst make me clean.
What better prayer can we make than this ? My sins are many, my
heart is evil. Thou, O Lord, art the fulness of all goodness.
Thou hast all power. I come before Thee, not trusting in my own
righteousness, for I am unclean, but in Thy manifold and great
mercies. I beseech Thee most humbly and earnestly to take away
my evil inclinations and give me a pure heart.
41. And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand,
and touched him, and saith unto him, I will ; be thou clean.
This represents the sovereign power with which Jesus heals our souls.
He extends His healing hand over us, and guilt is wiped away, and
strength given to lead a new life. The greatness of our misery
draws forth His Divine help. We are not too bad for Him to pity
us. He Who touched the unclean leper will not drive us away.
42. And as soon as he had spoken, immediately the leprosy
departed from him, and he was cleansed.
Does this verse mean figuratively that the Redeemer is able to take
away in a moment that sin which besets me ? that, as this leprosy
was gone in an instant and the sufferer's flesh sound again, so
my conceit, my impurity, my evil tempers, can all disappear and
trouble me no more, if I seek help from the Saviour? Dear friend,
some have found it so. Why should not you be of their number.
43. And he straitly charged him, and forthwith sent him away;
44. and saith unto him, See thou say nothing to any man : but go
thy way, shew thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing
those things which Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
True religion, it would seem, submits to the Church's customs,
honours her ministers, makes offerings at proper seasons. True
religion seeks God's house and desires there to return thanks for
mercies received. The Lord Jesus would never have approved of
those who neglect the Church and despise the clergy. He was
Himself most careful to pay all honour to God's house, and to
those who ministered there, even when He blamed their faults.
45. But he went out, and began to publish it much, and to
blaze abroad the matter, insomuch that Jesus could no more
openly enter into the city, but was without in desert places : and
they came to him from every quarter.
Obedience is the best service. The man who had been healed
thought to do a service to the Lord Jesus by neglecting to obey
Him. Yet he hindered rather than helped. Far better if he had
done as he was ordered, and kept quietly in his heart the memory of
this great deliverance. There are times when it is needful to speak
of God's merciful dealing with us, but in general it is safer to pour
out our gratitude to God in private rather than speak much of our
own conversion.

T88 The Roof uncovered. [S. Mark II.

CHAPTER II.
i. Christ healeth one sick of the palsy, 14. calleth Matthewfrom the receipt
of custom, 15. eateth with publicans and sinners, 18. excuseth his
disciples for not fasting, 23. and for plucking the ears of corn on the
sabbath day.
A ND again he entered into Capernaum after some days ; and
_£\_ it was noised that he was in the house. 2. And straight
way many were gathered together, insomuch that there was no
room to receive them, no, not so much as about the door : and
lie preached the word unto them.
What zealous hearers, and what a Divine Preacher ! In these days
we do not crowd to hear God's Word, nor indeed do preachers
utter it as the Lord Jesus did. Yet, alas ! it had no lasting effect
on many hearts. The people of Capernaum heard Divine words
and saw marvellous acts. For a while they seemed touched, but
the effect soon passed away. Lord, grant us grace so to hear that
we may persevere.
3. And they come unto him, bringing one sick of the palsy,
which was borne of four.
This helpless man represents a state of spiritual weakness, when we
have no power to do good, and scarcely feel our own condition.
We cannot rise and walk. Nay, we are not inclined to draw near
to the Good Physician. It is happy for us if our friends help to
bring us near, if their prayers, their tears, their alms, their forbear
ance, lead us to the knowledge of salvation. It is well they did
not give us up, but kept on praying for us, and hoping that we
should do better.
4. And when they could not come nigh unto him for the
press, they uncovered the roof where he was : and when they had
broken it up, they let down the bed wherein the sick of the palsy
lay. These were friends indeed ; they spared no trouble, they feared no
outcries, they were determined that their sick friend should meet
the Great Healer, and so counted all obstacles as nothing. God
grant us such earnestness when we are trying to convert a soiil :
peace restored to the conscience is still more valuable than health
given back to the body.
5. When Jesus saw their faith, he said unto the sick of the
palsy, Son, thy sins be forgiven thee.
If we could only look into the soul we should see there complaints
that require more skill to cure them than those of the body do.

Ver. 12.] The Palsied Man Walking. 189
Blessed be that Great Physician and true Healer Who can restore
the soul to health now, and raise up the body to perfect glory here
after.
6. But there were certain of the scribes sitting there, and
reasoning in their hearts, 7. Why doth this man thus speak
blasphemies ? who can forgive sins but God only ?
They were right in saying that only God could forgive sins, but wrong
in denying to God's dear Son, visible amongst them, the power of
declaring that forgiveness ; His words, His works, His goodness,
should have kept them from so harsh a judgment, and led them to
see God's pardoning mercy in Him. He was able to forgive, because
only He knew God's mind and will.
8. And immediately when Jesus perceived in his spirit that
they so reasoned within tltemselves, he said unto them, Why
reason ye these things in your hearts? 9. Whether is it easier to
say to the sick of the palsy, Thy sins be forgiven thee; or to say,
Arise, and take up thy bed, and walk ?
We may hide our thoughts from men, but there is One to Whom they
are all open. How many sin chiefly in thought ? how many allow
evil to be cherished within and suppose that no eye is upon them ?
Lord, let me check vile or profane thoughts, and submit my reason
to Thy Divine wisdom in all things. Who am I that I should
attempt to judge of all Thy dealings ?
10. But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power
on earth to forgive sins, (he saith to the- sick of the palsy,) 1 1.
I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy bed, and go thy way
into thine house.
If the Son of Man had power to forgive sins while He was on earth,
how great should be our trust in His mercy, now that He is glori
fied in heaven. He has all power now both in earth and heaven,
and uses it to loose the burdened soul and cast all her sins out of
sight. Sins forgiven and health restored are both fit works for Him
Who came down from heaven to heal us ; they lead our faith to
think of that life to come, when guilt and suffering will both be
done away.
12. And immediately he arose, took up the bed, and went
forth before them all ; insomuch that they were all amazed, and
glorified God, saying, We never saw it on this fashion.
Both Christ's friends and enemies were amazed when they saw this
prostrate helpless sufferer rise and take up his bed and walk away.
Yet God does greater things than this. Lord, make us admire Thy
dealings ; work in us spiritually what was wrought in this sick man ;
cure our coldness, dulness, weak and feeble devotion ; enable us to
rise above our follies, and do our work heartily for Thee.

190 Christ with Publicans and Sinners. [S. Mark II.
13. And he went forth again by the sea side ; and all the
multitude resorted unto him, and he taught them.
Why do Christ's people speak so little of His ways now ? No one
came to Him without hearing something profitable. How many
chances we miss of instructing simple souls in their duty and what
God requires of them ! Consider with what feelings such came
back from their seaside walk, how they talked over the advice of
the Great Teacher, how glad they were to have found some One Who
knew their trials and temptations, and could supply them with the
instruction they needed.
14. And as he passed by, he saw Levi the son of Alphosus
sitting at the receipt of custom, and said unto him, Follow me.
And he arose and followed him.
Grace called Levi (or Matthew,for the two names belong to one person)
from the pursuit of riches to be an apostle and friend of Jesus Christ;
the pursuit of riches called Judas away from the side of Jesus Christ
to become a traitor. The One example encourages us to overcome
hindrances and choose Christ's side boldly, the other warns us how
great is the power of covetousness, and how frail we are. Lord, let
me follow Thee, and never lose my way, but tread in Thy gracious
footsteps accurately. Earthly things must not keep me back when
Thy voice calls me.
15. And it came to pass, that, as Jesus sat at meat in his
house, many publicans and sinners sat also together with Jesus
and his disciples : for there were many, and they followed him.
The Lord Jesus acknowledges many friends whom we know not of.
He does not despise any one or judge of them according to man's
opinion. He is full of kindness, and holds out a merciful hand to
those whom this world despises. What happy news it is to such
persons that they have a friend in Him!
16. And when the scribes and Pharisees saw him eat with
publicans and sinners, they said unto his disciples, How is it
that he eateth and drinketh with publicans and sinners ?
His death was between two thieves, and His lire was spent with
persons like these publicans. Those who lack love cannot compre
hend what love can do to feel for the lost and bring them back.
This is all part of the scandal of the Incarnation. Howis it that God
Who is everywhere, Who is a spirit, Who has all perfectness and
everlasting joy, could take human flesh and be mixed up with this
miserable world ? How is it? Indeed I know not. My human
reason finds such a mystery of love too great.
17. When Jesus heard it, he saith unto them, They that are
whole have no need of the physician, but they that are sick: I
came not to call tlie righteous, but sinners to repentance.
This aspect of Christ as the Physician should be very dear to us. Our

Ver. 22.] Times for Fasting. 191
lack of all true goodness should lead us to depend only on Him for
grace. If my soul was strong and well, if I could overcome temp
tation and live in purity, truth, and courage, if I had no sinful fever,
no cold palsies of the heart, I might get on by myself, but as it is I
must call in the Physician and put myself in His hands.
18. And the disciples of John and of the Pharisees used to
fast : and they come and say unto him, Why do the disciples of
John and of the Pharisees fast, but thy disciples fast not ?
John himself had thought only of preaching repentance, and directing
souls to the Lord Jesus, but now he was shut up in prison his
disciples forgot his teaching, they began to pride themselves on
their religious practices, and to blame the friends of Jesus for not
being so strict. The habit of judging others is so great a snare and
so apt to creep over us. In all cases where there is no clear and
open sin, we had better leave judgment to God, Who tries the
heart.
19. And Jesus said unto them, Can the children of the bride-
chamber fast, while tlie bridegroom is with them ? as long as
tliey have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast.
These were the first days of joy, when the true Friend and Guide
of souls had come forth in His own world to disclose to hearts
their secret, and tell men of a heavenly Father's love. Jesus
would not spoil such a season by thoughts of grief; soon would
come offences and separation and desertion and the Cross, but for
the time all was joyful. When God sends us such times let us
accept them thankfully, and use them to gain strength for trials to
come.
20. But the days will come, when the bridegroom sliall be
taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.
Such is mostly our condition. We mourn for an absent Lord, not that
His presence is not sometimes felt, but for the most part we do not
see or hear Him. The world presses round and makes a barrier
between Him and our souls* If our best friend is away, does a life
of joy and ease befit us ? should we not take pains to give up some
pleasures and show thus at least our sympathy with those who
suffer ?
21. No man also seweth a piece of new cloth on an old gar
ment : else the new piece that filled it up taketh away from the
ofd, and the rent is made worse.
What was Moses' law but the old garment, and Christ's Gospel but
the new cloth ? He did not come to add on pious practices to those
in use before, but to supply a righteousness of faith that could cover
all our shortcomings, and make us fit to appear in God's presence.
22. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles : else the
new wine doth burst the bottles, and the wine is spilled, and the

192 Jesrls defends His Disciples. [S. Mark III.
bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new
bottles. The old skins are Jewish hearts, and the new wine the power of the
Spirit. Lord, change my heart that it may be fit to receive Thy
heavenly truth, grace, and pardon. Yet Christ's Cross and promises
of heaven may be misused by carnal minds. God's great love may
be turned into our ruin. Grant us to accept Thy mercy with trem
bling, and preserve it safe in a thankful humbled spirit.
23. And it came to pass, that he went through the cornfields
on the sabbath day ; and his disciples began, as they went, to
pluck the ears of corn.
Jesus wrought no miracle to satisfy Himself or His disciples. His
wonder-working power had nothing selfish in it. When we think
of the disciples eating a few ears of corn to appease their hunger,
we see how literally they had given up all to follow Jesus. Let us
not complain if God accepts our professions of obedience and sends
us the trial of want.
24. And the Pharisees said unto him, Behold, why do they
on the sabbath day that which is not lawful ?
Look for the spirit of God's law, not the mere letter, or you will go
wrong. His law is one of mercy and justice and love, those who
cherish these tempers. keep it best. How often have we, like these
Pharisees, blamed our neighbour's actions without any thought of
the need he was in; we cannot judge aright without sympathy.
25. And he said unto them, Have ye never read what David
did, when he had need, and was an hungred, he, and they that
were with him ?
Christ will defend us if we are His followers. What matters it that I
have nothing to say, if such an Advocate will undertake my cause?
Scripture is written to show us how God feels for the needs and
sorrows of men, how He relieves them in nature and grace, and
provides for them heavenly food. It is there that we can read best
of man's need and God's mercy.
2 6. How he went into the house of God in the days of Abiathar
the high priest, and did eat the shewbread, which is not lawful
to eat but for the priests, and gave also to them which were
with him ?
What, the holy bread which none but priests might eat, and that in the
temple 1 Yes, God gives up even His own share to relieve man's
necessity, in order to show us how ready we should be to sacrifice
our treasures for our brethren. Lord, quicken my cold heart that
I may feel for those who suffer, and spare nothing to provide for
their wants.
27. And he said, unto them, The sabbath was made for man,
and not man for the sabbath :

Ver. 3.] The Lord of the Sabbath. 193
All God's revelation, with its precepts and ordinances, was made for
man ; both Old Testament and New made to relieve his burden,
enlighten his darkness, raise him by degrees to a higher life. God
has wonderfully suited His Word to our nature. His Sabbath was
meant to secure a season for repose, to protect the weak from
excessive labour and give time for God's worship, not to prevent
the believer from satisfying his hunger.
28. Therefore the Son of man is Lord also of the sabbath.
A living faith in Christ Jesus the Saviour of the world will teach us
which is the right way to observe God's ordinances ; they find
their right place when we look to Christ first ; He is their end as
well as their Founder. It is hard to lay down exactly rules for
spending Sunday aright, yet it is not hard for one to spend it
rightly who loves and worships the Lord Jesus, and delights to
find opportunity for Divine worship and acts of mercy. He will
see how his Sabbath day ought to be disposed of, that too belongs
to his Saviour like other days, not to himself.

CHAPTER III.
1. Christ healeth the withered hand, xo. and many other infirmities : 11.
rebuketh the unclean spirits : 13. chooseth his twelve apostles : 22.
con vinceth the blasphemy of casting out devils by Beelzebub : 31. and
sheweth who are his brother, sister, and mother.
A ND he entered again into the synagogue ; and there was a
.O. man there which had a withered hand.
This poor sufferer who came to the synagogue with his lifeless hand
bound up, having no feeling or warmth in it, reminds us of a
Christian who does not use his hand to bestow alms or do any
good work, of one whose hands are idle or who is too cowardly to
stand up for the truth. Such hands are useless in God's sight,
such an infirmity comes from the heart. God alone has power to
heal it
2. And they watched him, whether he would heal him on the
sabbath day ; that they might accuse him.
Do not observe on others' actions in this spirit. The Pharisees might
have learned many useful lessons from our Lord's behaviour, but
they studied it only in order to find matter for blame. What fools
to remain so long in the presence of the True Light and yet be stdl
dark ! Yet sometimes we do the same when with good people,
instead of looking for any good thing in them that we may copy,
we blame or judge them harshly.
3. And he saith unto the man which had the withered hand,
Stand forth.

194 Jesus is grieved with hard Hearts. [S. Mark. III.
Fear of what men might say never kept back our Lord from doing
any good. Let us pray Him to give us the same courage.
He sought to persuade the Pharisees of the righteousness of
showing mercy as well as to heal the sufferer. He tried to stir up
their compassion, and bade them look on the helpless limb.
4. And he saith unto them, Is it lawful to do good on the
sabbath days, or to do evil ? to save life, or to kill ? But they
held their peace.
Then the Lord Jesus counts it as good as killing if we selfishly neglect
our brethren, if we let them die in misery, if we do not do all that
is possible to relieve, help, and comfort them ; it is doing evil, it is
killing, if we are not active to help. Lord, root this truth in
our hearts and stir us up to works of kindness.
5. And when he had looked round about on them with anger,
being grieved for the hardness of their hearts, he saith unto the
man, Stretch forth thine hand. And he stretched it out : and
his hand was restored whole as the other.
What does He feel now when He looks into the hearts of many pro
fessing Christians? To Him selfishness and malice are hateful.
He abhors a hard heart. His only desire on earth was to do good,
and those who have that same desire now are His friends and dear
to Him. At His word the helpless hand was stretched out, though
it had seemed impossible to lift. In trying to obey Him healing
came.
6. And the Pharisees went forth, and straightway took
counsel with the Herodians against him, how they might destroy
him. What ! is this the effect of seeing such a great work of mercy ? They
only hated the Great Healer more, and planned to destroy Him.
What is the effect on me of coming near to Christ at His altar, of
hearing His Holy Word , of being brought among His true servants ?
All round me are His mercies and judgments. If a selfish, unkind
profane spirit reigns within me, I am like these Pharisees, only with
less excuse. These plots did not hinder Christ's work or make Him
anxious, for He had no fear of man.
7. But Jesus withdrew himself with his disciples to the sea •
and a great multitude from Galilee followed him, and from
Judwa, 8. and from Jerusalem, and from Idumcea, and from
beyond Jordan; and they about Tyre and Sidon, a great
multitude, when they had heard what great things he did came
unto him.
Let our reason for coming to Him be the same. We have heard
what great things He has done, how He has been the Guide and
Friend of countless souls, has sustained the sorrowful has
strengthened martyrs, has converted the fallen. Great multitudes in

Ver. 13.] Evil Spirits forbidden to speak. 195
every age have been His faithful servants and have found Him a
good Master. Let us join ourselves to this company and endeavour
to listen to the. gracious message. It will be a great joy to find
Him, though the road is sometimes a long one.
9. And he spake to his disciples, that a small ship should
wait on him because of the multitude, lest they should throng
him. The Lord Jesus would have things done quietly and in order. This
boat was His pulpit to preach from, and it carried Him from place
to place to do His works of mercy. When He was in it the crowd
of eager sufferers had to pause. They had to listen to His words
and come one by one before Him. He bids us provide for order
and reverence in doing His work. He is a God of order, not of
confusion.
10. For he had healed many; insomuch that they pressed
upon him for to touch him, as many as had plagues.
This is true charity, to welcome all who need our help. This was
their title to Christ's services, that they were afflicted. He did not
inquire into their dispositions nor blame their crowding round Him,
but welcomed and relieved them. How He rejoices when we seek
Him for our soul's good, when we hasten to bring our sorrows and
sins under His merciful eye by a true confession !
1 1. Andundean spirits, when they saw him, fell down before
him, and cried, saying, Thou art the Son of God.
His presence was terrible to the unclean spirits. They worshipped,
but it was in fear, not in love. Their uncleanness could not bear
Him so near. Lord, let me come before Thee as reverently and
confess Thee as truly, but with peace and joy, not with hopeless
dread. I can find comfort in Thy presence. Thou art come to be
my Saviour. Let the day never come that I should see Thy glory,
and yet feel in despair that I had no part in it.
1 2. And he straitly charged them that they should not make
him known.
Such preachers would profit no one. He would not have His truth
set forth by evil spirits. Lord, grant Thy ministers pure lips and
true hearts, that they may make Thee known in a saving way. How
can they preach Thy faith if they are unclean, or unbelieving in
heart ? Only the Holy Spirit can give a Christian power to speak
of his Master as He should be spoken of.
13. And he goeth up into a mountain, and calleth unto him
whom he would : and they came unto him.
Our Lord went first. He set a high example to His priests, one of a
perfect state full of prayer and sacrifice. Yet He is pleased to call
frail men to share it. It is His choice alone that can set them
apart, His Spirit that can sanctify them. If their calling were ol

196 The Twelve are chosen. [S. Mark III.
themselves, not of Him, if selfish motives and not His leading brought
them there, they would have reason to despair. Who can climb this
mountain and find the Lord Jesus on it except His merciful voice
and guiding hand lead them on ?
14. And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him,
and that he might send them forth to preach, 15. and to have
power to heal sicknesses, and to cast out devils :
What a glorious work, to be with Jesus ! There is sweet and heavenly
society fit to raise the whole man towards heaven. And to preach
about Him. There is a saving message full of power, able to raise
grovelling souls from the dust. What a treasure is put into the
hands of His ministers to impart to men ! And to do works of mercy
for Him, healing the afflicted and making war on Satan. There
is a commission to comfort and rebuke with power. Since Christ
has appointed this office and ministry for the salvation of mankind,
and has called mortals into it, we should thank Him for such a gift,
and honour those who discharge it, and pray that their faults may
not hinder His work.
16. And Simon he sumamed Peter ; 17. and James the son
of Zebedee, and John the brother of James ; and he sumamed
them Boanerges, which is, The sons of thunder: 18. and
Andrew, and Philip, and Bartholomew, and Matthew, and
Thomas, and James the son of Alphceus, and Thaddceus, and
Simon the Canaanite,
This small company of unlearned men were to be the founders of the
Church and the teachers of the world. They had no wealth, no
outward gifts. But He Who called them knew what they needed.
Their weakness served to set forth His almighty power. The
twelve sons of Jacob received their dying father's blessing and
founded the tribes of the earthly Israel. The apostles inherited the
promises of Christ and ruled the Church, which is the spiritual
Israel. We all owe much to these men. They had faith to discern
their true Lord and grace to obey His call. We should have been
in heathen darkness but for them.
19. And Judas Iscariot, which also betrayed him: and they
went into an house.
Alas ! here is a Christian priest who is only known for having-
betrayed his Master. There have been many since who have won
for themselves this same dreadful distinction. When we meet with
unworthy priests we must learn to look beyond them to their
Master. He is true, though His servants may be false. And we
must look to ourselves lest we chance to turn traitors also All
these twelve shared our Lord's company and sat at His table but
one of them found no profit in it.
20. And the multitude cometh together again, so that tliey
could not so much as eat bread.

Ver. 26.] Jesus is thought mad. 197
Christ's example bids His servants reckon themselves as the servants
of their brethren, mind no trouble for them, give up their own
ease, suffer inconvenience kindly, and count no time too precious
to bestow in comforting or teaching them. If the King of Glory
was content to be so taken up with the concerns of sinners, shall
we be stiff and proud, and prefer our own comfort to doing good ?
21. And when his friends heard of it, they went out to lay
hold on him : for they said, He is beside himself.
What a blessed insanity to be so taken up with works of mercy as
quite to forget oneself ! Jesus put aside His own comfort and His
credit too with great people and all this world's prospects, and
seemed likely to sacrifice His own life by His labours. So His
friends thought He was out of His mind. When believers are
reviled as fools for valuing the next world more than this, let them
take comfort in remembering that Perfect Wisdom was once thought
silly by His creatures.
22. IT And the scribes which came down from Jerusalem
said, He hath Beelzebub, and by the prince of the devils casteth
he out devils.
Are there not Christians who make a mock of goodness, who sneer at
a sinner's conversion, who have always a word against a spotless
character? What a terrible habit it is to be accustomed to doubt of
all goodness ! Lord, give us eyes to discern and a heart to acknow
ledge Thy gracious working, and to ascribe glory readily to
Thee.
23. And he called them unto him, and said unto them in
parables, How can Satan cast out Satan ?
Satan does not cast out Satan, and yet one believer persecutes another,
and sinners (as far as lie in their power) persecute God Himself
and drive Him from their hearts. The evil one knows better ; when
his messengers have entered a soul, he is careful not to distract or
oppose them, he would have us enjoy evil and so be ruined. Lord,
keep us from his snares, our only trust is in Thee.
24. And if a kingdom be divided against itself, that king
dom cannot stand. 25. And if a house be divided against
itself, that house cannot stand.
Let every family and nation and church learn this lesson, division
means ruin ; our only power to do good is in a union of loving
hearts. Christians should strive earnestly for peace. How can
God's kingdom prosper while His followers bite and devour each
other? How easily Satan would be overcome if believers were only
at one together.
26. And if Satan rise up against himself, and be divided,
he cannot stand, but hath an end.

198 Sins forgiven and unforgiven. [S. Mark IV.
What sin then it is to cause divisions ! How we should strive for
unity I and if in these sad days we cannot yet stand entirely together,
let us agree in all we can ; let our object be to put an end to the
devil's work. Down with hatred and drunkenness and cruelty,
down with ignorance ; let Christ's Cross be our standard, and be set
up in the dark places of the earth.
27. No man can enter into a strong man's house, and spoil
his goods, except he will first bind the strong man; and then he
will spoil his house.
Satan is strong, but Christ is stronger. Satan has stolen into my
heart, but Christ is its true Master. I regret the devil's service and
cast out his foul desires. I am not afraid of him, for my true Lord
and King has come, and I have prepared an apartment for Him.
He will reign there and bring peace and true joy with Him, but I
must for a while guard my heart's door, and watch lest the evil one
return.
28. Verily I say unto you, All sins sliall be forgiven unto
the sons of men, and blasphemies wherewith soever they shall
blaspheme :
What a gracious promise ! How can we doubt of forgiveness ? The
gate of mercy is never closed against any one who knocks in
earnest. Iff am ever tempted to despair because of my many sins, I
will plead this great promise of my Saviour, which is wide enough
to cover all the evil I have done or said.
29. But he that shall blaspheme against the Holy Ghost hath
never forgiveness, but is in danger of eternal damnation : 30.
because tliey said, He hath an unclean spirit.
A hard heart can stop all the ocean of God's mercy and undo the
power of Christ's Blood. He who will not believe goodness misses
it, his heart feels no love and no sorrow, he does not desire
pardon, he mocks at God's work. All the almightiness of God
cannot change such a heart, because it refuses to be changed.
Lord, keep me from profaneness, lest I slide into this frightful con
dition.
31. IT There came then his brethren and his mother, and,
standing without, sent unto him, calling him.
Our Lord's family could not understand His conduct, they feared for
His health, they could not grasp the meaning of His words, they
had lost Him, thsy felt, from among them. Sometimes He calls
souls to follow Him apart, to put aside their home ties, to give up
the world, and to devote themselves wholly to His work. Lord,
when such occasions come, grant that we may acknowledge Thy
guidance, and submit our human hearts to Thy holy will.
32. And tlie multitude sat about him, and they said unto
him, Behold, thy mother and thy brethren without seek for thee.

Ver. 2.] Christ's Mother and Brethren. 199
33. And he answered t/tem, saying, Who is my mother, or my
brethren ?
Sometimes our dearest friends come between us and God ; they would
fain, out of mere love, draw us away from heavenly things. They
seek for us, yet only for what is earthly in us, forgetting the soul,
which is God's image. Lord, give us grace at such times to answer
as Thou didst, yet preserving a tender love for them, and never
forgetting the duties which we owe them. Show Thy servants
the right path when they are in a strait between claims of earth
and heaven.
34. And he looked round about on them which sat about him,
and said, Behold my mother and my brethren I 35. For who
soever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my
sister, and mother.
Here is a tie between us and the Lord Jesus. Let us but do God's will
patiently, heartily, and thoroughly, and we are as dear to our
Saviour as His own mother and friends whom He loved. Here
are kindred for us, our earthly friends may be dead or grown cold,
but Jesus and His saints know us well. We are at home with them,
they look for us when our journey is over, and have a welcome
ready.

CHAPTER IV.
1. The parable of the sower, 14. and the meaning thereof. 21. We must
communicate the light of our knowledge to others. 26. The parable
of the seed growing secretly, 30. and of the mustard seed. 35. Christ
stilleth the tempest on the sea.
A ND he began again to teach by tlie sea side : and there was
Xi. gathered unto him a great multitude, so that he entered
into a ship, and sat in the sea ; and the whole multitude was
by the sea on the land.
Never was such a preacher, nor teaching that so went home to the
hearers, but it was uttered from a fishing-boat to a crowd of simple
and unlearned people who stood on the beach, and it was full of
plain figures and homely words. Lord, grant us such preachers,
that Thy people may press to hear Thy Word and find life in it.
Let us desire to hear not grand words, but plain truths about God
and ourselves.
2. And he taught them many things by parables, and said
unto them in his doctrine,
Parables deal with two worlds, one of which explains the other Our
Master found in the fields and streams and rocks, in the sun and
dew, the fruits and flowers, figures to bring home to those who are

Fruitless Sowing. [S. Mark IV.

willing to learn great lessons of grace. He meant us, when we see
the beautiful world without that God has made, to consider it as a
parable of the inward work of the Spirit, which has its own wonders
and charms also. A faithful soul is always learning by the parables
or figures which God puts before her.
3. Hearken ; Behold, there went out a sower to sow :
A Christian teacher is a husbandman sent by God the Great Master
to sow in a certain field. He must take care to sow in that field
which God has sent him, not wander into other fields ; and to sow,
not to be dreaming idly; and to sow the good seed which his
Master gave him, not anything of his own devising. Let all those
who have to instruct any one about God give heed to these rules.
What will the Great Master say of our sowing when He comes
round to visit His fields ?
4. And it came to pass, as he sowed, some fell by the way
side, and the fowls of the air came and devoured it up.
It is no profit speaking of heavenly things to those whose hearts are
a prey to evil passions. Pride and vainglory and evil desires rule
there, and the holy seed is lost at once. We should warn our hearers
that only prepared hearts can profit by God's Word. In every
congregation these evil birds of sin are flying about unseen, ready to
pick up and carry off any good thought and leave evil in its place.
5. And some fell on stony ground, where it had not much
earth ; and immediately it sprang up, because it had no depth
of earth: 6. but when the sun was up, it was scorched; and
because it had no root, it withered away.
Nor will the preacher get much return from shallow hearts, whose
religion is only on the outside ; they are pleased with the sermon or
pious book, they talk willingly of their feelings, but they will not
give themselves to God, so that the least affront upsets their religion.
Does this picture resemble my heart, a hard rock with a little earth
sprinkled on its top, and a few poor blades of corn on it just wither
ing away ? O Lord, I do not know myself, but I cling to Thee ;
give me a deep-rooted faith and strong love.
7. And some fell among thorns, and the thorns grew up, and
choked it, and it yielded no fruit.
Nor will the preacher succeed unless he weeds the soil. He complains
that the field is to blame, and perhaps the field has to complain of
him that he did not root up the thorns first. How many hearers
every Sunday have their minds already occupied and give no room
for God's Word to grow! What a sad list these verses give of
unprofitable farming ! It is enough to make us consider deeply what
sort of soil our own hearts present.
8. And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that
sprang up and increased ; and brought forth, some thirty, and
some sixty, and some an hundred.

Ver. 12.] Parables revealed and hidden. 201
This is where the sower should spread his labour. He ought to supply
heavenly truth largely to earnest hearts, he should discern how to
lead them on, to encourage them in good works, to show them
higher ways of perfection. Alas, how scantily we sow ! how many
spots of good soil we have left so barren for want of guidance !
Lord, when Thy servants neglect their work, do Thou Thyself
enlighten the simple and show them Thy way.
9. And he said unto them, He that hath ears to hear, let him
hear. Only God can give ears to hear and eyes to see His truth. Let those
who have in any measure found these thank God for them, and
those who still feel that they are dark and deaf come with full
confidence to God and ask Him to help them. Remember it is
not mere brains, or learning, or reputation amongst men that gives
power to apprehend God's Word. His voice is still and quiet, and
comes to the ears of the simple.
10. And when he was alone, they that were about him with
the twelve asked of him the parable.
We must ask God to show us the meaning of His Holy Word.
There are hard places left in it on purpose to make us study and
pray, and compare passages together, and in the end submit our
selves and our weakness to His greater wisdom. If we can
understand Scripture difficulties, it is well ; if we cannot, it is well
also, for we see thereby that God meant us rather to obey what
is plain than always to comprehend what is hard.
11. And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the
mystery of the kingdom of God : but unto tliem that are with
out, all these things are done in parables :
What a precious gift ! can we value it sufficiently ? We are of that
happy company to whom the Lord Jesus explained His mysteries.
We have been taught about His grace, His work, His death, His
promises ; very many in the world have never had all this brought
home to them. Let us day by day give thanks to His free mercy
for the light which we enjoy, and seek to bring in those who are
without to share it with us.
12. That seeing they may see, and not perceive ; and hearing
they may hear, and not understand ; lest at any time they
should be converted, and their sins should be forgiven them.
Let us turn this solemn warning to our own profit. If we give way to
deadly sin a time may come when we shall no more see the light
of God's truth or find any pleasure in His Word, but live with
hardened hearts and put aside the hope of pardon. It is only of
His mercy that we are not yet in such a state ; many have fallen
into it, yet God is able to convert them still, and we should pray
for them and for ourselves.

Our Lord explains how the Seed failed. [S. Mark IV.

13. And he said unto them, Know ye not this parable ? and
how then will ye know all parables ?
Our Saviour led His apostles on by degrees. He made them feel
their own ignorance, so that they should not attribute the light when
it came to themselves, but to His Spirit. If teachers of the Gospel
had only themselves to depend upon for illumination in Divine
things they would be poorly provided. There is so much to learn
and our powers are so small.
14. IT The sower soweth the word.
Every day God is sowing His Holy Word. He employs sermons,
and books, and warnings, and examples, and secret thoughts. All
these carry His seed invisibly into the heart. Earthly ministers are
but His servants to direct us to Him. Lord, sow this seed plenti
fully within me, and give me attention to receive it and faith to hold
it fast How often I have heard and not profited !
15. And these are they by tlie way side, where the word is
sown; but when they have heard, Satan cometh immediately,
and taketh away the word that was sown in their hearts.
It is dangerous to be fond of pleasure, to be always in society, to allow
evil passions to reign within us. Sermons, prayers, communions,
are of little use to one who lives the rest of the week entirely for
the world. How can Christ's Word be welcomed by one whose
thoughts run on drinking and betting, on profane songs and sinful
pleasures ? Only affliction can break up this trodden ground and
drive the tempter away.
16. And these are they likewise which are sown on stony
ground; who, when they have heard the word, immediately
receive it with gladness ; 17. and have no root in themselves,
and so endure but for a time : afterward, when affliction or
persecution ariseth for the word's sake, immediately they are
offended. It is dangerous also to take delight in the outside of religion, either
in its deep eloquent words or its beautiful services, or the comfort
that it seems to bring us. God does not seek for our feelings only,
or desire us to take interest in religion. He requires obedience.
He would have us say little and make no great profession. He
bids us give up sin, sacrifice our own way, and take suffering cheer
fully. When we are tempted, that is like the hot sun or fierce
wind, yet it cannot hurt us if we have found refuge in God.
18. And these are they which are sown among thorns ; such
as hear the word, 19. and the cares of this world, and the
deceitfulness of riches, and the lusts of other things entering in,
choke the word, and it becometh unfruitful.
Dangerous is it also to be too busy. I have no time for devotion.

Veb. 24.] Secret Things will be manifested. 203
I cannot think about confirmation or communion. I can find no
leisure to examine myself. All church-time I think about letters to
be written or business to be done. All my Sundays are taken up
with many cares. When you speak to me about religious books
and festivals and acts of devotion, I have no power to heed. Alas !
dear friend, how can God's Spirit do anything with your heart ?
You give God no chance.
20. And these are they which are sown on good ground ; such
as liear the word, and receive it, and bring forth fruit, some
thirtyfold, some sixty, and some an hundred.
Our God has done much for us, we ought not to be backward in
doing service for Him. All comes of His grace. He sows, He
gives the increase, yet it should be more than it is. If His great
mercy has changed my hard heart and made it good soil, let me be
ready to bring forth a better crop. Let this year, or this week,
not pass over without carrying up to God's throne more earnest
longings, more patience, more kindness, more reverence than of
old.
2 1. IT And he said unto them, Is a candle brought to be put
under a bushel, or under a bed ? and not to be set on a candle
stick ?
Why has God shown me His truth, made me believe in His dear Son,
profit by His Word, honour Him in His holy ordinances ? It was
that I might hand on this faith to my brethren. I am bound to
show them the way ; my own candle will go out unless I give light
to them. If the true light has ever kindled my dark heart, I must
not be ashamed to show it in my life. Why should I be ashamed of
being a Christian ? one day it will be all my hope and trust.
22. For there is nothing hid, which shall not be manifested;
neither was any thing kept secret, but that it should come abroad.
All God's mysteries of grace were revealed in due time. They were
long waited for, then at last they shone forth on mankind. So it
will be with the mysteries of His providence, one day they will all
be made clear ; so too with the mysteries of our own hearts, one
day all sin will be laid bare, all patience rewarded. Lord, help me
so to live that I may not fear that great day of revelation ; let me
have no secrets that I have not shared with Thee.
23. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
Twice over within a few verses we read this warning. I have ears to
listen to this world's news or to hear my neighbours' affairs, or any
invitation to pleasure or gain, but where can I find ears keen enough
to catch the whisper of God's Spirit? All means of grace will do
me no good unless I am disposed to give heed to them.
24. And he said unto them, Take heed what ye hear : with
what measure ye mete, it shall be measured to you : and unto
you that hear shall more be given.

204 The Seed growing secretly. [S. Mark IV.
God has given us graces without measure, full light of the Gospel to our
minds, full pardon for our sins, full pity and love for our weakness,
shall we be stingy in passing on these blessings ? Who can bear
with, help, comfort, enlighten other perishing souls in sufficient
measure when he feels what the All-merciful Lord has done for
him ? A loving heart will gain more love from both God and man.
25. For he that hath, to him shall be given: and he that
liath not, from him shall be taken even that which he hath.
God has given you, dear friend, a portion of faith. You believe now ;
you love God, you desire to approach Him reverently. Act on this
faith, make time for your prayers and communions, show Him
forth in your life, try to give up something for Him, then your faith
and love will grow and He will lead you on further ; but if you let
go the present opportunity, you will soon become careless again and
be ready to mock at such things. Your treasure of devotion will
soon run all away unless you renew and increase it daily.
26. II And he said, So is the kingdom of God, as if a man
should cast seed into the ground; 27. and should sleep, and
rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up,
he knoweth not how.
The seed has been sown, the labourer goes about his other work, and
meanwhile under the earth the new life begins, and presently a
green blade appears above the soil. This is God's power and
wisdom only. No skill of man can produce or increase life. Every
spring-time we see this wonder, and it figures God's Word growing
within the heart. God's Spirit works an inward change, soon the
new life of love and purity begins to appear. Lord, quicken this
in us, we beseech Thee. Human means can do nothing except Thou
givest a blessing, human teachers cannot trace out the ways of
grace.
28. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the
blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear.
Let us not be impatient. God is doing His work, though the perfect
fruit does not appear as yet in the Church, in our friends, in our
own souls. There is much that is imperfect, yet there is growth. God
is leading us on to better things, only let no storm of temptation
uproot the good seed ; let us have confidence in our dear and wise
Lord, Who guides things better than we could.
29. But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he
putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come.
This verse teaches us submission when we lose holy souls by death.
God takes them because they are ripe to go. Harvest-time is
come. And this verse makes us fear when we are slothful. What
shall we do if the harvest-time comes to us and we have no ripe ears
to show, no good works or hearty prayers, only good intentions
never carried out? Lord, make us do some work for Thee before
we hear Thy call to die.

Ver. 35.] Jesus uses many Parables. 205
30. IT And he said, Wliereunto shall we liken the kingdom
of God ? or with what comparison shall we compare it ?
How the Great Teacher searches out for comparisons ! What pains
He takes to find fit illustrations of heavenly truth ! He does not
seek to heap up fine words or to display learning, but only to
show God's grace at work by plain figures drawn from His provi
dence in nature. He wished believers to read lessons of grace in
every field.
31. It is like a grain of mustard seed, which, when it is sown
in the earth, is less than all the seeds that be in the earth :
How small seems one good thought, one earnest prayer, one impres
sion of grace ! It may be but a child's soul, and a very simple faith
sown there ; the world may know nothing of it or despise it utterly,
and yet God has begun the work. Let me take comfort when I
feel my own nothingness, God does not despise me.
32. But when it is sown, it groweth up, and becometh greater
than all herbs, and shooteth out great branches; so that the
fowls of the air may lodge under the shadow of it.
Grace and glory may spring from such beginnings, souls won, God's
Name magnified, His kingdom enlarged, heaven filled with
redeemed and glorified saints. All this may grow from one seed
of grace sown upon an honest heart. Here is a picture of a true
Christian, he comforts and refreshes many, he is firmly rooted in
God.
33. And with many such parables spake he the word unto
them, as they were able to hear it.
We do not know all the parables which our Lord uttered. He
abounded in gracious illustrations drawn from everyday life. He
humbled Himself to reach the simple and poor. What folly it is
for a minister of the Gospel to preach in a style that his hearers
cannot profit by ! Lord, grant us when we teach Thy children, to
speak just so much and in such a way that they may be able to
understand and delight in it.
34. But without a parable spake he not unto them: and
when they were alone, he expounded all things to his disciples.
What happy evenings when the Son of God Himself explained His
secrets to His friends ! We too must be His disciples if we would
understand His meaning. When we have determined to obey Him
and give up sin, and make His friends our friends, then we shall
daily learn some new lessons of grace. His Word is always fresh,
and has new depths in it.
35. And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto
them, Let us pass over unto the other side.
He had work to do there also. His rest was never idleness. He
crossed the sea to release one tormented soul and then returned to

206 Jesus asleep in the Storm. [S. Mark V.
take up again His works and words of mercy. When shall we learn
to commit ourselves entirely into God's hands and take all changes
as they come with a quiet mind ? Whether we are with company
or alone, in storm or sunshine, in life or death, so long as we are
in Christ's society it is well with us.
36. And when they had sent away the multitude, they took
him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him
other little ships.
We are sailing across the waves of this troublesome world. Some
times the voyage is smooth, friends are with us, all seems to
promise fair. What a peaceful voyage, what a happy union of
hearts ! Let us be thankful for it while it lasts ; yet we cannot
reckon that it will be smooth for very long.
37. And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves
beat into the ship, so that it was now full.
Lo, we have come into great waters ! our peace of mind is gone,
our friends have left us, we know not where to turn. Where is
the bright sunshine and the fair prospect that we had just now?
Yet, O tried and tempted soul, remember that thy Master is near ;
His power is more shown in hours of danger than when all is
smooth. No temptation can ruin us if we turn to Him for help.
38. And he was in the hinder part of tlie ship, asleep on a
pillow : and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest
thou not that we perish ?
For a while He seems to take no heed, it is because He desires us to
assail Him with earnest prayer. Deadly sins threaten us, great
floods of sorrow overwhelm us, and our Saviour seems to give no
relief. He means us to pray more earnestly, to persevere, to do
our best. Do not think the Lord Jesus is indifferent. He sees
your trial, and in His own good time He will interfere to help.
Nothing can hurt you unless you wilfully cast Him off.
39. And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the
sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a
great calm.
Here is a word of comfort ; be the storm never so loud, never so
strong, Jesus can lay it with a word. All the worst things that
happen to us in this sad world are but gusts of a moment, after
wards there comes a great calm for Christ's faithful servants.
Wind and sea may do their worst, but they cannot hurt me if I
believe in One Who is mighty to save.
40. And he said unto them, Why are ye so fearful ? how is
it that ye have no faith ?
Yet He did not despise their imperfect faith, or cast aside their timid
prayer. They should have remained quite at ease, as He was with
them ; no need to be so flurried as they were, and yet all went

Ver. 5.] 2"he Possessed among the Tombs. 207
well in the end. Lord, if my prayers are weak and impatient, and
I know not what I ask, yet I trust in Thy goodness to give me
peace when and how it is best.
41. And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another,
What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea
obey him ?
Glory be to my Saviour for having delivered me from utter ruin. I
see now the strength of temptation, the weakness of my heart, the
great dangers that I have escaped. Only His mercy is to be
thanked for this deliverance. I acknowledge His Divine power that
has protected me, and I look to it to protect me still.

CHAPTER V.
x. Christ delivering the possessed of the legion of devils, 13. they enter into
the swine. 25. He healeth the woman of the bloody issue, 35. and
raiseth from death Jairus his daughter.
AND they came over unto the other side of the sea, into the
J\_ country of the Gadarenes. 2. And when he was come
out of the ship, immediatdy there met him out of the tombs a
man with an undean spirit,
Here is a picture of a soul possessed by deadly sin, that enslaves all
the affections and makes the man take pleasure in what is corrupt
and vile. It is hard for such a one to come forth and approach
Jesus Christ, yet that is the first step towards healing. God's grace
can give us power to come forth and declare our condition before the
merciful Healer of souls.
3. Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man
could bind him, no, not with chains :
This is like habitual sin. No chains of prudence, or good advice, or
regard for our character can restrain us. We delight in the corrup
tion of foul thoughts and profane words. Men may not detect us,
but God beholds our miserable state. Lord, are there not many
thus, who have left Thy house and Thy service and sought the
bondage of Satan instead ?
4. Because tliat he had been often bound with fetters and
chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and
the fetters broken in pieces : neither could any man tame him.
5. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and
in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones.
This wretched madman was ungovernable, a terror to others and a
ruin to himself; yet the power of deadly sin is more fearful. How

208 The Legion driven out. [S. Mark V.
many have thrown aside all shame and destroyed all their happiness
here and hereafter by indulging evil desires ! Who can give them
a clean heart, and free them from this yoke of evil which weighs
on them day and night, and drives them headlong into ruin ? Only
God's Holy Spirit can do this.
6. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped
him, Lord, among those who kneel in Thy house, or even approach Thy
altar, there are some like this, who are bound by the chain of sin
and do not wish to get free. A feeling of reverence brings them
there. They kneel and pray, but still cling tightly to their
cherished evil habit.
7. And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do
with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God ? I adjure thee
by God, that thou torment me not.
What a strange contradiction ! The sufferer comes and worships,
while yet he abhors and fears the Son of God. The thought of holi
ness is dreadful to him. He could not live, he thinks, without the
evil in which he takes pleasure. Who will make him see that
God's service is full of delight, and Satan's only misery ?
8. For he said unto him, Come out of tlie man, thou unclean

The mighty voice of Christ can overcome all unwillingness, can
drive out the habit of sin, can make holiness agreeable to the soul,
can make us safe from our deadly enemies. He is mightier than
sin, or death, or life. However vile we are, however wretched,
yet we are not outside Thy saving power.
9. And he asked him, What is thy name ? And he answered,
saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. 10. And he
besought him much that he would not send them away out of the
country. If we have so many spiritual enemies, and deadly temptations all
leagued together and ready to slay us, must we not be on our guard ?
What is one weak soul to do against such a multitude of armed
enemies ? No, our heavenly Captain has a mightier host. There
are blessed spirits more ready to help than the vile are to destroy.
Only fight on and never give up, for God's side must win.
11. Now^ there was there nigh unto the mountains a great
herd of swine feeding. 12. And all the devils besought him,
saying, Send us into the swine, tliat we may enter into tliem.
We see now who is master. The devils cannot enter into the
swine without our Lord's leave. They had to leave the soul they
had tormented, but they still sought to do some mischief ; yet they
are but abject slaves in the presence of their offended Lord. Why

Ver. 18.] Jesus is prayed to depart. 209
should we fear tliem ? We are Christ's soldiers and servants. He
has set us free, we do not trust in our own strength, but in Him.
13. And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean
spirits went out, and entered into the swine : and the herd ran
violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two
thousand;) and were choked in the sea.
When we see examples of Satan's power round us, and the ruin to
which he brings many, we should tremble and yet rejoice. Our
danger is great, our weakness infinite, the power of sin most
enticing, yet we are still safe. We have been kept from rushing
down into that sea, or perhaps have been rescued from its waters,
before they choked us. Glory be to our Deliverer. Not our own
weakness, nor the might of Satan, nor the slippery place on which
we stand, can hurt us if He is by.
14. And they that fed the swine fled, and told it in the city,
and in the country. And they went out to see what it was that
was done. 15. And they come to Jesus, and see him that was
possessed with the devil, and had the legion, sitting, and dothed,
and in his right mind : and they were afraid.
What a happy sight ! God grant that we may see many such.
Once he was a slave of sin, he loved corruption, he had no shame,
he knew not how to live rightly. Now he is at peace, and lives a
pure life, and rejoices to learn about heavenly things. That power
which wrought such a change once is still mighty; shall we not
seek its healing grace for ourselves and our brethren ?
16. And they that saw it told them how it befell to him that
was possessed with the devil, and also concerning the swine.
They heard the tale of Christ's power and mercy. They saw what
He had done, yet it did not touch them. They felt only fear, but
no love. Often we read and hear of the triumphs of grace. Many
are turned to God round us, and yet we go on in our ordinary
ways, giving no heed to the message. What a rebuke it is to us
to read of some poor heathens who have embraced the Gospel, how
they have given up all and confessed Christ boldly ! What are we
in comparison with them ?
17. And they began to pray him to depart out of their coasts.
Do not trouble me about religion. You will interfere with my
business. You will hinder my pleasures. You will fill me with
new sorrows and fears. I had rather go on in my present evil
ways. Why should I disturb myself? Such is the voice of the
natural man when the Lord Jesus calls. So it is that people
plunge into the world's ways, and resolve to put aside the Divine
message, and disregard the loud knock at their heart's door.
18. And when he was come into the ship, he that had been
possessed with the devil prayed him that he might be with him.
o

210 The Return to the Western Side. [S. Mark V.
I am afraid of my enemies. I have no strength but in Thee. I
desire to learn more of Thy ways. Thou hast freed me and I
cannot let Thee go. Such were- the feelings of the rescued sufferer
when he saw Christ preparing to depart. He thought that his
only safety lay in constant bodily attendance on his Saviour. No
other occupation seemed tolerable to him now.
19. Howbeit Jesus suffered him not, but saith unto him, Go
home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord
hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.
He was told to return home, to take up again his duties there, to
care for his friends, to live a life of thankfulness, remembering
what a great mercy he had received. Which of us has not this to
do ? What immense compassion God has shown to us ! He bids
us go about our daily work in such a spirit as this, not forgetting
what we were, but remembering it only to magnify our Lord Who
has freed us from the devil's tyranny.
20. And he departed, and began to publish in Decapolis how
great things Jesus had done for him: and all men did marvel.
This is persuasive teaching. I have myself been miserable. I have
felt the weight of sin. I have been in darkness, now I know what
it is to pass from darkness to light. I can ascribe nothing of this
to myself, it all belongs to my Lord and Master. All I desire is
that others also should be set free and cleansed and enlightened.
Let me only declare this tidings in humility and with prayer.
There is danger of conceit coming in even here. I must point my
hearers to Christ and get myself out of sight.
21. And when Jesus was passed over again by ship unto the
other side, much people gathered unto him : and he was nigh
unto the sea.
If some bade Him depart, others welcomed Him. The Gospel has
its defeats and also its victories. We need not despair if God's
Word is refused or His altar despised in one place. Elsewhere
He is gathering in many souls. The soil may be barren here, but
God brings forth fruits of holiness when and how He pleases.
22. And, behold, there cometh one of tlie rulers of the syna
gogue, Jairus by name ; and when he saw him, he fell at his
feet, 23. and besought him greatly, saying, My little daughter
lieth at the point of death : I pray thee, come and lay thy hands
on her, that she may be healed; and she shall live.
This father's earnest prayer for his dying child reminds us how
earnestly we should pray for dying souls. It is aworse thing to lose
God than to lose life. Many there are even among the young who
have fallen into deadly sins which choke the soul's life. Ought we not
to present them in prayer to the All-merciful Lord, intreating Him
to give them that spiritual life which is out of our reach ? We cannot,

Ver. 30.] Christ's Garment. 211
it seems, help them or bring them back to God. But at least this
resource of prayer is open to us.
24. And Jesus went with' him; and much people followed
him, and thronged him.
Our Saviour would have healed the girl with a word, but the father
desired His actual bodily presence. Nothing else would avail it
seemed to the man's weak faith. So our Lord suited Himself to
the measure of his faith, and walked with him through the crowded
street. Are we as ready to bestow our time and trouble on our
brethren's needs as our gracious Lord was ?
25. And a certain woman, which liad an issue of blood
twelve years, 26. and had suffered many things of many
physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing
bettered, but rather grew worse,
It is God Who brings us into such a state. We have no more hope in
ourselves, nor is any help of man. Our afflictions of body or of spirit
overwhelm us, human advisers can do no good ; then is the time to
turn to God ajjd throw ourselves on His mercy. However great
are my sins, however continual, however hopeless, however vile,
yet I am not beyond the power of God's grace. He is able with one
word to sanctify me. The very sense of misery and bondage that I
feel was sent me by Him to force me to rely wholly on His mercy.
27. When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind,
and touched his garment. 28. For she said, If I may touch
but his dothes, I shall be whole.
How can we touch Christ's garment ? Thus, by believing that He
was clothed in our flesh, by putting our whole trust in His work,
by applying ourselves to learn what He did and said on earth, by
attending reverently on that Holy Sacrament where He is spiritu
ally present. There is laid up in Christ's humanity a great store of
healing power. This woman's was a very simple prayer, a very
timid faith, yet Christ's mercy did not despise her.
2 9. And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up ;
and she fdt in her body that she was healed of that plague.
Glory be to Thee, O Lord, for Thy saving grace. Shall it not cure in
me the disease of sin, the constant flow of vile and foolish thoughts,
the meanness of which my heart is full ? Shall I not one day feel
that conceit and evil desires and cowardice have left me ? Lord,
hasten that day; let me feel the full effect of Thy gracious
promises.
30. And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue
had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said,
Who touched my dothes ?
Our Saviour desired to make His gift perfect. Secretly He had healed
her, now He desired openly to bless and strengthen her. He

212 The Woman declares her Cure. [S. Mark V.
knew well who it was who touched Him, but He asked in order to
encourage her to come forward and seek His blessing. He has
still virtue to heal us. So many generations have come to Him for
help, and He has not yet spent all His store. Let us draw near and
prove Him.
31. And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multi
tude thronging thee, and say est thou, Who touched me? 32.
And he looked round about to see lier that had done this thing.
So many crowded round, but one only touched with faith ; so it is in
our churches and at our altars, many approach, but few only find a
blessing. Our Saviour is there though we see Him not; He looks'
into hearts and sees who come earnestly and who out of mere
worldly custom. Let us consider on a Sunday morning how we can
stand that piercing eye of Christ which looks right through us.
33. But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was
done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all
the truth.
Fear and joy strove together in her. She feels her own misery and
Christ's great mercy. She scarcely dared to speak to the Great
Healer, yet she found comfort in kneeling down and telling Him
what He had done for her. Let our prayer be after this pattern.
It is true we are not fit to draw near, yet Christ's wonderful mercy
has brought us out of ruin and given us new life. We will not be
afraid to say what we were, for His grace is magnified thereby. We
trust not in our own righteousness but in His manifold mercy.
34. And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made
thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.
What a word of encouragement ! How tenderly the Lord Jesus
addresses her, how He quiets her fears and confirms her cure ! A
modest heart wins a blessing where the bold and careless pass by
and get nothing. We know no more of this woman, but she must
always have carried with her the remembrance of our Lord's
gracious countenance and comforting words.
35. While he yet spake, there came from the ruler of tlie
synagogue's house certain which said, Thy daughter is dead:
why troublest thou the Master any further?
It is too late now, as far as man's judgment goes. Death ends all.
Nay, we believe in One Who is the Lord of life and death. Our
prayers and hopes reach beyond the grave. Even if the body does
not return from death as yet, one day it will be raised, and the soul
which seems hopelessly dead is not beyond the power of God's grace.
36. As soon as Jesus lieard the word that was spoken, he
saith unto the ruler of the synagogue, Be not afraid, only believe.
T fi^VfT01/? mouraers- , Yo,u have lo* your dearest friends, you
find life hard to bear, you fear for the future ; still, though all looks

Ver. 41.] Not dead, but sleeping. 213
dark, be not afraid, God's infinite mercy, Christ's glorious resur
rection, eternal life to come, many graces and blessings still endure.
Do not despair, but remember how many have been sustained and
comforted by faith. Our Saviour saw that Jairus had begun to
despair of ever seeing his child again, so He upheld him with this
word.
37. And he suffered no man to follow him, save Peter, and
James, and John the brother of James.
None of the crowd might enter the house and witness the miracle
except Christ's three chosen friends. God's Spirit does not love
display ; even a miracle would profit none who did not behold it with
faith and prayer. These three friends of our Lord saw Him in His
greatest glory and in His deepest agony; no others knew such
things of Him as they knew.
38. And he cometh to the house of the ruler of the synagogue,
and seeth the tumult, and them that wept and wailed greatly.
These were the funeral customs of that country. Persons were hired
to weep and cry out, and so make a show of grief ; so in our own
country there is much empty show at a funeral, much useless expense.
Why cannot we quietly and simply commit our dead to the ground
when our heavenly Father has called them away ? There is no need
to make a show of grief. God sees our hearts, and does not need the
pomp of hired mourners and black cloaks.
39. And when he was come in, he saith unto them, Why make
ye this ado, and weep ? the damsel is not dead, but sleepeth.
Let Christians ask themselves this question, Whydo we grieve so much?
and consider how to answer it. We weep because God has ended
our dear one's sufferings, has brought him into peace, has freed him
from temptation, has shown him the wonderful sights of the other
world. No, it would be foolish to grieve for all this. We really are
only weeping for our own loss ; it is selfishness rather than love that
sheds these tears. Our friend has gone on a journey, or rather he
has gone home ; it is we who are still outside.
40. And they laughed him to scorn. But when he had put
them all out, he taketh the father and the mother of the damsel,
and them that were with him, and entereth in where the damsel
was lying.
All was quiet now. Our Saviour and His three friends and the
bereaved parents stood in the child's room beside her lifeless body.
There was no sign of life there, yet she was soon to wake up again.
When we stand by the dead body of a friend, let us recall this scene
and stir up our faith in everlasting life. This poor lifeless body
will one day be made glorious and incorruptible. Death will give
place to life again.
41. And lie took the damsel by the hand, and said unto her,

214 Jesus raises the Child t0 Life- Is- Mark VI.
Talitha cumi; which is, being interpreted, Damsel, I say unto
thee, arise.
That voice and touch were felt in the other world. The girl came back
from that far country to do God's work again here for a while. This
is the sovereign power of the Son of God. No one else can speak
thus, no one else can quicken the lifeless body or soul. Lord, let
this mighty word of Thine be heard by sinners. How many lie
as if dead in hopeless misery and ruin, yet at Thy word they can
awake !
42. And straightway the damsel arose, and walked; for she
was of the age of twelve years. And they were astonished with
a great astonishment.
Raise us, O Lord, that we may leave our sinful habits and walk in the
way of Thy commandments. It is not the time now to dream away
our life, but to be up and doing good. Even the young can obey Thy
call and. show that they are risen with Thee. Our new life should
be different from the old, no more wasted time or selfishness, for
Jesus has spoken to our hearts, and bids us rise.
43. And he charged them straitly that no man should know
it ; and commanded that something should be given her to eat.
Our religious life is not to be displayed before men, but to be chiefly
between ourselves and God. How great are His mercies to us !
How foolish it would be for us to talk much about our feelings !
He is our nearest Friend, and can alone know our heart's depth.
And let us remember to sustain our new life by means of grace.
God offers us at His altar bread to strengthen our souls if we have
begun the new life. We should faint but for that.

CHAPTER VI.
1. Christ is contemned of his countrymen. 7. He giveth the twelve power
over unclean spirits. 14. Divers opinions of Christ. 27. John Bap
tist is beheaded, 29. and buried. 30. The apostles return from preach
ing. 34. The miracle offive loaves and two fishes. 48. Christ walketh
on the sea : 53. and healeth all that touch him.
AND he went out from thence, and came into his own country;
Xi and his disciples follow him.
Here we have our Saviour at Nazareth, where He had been brought
up. He had spent so many peaceful years there, and now He
came back to call people to repentance and teach them the way to
heaven. When He had left Nazareth He was unknown. Now
the fame of His great works came with Him. But He was still
the same, nothing in Himself needed to be changed. Lord, grant

Ver. 6.] The Visit to Nazareth. 215
us so to live that we may not contradict our profession. Too often
when we would speak of God, the remembrance of past follies
seals our lips.
2. And when the sabbath day was come, he began to teach in
the synagogue : and many hearing him were astonished, saying,
From whence hath this man these things ? and what wisdom is
this which is given unto him, that even such mighty works are
wrought by his hands ?
Many Christians hear sermons in this spirit. They admire and
discuss the preacher, but never think of acting according to his
words. They forget that it is God Who speaks through him and
bids them believe and obey. Lord, grant that we may look
beyond visible preachers to Thee, and thank Thy goodness which
has provided us with means of instruction.
3. Is not this the carpenter, the son of Mary, the brother of
James, and Joses, and of Juda, and Simon ? and are not his
sisters here with us? And they were offended at him.
Our Lord had worked at an humble trade, and was one of a poor
family. He enjoyed little of this world's conveniences, and had
many to please and attend to before Himself. Shall we be proud
of high position and ample means, or enjoy a quiet easy life,
when we remember the condition which was chosen by the Lord
of Glory ? Anything is good that can humble our pride, make us
put ourselves last, make us despised and little thought of by the
world.
4. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without
honour, but in his own country, and among his own kin, and
in his own house.
Human nature is so. Earthly ties and familiarity in past times are a
hindrance to receiving God's message from any one. God's minis
ters will generally do more for His Name when they come as
strangers. Yet we ought to rise above this prejudice, and honour
a prophet for his Master's sake. In himself he may be a frail
man like ourselves, compassed with infirmity, and yet God's Spirit
speaks by his means.
5. And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid
his hands upon a few sick folk, and healed them.
Unbelief and ingratitude together tie God's hands. Almightiness
is conquered by our cold narrow hearts. There were even at
Nazareth some few simple persons who sought a blessing from the
Lord Jesus and found it. But most of the inhabitants put aside
His words, and missed all the good which their great and wise
Friend had meant towards them.
6. And he marvelled because of their unbelief . And he went
round about the villages, teaching.

216 The Disciples are sent out to preach. [S. Mark VI.
Alas, how sad that our folly should make Infinite Wisdom marvel !
Indeed God and the angels have daily spectacles presented to them
for their wonder. What marvellous folly in those who ruin them
selves in drink, who throw away their faith, who let themselves be
persuaded into sin by any fool, who let their own sloth and ease
hinder their salvation ! How wonderfully silly we often are in such
matters !
7. IT And he called unto him the twelve, and began to send
them forth by two and two ; and gave them power over undean
spirits ;
Our Saviour here teaches the need of un'on among Christians if they
would destroy Satan's kingdom. They must work together. All
their power is from above, their Master gives it. He must send
them. But still they need each other's help and comfort and
counsel. Glory be to Has goodness for providing us loving hearts
on which we can lean for support.
8. And commanded them that they should take nothing for
their journey, save a staff only ; no scrip, no bread, no money
in their purse : 9. but be shod with sandals ; and not put on
two coats.
Ministers of the Gospel should beware above all things of a desire
to get rich. How many wise and religious men have been
ensnared by a regard for money I Our Lord meant by these rules
of poverty for His first preachers to give a strong warning to all
ecclesiastical persons against covetousness. It is this fault more
than anything else that has hindered Christian work and given an
excuse to unbelief. How can we teach any one to despise the
world except we set them the example ?
10. And lie said unto them, In what place soever ye enter
into an house, there abide till ye depart from that place.
We should strive to live a uniform, consistent life, so that our friends
should always find us the same, whether in prosperity or adversity.
Thus we shall be able to direct them to the same Rock where we
have ourselves found refuge. An abiding Christian temper of
faith and patience is a constant stay, whatever storms and changes
come outside.
1 1. And whosoever shall not receive you, nor hear you, when
ye depart thence, shake off the dust under your feet for a testi
mony against them. Verily I say unto you, It shall be more
tolerable for Sodom and Gomorrha in tlie day of judgment,
than for that city.
If God's Word has passed by and we have paid no heed, we have
only laid up wrath for ourselves. His mercy and judgments cry
aloud daily, but our ears are so dull we hear them not How
many wasted opportunities will one day rise up against us ! The

Ver. 17.] Herod's Thoughts about Christ. 217
cities of the plain brought rain on themselves by their deadly sins,
but profaneness and a hard heart that despises God's words are in
danger of a heavier judgment.
12. And iliey went out, and preached that men should repent.
Here is a simple sermon, and one much needed. They did not argue
or amuse their hearers with fancies, but spoke plainly to their con
science and bade them repent. This is the first lesson that we
must learn. Very few people in these days know how to repent.
Lord, renew among us this apostolic preaching, and bid Thy
people repent in earnest What confession can be too humble,
what shame too great, for one who has received this word and felt
his need of it ?
13. And they cast out many devils, and anointed with oil
many that were sick, and healed them.
Some sins must be driven out with authority, some infirmities
tenderly soothed. In God's sight we are all as patients in a hos
pital, each heart having its own failings and miseries. It is a great
gift when any one is endued with power to give help and consolation
and guidance to his suffering brethren. The Lord of all mercy
lays up His treasures of healing in such kind souls.
14. And king Herod heard of him; (for his name was
spread abroad :) and he said, That John the Baptist was risen
from the dead, and therefore mighty works do shew forth them
selves in him. 15. Others said, That it is Elias. And others
said, That it is a prophet, or as one of the prophets.
What strange guesses about our Saviour, that He was John the
Baptist alive again, or Elijah come down to earth, or some great
prophet of the Old Testament ! Many talked of Him, relating
His great actions and deep sayings ; even courtiers asked each
other about this New Teacher. But this is not what Christ wanted.
He sought for those who would obey and love Him, and give up
their whole life to be fashioned after His Word. To talk readily
about religion or admire its beauties is very different from the obed
ience that God requires.
16. But when Herod heard thereof, he said, It is John, whom
I beheaded: he is risen from the dead.
Here was the sting in Herod's conscience, he knew that he had killed
John unjustly, and so he feared his coming back to take vengeance
on him. One day our bitterest thoughts will be the remembrance
of those whom we have ill-treated ; they will rise up against us in
God's judgment and demand justice on us. Let me pray for those
whom I have injured or led into evil. May God forgive them and
me, and grant that all my unkindness, or neglect, or bad influence
over them may not have worked ruin to us both.
17. For Herod himself had sent forth and laid hold upon

218 Herod's grand Supper. [S. Mark VI.
John, and bound him in prison for Herodias1 sake, his brother
Philip's wife: for he had married her. 18. For John had
said unto Herod, It is not lawful for thee to have thy brother's
wife. No doubt many people cried shame on Herod for living with his
brother's wife, but no one but John dared to tell him of his sin.
What a misfortune it is for great people to have no one to tell them
the truth ! They are flattered and praised by all, and so laid asleep
in their sins. It is a true friend who speaks up boldly and tells us
where we are wrong.
19. Therefore Herodias had a quarrel against him, and
would have killed him ; but she could not :
This wicked woman feared lest Herod should listen to John's warn
ings and send her away. She trembled lest she should lose her
royal splendour, and therefore longed to get out of the way the
only person who told the king his duty. One sin leads on to
another. Lying, or stealing, or uncleanness lead us on to other sins
to protect ourselves from the consequences of our misdoing.
20. For Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just
man and an holy, and observed him ; and when he heard him,
lie did many things, and heard him gladly.
This looks like true religion. Here we have a prince honouring and
reverencing God's messenger, enjoying His preaching, doing
many things at his bidding, and yet all the time he kept his
own bosom sin and would not give up that, so at the last he turned
against the preacher with violence. Let us beware lest we are
like this portrait, lest we respect God's ministers, take pleasure in
their words, keep a good outside, and yet refuse to give up sin.
21. And when a convenient day was come, that Herod on his
birthday made a supper to his lords, high captains, and chief
estates of Galilee ;
Danger lurks in times of pleasure. All seems bright and pleasant,
friendly company and good cheer and fair words, and yet a true
Christian will keep a watch over himself on such occasions. It may
be his duty to be there, but he will not forget that his heavenly
Master is listening to the songs, sees behaviour, reads hearts.
Often it is safer for us not to go into company where we know that
our Master's Name will be taken in vain.
22. And when the daughter of the said Herodias came in,
and danced, and pleased Herod and them that sat with him,
the king said unto the damsel, Ask of me whatsoever thou wilt,
and I will give it thee. 23. And he sware unto her, Whatso
ever thou shalt ask of me, I will give it thee, unto the half of
my kingdom.

Ver. 29.] John the Baptist's Death. 219
What a folly such a promise seems, and yet how many Christians,
under the influence of drink and foolish companions and idle
boasting, say and do things as silly ! Who preserves a sound judg
ment among the applause of friends and the frequent glass ? Some
times Christians throw away in foolish company not half, but the
whole of their innocence and peace and well-doing.
24. And she went forth, and said unto her mother, What
shall I ask ? And she said, The head of John the Baptist.
25. And she came in straightway with haste unto the king, and
asked, saying, I will that thou give me by and by in a charger
the head of John the Baptist.
This bad mother brought up her child to look beautiful and dance
gracefully, but she also learned to be cruel and revengeful, and so was
delighted to get hold of the bleeding head of one whom she looked
on as her own and her mother's enemy. When the children have no
modesty or tenderness, it is only the more ruin for them to be
clever and look and speak well. We have left out the one thing
needful in their education.
26. And the king was exceeding sorry ; yet for his oath's
sake, and for their sakes which sat with him, he would not reject
her. Here are two sins, one to make a foolish promise, and another to
keep it. The king was more afraid of what his friends would say
if he broke his word to the girl than of what God would say if
he committed a great crime. When shall we learn true courage
to fear God and no one else, and be ashamed of nothing except
wickedness ?
27. And immediately the king sent an executioner, and com
manded his head to be brought : and he went and beheaded him
in the prison, 28. and brought his head in a charger, and gave
it to the damsel : and the damsel gave it to her mother.
This is a simple account of the end of a great saint. John had come
into the world announced by prophets and angels, he had been
honoured by great visions, had stirred a nation's heart and received
praise from the Son of God Himself ; yet he is left to languish for
many months in prison, and has at last a hurried and cruel end, no
friends, no time for prayer, no one to comfort or minister to him.
Such are God's ways. His saints are glorified in another world than
this. The deathbed is not the end of all.
29. And when his disciples heard of it, they came and took
up his corpse, and laid it in a tomb.
They must have felt that their master's work was ended now, and
have remembered the words in which he pointed them to the Lord
Jesus. The saint's mutilated body was laid secretly in the earth
by a few sorrowful friends, while the sinful king sat in his palace

220 The People crowd to hear Christ. [S. Mark VI.
surrounded by his court. Nay, in a few months he had the chance
to mock and outrage the Lord Himself, on Good Friday morning.
If this world were all, how wrongly things go ! But we can look
beyond.
30. And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus,
and told him all things, both what they had done, and what they
had taught.
We do this when we pray and examine ourselves, and especially when
we seek Christ our Saviour at His Holy Table, and there open our
hearts to Him, telling Him with shame of our many falls, but yet
earnestly seeking His grace for the future. Communion with Jesus
Christ teaches us what we are, and yet encourages us by showing us
what He is. We must not be afraid to open all our life to Him,
He knows how to feel for us.
31. And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into
a desert place, and rest a while : for there were many coming
and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat. 32.
And they departed into a desert place by ship privately.
Those who work for Christ need such times of recollection. Even
good works are apt to dry up the heart and interfere between us
and God. Much more those need such seasons whose daily work
is of a worldly kind. How business takes up all their interest !
How little leisure they have to think upon their spiritual condition !
Let Sundays, and hours of prayer, and occasions of communion
be religiously kept to. What should we do without any leisure to
think about God ?
33. And the people saw them departing, and many knew him,
and ran afoot thither out of all cities, and outwent them, and
came together unto him.
What power and mercy must have shone forth in the Lord Jesus, so
as to attract these great crowds to Him ! They felt that in Him they
had a friend. The charm of His words kept them attentive. He
gave them the help that no one else could offer. Our love now
adays needs reviving. When shall we find people in these days
thronging eagerly to the Lord's House, or His Table, or His Word ?
Who is there that puts aside worldly concerns joyfully to seek His
presence ?
34. And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was
moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep
not having a shepherd : and he began to teach them many things.
How many in Christian lands are as sheep without a shepherd, having
no one to comfort them, no one to lead them back to God ! Have
mercy, Lord, on Thy scattered flock throughout the world, and raise
them up pastors after the pattern of Thy Son, full of kindness and
able to teach. Give all Thy servants a compassionate heart and
teach them, that they may teach their brethren.

Ver. 41.] The Feast in the Wilderness. 221
35. And when the day was now far spent, his disciples came
unto him, and said, This is a desert place, and now the time is
far passed: 36. send them away, that they may go into the
country round about, and into the villages, and buy themselves
bread : for they have nothing to eat.
We may apply these words to our condition in this world. It is a
desert place, with little to satisfy us or detain us long. Our day is
drawing to a close. There is no true sustenance except in Christ,
faith in Him alone gives us support. Want and sorrow may close
round us, but if we are His friends the desert will turn to paradise
at last and the gloom to everlasting day. Only the Bread of life is
worth giving up all for. That is of great price, and should be sought
first and most earnestly.
37. He answered and said unto them, Give ye them to eat.
And they say unto him, Shall we go and buy two hundred
pennyworth of bread, and give them to eat ?
They said this in perplexity, for they had neither the 'money nor the
shops at hand. Yet how could less supply so great a crowd? They
ought rather to have depended entirely on their Master's resources.
Everything is in His hands. I trust not in my own barrenness and
folly, but in His great wisdom and love and power. I am nothing
and have nothing and can do nothing, but my Redeemer has an
infinite store of grace. He can supply all that I lack.
38. He saith unto them, How many loaves have ye ? go and
see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. 39.
And he commanded them to make all sit down by companies
upon the green grass. 40. And they sat down in ranks, by
hundreds, and by fifties.
Our Saviour provided a simple meal, bread and fish only, no dainties.
He lived Himself in a plain and homely way, and welcomed His
friends to the same fare. Yet it was in order. All sat down
quietly and received their portions one by one. Let the rich learn
from His pattern to avoid all luxurious living, and the poor to have
everything about them neat and in order. Say not it is a trifle, and
so not worth while attending to. God's eyes behold all, little things
as well as great.
41. And when he had taken the five loaves and the two fishes,
he looked up to heaven, and blessed, and brake the loaves, and
gave them to his disciples to set before them; and the two fishes
divided he among them all.
Rich people, those who are learned, who are in high place, who
have many under them, have much bread intrusted to them to
distribute among their brethren. Woe to them if they are idle or
refuse to distribute it, or greedy and keep it for themselves I Christ
gives the store and the blessing, but human hands have to carry it

222 Our Lord remains to pray. [S. Mark VI.
round to men's souls or bodies. There is no stinginess in the Great
Provider, andnolack of needy minds and bodies claiming His bounty,
but oh for more open hands in the dispensers of God's goodness !
42. And they did all eat, and were filled.
They ate and were satisfied. They had now strength to return to
their homes and daily work. How many there are who partake
at God's altar and yet find no inward strength, who read His
Word and get no good, who join in Divine service and yet do not
worship in heart ! What a great difference there is in spiritual
things, between an outward and an inward partaking !
43. And they took up twelve baskets full of the fragments,
and of the fishes. 44. And they that did, eat of the loaves were
about five thousand men.
God's mercies are infinite. His Word, His Grace, His Sacraments,
will last us all our life, and beyond it. Generations one after
another have been fed by Him, and so passed on through this wilder
ness to their heavenly home. When we read of His wonders in old
time we are encouraged to trust Him now. Glory be to His good
ness for daily mercies, for the soul's food, for helps and blessings
without number. When we enter on our last dread journey, He
will not forsake us then.
45. And straightway he constrained his disciples to get into
the ship, and to go to the other side before unto Bethsaida, while
he sent away the people. 46. And when he had sent them away,
he departed into a mountain to pray.
Both disciples and people were unwilling to leave Him. But the
time had come for Him to pray. He set apart hours for communion
with His Father. Who can enter into the secrets of our Saviour's
heart or imagine what His prayers were like ? No doubt He
prayed for us and represented our needs to His Father. No doubt
His prayers were full of love, full of praise, full of earnestness.
Lord, teach us to pray after Thy pattern. If we could pray as we
ought we should have the secret of a holy life.
47. And when even was come, the ship was in the midst of
tlie sea, and he alone on the land.
What are we in the world but boats tossed on a troublesome sea,
carried about by fierce gusts, in darkness as to our course ? It is a
dangerous voyage, and only fools will be secure and careless. Yet
we know there is a firm land which Christ our Saviour has reached,
and whence He looks on us and guides us though unseen.
48. And he saw them toiling in rowing ; for the wind was
contrary unto them : and about the fourth watch of the night
he cometh unto them, walking upon the sea, and would have
passed by them.

Ver. 55.] A Night Voyage. 223
Let us have patience. The night seems long and the storm heavy,
and we are almost wearied out, and yet light and joy are at hand.
God's people often have a long season of darkness to pass through,
and a fierce sea to contend against, and they cannot discern God's
hand working for their good. Yet let them keep their heart in
peace and wait. Their Master has not forgotten them.
49. But when they saw him walking upon the sea, they sup
posed it had been a spirit, and cried out : 50. for they all saia
him, and were troubled. And immediately he talked with them,
and saith unto them, Be of good cheer: it is I ; be not afraid.
The trouble came of their own fancy, like troubles often do". But it
vanished when they heard their Master's voice. They knew that
nothing could harm them when He was by. Let us learn so to
welcome Christ our Lord in the darkness of this world, that when
He calls us from the grave we may find His voice sweet and com
fortable, not terrible. It is He, therefore we need not fear, either
here or hereafter, for we have a Friend at hand.
5 1. And he went up unto them into the ship ; and the wind
ceased: and they were sore amazed in themselves beyond measure,
and wondered.
God's dealings are beyond our comprehension. We are encompassed
by love and power. Sometimes we see His outstretched hand.
Oftener it is hid from us. What depths of wonder are in store for
us when we shall see how all this world's disorders have worked
out His gracious plans ! When this world is over it will seem no
more than an hour's rough weather to look back on.
52. For they considered not the mirade of the loaves: for
their heart was hardened.
Are we not as dull? do we not walk amidst wonders? God's tender
mercy and wise providence have been with us so long, and yet we
still distrust it. Lord, soften the hearts of Thy people that they
may be ready to answer Thy call and help forward Thy work.
Let mercies received stir us up to be merciful, and truths learned
encourage us to teach others.
53. And when they had passed over, they came into the land
of Gennesaret, and drew to the shore.
Storm and distresses and loneliness and rough sea were over ; they
enjoyed in the morning light their Master's gracious presence again.
How soon shall we have reached the shore of eternity I God grant
that it may be in the company of Christ and His saints, and that
our home there may be ready for us.
54. And when they were come out of the ship, straightway
they knew him, 55. and ran through that whole region round
about, and began to carry about in beds those that were sick,
where they heard he was.

224 Abundant Mercies. [S. Mark VII.
This is active rharity. They desired that all sufferers should share in
the benefits which Christ brought. So we ought to think of our
brethren's needs, to point them to our Saviour, to help them on
their way in earthly or heavenly matters. There are so many who
are burdened with care and oppressed by sinful passions, can we
not do something to bring them nearer to the Fountain of all grace ?
How grateful these poor sick persons must have been to their active
friends when the Great Healer had cured them !
56. And whithersoever he entered, into villages, or cities, or
country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that
they might touch if it were but the border of his garment : and
as many as touched him were made whole.
This is marvellous. How could such Divine virtue rest in the border
of our Lord's dress? and yet those who touched it in faith found
healing thereby. God has in like manner appointed certain out
ward signs, laying on of hands, the pouring of a little water, the
blessing of bread and wine, and attached to the right use of them a
spiritual blessing. The garment of Christ, the shadow of Peter,
the linen used by Paul, the bones of Elisha, were in themselves
nothing, but God's power was pleased to work mightily by them,
and so He does still by His chosen signs.

CHAPTER VII.
1. The Pharisees find fault at the disciples for eating with unwashen
hands. 8. They break the commandment of God by the traditions of
men. 14. Meat defileth not the man. 24. He healeth the Syro-
phenician woman's daughter of an unclean spirit, 31. and one that
was deaf, and stammered in his speech.
THEN came together unto him the Pharisees, and certain of
the scribes, which came from Jerusalem.
They did not come to learn from Jesus, nor to admire His works of
mercy, but only to find fault, so they got no good from His holy
society. They are like Christians who hear sermons and read
religious books only to judge and pick holes in them. We feel
that we would have given a great deal for one interview with the
Lord Jesus, and yet perhaps it might have done us no more good
than it did to these visitors from Jerusalem.
2. And when they saw some of his disciples eat bread with
defiled, that is to say, with unwashen, hands, they found fault
3. For the Pharisees, and all the Jews, except they wash their
hands oft, eat not, holding the tradition of the elders.
They thought it wicked to touch food unless men had first washed
their hands. What a mistake! God looks at the heart, not the

Ver. 8.] Eating without washing the Hands. 225
hands. It is not that God forbids us to be clean and tidy in our ways,
but that He blames only real sin, He approves only earnest love.
Let us never find fault except there is good cause for it. We are
much too ready to blame our brethren for small differences from
us which God takes no heed of. Heaven must be wide enough to
take in many Christians whose customs differed very much while
they were on earth.
4. And when they come from the market, except they wash,
they eat not. And many other things there be, which they have
received to hold, as the washing of cups, and pots, brasen vessels,
and of tables.
Our Saviour is bent on setting us free. He says, indeed, give the whole
man to God, body, soul, and spirit ; but He bids us serve Him in
a spirit of freedom. He is not like a jealous master imputing to
us blame if we do not perfectly accomplish all outward service, but
a loving Father Who bids us love Him in turn.
5. Then the Pharisees and scribes asked him, Why walk not
thy disciples according to the tradition of the elders, but eat
bread with unwashen hands ?
So people ask, Why do you communicate more frequently now
adays, or come earlier to confirmation, or behave more strictly, or
serve God otherwise than your friends have done ? old-fashioned
ways were enough for them, and you have no right to show more
devotion. Let us answer with the Lord Jesus, We are free, we do
not blame others, but God's Spirit has shown us this way, we have
a right to walk in it
6. He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias pro
phesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth
me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. 7. Howbeit
in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the com
mandments of men.
The honour of the lips is good, but it must not stand instead of that
which the heart pays. How much church-going is a vain worship,
because the life does not answer to it ! How many parents teach
their children rules of human prudence only, but not God's dear
and holy law ! Our hearts should love God, our lives should obey
Him, then He will accept our worship.
8. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the
tradition of men, as the washing of pots and cups: and many
other such like things ye do.
They paid great attention to pots and cups, but did not guard their
tongues from bitter words or their hearts from vile thoughts.^ The
first thing is to hold to God's commandment in whatever circum
stances we are, and then He will show us how to obey the com-
P

226 God's Word and Man's Tradition. [S. Mark VII.
mandments of our earthly masters. What dreadful folly to please
men and displease God ! One day we shall see which is the surest
friend.
9. And he said unto them, Full well ye reject the command
ment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.
Many Christians disobey God's plain rules, while they carefully attend
to rules of trade or maxims of society. It is, says our Lord, a fine
kind of religion, when we are pleasing ourselves and pretend to be
pleasing God ; it looks well here indeed, but is hollow and worth
less. Let our inquiry be, What will God say ? not, What will man
say?
10. For Moses said, Honour thy father and thy mother;
and, Whoso curseth father or mother, let him die the death:
This is the first commandment that comes to us in our life to be
obeyed. What mercies God has given us through our parents !
How much they have borne with from us ! how careful we should be
to help them in their old age, to treat them reverently and kindly,
to give up our own pleasure for their sakes. It will be a bitter
reflection one day to feel that we have used them unkindly.
1 1. But ye say, If a man shall say to his father or mother,
It is Corban, that is to say, a gift, by whatsoever thou mightest
be profited by me; he shall be free. 12. And ye suffer him no
more to do ought for his father or his mother ;
These false teachers approved of believers saying that they had
dedicated all their property to God, and so could not help their
parents out of it. Our Lord exposes the wickedness of this. What
would He say of those who neglect to keep their parents or other
relations in need because they prefer to spend their money on
luxuries or provide for their own ease and vanity ? There are in
the present day many heartless sons and daughters who despise
this holy commandment of God to succour their parents.
13. Making the word of God of none effect through your
tradition, which ye have delivered : and many such like things
do ye.
What a terrible sentence from Him Who could not err ! Are there
not now many opinions and fancies of men which we prefer to
God s Word ? Instead of asking what God says about any duty or
doctrine, we ask rather what men say, and so we go wrong. What
do the opinions of men matter when God has spoken?
14. IT And when he had called all the people unto him, he
said unto them, Hearken unto me every one of you, and under
stand: 15. there is nothing from without a man, that enter
ing into him can defile him : but the things which come out of
him, those are they that defile the man,

Ver. 20.] Jesus explains True Purity. 227
This is the principle of our Christian liberty, nothing that we eat or
drink or touch can of itself alter our condition before God. He
looks within, not without. What makes us unclean in His sight is the
inward corruption, the evil thoughts and desires that come from the
heart. This is not meant to permit of drunkenness or gluttony
or other deadly sins, but to make us attend to the real spring of
mischief. It is within ; let us cure that, and we shall use outward
things rightly.
1 6. If any man have ears to hear, let him hear.
This must have been a very important truth, for our Lord called all
the people to Him to tell them this one thing only, and bade
everyone urgently heed it. Then He left them with a further warning
that it was not easy for them to understand it. In this consists the
great difference between Jews and Christians ; the former were made
unclean by touching this or that, the latter serve God with perfect
freedom as to the use of outward things.
17. And when he was entered into the house from the people,
his disciples asked him concerning the parable.
This saying about what enters into a man and what comes out of him
seemed to them like a parable ; they could not take it literally, but
sought for its hidden sense. We shall understand it if we consider
that without are all God's creatures, His good things, meant for
food or medicine, they cannot of themselves defile us ; but within
is our treacherous heart, full of deceit and sin, there is the danger.
18. And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understand
ing also ? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from
without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him ; 19. because
it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out
into the draught, purging all meats ?
I must indeed deny myself in food and drink. I must take nothing
that puts me in the way of temptation. I must beware of luxurious
living. Plain fare is the best. But still all food and drink is but a
means to strengthen me for my Master's service. It matters not
much what sort of food served to sustain this earthly frame for a
few years; soon it and its sustenance will have turned to dust,
while the inward man will remain. I will be contented with what
I have, and thankful for it, and glad to share it with my brethren,
and will hunger also for the food of God's grace, which is more
precious.
20. And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that
defileth the man.
We should distrust our own heart, since there is such a spring of
mischief there. Our good impulses, our love of truth and
righteousness, do not spring from ourselves but from a higher
source. God alone gives them. What comes from His Spirit can

228 T/ie Heathen Woman's Prayer. [S. Mark VII.
make me clean and pure. What comes of myself is only vileness.
Lord, pour on me this cleansing tide of Thy grace which can wash
away my misdoings.
21. For from within, out of the heart of mm, proceed evil
thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, 22. thefts, covetous-
ness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy,
pride, foolishness : 23. all these evil things come from within,
and defile the man.
What a woeful catalogue ! Indeed our Lord knew what was in man.
As there are by God's grace saintly souls full of purity and love, so
there are fallen souls full of all manner of evil. He sees each as
they are. He sees some growing into holiness, others losing what
good they had and sinking into utter ruin. Lord, rescue me from
myself. I am likely, if I trust to my own strength, to become thus
vile and foul and hateful. I have such natural inclinations. Only
Thy victorious grace can change them and put good desires in
their place.
24. IT And from thence he arose, and went into the borders
of Tyre and Sidon, and entered into an house, and would have
no man know it : but he could not be hid.
It was not yet time for the Gospel to be given to the Gentiles, yet
our Saviour took this journey among them as a sign of that mercy
which they were soon to receive. He gave them some rays of
hope. Indeed He did not gather them round Him and preach,
and work cures, as He did for the Jews. His apostles were to do
that later on ; still wherever He was there was good done. He
could not be Jesus unless He brought a blessing wherever He
went.
25. For a certain woman, whose young daughter had an
undean spirit, heard of him, and came and fell at his feet : 26.
the woman was a Greek, a Syrophenician by nation ; and she
besought him that he would cast forth the devil out of her daughter.
In this poor woman's agony on behalf of her suffering daughter, who
had not reason or feeling to seek a cure for herself, we see how we
ought to feel and to pray for our friends. Do not unclean spirits,
evil tempers, profaneness, unkindness, possess the hearts of so
many? Should we not humbly and earnestly present their case
and our own to the All-merciful Lord ? We cannot cast out these
evil things. He must do it. If we cannot yet rest in His arms,
we can at least fall at His feet. That will be sufficient
27. But Jesus said unto her, Let the children first be filled :
for it is not meet to take the children's bread, and to cast it unto
the dogs.
God's Providence is hard to understand. He gives to some privileges
and mercies which He denies to others. Some are His children,

Ver. 32.] Jesus commends her Humility. 229
brought up in His house and knowing Him from their youth.
Others are as dogs, brought up amidst quarrelling and profane
ways. He seems less like a father to them. Yet have patience.
In good time He will show His goodness. Only let the children
beware lest they despise their happy condition. If they throw
away their Father's blessing others will take their place.
28. And she answered and said unto him, Yes, Lord: yet
the dogs under the table eat of the children's crumbs.
I am indeed less than the least of all Thy mercies. I do not presume
to come to Thy Table trusting in any righteousness of my own. I
deserve and accept dryness of spirit, and darkness, and want of
comfort in prayer. Thy saints enjoyed religion. Such raptures
are not for me. I will take the lowest place, and feel that I am
too much honoured. Only I will not give up hoping in Thy
mercy. It is most magnified in helping me as I am.
29. And he said unto her, For this saying go thy way ; the
devil is gone out of thy daughter.
Let us only persevere in prayer. The battle is not lost if we can go
on praying. God does not seem to take notice of us. There is
no sign of His presence. Yet if we continue steadily and patiently
asking Him for help He will bestow it largely at last. What joy
it will be to feel that the devil is gone, that our hearts are no
longer possessed by sin, that we belong wholly to our Father !
Lord, hasten that day.
30. And when she was come to her house, she found the devil
gone out, and her daughter laid upon the bed.
Mother and daughter could now rejoice together, for prayer had been
heard and the evil thing cast out. Christian parents can rejoice to
see their dear children serving God with peace and with a quiet
mind, not running about in idle company or giving way to storms
of temper, but happy at home and happy in God's house.
31. IT And again, departing from the coasts of Tyre and
Sidon, he came unto the sea of Galilee, through the midst of the
coasts of Decapolis.
Why did the Lord Jesus go to one country rather than another, when
there were many in need of Him everywhere? We know not. Yet
we can see that God has His times and opportunities. He offers
us mercy now. Perhaps the time may come, if we refuse to profit
by His grace now, that the opportunity will fail us. He is passing
by. Let us not close the door against Him, lest He take another
road.
3 2. And they bring unto him one that was deaf, and had an
impediment in his speech ; and they beseech him to put his hand
upon him.

230 Ephphatha. [S. Mark VIII.
We cannot hear God's voice speaking to us. We cannot open our
lips to pray for pardon, for our prayers are very scanty and feeble.
What can cure us but God's mercy in Christ? Lord, to whom
shall we go ? Thou alone canst enable us to hear Thee better and
speak to Thee more clearly.
2$. And he took him aside from the multitude, and put his
fingers into his ears, and he spit, and touched his tongue ;
God leads the soul apart, sets it in a sick-chamber or far from home
or friends, that so He may work His wonders of mercy. His
Word gives power to the tongue, His Spirit opens the ears. Lord,
how great a change ! Whence comes it that I can delight in being
alone with Thee, and feel Thy goodness helping my infirmity?
34. And looking up to heaven, he sighed, and saith unto him,
Ephphatha, that is, Be opened. 35. And straightway his ears
were opened, and the string of his tongue was loosed, and he
spake plain.
Indeed our gracious Lord has reason to sigh over human miseries.
They touched His heart even when He was about to relieve them.
And there' are worse evils than bodily deafness and dumbness
— hardness of heart which defies the Saviour's power, a scoffing
tongue that will not speak kindly or truly, sin that will not seek
for pardon. When our Lord thought of all this He sighed. His
great power and love could not cure such complaints. Let us pray
that our ears may remain open to His Word, and our tongues free
to praise Him.
36. And he charged them that they should tell no man : but
the more he charged them, so much the more a great deal they
published it ;
Christ did not seek for praise, and would fain avoid any stir. His
work went on best in quietness. But those who witnessed His
miracles could not keep silence. If those who were charged to be
silent about Christ's saving work yet proclaimed it so loudly, what
shall we do who are ordered to proclaim it ? What voice will be
sufficient for us ? He desires us now to send the news of it throueh-
out the world. 6
37. And were beyond measure astonished, saying, He hath
done all things well: he maketh both the deaf to liear, and the
dumb to speak.
This praise belongs to Christ only, such a wealth of goodness was
poured out in all His actions. He not only did good? but did it so
tenderly, so modestly with such lasting effect, no fault could be
S tVfT m ^ " we„cannot de^rve such praise as this, let us
at least do everythmg as well as we can. God does not require great
it1s° worth^oiengdwnefreU "^ ~ W * d° ' what^ " «*

Ver. 6.] The Seven Loaves. 23 1

CHAPTER VIII.
I. Christ feedeth the people miraculously : 10. refuseth to give a sign to
the Pharisees : 14. admonisheth his disciples to beware of the leaven
of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod : 22. giveth a blind man
his sight : 27. acknowledgeth that he is the Christ, who should suffer
and rise again : 34. and exhorteth to patience in persecution for the
profession of the gospel.
r those days the multitude being very great, and having
nothing to eat, Jesus called his disciples unto him, and
saith unto them, 2. I have compassion on the multitude, because
they have now been with me three days, and have nothing to eat :
3. and if I send them away fasting to their own houses, they
will faint by the. way : for divers of them came from far.
These poor people hung on our Saviour's words and rejoiced in His
presence, forgetful of their own necessities. He, on the other hand,
bore them tenderly in mind, and provided nourishment for them.
We can take example both from them and from Him — as they did,
thinking of God's Word first of all ; and as He did, always remem
bering our brethren's needs, and looking out for ways to help them.
We may be sure that Christ our Master knows our wants and feels
for them.
4. And his disciples answered him, From whence can a man
satisfy these men with bread here in the wilderness ?
Here below there is nothing that can satisfy man's deepest wants, no
love that lasts, no joy that wholly casts out grief. To whom can we
turn for sustenance except to our God, Who passed through this
wilderness and left supplies of grace for us? Mere pleasure is
dust and ashes, mere honour is wind, mere wealth only chains ; we
must look up for Bread to some One higher.
5. And he asked them, How many loaves have ye? And
they said, Seven. 6. And he commanded the people to sit
down on the ground: and he took the seven loaves, and gave
thanks, and brake, and gave to his disciples to set before them ;
and they did set them before the people.
The Holy Spirit has seven gifts. Christ our Saviour imparts these
to us. His apostles, and their successors in the Christian ministry,
were intrusted with a store of sacramental grace that should supply
the needs of believers in every age. We are ignorant and change
able, cold and foolish. What strength it is to reflect on the infinite
treasures of grace which Almighty God has for us ! We feel our
own misery, but we have a mighty and bountiful Friend to Whom
we look, His stores never fail.

232 The Pharisees require a Sign. [S. Mark VIII.
7. And they had a few small fishes : and he blessed, and
commanded to set them also before them.
Lord, give me courage always at meals to remember Thy goodness,
Who art the Giver, and to ask for a blessing on my food. Sometimes
I have forgotten Thy bounty, sometimes I have been ashamed to
acknowledge it. Let me think of Thy presence, and so I shall
not fear what men say. That I have sufficient food, and that it is
nourishing to me, comes of Thy goodness.
8. So they did eat, and were filled : and they took up of the
broken meat that was left seven baskets. 9. And they that had
eaten were about four thousand : and he sent them away.
We do not read that our Lord sat at a royal table or blessed any
grand banquet. No, He welcomed poor people to simple fare ;
nor would He allow any waste, even though His liberality had
been so great. His guests went home, knowing more than they had
known before about God and their duty, and remembering grate
fully the compassion and wonder-working power of their mighty
Friend. Who was this, they asked themselves, Whose words and
acts bring God so close to us ?
10. II And straightway he entered into a ship with his dis
ciples, and came into the parts of Dalmanutlia. 11. And the
Pharisees came forth, and began to question with him, seeking
of him a sign from heaved, tempting him.
If God showed us some new miracles every day some people would
find fault with them. A teachable heart will be content with the
many signs that God has given us already, but disputers always
require something new. What we should seek in religion is not
matter for questioning, but instruction about our duty and our
prayers, and how to love God and man.
12. And he sighed deeply in his spirit, and saith, Why doth
this generation seek after- a sign ? verily I say unto you, There
shall no sign be given unto this generation. 13. And he left
them, and entering into the ship again departed to the other side.
It was their own disposition that was to blame. God offered them
signs enough if they cared to see them. There are some persons
with whom it is no use to argue, the better way is to break off the
discussion and pray that they may see things seriously. Their con
dition is a sad one, they drive away salvation and hinder God's
good purposes for them. Lord, keep me from a scoffing spirit, and
from complaining at or finding fault with Thy dispensations.
14. IT Now the disciples had forgotten to take bread, neither
had they in the ship with them more than one loaf.
They thought more of Christ's company and conversation than of
their bodily meals. The bread that had remained over (verse 8)
must all have been given away before they left the shore, nor had

Ver. 2i.] We should trust to Christ's Mercy. 233
they remembered to take any more except this one loaf. How does
our great care for earthly comforts stand reproved by the simple
life of this blessed company !
15. And he charged them, saying, Take heed, beware of the
leaven of the Pharisees, and of the leaven of Herod.
Two dangers are pointed out to us here. The Pharisees were religious
outwardly, but there it ended ; tbey were hypocritical and proud and
hard upon others, their devotions had no sanctifying influence on
their life. Herod and his courtiers were worldly, and led a care
less life ; they broke God's laws, and fell into open sin or despised
all religion. Lord, keep us on a straight path between these two
dangers, let our devotion be real and our life obedient.
1 6. And they reasoned among themselves, saying, It is because
ive have no bread.
They thought our Saviour was noticing their lack of food and telling
them not to apply to any Pharisee or courtier of Herod for a fresh
supply. Ah, He meant more than that. The leaven He spoke of
penetrated men's minds, not the baker's dough. He warned them
not to let the false and corrupting spirit of the world enter into
their hearts.
17. And when Jesus knew it, he saith unto them, Why reason
ye, because ye have no bread ? perceive ye not yet, neither under
stand? have ye your heart yet hardened? 18. having eyes, see
ye not ? and having ears, hear ye not ? and do ye not remember ?
God has done so much for us in mercy and grace, has cared for us
so long, cannot we believe in His power and trust His loving
Providence ? Indeed we should provide, yet peacefully and quietly,
for the needs of this present life, yet still trusting to a higher
Wisdom to bring things right for us. Why think only of the body's
needs ? Why forget your Master's promise and His presence with
you ? Who has mercifully delivered you before ? Who is full of
goodness to His saints ? Such questions the Lord Jesus puts to us.
19. When I brake the five loaves among five thousand, how
many baskets full of fragments took ye up ? They say unto
him, Twelve. 20. And when the seven among four thousand,
how many baskets full of fragments took ye up ? And they
said, Seven. 21. And he said unto them, How is it that ye do
not understand ?
Sin has darkened man's eyes, and made him forget the daily blessings
for which he had to thank God. The Saviour's disciples had seen
enough to make them trust entirely for everything upon so good
and so mighty a Master ; but they had forgotten, it had gone out of
their memory. Are we not like them ? God has dealt with us in
mercy, guarded us from ruin, and fed us all our life long until this

234 Jesus cures a Blind Man gradually. [S. Mark VIII.

day. We should rest quietly in His Providence, doing indeed our
part, but leaving the result to Him. With all our getting we should
get understanding, that is the most needful possession.
22. IT And he cometh to Bethsaida ; and they bring a blind
man unto him, and besought him to touch him.
We have friends who are blind spiritually ; nay, our own soul suffers
from the same complaint. We fail to see God's hand, or the path we
ought to walk in : we are dark inwardly. What else can we do but
present with earnest prayers ourselves and our dear ones to the
true Light of souls, praying Him to shine on our darkness and show
us the way. Touch us, O Lord, with Thy healing grace, that this
world's shadows may roll away from our inward sight
23. And he took the blind man by the hand, and led him out
of the town ; and when he had spit on his eyes, and put his
hands upon him, he asked him if he saw ought.
This cure was gradual. The man learned to lean upon and trust his
kind Friend, He was safe with such a Leader. This represents to us
the conversion of a soul, how God leads it apart, applies to it the
remedies of grace, makes it lean upon its true Helper. Those are
happy who, when the sense of their own blindness comes over them,
have such a Divine Guide at hand to help them.
24. And he looked up, and said, I see men as trees, walking.
He saw dark forms like trees, only moving, between him and the light.
This was one stage in his cure ; but many remain half blind all their
life ; they do not see men as God sees them, they are entangled in
this world's mists and shadows. Lord, let me see myself and other
men as creatures made in Thy image and redeemed by Thy Blood,
and therefore precious. If I injure them I offend Thee.
25. After that he put his hands again upon his eyes, and
made him look up : and he was restored, and saw every man
clearly. Ah, this seldom comes to the soul on earth. This world is but a journey
in the darkness, or twilight at best ; one day the clear daylight will
come. God begins to enlighten us here. He leads us through
trouble and suffering. We learn to see things more truly than we
did, but we are far from seeing clearly. Lord, enlighten our eyes,
and keep us from falling back into darkness again.
26. And he sent him away to his house, saying, Neither go
into the town, nor tell it to any in the town.
Do not talk much of your religious feelings or of God's dealings with
you. Pour out your whole heart to Him only, and set yourself to
doing His will. Many waste their good impressions in much
talking ; do not you do this, but let heavenly truth sink into your
heart. Make good resolutions in secret, and hold to them with a
steady purpose. This blind man, now healed, was told to go home
and consider quietly there the greatness of the mercy he had received.

Ver. 32.] S. Peter confesses Christ. 235
27. IT And Jesus went out, and Ms disciples, into the towns
of Caesarea Philippi : and by the way lie asked his disciples,
saying unto them, Whom do men say that I am ?
Here we are bidden to pause a while. We have read our Saviour's
miracles and parables, and we must consider now Who He is that
did and said all this. Holy Scripture is 'written not merely to
interest or instruct us, but to plant in our minds a firm faith in Jesus
the Son of God. He inquires of us whether we believe in Him as
we ought.
28. And they answered, John the Baptist: but some say,
Elias ; and others, One of the prophets.
The disciples had heard some people say that He was John the
Baptist come to life ; others, that He was Elijah come to prepare
the way for the day of the Lord ; others, that some old prophet had
come back to recall people to God's true worship. Thank God
that He has not left us to our own conjectures in so great a matter !
We know that Jesus Christ is not a saint or prophet, but the Lord
and Master of them all, from Whom they all got what gifts they
had.
29. And he saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
And Peter answer eth and saith unto him, Thou art the Christ.
30. And he charged them that they should tell no man of him.
One soul at least had learned this lesson, and from him afterwards
thousands upon thousands learned it. The spark was lighted now
which would kindle a world. Glory be to God for this great gift of
!aith ! S. Peter believed truly and confessed openly. Let us in
these unbelieving days not be ashamed to say, "Jesus is my
Master ; He is the King and Priest Whom God has appointed, in
Him alone I look for pardon. The more that others' faith decays
the closer I will cling to this saving truth. " It was not yet to be
revealed, but the time for declaring it would soon come.
31. And he began to teach them, that the Son of man must
suffer many things, and be rejected of the elders, and, of the chief
priests, and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again.
Here is the bitter news of the Cross. His glory and the world's favour
should pass, and in their place should come mocks and blows and-
a death of shame. Such was the path which God's Own Son trod,
and He leads His saints through the same. We must not be amazed
when bright days pass away and troubles gather round us, as
Christ Himself had to bear the Cross, but one day joy will return.
32. And he spake that saying openly. And Peter took him,
and began to rebuke him.
Human reason speaks otherwise than God's Spirit. Human advisers
remind us of honour, of comfort, of peace, of the easiest way, but
the followers of a crucified Master will find that the straight road

236 S. Peter is rebuked as Satan. [S. Mark IX.
for them leads, like His did, through shame to glory. When God
speaks plainly of duty to be done, human counsel must submit to
Divine Wisdom.
33. But when he had turned about and looked on his dis
ciples, he rebuked Peter, saying, Get thee behind me, Satan : for
thou savourest not the things that be of God, but the things that
be of men.
S. Peter would have kept the Lord from the Cross, and so he was
severely rebuked. He had from a friend become a tempter by
trying to persuade his Master to choose the easy way and shrink
from pain. Where should we all have been if our Master had
listened to such counsels ? Let us ask Him for courage that we
may be able to prefer His will always, however hard it seems, to
the false peace which the world offers.
34. IT And when he had called the people unto him with his
disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me,
let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me.
Here is a rule of life. Deny yourself by putting aside your own
pleasure, your own glory, your own way. Take up your cross,
whatever it be, however bitter or heavy, bearing it along though
the way seem hard to flesh and blood. Follow the Lord Jesus
by a pure and simple life, doing your heavenly Father's business.
Lord, Thou hast called us to hear this rule of Thine, give us grace
and strength to walk by it.
35. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whoso
ever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same
sliall save it.
We must not dread the loss of anything else so long as we keep
Christ's love. Our best hopes and dearest joys are well bestowed
if we quit them for His sake. The martyrs ventured their lives
cheerfully for their Master, and obtained an infinite reward. How
small now their sacrifices seem to them, looked back on from
eternal joy I If it is glorious to lose life for one's country, the
honour is greater to lose it for one's God.
36. For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole
' world, and lose his own soul ?
We must dread the loss of our own soul most of all. Many have lost
that though they had all the world's enjoyments at their feet.
Now they see too late that they made a foolish choice. Indeed
life is sweet and death bitter, yet eternal life is out of all compari
son more sweet and eternal death more bitter. Which should a
wise man choose ?
37. Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul ?
Alas ! all possible riches and honour are not worth a soul. They
cannot make up its price. That will be an awful experience when

Ver. 2.] Not to be ashamed of Christ. 237
a man in death or after death wakes up to see that he has lost him
self, and has no means of recovery left Now while we have time
let us offer the Blood of Jesus, and plead the price that He paid
to redeem our sins. That Sacrifice is sufficient, God regards that
price.
38. Whosoever therefore shall be ashamed of me and of my
words in this adulterous and sinful generation ; of him also
shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he cometh in the glory
of his Father with the holy angels.
These words have encouraged martyrs to bear cruel torments. Let
them encourage us to endure mockery and jeers for Christ's sake.
It is easy to stand up for truth when it is honoured, but who is
brave enough to confess it amidst threats and revilings and profane
jokes ? Lord, give us courage to remember that awful day when
Thou wilt honour Thy faithful witnesses. Scorn and shame shall
one day be the portion of those who despise Thee now.

CHAPTER IX.
2. Jesus is transfigured, n. He instructeth his disciples concerning the
coming of Elias : 14. casteth forth a dumb and deaf spirit : 30. fore-
telleth his death and resurrection: 33. exhorteth his disciples to
humility : 38. bidding them not to prohibit such as be not against
them, nor to give offence to any of the faithful.
AND he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That there be
Xi. some of them that stand here, which shall not taste of
death, till they have seen the kingdom of God come with power.
Have we not seen it come thus ? Do not heathens receive the Gospel
daily? are not sinners converted and God's Name declared?
Indeed it has not come fully yet, but we can see some rays of its
glory which make us look forward in hope to the full manifestation.
Before we taste the bitter cup of death God comforts us by many
signs of His power and goodness.
2. IT And after six days Jesus taketh with him Peter, and
James, and John, and leadeth them up into an high mountain
apart by themselves : and he was transfigured before them.
All this is a figure of the glory to come. After the days of this life
are over Jesus our Lord will be manifested in heaven to His saints.
There will be a glorious transfiguration for them also. The high
mountain represents our heavenly home far above the cares and
temptations which cling to this lower earth. When will that day
come which will change our corruptible bodies, full of weakness and
pain, into glorified bodies like that of Jesus?

238 Our Lord's Glory on the Mount. [S. Mark IX.
3. And his raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow ;
so as no fuller on earth can white them.
To become fit for the light and glory of heaven we must cleanse our
hearts from all evil now. What joy it will be one day to be pure
in heart ! Only Christ's Blood is able to wash out the stains of
our sins and make us fit for that glorious kingdom. If in this life
many stains remain, yet we can trust to our Master's goodness to
remove them before the last day comes. Jesus alone is quite pure, but
we will strive for His sake to hate evil and love only what is good.
4. And there appeared unto them Elias with Moses: and
they were talking with Jesus.
We shall see one day how that the Law and the Prophets and the
Gospel all have the same message. Each in its day came to men to
teach them truth and love, and fit them for a better life. In heaven all
who have served God in their different ages and circumstances will
meet and recognise each other as friends. We seem alone now, but
one day we shall find an innumerable company of saints on our side.
5. And Peter answered and said to Jesus, Master, it is good
for us to be here : and let us make three tabernacles ; one for
thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias.
If God gives some peace and happiness now, what will it be when we
have come into the full ocean of joy I No doubt we have often to
thank Him -for happy days, for innocent pleasures, for love, for
enjoyment in religion. But these are not lasting here. They only
remind us of eternal joy which will never decay. There indeed it
will be good for us to be. We shall never be tired of heaven.
6. For he wist not what to say ; for they were sore afraid.
How shall human weakness endure the sight of God's glory ? Indeed
the thought of leaving this world and appearing before God is an
awful one. What scenes has He for us in eternity ! Let us keep
in our hearts a holy fear of offending God now, and so we shall
have less reason to be confounded by His presence then.
7. And there was a cloud that overshadowed them : and a
voice came out of the cloud, saying, This is my beloved Son:
hear him.
In eternity all means of grace will be gone. We shall need no
Bibles, no church, no sacraments, no outward preaching. Jesus
our Lord in His Divine glory will be shown to us, and we shall
hear Him speaking directly to each of us. On earth we search for
fragments of truth, in heaven it will come to us all clearly and
perfectly. Let us listen to the voice of God, which speaks to us
now in whispers, and wait patiently for its clearer sound.
8. And suddenly, when they had looked round about, they
saw no man any more, save Jesus only with themselves.

Ver. i 3.] Our Lord explains that Elias had come. 239
This is the only abiding Friend. Bright visions, warm feelings, high
hopes depart. We may have a dark and lonely road. There may
not be much of earth or of heaven to cheer us as life goes on.
Only if we have made the Son of God our Friend He will remain
by our side though unseen. He will guide His friends down the
road of decay, and up again to that better mountain where they will
remain.
9. And as they came down from the mountain, he charged
them that they should tell no man what things they had seen,
till the Son of man were risen from the dead.
Jesus had laid aside His glory, He wished only to be known as a
man amongst men. One day the time would come for His great
victory, and then His friends might say how they had seen Him in
glory before. They might not speak now of the glory, but the
thought of it lay deep in their heart and strengthened their faith.
10. And they kept that saying with themselves, questioning
one with another what the rising from the dead should mean.
Was not Christ's kingdom already beginning to appear ? How could
He have to die first and rise again ? Such were the questions that
perplexed their minds. A Christian now cannot comprehend the
life to come. He tries in vain to imagine what sort of life and
what sort of glory that will be. Our minds cannot grasp it yet
All we know is that we have had on the holy mount some foretastes
of that blessedness ; we have found a Friend in our Divine Master.
All will be well with those who love Him.
1 1. IT And they asked him, saying, Why say the scribes that
Elias must first come ?
Elijah the prophet was to prepare Christ's way, yet they had seen
him come and disappear again. His work had been fulfilled by
John the Baptist. Christian preachers now have the same work
to do. They should in all boldness warn sinners of the Lord's
coming, and stir them up to repent. They should pray for courage
to speak like Elijah and like John did, without fear or favour.
12. And he answered and told them, Elias verily cometh
first, and restoreth all things ; and how it is written of the Son
of man, that he must suffer many things, and be set at nought.
The prophets who spoke of Elijah's coming also spoke of Christ's
sufferings. Those who do God's work must make up their minds
to contempt and ill-usage. Why should they be better treated
than their Master ? If they are, let them consider whether they are
not dealing too tenderly with the world, and sparing its faults.
Shame is harder to bear than even suffering, yet Jesus our Lord
had to bear it, and He will help us to do the same.
13. But I say unto you, That Elias is indeed come, and they
have done unto him whatsoever they listed, as it is written of him.

240 Jesus comes down from the Mount. [S Mark IX.
Here the world seems to have its way. It does as it pleases.
Wickedness is triumphant, and the saints reviled or silenced; yet
one day God will show that His gracious purposes are all worked
out by the hands of the ungodly. Let us have patience and
commit ourselves to God's mercy. All that happens is known to
and ordered by Him.
14. IT And when he came to his disciples, he saw a great
multitude about them, and the scribes questioning with them.
In our Saviour's absence His disciples had many cares, and their
enemies thought to win a victory over them. Their Master on the
Mount of Glory had not forgotten them. He only delayed His
coming that they might feel the need of His help. Do not let us
think that He is indifferent to our sorrows and dangers. In His
glory He can behold us and hear us when we cry to Him.
15. And straightway all the people, when they beheld him,
were greatly amazed, and running to him saluted him.
Some of the glory of the mount may have remained on His counten
ance. Those who saw Him felt awe and yet joy at His presence.
This is the temper for Christians. They should reverence the
Godhead, the infinite power and glory of their Lord. Who would
not tremble before the Judge of all men, Whose word pierces
through all hearts? Yet He welcomes us, and we too should
approach Him with confidence and peace.
16. And he asked the scribes, What question ye with them 2
The disciples must have rejoiced at such an Advocate taking up their
cause. No doubt the scribes had taunted Christ's friends with
their failure, and tried to prove that they were impostors altogether.
One day Christ will appear to answer for His friends who are now
ridiculed or threatened by an unkind world.
17. And one of the multitude answered and said, Master, I
have brought unto thee my son, which lialh a dumb spirit; 18.
and wheresoever he taketh him, he teareth him : and he foameth
and gnasheth with his teeth, and pineth away : and I spake to
thy disciples that they should cast him out; and tliey could not
The sad state of this poor boy reminds us of the terrible power which
sin has- over men's souls and bodies. Look at drunkenness un-
cleanness, and hatred. What a wreck they make of men's lives !
How miserably full of trouble is the whole world ! And God's
Word seems to do little towards setting it right Our faith is
tried when we see so much wretchedness.
19. He answer eth him, and saith, 0 faithless generation,
how long shall I be with you ? how long shall I suffer you f
bring him unto me.
Our Good Physician rebukes us. We are in misery and cannot be

Ver. 25.] The Dumb Spirit is driven out. 241
cured because we refuse to obey His treatment. Our helplessness
is our own fault. God has infinite stores of grace and mercy. His
power can do away with misery, His love can comfort it, His
holiness can abolish sin, but our faith is lacking. We do not pray
or strive heartily, and so the doors of His mercy remain locked.
Lord, let Thy reproach stir us up to call on Thee more earnestly.
20. And they brought him unto him : and when he saw him,
straightway the spirit tare him ; and he fell on the ground, and
wallowed foaming. 21. And he asked his father, How long is
it ago since this came unto him ? And he said, Of a child. 22.
And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters,
to destroy him : but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion
on us, and help us.
We must not lose heart, even when sin appears most powerful.
Jesus our Lord is with us even though devils and foul passions and
wicked men torment us. All their greatest violence is but a
moment's gust. Soon it will be over, and perfect peace will remain if
we have kept firm to Christ's side. Dear friend, if you have felt
the terrible power of deadly sin, and seen the precipice on which
you stand, cling all the more closely to that one true Friend Who
alone can bring you through. He feels for your suffering, and bids
you stand firm.
23. Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are
possible to him that believeth.
Faith is a great treasure, for it is the key to open all God's mercies,
but it is a gift from God. Who can have faith, except it be given
him ? Lord, I know that Thy Word is true, and that all things are
possible to me if I believe, only I need exceedingly this Divine
gift, my faith often fails. I know that I depend wholly on Thee
for this and all other blessings.
24. And straightway the father of the child cried out, and
said with tears, Lord, I believe ; help thou mine unbelief.
Lord, I am persuaded of Thy power and pity, yet I cannot so readily
as I ought apply Thy Word to my own case, nor so cheerfully
depend upon it Let me at least humbly acknowledge my short
comings. I trust that Thou art good, and that Thy Word is sure,
and that Thou hast mercy for me ; let this conviction grow in me
daily. I earnestly desire a stronger faith, and will not rest till I
have obtained it.
25. When Jesus saw that the people came running together,
he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and
deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more
into him.
Lord, with Thy power drive far from the hearts of the young this evil
spirit of impudence and hardness which sets them against all good,
Q

242 Devils cast out by Prayer and Fasting. [S. Mark IX.
that spirit which loves uncleanness, refuses to pray or make con
fession of faults, despises good advice and warnings ; pronounce over
them this mighty word of deliverance, and guard them from future
falls. Sometimes no human guidance can accomplish this, and we
have to leave it with prayer wholly in Thy hands.
26. And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of
him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He
is dead.
Many are hopeless of a sinner's recovery. They see in him the effects
of evil passions, and do not believe he can ever change. He may
become more outwardly respectable, but they always disbelieve in
his conversion. Lord, keep me from this cold and faithless temper.
I believe that Thy grace can overcome deadly sin and Thy love
can quicken lifeless hearts. . After all Thy mercies dealt to me can I
doubt of Thy power with others ?
27. But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up;
and he arose.
The almighty hand of Christ brought healing to the sick and life to
the dead. We should observe by faith this merciful hand now out
stretched to help us. It is hidden behind those kind friends who
have at one time or another interfered on our behalf, their good
ness was inspired and directed by our unseen Lord.
28. And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked
him privately, Why could not we cast him out? 29. And he
said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by
prayer and fasting.
More earnestness is needed to deliver souls than we usually bring. If
we had the chance of begging a friend's life or liberty from human
justice, how we should petition, how we should use all effort to
move those in power. When the question is of a sinner's soul now
enslaved by Satan, why are we so lukewarm ? God bids us give up
pleasure, endure trouble, pray earnestly, spare no pains if we would
accomplish this.
30. IT And they departed thence, and passed through Galilee ;
and he would not that any man should know it.
As the time of His Passion drew near our Saviour would be more
alone. He withdrew from the great crowds and many cares which
had marked His ministry before. Is it not a favour for us when in
our latter days we are able to withdraw from the world and have a
quiet space of preparation for our end ?
31. For he taught his disciples, and said unto tliem, The Son
of man is delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill
him; and after that he is killed, he shall rise the third day.
This is the second clear and plain warning of our Lord's Passion.

Ver. 36.] The Dispute who should be Greatest. 243
The first (viii. 31) came directly after S. Peter had confessed Him to
be the Christ, and the second comes directly after the glorious vision
on the mount and the power shown in casting out the evil spirit.
Let us not be afraid to remember our approaching death. Seasons of
glory or success or peace in this world must not put out of our
minds the dark road that we shall soon have to tread, nor the gloom
of that darkness obscure altogether the promised land beyond the
grave.
3 2. But they understood not that saying, and were afraid to
ask him.
That their mighty Lord should be thus outraged by men, that the
earthly hopes of His kingdom should end in the shameful cross,
that His way to glory should be through so strange a road as death
and the grave, — all this was too deep and too high for them. They
had to share in the sufferings themselves before they could see
what it meant. God has much yet to teach us, and ways of teach
ing which are hard to flesh and blood.
33. IT And he came to Capernaum : and being in the house
he asked them, What was it that ye disputed among yourselves
by the way ?
Alas ! when God calls for an account of our foolish words, what shall
we answer? What were the bitter words, the conceited exaltation
of self, the unkind jests, the profane stories, the many foolish
sayings with which my idle hours have been filled ! Indeed Thou
knowest better than I myself remember, but I remember enough to
fill me with confusion.
34. But they held their peace : for by the way they had dis
puted among themselves, who should be the greatest.
How hard it is to get rid of ambition ! It crept in even among our
Lord's chosen friends in their simple homely life. When He spoke
of His kingdom they considered what places He would reserve
for them. Have we no desire to lord it over others ? Do not we
love to be praised and made much of? It is hard to bear being
overlooked.
35. And he sat down, and called the twelve, and saith unto
them, If any man desire to be first, the same shall be last of all,
and servant of all.
This is a Christian's way to rise in the world. Let him never be above
anything except doing wrong, let him rejoice to be looked down
upon and have a lowly place, let him gladly help others and wait on
them when their needs require. If he desires honestly to be of no
account, and not to have his reward in this world, he will obtain
great peace now and great glory one day.
36. And he took a child, and set him in the midst of them:
and when he had taken him in his arms, he said unto them,

244 Not with us, but of us. [S. Mark IX.
What a happy child! He listened to the kind words, saw the
gracious countenance, was embraced in the loving arms of the
Saviour of men. How he must have remembered that moment ! all
his life through it must have been a blessing to him. Let the
first prayers, the earliest religious impressions, the confirmation and
first communion of our dear children be to them such an embrace
as this. Let them feel round them those merciful arms which alone
can keep them safe.
3 7. Whosoever shall receive one of such children in my name,
receiveth me : and whosoever shall receive me, receiveth not me,
but him that sent me.
Here is a recommendation from the King of Glory on behalf of chil
dren. He makes them His dearest care, and bids us love and
honour them as Himself. Blessed are those who take pains to
bring up children in God's ways, cursed are those who neglect or
lead them astray. Let us try to be as simple, as innocent of sin, and
as forgiving as children are.
38. U And John answered hirti, saying, Master, we saw one
casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us : and
we forbad him, because he followeth not us.
No, we should rather rejoice at any good that is done even by those
who differ fromjis. When we see the devil driven out we should
acknowledge God's Spirit at work. Wherever Christ's Name is
honoured and souls converted there our cause triumphs. Let us
take care that jealousy and party spirit do not blind us to the good
gifts of other Christians who do not act with us ; their Master is
ours too.
39. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man
which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak
evil of me.
The Lord Jesus suffers much division to be among believers, but still
He gives His Word power to save souls, even though those who
preach it disagree. Glory be to Him for miracles of grace wher
ever they occur ! Glory be to His holy Name for all those who
agree in honouring it though they agree in little else ! How great
is He Who can overrule our differences to His service !
40. For he that is not against us is on our part.
This means, he that stands up for what is good, on whatever side he
appears to be, is yet one with Christ's Church and His saints.
Hate evil, fight against it, love the truth ; then you are one with
God's armies, your side is theirs. May God lead all such dear
souls as fight for Him and yet scarcely know it into the full truth
and communion of His holy Church, if not here, yet hereafter.
41. For whosoever shall give you a cup of water to drink in

Ver. 48.] Cut off occasions of Sin. 245
my name, because ye belong to Christ, verily I say unto you,
he shall not lose his reward
God will reward the smallest services done for love of Him. No
Christian man should speak ill of acts of kindness ; God approves
them, and sets His seal upon them. We should not question their
motive or explain them away, but rather try and do likewise. Jesus
our Lord recommends us His poor friends. He says, Such and such
a sufferer is dear to Me, I will bear in mind any kindness you do
to him.
42. And whosoever shall offend one of these little ones that
believe in me, it is better for him that a millstone were hanged
about his neck, and he were cast into the sea.
Lord Jesus, engrave this verse in my heart when I am tempted to
lead others into sin. Let not my passion or pride or self-will be
the cause of ruin to Thy dear children. Pierce my heart with Thy
fear. Let me try all ways to avoid injuring any soul. Let me sooner
die than encourage sin. It were better for me to suffer any misery
or loss than have the awful remembrance present with me that I
had led innocent souls from God.
43. And if thy hand offend thee, cut it off: it is better for
thee to enter into life maimed, than having two hands to go into
hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched : 44. where their
worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.
Cut off thy hand, i.e. put away any employment which is dangerous
to the soul. It is better to miss earthly profit than be led into sin
and offend God. This is a plain rule, keep away from places and
opportunities where Satan may take advantage of you. A time
may come when regrets will be too late and good intentions past
carrying out
45. And if thy foot offend thee, cut it off : it is better for thee
to enter halt into life, than having two feet to be cast into hell,
into the fire that never shall be quenched: 46. where their worm
dieth not, and the fire is not quenched.
Cut off thy foot, i.e. get rid of any useful things or persons which are
occasion of temptation. The waverer says, How could I do without
taking my glass, though it leads me on to drink too much ; or
without such a friend's help, though he is a scoffer ; or without
some indulgence that I know is wrong ? I am not able to give up
my pleasures. But God says, What will it be one day to feel that
you have thrown away eternal joy for a short earthly indulgence ?
What hopeless remorse and misery will then fill the soul !
47. And if thine eye offend thee, pluck it out : it is better for
thee to enter into the kingdom of God with one eye, than liaving
two eyes to be cast into hell fire : 48. where their worm dieth
not, and the fire is not quenched.

246 Every Sacrifice needs Salt. [S. Mark X.
Pluck out thine eye, i.e. do not listen to the advice of any friend,
however dear, who persuades you to go against your duty. Some
times for God's sake we must go against those we love best, and
choose another way from theirs. This is bitter and painful to
nature, but God's grace can help us to overcome. If we would fly
from the infection of a dangerous illness, how much more pains
should we take to keep our souls from catching the disease of sin !
What does it matter whether we are happy or sorrowful in this life
if our Father's home receives us in the world to come ? Where
shall we go if shut out from that ?
49. For every one shall be salted with fire, and every sacrifice
shall be salted with salt.
In one way or another every soul must at last submit to God. Either
unwillingly, by undergoing the righteous sentence of judgment with
a heart full of self-will, hating God and oneself, or of free choice, by
submitting gladly to His wise Providence, and seasoning what is
distasteful in life with a charitable spirit. God's grace is the true
salt that can make our sacrifice pleasing in His sight.
50. Salt is good : but if the salt have lost its saltness, where
with will ye season it ? Have salt in yourselves, and have peace
one with another.
What else can take the place of love ? Cleverness and money and
power and fame in the world can none of them do what love does.
If we lose this gift, if we cease to love God and heavenly things,
and those whom God has given us, if we seek instead the world's
admiration and follow its ways, who will supply our loss ? Lord,
grant us always to keep a taste for religion, let it have a flavour to
us, let us never get tired of loving God and doing good. This is
worth everything else.

CHAPTER X.
2. Christ disputeth with the Pharisees touching divorcement : 13. blesseth
the children that are brought unto him : 17. resolveth a rich man how
he may inherit life everlasting : 23. telleth his disciples of the danger
of riches : 28. promiseth rewards to them that forsake any thing for
the gospel : 32. foretelleth his death and resurrection : 35. biddeth
the two ambitious suitors to think rather of suffering with him : 46.
and restoreth to Bartimseus his sight.
AND he arose from thence, and cometh into the coasts of
Xi Judcea by the farther side of Jordan : and the people
resort unto him again ; and, as he was wont, he taught them
again. We must not get weary of learning. All our life through we should
resort to Jesus Christ as the Fountain of wisdom, asking Him to

Ver. 8.] Christ declares Marriage a holy and abiding Tie. 247
enlighten us. He is never weary of teaching those who seek Him.
Lord, grant Thy pastors diligently to preach Thy Holy Word after
Thy example, and Thy people obediently to follow the same. Grant
us so to learn from Thee here that our lesson may be finished in Thy
presence above.
2. IT And the Pharisees came to him, and asked him, Is it
lawful for a man to put away his wife ? tempting him.
These Pharisees wished to find occasion for blame in Christ's teach
ing. They would make Him contradict Himself or Moses if they
could. Nowadays there are Pharisees whose whole notion of re
ligion lies in disputes and party strife. They forget the true sub
stance of religion, which is love, and prefer to dwell on matters
which divide men instead of those which make them one. Lord,
keep me from a spirit of strife and blind devotion to any party.
Let me leam from Thee rather than from men.
3. And he answered and said unto tliem, What did Moses
command you ?
Go back to the beginning and look in the Holy Scriptures and see
what is said there. So our Saviour enjoined them about the question
of marriage and what should dissolve it, so He still bids us do
when disputes arise on faith or practice. Moses was divinely
guided to write the early history of the world. The revelation that
came through him was the first step in man's restoration.
4. And they said, Moses suffered to write a bill of divorce
ment, and to put her away. 5. And Jesus answered and said
unto them, For the hardness of your heart he wrote you this
precept. Moses attached certain legal formalities to divorce on purpose to
defend the sanctity of marriage. His purpose was to check and
regulate what he could not prevent. But under the Gospel God
requires more of us. Moses' law was meant for hard hearts and
slaves newly escaped from Egypt, but we are now God's children,
and brothers of His dear Son. God would have our hearts tender
and patient.
6. But from the beginning of the creation God made them
male and female.
God appointed marriage. Consider what peace and holiness and love
united husband and wife before sin entered into the world. What
will that new creation be like when God shall make all things new
and restore peace and joy to His faithful servants? Since Eden
many disasters have come in, but God can repair them and bring
us back to a better estate than that first was.
7. For this cause shall a man leave his father and mother,
and cleave to his wife; 8. and they twain shall be one flesh:

248 Children brought to our Lord. [S. Mark X.
so then they are no more twain, but one flesh. 9. What there
fore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.
This close and sacred union of man and wife represents the union
between Christ and ourselves. The believer's heart should be loyal
to its heavenly Spouse, and study to approve itself to Him in all
things. Husband and wife should pray God for united hearts, that
no differences may come between them. God has joined them
together, let them strive to live in peace and love all their days,
and let both of them remember that Lord to Whom their souls are
knit by grace, and Who should be the dearest Friend that they have.
They are most surely united" by a common faith in Jesus and hope
of heaven.
10. And in the house his disciples asked him again of the
same matter. 11. And lie saith unto them, Whosoever shall
put away his wife, and marry another, committeth adultery
against her. 12. And if a woman shall put away her husband,
and be married to another, she committeth adultery.
Lord, . grant to all those who are entering on the holy estate of
matrimony a deep sense of its duties ; let them not approach it
carelessly or out of mere fancy, and find too late that they have
wrecked their happiness and fallen into many occasions of sin ; let
them pray daily for grace to keep the sacred promises they have
made to each other. What endless misery comes from profaning
this holy tie ! God keep us faithful to each other, and to Him
above all.
13. IT And they brought young children to him, that he should
touch them : and his disciples rebuked those that brought them.
God gives children that we may bring them to Him in baptism,
present them often to His mercy in prayer, bring them up suitably
to -their Christian condition. Why did God intrust parents or
teachers with this dear child ? Because He would bestow on them
the honour of preparing a soul for His everlasting kingdom. What
pains should we not take to make the children acquainted with
their Lord and Saviour 1
14. But when Jesus saw it, he was much displeased, and said
unto them, Suffer the little children to come unto me, and forbid
them not : for of such is the kingdom of God.
The Lord approves a childlike temper, one that has no pride, no
impurity, is not covetous, seeks no revenge, thinks no evil, trusts in
offered kindness. Such are children, and such the character which
He approves in mature Christians. When shall I learn to depend
upon God and rest on His loving-kindness as simply as a child
trusts father's word and mother's tenderness ?
15. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the
kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.

Ver. 20.] The Rich Young Man puts a Question. 249
A second childhood of reason is dreaded by all, and goes with an
entire decay of body and mind ; but a second childhood of the heart
is man's glory, and fits him to advance in God's ways. God's
almighty grace can make our hearts white again and open to the
writing of the Blessed Spirit, like a -child's mind is open to in
struction. We are never too old to enter Christ's school ; He has
much to teach us.
16. And he took tliem up in his arms, put his hands upon
them, and blessed them.
If little children could get no good by prayers and a blessing, what
did our Saviour's action mean? It is after His pattern that the
Church brings children to holy baptism, signs them with His cross,
enlists them in His army. If the Church were wrong in supposing
that infants can receive a blessing thus, her Master must have been
wrong in receiving and blessing these little ones ; they knew not
Who He was, nor what He meant, and yet His blessing was no
empty form but full of power.
1 7. 1T And when he was gone forth into the way, there came
one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master,
what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life ?
How earnest is this young man, how reverently he addresses our
Lord,, what a weighty question he puts, and to how well-chosen an
Adviser ! Many young men have their minds full of vanity or folly
or worse, but here is one whose desire is to do good and reach
heaven. Most of us ask, What shall I do that I may be rich or
honoured or successful ? few only, What shall I do to please God ?
and yet this is the more important question.
18. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good ?
there is none good but one, that is, God.
All good is from above. Lift up your heart to the Fountain of all good
ness, Who is able to pour it forth upon His creatures. First feel your
own nothingness and misery, that you have no good thing in you,
no power to serve God and keep from sin ; feel that no mere man
can supply your needs, and then remember that God is fully able
to do so. Unless we remember that Jesus is God as well as man,
our approach to Him will lack faith. He is not only a good
Master but a Divine Redeemer.
19. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adul
tery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness,
Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
Let Thy law, O my God, be the constant rule of my life ; let me keep
these commandments in letter and spirit. I am deeply ashamed
to think how well I know them and how often I have despised them.
They require obedience of the heart as well as of outward acts.
20. And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these
have I observed from my youth.

250 Jesus shows the Danger of Riches. [S. Mark X.
A young man or woman who has been brought up in innocence, who
has had good examples to go by, and has never fallen into any
deadly sin, has much to thank God for. How great and precious a
gift this is ! Only let those who possess it acknowledge whence it
comes ; they have to thank God only for it, and He only can keep
them safe amidst the many dangers which beset their path. Indeed
there are very many whose prayer must.be, "Remember not the
sins and offences of my youth."
2 1. Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him,
One thing thou lackest : go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast,
and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven :
and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
This was the advice that our Lord gave to the young man whom He
loved. Part with riches, take up the Cross, follow Christ. What
strange advice as a proof of love ! Our Saviour did not speak thus
to all, but He meant this as the surest way for a generous heart.
He loved the youth's earnestness and simplicity, and offered him
a place among His own disciples, who had left all and followed
Christ in His poverty. All indeed should think over this advice,
and consider what the heavenly Master would require of them.
He has some sacrifice to ask from us also.
22. And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved :
for he had great possessions.
Many serve God joyfully till the time of trial comes when He bids
them part with what they love best. ' This young man's money
kept him from being Christ's disciple. What is the hindrance in our
own case ? Jesus no longer walks visibly upon earth, but He calls
us to serve Him with a perfect heart, and be ready to give up every
indulgence which comes between ourselves and Him.
23. 1T And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his
disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the
kingdom of God I
Rich men reading this verse should be made afraid, poor men should
be made contented. The latter, with all their disadvantages, yet
miss many hindrances to salvation which stand in the rich man's
way ; they do not set their hearts on earth and feel satisfied with
this life and its pleasures as he is tempted to do. All alike may
learn that in our Saviour's judgment the acquirement of wealth
here and of heaven hereafter are two objects which it is hard to
pursue at once.
24. And the disciples were astonished at his words. But
Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how
hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the king
dom of God!
Here is the danger. Those who have money trust in it, they occupy

Ver. 30.] Jesus ascribes our Salvation to God only. 251
themselves with their own wealth to the neglect of spiritual riches.
It is hard not to be charmed with a smiling world. God's promises
lose their beauty when this life opens so fair a prospect to us ; yet
what will riches profit in the day of trouble? God grant we may
have learned to trust in a surer refuge.
25. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle,
than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
This was a proverb to express an unlikely thing ; indeed it makes us
stare to see what a great difficulty our Lord considered riches to be
in the way of a man's salvation. Nothing seems so easy to us as
to be rich and comfortable as well as religious, to enjoy this world
and yet fix our hopes upon a better. Such sharp sayings as this
rouse us up and make us think whether we are in the right way.
It would be terrible to miss that heavenly kingdom through too
great fondness for earth.
26. And they were astonished out of measure, saying among
themselves, Who then can be saved ?
So we say, looking at the strength of temptation, the pleasures of
this world, the abundance of evil, the weakness of our hearts, Who
can resist evil men and evil desires ? who can keep a straight course
when there is so much to draw him aside ? is it possible for men
really to despise the world when it speaks them fair, and fix their
hopes above ?
27. And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is im
possible, but not with God : for with God all things are possible.
Our salvation is in God's hands. A true Christian is not alarmed to
learn that it is impossible for him to be saved without God's grace,
for he knows that God can do all things and has promised him all
things in Christ. Grace can triumph over nature, can overcome
the world's temptations, can fit the feeblest soul for glory. When
rich men or poor men overcome the dangers which beset them and
follow God's way it is only of His mercy and by His power, by
themselves they have no strength.
28. 1T Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left
all, and have followed thee.
It was little that he had left, and yet it was his all. Our Saviour regards
not the amount of the offering but the intention with which we make
it. He bids us leave not only our money, but our comfort, our
honour, and our self-will at His bidding. When shall we hold all
these so loosely as to be ready to give tbem up cheerfully at our
Master's call ?
29. And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you,
There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or
father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake,
and the gospel's, 30. but he shall receive an hundredfold now in

252 Our Lord's Cross approaching. [S. Mark X.
this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and
children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to
come eternal life.
Who would believe that any one who was plundered and bereaved
and forsaken by his friends for righteousness' sake would be recom
pensed in this world, that he would find his losses even here sweeter
than his former joys? and yet the Lord Jesus says so. He promises
to such a one a hundredfold reward even in this life. No doubt there
are persecutions, yet even in the midst of them the sufferer is amply
repaid. Our heavenly Master can make His true servants rich while
they are poor, happy when in suffering, peaceful when all speak
against them, and hereafter He will give them ten thousandfold more
in heaven.
31. But many that are first shall be last; and the last first.
Strange words, which check our human judgments ! We cannot tell
who are God's and who is holy. Those who seem to us the holiest
saints may yet miss the crown. Those who are altogether careless
may be stirred up by grace to seek a high place in heaven. Let
us leave the judgment to God. He alone knows hearts. The
world to come will show that we are much mistaken in our opinions
here.
3 2. IT And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem ;
and Jesus went before them : and they were amazed ; and as
they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve,
and began to tell them what things should happen unto him,
This was the last time that they went up to Jerusalem with their
Master. They feared the enmity of the Jews for Him and for them
selves. They could not understand the courage which He showed.
They felt that His leaving them was now nigh at hand. Lord, if
I have not the courage to go out and meet death, yet calm my fears,
make me look quietly upon its grim aspect and prepare myself at
leisure to follow Thee along the dark road.
33. Saying, Behold, we go up to Jerusalem; and the Son of
man shall be delivered unto the chief priests, and unto the
scribes; and they shall condemn him to death, and shall deliver
him to the Gentiles : 34. and they shall mock him, and sliall
scourge him, and shall spit upon him, and shall kill him : and
the third day he shall rise again.
In these two verses is foretold the history of our Lord's Passion which
redeemed the world. All in it is sad and gloomy, a tale of cruelty
and shame and death, until we come to the end ; there is the
beginning of a new and glorified life. Believers may expect, after
Christs pattern, many adversities, and death last of all. Their
prospect here may be a dark one, but it is but for a very little
while. Soon will come the glorious rising again. It is as sure for
them as it was for Him.

Ver. 39.] Two Disciples desire to sit next their Master. 253
35. IT And James and John, tlie sons of Zebedee, come unto
him, saying, Master, we would that thou shouldest do for us
whatsoever we shall desire.
What a boundless request ! Not Thy will but mine be done. Let
me have whatever I desire. If God grants such a petition as this
it only turns to the asker's own confusion. It is far better to let God
do for us what He sees fit, and to pray for submission to His blessed
will. Whatever earthly things we ask should have this saving clause
with them, if it be Thy will, if it is best, if my request will bring me
nearer heaven.
36. And he said unto them, What would ye that I should do
for you ?
Our Lord knew their hearts, but wished them to discern their own
ambition, and so be warned and taught better. Let us ask ourselves
what our prayers mean, whether we are not substituting our own
self-will for God's wise Providence. Well for us if we can reply,
Lord, I would that Thou shouldest do for me here and hereafter
just what pleases Thee. I am safe in Thy hands, and desire to be
kept there.
37. They said unto him, Grant unto us that we may sit, one
on thy right hand, and the other on thy left hand, in thy glory.
They thought of Christ's coming glory, and desired to share it. If
he was King they would be peers. What would He not do for
those who had been His friends in His humility? If His glory
and power should be so magnified after His rising again how great
His friends would be ! They would have riches to bestow and
suppliants to satisfy.
38. But Jesus said unto them, Ye know not what ye ask:
can ye drink of the cup that I drink of ? and be baptized with
the baptism that I am baptized with ?
Alas, what shallow thoughts were theirs ! Jesus was thinking of His
Cross, they of their fancied honours. This is not the time for
glory, nor the right way to get to it. Their Master has to drink
of a bitter cup and pass through a deep stream, and our way is the
same. It wants more love yet for us to be able to endure the
bitterness of inward trials and the rough flood of adversity. The
one is not a pleasant draught nor the other a refreshing bath.
39. And they said unto him, We can. And Jesus said unto
them, Ye shall indeed drink of the cup that I drink of; and
with the baptism that I am baptized withal shall ye be baptized :
Jesus promised them a share in His sufferings. This was the best
gift He could give to His chosen friends. Let us, when the bitter
cup is put to our lips or the rough waters rise around us, remember
that we are on the King's own highway. It happens to us as it did
to Him and to His saints. The draught is not more bitter, the
stream not more deep, than they found it.

254 Christ teaches how to be Great. [S. Mark X.
40. But to sit on my right hand and on my left hand is not
mine to give ; but it shall be given to them for whom it is
prepared. For whom is it prepared ? Ah, Lord, Thou knowest, but I know
not I dare not look into the secrets of Thy Providence. But the
surest sign of predestination is to have a share of the Cross and
accept it willingly. Those who bear Christ's Cross will assuredly
share His crown.
41. And when the ten heard it, they began to be much dis
pleased with James and John.
The ten took ill the design of the two, to have the chief seats in the
kingdom and lord it over them. But this very jealousy proved
that they were not themselves without ambition. If such a feeling
crept in even among Christ's scholars who will reckon that he is
safe from it? Lord, teach Thy ministers to glory only in Thy
mercies and to regard this world's honours as a burden to be un
willingly borne and gladly laid aside.
42. But Jesus called them to him, and saith unto them, Ye
know that they which are accounted to rule over the Gentiles
exercise lordship over them; and their great ones exercise
authority upon them.
Here is our Saviour's view of this world's grandeur. There it is
thought that " man in power only is likest gods. " There great souls
seek to rule over multitudes and be slavishly obeyed. The ambition
of great men is to be lords of all and to have the earth tremble
before them, this is the noblest gift which the world has to offer.
43. But so shall it not be among you : but whosoever will be
great among you, shall be your minister : 44. and whosoever
of you will be the chief est, sliall be servant of all.
How different is Christ's rule ! He calls him the most honourable
who takes most trouble to wait upon his brethren and humble himself
most before them. It is a great thing to minister even to one soul
in honour of Christ Who has redeemed it Our Great Master bids
us rise by being servants to every one, not in the spirit of worldly
flatterers, but as rejoicing to love and serve God's children. Here is
the way open to all. Christ's way of distinction can be pursued
by the very simplest, while the world's way is open only to a few
brilliant minds.
45. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto,
but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.
He came to live as a servant and die as a sacrifice, that was His work
here. A Christian minister must feel his own danger if he have
a. high position and a large income and so much that sets him above
his flock ; let him take care to balance this by humble behaviour

Ver. 50.] Blind Bartimceus healed. 255
by attention to the sick and the young, by giving up his own ease.
A spirit of pride, a loud voice and haughty air do not become a
servant of Christ's people.
46. 1T And they came to Jericho: and as he went out of
Jericho with his disciples and a great number of people, blind
Bartimceus, the son of Timceus, sat by the highway side begging.
This man was blind and in want ; he puts us in mind of the state of
our own souls, which need light and food, or rather Christ Himself
to enlighten their darkness and strengthen their weakness. Let me,
O Lord, know my own condition, that I am miserable and poor
and blind and naked without Thy grace.
47. And when he heard that it was Jesus of Nazareth, he
began to cry out, and say, Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy
on me.
I know my own blindness and long to see better. I come to Thee, O
Lord, Who art the true Physician of souls. I pray to Thee without
giving up, and I put my trust only in Thy mercy, then I know that
I shall not fail to be heard. Glory be to Thee for Thy great mercy
in teaching me how darkened I am, and bidding me come to Thee
for light!
48. And many charged him that he should hold his peace :
but he cried the more a great deal, Thou son of David, have
mercy on me.
Do not listen to false friends who hinder you from being religious, do
not let yourself be drawn back into the world again, but keep on
crying to God for help. Perhaps if you neglect this call to conver
sion it may never return, perhaps this day has a message from God's
Spirit which will not be offered you again. Only persevere in prayer,
and never lose your trust in God's infinite mercy.
49. And Jesus stood still, and commanded him to be called.
And they call the blind man, saying unto him, Be of good com
fort, rise ; he calleth thee.
There is comfort for repentant souls. God hears their prayers and
helps them to rise out of their sinful habits and begin a new life.
Those also who have been a long while sick and have endured many
sufferings maybe cheered by this verse. Soon their Master will bid
them rise and leave behind this world's miseries. His call is a
joyful one to them.
50. And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to
Jesus. He stood before the Saviour without seeing Him, yet he never gave
up trusting in His mercy and hoping for a cure from Him. So are
we in this world. Jesus has called us, we know He is near, we trust
in His goodness, but we behold Him not. Let us stand before

256 Christ draws near to Jerusalem. [S. Mark XI.
Him like this blind man did, still in much darkness, yet earnestly
believing, and hoping for light, and looking forward to a day to
come when all shadows shall be rolled away.
51. And Jesus answered and said unto him, What wilt thou
that I should do unto thee ? The blind man said unto him,
Lord, that I might receive my sight.
Lord, my will is weak, yet as far as I have choice I choose Thy side.
I earnestly long for sight, not that of bodily eyes alone, as this poor
man did, but of the soul, that I may see the right way, know the
truth, know how to avoid dangers, how to guide others, how to
work for God ; my own exceeding feebleness and folly drives me
to rely only on Thy power. I come to Thy altar, beseeching from
Thee this great gift of an enlightened heart.
52. And Jesus said unto him, Go thy way ; thy faith hath
made thee whole. And immediately he received his sight, and
followed Jesus in the way.
Christ our Lord went on to Jerusalem, to His Passion, and this man
who had been blind followed Him with a grateful heart ; now he
had eyes to see Christ's gracious countenance, now he could follow
Him instead of sitting idle, now he was able to enter into all the
mysteries of the Holy Week. Glory be to Jesus for His saving
power ! He gives faith and increases it, and calls us to walk in
His steps when He has converted our hearts.

CHAPTER XI.
1. Christ rideth with triumph into Jerusalem : 12. curseth the fruitless
leafy tree: 15. purgeth the temple : 20. exhorteth his disciples to sted-
fastness of faith, and to forgive their enemies : 27. and defendeth the
lawfulness of his actions, by the witness of John, who was a man
sent of God.
AND when they came nigh to Jerusalem, unto Bethphage
Xi and Bethany, at the mount of Olives, he sendeth forth
two of his disciples,
Jesus our Lord came now to the place where He was to be offered in
sacrifice for the sins of the world. He had no vain hopes of being
accepted by the people as Christ, or of escaping from His enemies.
No, He knew well what should be. He came to announce Himself
as the Christ and fulfil what had been foretold of Him, but making
ready all the while to endure the Cross and despise the shame. Lei
us in moments of earthly joy not forget the way of the Cross on
which we have to follow Him.
2. And saith unto tliem, Go your way into the village over

Ver. 8.] The Triumphal Entry. 257
against you: and as soon as ye be entered into it, ye shall find
a colt tied, whereon never man sat ; loose him, and bring him.
This represents the sending of missionaries to the Gentiles. They had
been living without the law of God and in bondage to idols ; soon
the time would come for God's servants to go out among them and
bring them to love and worship the true God in Jesus Christ.
There are many amongst us who are bound by sin, these also
should be loosed by Christ's messengers, and brought to know their
Divine Master.
3. And if any man say unto you, Why do ye this ? say ye
that the Lord hath need of him ; and straightway he will send
him hither.
Christ knew who was worthy of the honour of serving Him and ready
to grant this small favour to his Lord. Let us show the same willing
ness to give up for God's service, or our brethren's needs, what we
have ; it may not be a great offering, but let it be given readily and
with faith, and God will accept it. Many of us have money, time,
and affections, of which the Lord has need ; when He asks let us
not refuse Him.
4. And they went their way, and found the colt tied by the
door without in a place where two ways met; and they loose him.
It is enough that Christ has spoken. All we have to do is to obey His
commandment. What men say of us matters not. We have an
unseen Lord, He knows all our thoughts and words, He can tell
whether we are doing His business. Where is that faithful heart
that always remembers the Divine Master and works for His praise,
not for that of men ?
5. And certain of them that stood there said unto them, What
do ye, loosing the colt ? 6. And they said unto them even as
Jesus had commanded : and they let them go.
God's will triumphs. His word stands sure in small things as in great.
Even in the days of His humiliation it was so, much more now that
He is in glory. Choose only the safe path of obedience, and your
Master will bear you through. What comfort it is to have on our
side One on Whose promise we can entirely depend !
7. And they brought the colt to Jesus, and cast their garments
on him ; and he sat upon him.
When loosed from our sins let us rejoice to serve under Christ and
bear Him to rule in others' hearts. If we would get to the heavenly
Jerusalem it must be by bearing His burden and letting Him guide
us. His grace can cover all our defects. Indeed we are unworthy
to serve Him at all, yet we shall find Him a good Master.
8. And many spread their garments in the way : and otliers
cut down branches off the trees, and strawed them in the way.

258 Leaves, but no Fruit. [S. Mark XI.
How should we make ready the royal road of Jesus ? He bids us
tread under foot the pleasures and hopes of this world. Be they ever
so beautiful, or rich, or blooming, they are but fit to cast under foot
when He appears and calls us lo better things. Here is our King,
no glory or reward is worth mentioning compared with that which
He offers in the holy city to His faithful servants.
9. And they that went before, and they that followed, cried,
saying, Hosanna ; Blessed is he that cometh in the name of tlie
Lord: 10. Blessed be the kingdom of our father David, that
cometh in the name of the Lord : Hosanna in the highest.
When, shall we see that kingdom of peace set up ? All true Israelites
long for it, and pray every day for its coming. David's glory was
but a shadow of it, it will bring truth and peace to all. Our hymns
of praise here below are but faint echoes of the harmony which will
abound there. Still even now we will sing with heart and voice
to Christ's glory, one day we hope for a better place and a sweeter
song.
11. And Jesus entered into Jerusalem, and into the temple:
and when he had looked round about upon all things, and now
the eventide was come, he went out unto Bethany with the twelve.
Our Lord went to the temple first and looked round on all things.
His searching eye saw much that was amiss, but He kept silence
for that day. When He looks round on us as we gather in His
house are we fit to meet His eye? He sees who are true
worshippers and who false. His ear can distinguish between true
praise and notes made only to catch the praise of men. O Lord,
those were happy who in the temple under Thine eye recollected
themselves and prepared to worship better.
12. IT And on the morrow, when they were come from Betli-
any, he was hungry :
Those who have all their wants supplied may notice with profit how
poorly their Master fared. His life was that of the poor, who often
have to wait long for needful food, and put up with what they can
get, not that of the rich, who have abundance of all things prepared
for them. His royal triumph the day before did not bring with it
freedom from work or from want.
13. And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if
haply lie might find any thing thereon : and when he came to
it, he found nothing but leaves ; for tlie time of figs was not yet.
Faith, hope, and charity are fruits which Christ seeks to find in us.
Such satisfy His desire. But too often He finds words only, a mere
show of religion, mere passing feelings with no perseverance ; all
this is nothing but leaves. Lord, when will the time of fruit come
for my heart? Thou hast bestowed much care on it, year by year
Thou hast waited for some return, but I still remain barren. Others
may be satisfied with me, but I fear Thy judgment.

Ver. 18.] God1 s House a House of Prayer. 259
14. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit
of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard it.
Jesus our Lord was not angry with a tree, but He meant us to take a
warning by it. It could be of use as a type of God's judgment if
in no other way. One day this dread sentence will go out against
us if we have not brought forth timely fruits of repentance. Lord,
before that dread day comes let me awake and fear, and be in earnest
to do some good works which Thy mercy may accept.
15. U And they come to Jerusalem : and Jesus went into the
temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the
temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the
seats of them that sold doves ;
Every Christian is a temple of God consecrated to Him by baptism,
intended to serve Him with holy thoughts and prayers and
sacrifices. What will God say to those whose hearts are filled
with covetousness or hatred or any manner of vileness ? Lord,
cast these evil things from my heart. Suffer not that inward house
to be defiled. Let pure thoughts and joyful praises of Thy mercy
fill it. Keep me from the dreadful misery of profaning other
hearts.
16. And would not suffer that any man should carry any
vessel through the temple.
Why should Jesus our Lord have so much insisted on such small
matters ? He knew how much our prayers were helped by out
ward reverence. He desires that worshippers should feel that they
were in the presence of the Great God, and not be distracted by
worldly business intruding itself. How soon devotion is spoiled by
foolish or earthly thoughts coming into our minds ! Let us keep
the door fast, and not let them in till our prayers are over.
17. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My
house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer ? but ye
have made it a den of thieves.
Our highest duty is prayer, and our best object to keep ourselves in
a fit state to pray. Our hours of communion with God should be
the most precious opportunities we have. Away with those evil
thoughts that lodge within and hinder us when we would pray.
Indeed, Lord, my mind is very far from being a house of prayer.
It is rather a house of care or of vanity. I need Thy purifying
grace to cleanse it.
18. And the scribes and, chief priests heard it, and sought
how they might destroy him : for they feared him, because all
the people was astonished at his dodrine.
What perverse folly to set themselves against Divine Wisdom 1 How
could men who called themselves so religious be so misguided?
Alas ! O Christian, God speaks as plainly now and as mightily,

260 Faith can work Marvels. [S. Mark XI.
and He sends His saints and thunders in His Word, and yet truth's
enemies are as resolute and shut their ears as closely as ever. Not
in those days only have men refused God's message and abhorred
its bearer.
19. And when even was come, he went out of the city.
20. IT And in tlie morning, as they passed by, they saw the
fig tree dried up from the roots.
What does this dry, lifeless fig-tree mean, which amazed the eyes of
the holy company as they returned early in the morning to
Jerusalem ? Only yesterday it was green and luxuriant. Here is
a soul which God has condemned. In its lifetime privileges
and opportunities abounded. There was a show of life, yet no
real love. Now death has suddenly cut it off, and God finds no
fitness in it to plant it in His heavenly kingdom.
21. And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master,
behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.
Good fruit comes of God's blessing, deadness and despair of His
condemnation, but He is always just. He will not condemn any one
except for his own wilful fault. His grace pleads long with us.
He bestows all care on the tree that He has planted, only a time
comes when our trial is over and our chances gone. Blessed
are those trees which are watered by His grace and bring forth fruit
in due season.
22. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God.
Why not? We believe His power and goodness to be infinite, He is
ever at hand to help us. Unbelievers must fall back on nature or
on human wisdom, but we trace in all things God's wise Providence.
In whom else can we have faith? And yet faith must be humblej
and not seek to lay down the law for God, but leave all things in
His hands, He knows and does what is best.
23. For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto
this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea ;
and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those
things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatso
ever he saith.
Seek first a sincere faith that will choose God's will in all things and
submit itself wholly to Him, and then doubt not but that He will
remove mountains of difficulty, of sin, of prejudice from your path
1ms promise has to us a spiritual sense, though God has wrought
literal miracles when they were needed. However beset is our
path God can clear it whatever happens do not wrong His Provi
dence by a doubt He enabled saints to triumph over the world,
and He does not forget the simplest believer.
24. Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire,

Ver. 30.] Jesus comes again lo the Temple. 261
when ye pray, believe that ye receive tliem, and ye shall have
them. Such a prayer requires also these sentences to gain its end : " Not as
I will, but as Thou wilt," and " According to Thy wisdom, not my
own poor weak understanding," and " For Thy glory, not my own
exaltation," and "In Thine own good time, when Thou knowest
it to be best. " He who prays thus works with almighty power,
and unites his weakness to God's strength.
25. And when ye stand praying, forgive, if ye have ought
against any : that your Father also which is in heaven may
forgive you your trespasses.
Want of charity stops prayer from going up to God. He will hear
none that proceeds from a malicious heart. Any one who knows
what his own sins are, how often he has offended God and fallen
short of duty, will gladly pardon offences against himself. He has
daily to pray for God's mercy, and so ought daily to show mercy
himself.
26. But if ye do not forgive, neither will your Father which
is in heaven forgive your trespasses.
What folly to encounter God's wrath for all eternity rather than
pardon an insult from some frail fellow-mortal ! Men's minds are
blinded by pride and folly, so that they forget Christ's death and
their own sins, and the nearness of judgment, and think only of
their enemy and how to be revenged on him. Lord, open the eyes
of such men that they may see God's dreadful judgments ready to
fall on their own heads.
27. II And they come again to Jerusalem: and as he was
walking in the temple, there come to him the chief priests, and
the scribes, and the elders, 28. and say unto him, By what
authority doest thou these things ? and who gave thee this
authority to do these things ?
Why did He enter the city thus, purify the temple so boldly, teach so
solemnly ? Why did He put aside those who ruled over the Jewish
Church ? They could have answered this themselves if they had
considered His miracles and teaching. He had all the signs of
a Divine mission with Him. Lord, enable us to recognise Thy
messengers and receive Thy message. Do Thou give Thy ministers
a full trust in their heavenly calling, so that they may preach with
confidence.
29. And Jesus answered and said unto them, I will also ask
of you one question, and answer me, and I will tell you by what
authority I do these things. 30. The baptism of John, was it
from heaven, or of men ? answer me.
They had sent to John the Baptist, and to our Saviour also. What had

262 Jesus refuses to give an Answer. [S. Mark XIL
come of their inquiry ? was John's message a Divine warning or
only a human imposture ? He called men to repent, he spoke of
judgment, he pointed out Christ. Now what does all this lead to ?
If John spoke as one sent from God, he clearly settled what the
authority of the Lord Jesus was, and bade all men obey Him.
31. And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall
say, From heaven ; he will say, Why then did ye not believe
him? 32. But if 'we shall say, Of men; they feared the people:
for all men counted John, that he was a prophet indeed.
The way of human respect is a tangled one. See what difficulties these
wise priests were in because they sought only how to give an
answer which might not diminish their own credit. They dared
not speak the truth, because it might be inconvenient for them.
Lord, give Thy servants grace to speak the truth boldly, looking
only to Thee and fearing no one else. Give courage to the weak-
hearted, that they may not tell lies out of shame or fear.
33. And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell.
And Jesus answering saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by
what authority I do these things.
Christ our Lord never refused to instruct the ignorant. If these men
had really not known what signs He wrought, and in Whose Name
He came, He would have gladly taught them. No one taught more
patiently and willingly than He, but He saw they did not wish to
learn, so He let them alone. Lord, when I read Thy holy Word
let it be with a teachable heart ; let me find there daily instruction,
and grace to profit by it.

CHAPTER XII.
I. In a parable of the vineyard let out to unthankful husbandmen, Christ
foretelleth the reprobation of the Jews, and the calling of the Gentiles.
13. He avoideth the snare of the Pharisees and Herodians about pay
ing tribute to Caesar : 18. convinceth the error of the Sadducees, who
denied the resurrection : 28. resolveth the scribe, who questioned of
the first commandment : 35. refuteth the opinion that the scribes held
of Christ : 38. bidding the people to beware of their ambition and
hypocrisy : 41. and commendeth the poor widow for her two mites,
above all.
AND he began to speak unto them by parables. A certain
Xi man planted a vineyard, and set an hedge about it, and
digged a place for the winefat, and built a tower, and let it out
to husbandmen, and went into afar country.
What is this vineyard but a Christian soul? God planted it by the
gift of natural life; He sets a hedge round it by Holy Baptism,

Ver. 6.] God's Messengers rejected. 263
which admits into covenant with Himself. The winepress might
stand for the Sacraments, where Christ's Blood is applied to wash
out our sins. The tower is the house of God, where the soul hears
God's Word and He warns us how to look out for our enemies and
beat off their attack. This precious soul, fit to bear holy fruits of
grace, is not our own, it belongs to God. He is our Master, and
will one day call for an account of our doings.
2. And at the season he sent to the husbandmen a servant,
tliat he might receive from the husbandmen of the fruit of the
vineyard. This is the fruit which our Master asks for, obedience, true worship,
active love, kindness shown, evil driven away. It is only right
that He should receive it, because all good comes from Him. Any
good thing there is in us is planted, cherished, and brought to per
fection only by His grace. Lord, keep me from ever taking to
myself praise, let me give it all back at once to Thee.
3. And they caught him, and beat him, and sent him away
empty. One messenger is conscience. Our own hearts remind us Who God is
and what duty we owe Him. Woe to those who stifle this still small
voice, and at last silence it altogether. Lord, enable us to recognise
this messenger of Thine ; though he is quiet and easily overborne,
often he perseveres a long while in pleading with the soul.
4. And again he sent unto them another servant ; and at him
they cast stones, and wounded him in the head, and sent him
away shamefully handled.
A second messenger is the Bible. We hear it read and preached on.
It is a letter from our Father in heaven telling us what He would
have us do. How foolish those are who neglect their Bible and
leave it on the shelf unread, and still more foolish those who make
it a subject of scoffs and jests ! They outrage God in His Word,
they turn food into poison.
5. And again he sent another; and him they killed, and many
others ; beating some, and killing some.
A third messenger represents God's minister or any other friend who
warns us of our ways and bids us turn. The other messengers in
this verse are the many warnings, examples, opportunities, which
God puts in the sinner's way to make him repent. Alas, how many
go on wilfully to their ruin despising all God's calls !
6. Having yet therefore one son, his wellbeloved, lie sent him
also last unto them, saying, They will reverence my son.
Christians have also the Son of God Himself with them, not now
visibly as in the days of His flesh when the Jews outraged and
crucified Him, but present in the Sacrament of His love, where He
is spiritually to be found, where devout communicants love and

264 The Lord of the Vineyard will come. [S. Mark XII.
honour Him though careless ones despise Him. What reverence
was fitting for Christ's presence when He was on earth ! nor does
less reverence become us now that faith discerns Him at His
altar.
7. But those husbandmen said among themselves, This is the
lieir ; come, let us kill him, and the inheritance shall be our's.
8. And they took him, and killed him, and cast him out of the
vineyard. Deadly sins are like the insults and cruelties of Christ's Passion repeated
afresh. The Jews attacked and killed Him once, but Christians who
fall away renew the same conduct towards Him even while He sits
on His throne in heaven. What is an unworthy communion made
by an unbelieving or unrepentant sinner but a deadly blow dealt
at Jesus, an intolerable insult added to those which He once
endured ?
9. What shall therefore the lord of the vineyard do ? he will
come and destroy the husbandmen, and will give the vineyard
unto others.
The sinner loses all when he dies, he falls into the hands of an
offended God. What he set his heart on here passes to others. Even
his very gifts of mind and body are his own no more, the time for
them is past, he is uprooted from all that he held dear, and finds
too late that he has made Almighty God his enemy.
1 o. And have ye not read this scripture ; The stone which
the builders rejected is become the head of the corner :
Those are happy who share in this life Christ's humiliations. They
may be despised by men, but their Master will give them a share of
His glory and joy. The builders of the visible Church are some
times much mistaken, they cast out the good stones and take
worthless rubbish for their walls, but the Great Architect knows
how to put things right. His holy city rises up bright and glorious
in spite of men's errors.
1 1 . This was the Lords doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes ?
The mysteries of Redemption are well worth studying. How many
people know everything else except God's Word ! yet there is full
employment there for heart and mind. There we can trace Divine
power and love bringing about our salvation. One day we shall
look back on God's dealings with His saints and marvel at the
ways in which He brought them to glory. He sustains, comforts,
and lifts up the simple ; He has a place for them ready in heaven.
12. And they sought to lay hold on him, but feared the
people : for they knew that he had spoken the parable against
them : and tliey left him, and went their way.
So now some are planning how they may commit some sin which
outrages Jesus Christ and repeats the evil passions of His enemies.

Ver. 1 8.] God and Ccesar. 265
Others meanwhile surround Him with reverence, and set themselves
to learn His blessed will and perform it. Meanwhile He sits in
the midst, discerning all hearts. Let us open our eyes and
acknowledge that He is near. Even wicked men can do nothing
but work out His wise designs.
13. II And they send unto him certain of the Pharisees and
of the Herodians, to catch him in his words.
What ! professors of religion and worldly men both joined together
against our Lord ? Yes, so it is still. His saving truth is opposed
by those who cling to mere phrases and outward shows of religion,
like Pharisees, and by those who profess to live only for this world
as Herodians did. Both join to cry down earnestness, true repent
ance, any signs of more love and reverence than they care to show
themselves.
14. And when they were come, they say unto him, Master,
we know that thou art true, and carest for no man : for thou
regardest not the person of men, but teachest the way of God in
truth : Is it lawful to give tribute to Ccesar, or not ?
They praised the Great Teacher, yet had never profited by what He
said. How like this is to many Christians who admire a sermon
or a religious book, and are able to point out its excellences, yet
never apply themselves to live accordingly ! Christian ministers
should, like their Master, be sincere and plain in their teaching and
show no favour to the rich above the poor.
15. Shall we give, or shall we not give? But he, knowing
their hypocrisy, said unto them, Why tempt ye me ? bring me a
penny, that I may see it. 1 6. And they brought it. And he
saith unto them, Whose is this image.and superscription? And
they said unto him, Caesar's. 17. And Jesus answering said
unto them, Render to Ccesar the things that are Ccesar 's, and to
God the things that are God's. And they marvelled at him.
The kings of the world, who coin money, proclaim laws, and administer
justice, are God's ministers too. They have work to do for Him.
Our earthly country claims our duty as good citizens. Jesus bids
us obey peaceably and support heartily the laws of our country.
Yet bear in mind a more abiding city. Whose is the image stamped
on our conscience? Whose the law proclaimed in Scripture?
Whose the promises on which faithful souls rely? What is all
Csesar's glory compared with God's glorious and eternal kingdom ?
18. U Then come unto him the Sadducees, which say there is
no resurredion ; and they asked him, saying,
The devil will not leave Christians alone any more than Christ's
enemies left Him. When one temptation is over another comes.
Only God can give us wisdom to meet and overthrow them as our
Master did. This is the objection raised by scoffers who disbelieve

266 The Mistake of the Sadducees. [S. Mark XII.
in any world but the present one. Let me beware of their scoffs,
and intreat God to keep the light of faith alive in my heart. Woe
to me if I let it go out !
19. Master, Moses wrote unto us, If a man's brother die, and
leave his wife behind him, and leave no children, that his brother
should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.
This ancient law is a figure of Gospel times. The Church in Moses'
days could not bring forth children to God. There was no power
then to give new birth to souls. But when Moses' law had passed
away Jesus Christ became the Bridegroom of the Church, and at
once souls were quickened to new life and became true children of
a heavenly Father. It is not enough for us to live as Jews under the
Law. God looks in us for children's hearts after Jesus' likeness.
20. Now there were seven brethren : and the first took a wife,
and dying left no seed. 21. And the second took her, and died,
neither left he any seed: and the third likewise. 22. And the
seven had her, and left no seed: last of all the woman died also.
Such are all human histories, full of change and decay. How soon
this world passes 1 How dreary it is if there were nothing beyond !
Others have had home joys and high hopes and tender cares before
us. Now their joy and their grief are alike perished. Those are
blessed who have amidst all the changes of this world fixed their
hopes on a sure Foundation that can never pass away.
23. In the resurrection therefore, when they shall rise, whose
wife shall she be of them ? for the seven had her to wife.
Put away earthly thoughts if you wish to have a notion of the life to
come. It would be a poor thing to settle eternity after the fashion
of time. God's Word promises everlasting happiness, and bids us
prepare and so be found worthy to enjoy it. But we are told no
particulars, and must be content to wait patiently till God explains
the meaning of His promises. All we know is that God will be
there and that believers will be happy. This is enough to go by
for the present.
24. And Jesus answering said unto them, Do ye not there
fore err, because ye know not the scriptures, neither the power of
God ?
They knew in the Scriptures only the letter, not the meaning The
promised land, the holy city, the temple of God, the atonins;
sacrifices, the legal priests, had all a much deeper meaning than
they perceived. God was therein giving a shadow of Gospel
mysteries and eternal rewards. They knew only the shell and
never got to the fruit within. God keep me from such Bible
knowledge as that I must look there for God's love, Christ's
death, the Spirit's power, the inward law, or else I too mav f?o
wrong. J =

Ver. 29.] Life beyond the Grave. 267
25. For when they shall rise from the dead, they neither
marry, nor are given in marriage ; but are as the angels which
are in heaven.
What Jesus tells us of that state is that He cannot tell us much now.
We could not understand it if He did. But we can at least see that
it will be angels' life, that is, pure from evil, stedfast, obedient,
full of praise, without suffering or death. Those who do God's
will on earth will go on to do it better still in heaven. Our very
misery and corruption here makes us long for that glorified life,
where temptation will be ended.
26. And as touching the dead, that they rise : have ye not
read in the book of Moses, how in the bush God spake unto him,
saying, I am the God of Abraham, and the God of Isaac, and,
the God of Jacob ?
God was the patriarchs' Friend, their Reward, their Hope. They
were content to give up this world's prospects in reliance on His
promises. How wonderful that the Great God should so link Him
self with a human soul and be content to take the name of that soul,
and be called Abraham's God, or Jacob's God ! What a deep union
that implies ! Whom can the soul take except God for a true and
unfailing Friend ?
27. He is not the God of the dead, but the God of the living :
ye therefore do greatly err.
God could not break His promise. Those who put their trust in
Him as a true Friend could not be deceived. If He is the portion
and happiness of any soul, the grave cannot destroy such a rela
tion. Lord, enable me to take this deep view of the Holy Scrip
ture. I see with admiration this tie into which Thou hast entered
with the soul of man. Let me also take Thee for my God, and
never lose Thee in life or in death. If God is my God till I die I
am safe then. None can pluck me from His hand if I have but
endured till then.
28. IT And one of the scribes came, and having heard them
reasoning together, and perceiving that he had answered them
well, asked him, Which is the first commandment of all ?
Nothing encourages us more to keep God's commandments than the
thought of the world to come. This scribe had heard with delight
our Saviour's word about the life beyond the grave, how that God
is still the God of His faithful ones though their bodies have turned
to dust, and that stirred him up to inquire about God's command
ments, and which was the most important. If I believe in the life
everlasting, great need for me to find out how to obey God and
keep His commandments.
29. And Jesus answered him, The first of all the command
ments is, Hear, 0 Israel; The Lord our God is one Lord:

268 Love God and love thy Neighbour. [S. Mark XII.
On this doctrine all true religion depends. There is one true and
living God, the Lord of all things, the Foundation of all goodness,
and none other God but He. Those are happy who are firmly
rooted in this faith. From this flows love to our Father, obedience
to our Master, trust in our Friend. Lord, exercise Thy almighty
power on me, speak to my heart as its Lord and Master, claim it
for Thine own.
30. And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,
and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind, and with all thy
strength : this is the first commandment.
If we love any one the mind turns naturally to the beloved object,
the hands take pleasure to work for it, the feet bear us willingly
towards it. Letters from one we love are welcome. We are pleased
to see our dear ones and to be seen by them, we exchange heart
with heart. How can we apply all this without shame to that dear
and mighty One Who claims the best share in us ? What a cold,
scanty, undutiful love is here I
31. And the second is like, namely this, Thou shalt love thy
neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater
than these.
Desire for your neighbour what you desire for yourself, that he may
be kept from the evils you wish to keep from, may have the same
comforts as you have, the same peace, same knowledge of God,
same hope of heaven as you desire to have. This is a piercing rule,
"as thyself; "it bids us be as fair, as considerate, as tender to
others as we are to our own failings, our selfishness stands rebuked
by it.
32. And the scribe said unto him, Well, Master, thou hast
said the truth: for there is one God; and there is none other
but he :
This is enough, for the one God deserves all our love, all our duty.
Those are deeply to be pitied who have lost their faith in God.
Where will they find a resting-place amidst the world's changes ?
How will that soul persevere in right-doing that is not anchored
to God's ever-present love as a firm stay? If we cast God off to
whom shall we go ? Lord, keep in Thy people's hearts this true
faith in Thee, the one living Lord.
33. And to love him with all the heart, and with all the
understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength,
and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole
burnt offerings and sacrifices.
What a wise man ! he considered all the costly offerings of the law,
and saw they were worth little in comparison with love. Here is
a sacrifice within the means of all. God does not require gold or
silver or countless victims. Each of us can bring the offering of his

Ver. 39.] Our Lord puts a Question. 269
own heart, slain by self-denial, burned in the fire of love. This
inward offering is that which God looks on with favour.
34. And when Jesus saw that he answered discreetly, he said
unto him, Thou art not far from the kingdom of God. And
no man after that durst ask him any question.
To know what is right is a great step. This scribe had got so far,
but he had still to practise it. The kingdom of God is more than
knowledge, it is that peace, that pardon, that hope which only
Jesus Christ can give. When we see how great is the love which
God requires, and how feeble and narrow are our hearts, then is the
time for us to apply to Jesus our Master for grace to live in the
kingdom as its citizens should. He can put true love within us.
35. 1T And Jesus answered and said, while he taught in tlie
temple, How say the scribes that Christ is the son of David ?
36. For David himself said by the Holy Ghost, The Lord said
to my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make thine
enemies thy footstool.
Here is a seeming contradiction. Christ is a man descended from
David, and He is a Divine Lord Whom David and all saints
worship. Only faith knows how to join together the Godhead and
Manhood, and to confess in our Lord two perfect natures, one like
ours and one above us. David's Son is our Brother and Friend,
David's Lord is our Redeemer and will be our Judge, yet both are
but One. Let us be found, not among His enemies, but His friends
at that day.
37. David therefore himself calleth him Lord; and whence
is he then his son ? And the common people heard him gladly.
Who but our Saviour could fulfil the various pictures drawn by the
prophets ? One was expected mighty and glorious, yet having to
suffer, God and yet man, fit to excite reverence and yet to win
love. Observe all the different passages in which the thought of a
Deliverer to come took shape, and you will see how different they
are, and yet in our Lord there is something which answers to them
all.
38. IT And he said unto them in his dodrine, Beware of the
scribes, which love to go in long clothing, and love salutations in
the marketplaces,
Beware of pride. This is the burden of our Lord's discourse. Do not
think highly of yourselves, or delight in being honoured, or despise
others. There is nothing sinful in the kind of dress which these men
wore or in the respects which were paid to them publicly. What
was wrong was their vanity; they thought themselves holy, and
forgot the inside of religion.
39. And the chief seats in the synagogues, and the uppermost
rooms at feasts :

270 The Offering of the poor Widow. [S. Mark XIII.
What fools those are who live for this world's honours ! it is mere
emptiness to make them our end. When death comes how poor
will seem the satisfaction of a great name, or crowds of dependents !
Death will empty the chairs and remove the luxuries and dismiss
the company, all will be on a level beneath the sod.
40. Which devour widows' houses, and for a pretence make
long prayers : these shall receive greater damnation.
Are there no Pharisees still who make religious phrases a cloak for
unconverted hearts, who retain worldly passions, hatreds, and
gossipings under the pretence of zeal for God's honour ? What does
Jesus our Lord think of many professing Christians who cherish
under the Gospel that spirit which He so severely condemned in
those who lived under the law. We have to do with a Judge Who
sees through us. The religious aspect which takes in men cannot
deceive Him.
41. IT And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and belield
how the people cast money into the treasury : and many that
were rich cast in much.
Our Saviour takes notice what we contribute to God's service or for
His poor, and He sees also in what spirit we make our offerings.
He can tell who give liberally, who grudgingly, who as an act of
devotion, who only out of custom or to keep up appearances. Those
who are rich have the privilege of giving largely to their Master's
service. He lent them riches for that purpose ; soon He will claim
them back, and ask for a strict account of their use.
42. And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in
two mites, which make a farthing.
The poor who give up their comforts, nay, their necessaries, when they
give alms may find comfort in their Lord's approval. He knows
of such actions though the world passes them by. There is no
one, however poor, or simple, or busy, but can offer up a worthy
sacrifice to God. He takes note of every self-denial, of every
desire to help others. How good it is to serve a Master Who
remembers our humblest efforts, and is pleased with our simplest
presents !
43. And he called unto him his disciples, and saith unto them.
Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more
in, than all they which have cast into the treasury :
Do not judge by appearances as the world does, but look deeper.
God's friends are not always those who have made the most show
with their gifts. Again, God needs our hearts more than our
money. All the whole world and its riches are His, but He calls
for more of our love, more of our time, more of our work than we
commonly bestow upon Him.
44. For all they did cast in of their abundance ; but she of
her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living.

Ver. 4.] Christ's Disciples admire the Temple. 271
For that day at least it was all she had, she kept back nothing for
herself. What king was ever so liberal as this widow ! This
incident which our Saviour noticed just before He left the temple
for the last time is exceedingly confounding to ordinary selfish
Christians, and apt to make them dissatisfied with themselves.
What, our Lord praised this poor woman who came and offered
all that she had ! How does my worldly prudence, my love of
comfort, my careful provision for all my own wants, appear in His
sight? Let me at least consider afresh whether my liberality keeps
proportion with my increased means.

CHAPTER XIII.
1. Christ foretelleth the destruction of the temple : g. the persecutions for
the gospel : 10. that the gospel must be preached to all nations : 14.
that great calamities shall happen to the Jews : 24. and the manner
of his coming to judgment : 32. the hour whereof being known to
none, every man is to watch and pray, that we be not found unpro
vided, when he cometh to each one particularly by death.
AND as he went out of the temple, one of his disciples saith
Xi. unto him, Master, see what manner of stones and what
buildings are here I
How glorious was God's temple ! The disciples admired its height and
splendour. Their Master had called their attention to the poor
widow's charity, but they bade Him observe what they thought
much more worth notice. Man can raise great buildings to God's
honour, but God alone can build up faith and love and true devotion
in the heart, which make a more precious monument.
2. And Jesus answering said unto him, Seest thou these
great buildings ? there shall not be left one stone upon another,
that shall not be thrown down.
Our Saviour knew that the temple was about to pass away. God
requires a more lasting habitation than brick or marble can provide
Him. He chooses simple hearts to dwell in. There He is wor
shipped and praised, there He accepts sacrifices, there He remains
enthroned for ever. All the world's glory passes away like the
temple at Jerusalem. Those are happy who have a sure foundation
that cannot be moved.
3. And as he sat upon the mount of Olives over against
the temple, Peter and James and John and Andrew asked him
privately, 4. Tell us, when shall these things be ? and what shall
be the sign when all these things shall be fulfilled ?
Let us, when God's judgments are abroad, seek counsel at His Word.
If it cannot satisfy all our curiosity, still we shall learn how to behave

272 Wars and Sorrows to come. [S. Mark XIII.
under the trials that come. The disciples ceased thinking of the
earthly temple, the glory of which was soon to vanish, and went on
to gather information concerning the Christian Church that was
to come in its place, and the glorious kingdom of God which is one
day to be revealed. Happy learners who could question Infinite
Wisdom and be taught by Him !
5. And Jesus answering tliem began to say, Take heed lest
any man deceive you : 6. for many shall come in my name,
saying, I am Christ ; and shall deceive many.
Do not remain as mere spectators of God's judgments, but beware
lest you fall under them. You are weak, and easily led away.
How carefully you should be on your guard against deceivers.
Eloquent words, great claims, great show of piety, great following
of people, will often be the glory of deceivers. How shall we escape
their attractions ? Only by taking heed, by praying for guidance,
by keeping to the Church's old ways.
7. And when ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars, be
ye not troubled : for such things must needs be ; but the end
shall not be yet.
That is the true temper of a disciple, not to be troubled even when
all is storm and darkness without When God has shown us what
belongs to our peace, then we regard all wars and revolutions and
public events as being rightly disposed and overruled for good ends
by His wise Providence. Woe indeed to those who by their sinful
ambition bring about the misery of a war ! Yet God disposes it to
punish the wicked and try the patience of the good.
8. For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against
kingdom : and there shall be eartliquakes in divers places, and
there shall be famines and troubles : these are the beginnings
of sorrows.
All this came true in the days of the first Christians, yet it has further
fulfilments to come. All those sad days were but the beginning.
Love and faith were tried then. Patience was made perfect, hope
of heaven kept alive. This is why God Himself permits such
miseries to come. And His servants unite their will with His, and
so behold without amazement all these terrible scourges approach.
9. 11 But lake heed to yourselves : for they shall deliver you
up to councils ; and in the synagogues ye shall be beaten : and
ye shall be brought before rulers and kings for my sake, for a
testimony against them.
They were to take heed to themselves, not to avoid the pain and
shame that were coming, that indeed should be their glory, but to
behave well under it. They were not to fear man's anger or draw
back from confessing their faith, lest they fall under God's anger,
which is far more dreadful. Let a faint-hearled Christian who has

Ver. 1 4-] Christ' s Disciples shall be hated. 273
to endure ridicule now consider what persecutions our Saviour pre
dicted for His chosen friends. These were the distinctions which
the King of Glory offered to His first courtiers.
10. And the gospel must first be published among all nations.
With the trouble comes the remedy. Afflictions with the Gospel
comforts and hopes are better than good luck without it. What a
happiness to be able to help by offerings and prayers and devotion
of self to spread this glorious Gospel throughout the world ! Much
of this work yet remains to be done,
11. But when they shall lead you, and deliver you up, take
no thought beforehand what ye sliall speak, neither do ye pre
meditate : but whatsoever shall be given you in that liour, that
speak ye : for it is not ye that speak, but the Holy Ghost.
Glory be to God for His help given to persecuted Christians ! He
has been with them and spoken by their lips. All good works are
from Him. This promise is not meant to encourage us in sloth,
or make us presume. But it is meant to comfort the ignorant, the
perplexed, the faint-hearted, to remind them of the ever-flowing
fountain of Divine Wisdom, whither they can fly for help. They
have no strength or wisdom of their own, but when the hour of
trial comes their Master will not fail them.
12. Now the brother shall betray the brother to death, and
the father the son; and children shall rise up against their
parents, and shall cause them to be put to death.
Faith overcomes nature, and makes for us new brethren and friends
out of strangers. Satan, too, overcomes nature, and changes into
bitter enemies those whom God has given us to be our dearest
friends. What blow could the disciples receive more cruel than
this, their own kinsfolk should abhor them, and even demand their
death ? And yet faith triumphed and they found better love, fuller
peace, dearer ties, than what they lost.
13. And ye sliall be hated of all men for my name's sake :
but he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Tender spirits would feel this worst of all, they would be hated not
for any fault of their own, but because of their being Christians ;
every one would be malicious to them, they would be accused of
all manner of evil, yet all this for Christ's sake. What but Divine
grace could have overcome such difficulties ? He gave His witnesses
peace amidst enemies, joy in the midst of pain, courage never to
give up. Lord, renew such gifts for those who have a hard struggle
in these days to maintain Thy side, help them to persevere.
14. IT But when ye shall see the abomination of desolation,
spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing where it ought not,
(Id him tliat readeth understand,) tlien let tliem tliat be in
Judcea flee to the mountains : s

274 Unheard-of Afflictions. [S. Mark XIII
We must fear God's anger when holy things are profaned. Are there
no sins among us now that may well call down His judgment?
The abomination of desolation is pride, or filthiness, or unbelief,
taking hold of a Christian's heart that once belonged to God and
was consecrated to Him in Baptism and Communion. This is worse
than the profanation of the Jewish temple.
15. And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the
house, neither enter therein, to take any thing out of his house :
16. and let him that is in the field not turn back again for to
take up his garment.
Do not let affliction interfere with your serving God. There are some
who when sickness or troubles come give up their religious practices
and give way to self-indulgence or discontent. Our Saviour bids us
go straight on towards heaven without delaying or taking up again
what we had once left. The world sometimes overcomes those
who had once risen above it and set their faces towards Zion.
17. But woe to them that are with child, and to them that
give suck in those days /
Alas for endless good resolutions that never come to maturity, good
works begun and never persevered in, the intention to change a
sinful life not carried out ! What will such Christians do in the day
of God's visitation ? Only proved and tried faith will stand then.
18. And pray ye that your flight be not in the winter.
In winter days are short, roads heavy, nights dark, and every
hindrance in the fugitive's way. This is a figure of those who put
off their conversion to the end of life ; then the heart is cold, the
understanding dull, the failing body unable to obey the soul. Now,
now is the time to fly from sin and love God.
19. For in those days shall be affliction, such as was not from
the beginning of the creation which God created unto this time,
neither shall be.
What affliction is equal to that of a worldly-minded person who sees
his life and all its joys are about to end, and has found no other
hope ? All he loves is rapidly running out, his hours are numbered,
but he has found no peace. What can supply his desolation? Lord,
when that hour comes to me, let me know where to take refuge.
Thy Cross can be my hiding-place.
20. And except that the Lord had shortened those days, no
flesh should be saved: but for the elect's sake, whom he hath
chosen, he hath shortened the days.
God seems to withdraw from the world those whom He loves before
we can well spare them ; but this is in love, and for their eternal
perfection. All things join to work out the salvation of God's

Ver. 26.] What Signs go before the Day of Judgment. 275
servants, even things that at first sight are most bitter and grievous.
In heaven we shall see how God's Providence has dealt with us
in bringing us safely through so many temptations.
21. And then if any man shall say to you, Lo, here is Christ ;
or, lo, lie is tliere ; believe him not: 22. for false Christs and
false prophets shall rise, and shall shew signs and wonders, to
seduce, if it were possible, even the elect.
Let us persevere in the way where God has set us. We are happy to
enjoy the light of a true faith. Jesus has been very merciful to us in
bringing us into His Holy Catholic Church, and giving us all that
is needful for our salvation. Let no impatience move us to change.
Alas ! there have been those who ran well for a time and fell away
afterwards. God keep us from being of their number. We have
one God, one Saviour, one Holy Spirit, a Bible open to us, an
altar to sustain us, what need have we to hearken to strange
doctrines ?
23. But take ye heed: behold, I have foretold you all things.
Thanks be to Thee, O Lord, for Thy warnings. Let no one say that
trouble came unexpectedly, or temptation which could not be
guessed at, and so overcame us. God's Word tells us plainly of
the devil's snares, and the power of sin, and the nearness of pain
and death. Christian, do not be confounded, is it strange to one
who reads the words of Jesus that his lot should be a difficult one ?
Did not your Master tell you what it should be ?
24. IT But in those days, after that tribulation, the sun shall
be darkened, and the moon shall not give her light,
These great prophecies of darkness and confusion which apply to the
last days of the world, have also a meaning as applied to the last
days of a sinner. Then the faith which he has despised fails him
altogether ; he cannot lay hold on Jesus Christ, or find comfort in
church ordinances ; he sees nothing but darkness beyond the grave.
Lord, keep us from such an evening to our life, let Thy light
shine for us up to the end.
25. And the stars of heaven shall fall, and the powers that
are in heaven shall be shaken.
In that hour gifts of nature and ample means and worldly friends
will all fail the dying man, he will feel there is no strength in them.
Lord, I think with fear that I too shall one day lie in that state of
utter helplessness. Be Thou, then, my Refuge and my Rock that
cannot be moved. If I have Thee I care not what else is taken
away.
26. And then shall they see the Son of man coming in the
douds with great power and glory.
What a sight our eyes will behold when this world has passed away !
That great spectacle will be full of confusion to Christ's enemies,

276 All Things pass except Christ's Words. [S. Mark XIII.
they will feel only terror, but His friends will see Him approach
with joy. Once His glory was only spiritual, it could be seen by
none but believers, but hereafter all shall see it.
27. And then shall he send his angels, and shall gather
together his elect from the four winds, from the uttermost part
of the earth to the uttermost part of heaven.
What a happy day ! what a blessed reunion ! how these saints will
rejoice to know each other I They will feel that God has fulfilled
His promise and amply rewarded them for all they have gone
through, they will rejoice to tell each other how they have been
sustained. Grant us, Lord, a portion with Thine elect now and at
that day.
28. Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch
is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is
near : 29. so ye in like manner, when ye sliall see these things
come to pass, know that it is nigh, even at the doors.
Spring and summer will surely return ; even in the dead winter we
see their tokens abroad. J ust as surely our end'approaches and that
of the world. Nay, we can tell what distance it is to the spring,
but who can tell how near death is ? Our leaves may have already
reached their full growth, and the unseen hand be in readiness to
cut down the tree.
30. Verily I say unto you, that this generation shall not
2)ass, till all these things be done.
In the time of men then living all these awful words came true about
the destruction of Jerusalem with dreadful calamities attending,
and the setting up of Christ's Church throughout the world. No
doubt about that. What Christ said should be was done. We
may expect the greater and wider fulfilment, that of the last day, to
come as surely. One day our eyes will see it and our lips will
confess that the Lord Jesus spoke true.
31. Heaven and earth shall pass away .- but my words shall
not pass away.
The history of the world has to do with things that pass, but God's
Word with what remains. All human wisdom and glory and
beauty and strength decay and change, only God and our own
souls and that Word which links us to God remain the same from
age to age. Let me m this fleeting scene lay firm hold of Thee
Who changes not, and find here a lasting refuge. As life goes on
feitn in Thv W i "V • Part WUh *' but X wil1 not le' S° ^
faith in Thy Word ; there is a sure anchor.
32 IT But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no,
not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son but the
lather. '
4fc

Ver. 36.] All Men must keep watch. 277
.  ' 
Knowledge is not our purpose here. Both men and angels, and the
Son of God in His earthly condition, have had work given them to
do, but not fulness of knowledge opened to them. One day we
shall understand better, meanwhile is the time for us to work and
pray. But how can it be that my gracious Lord had anything
hidden from Him even while He was in a humble condition on
earth ? This too I know not, but I am sure that it was for my
profit that He partook for a while of human infirmities, though all
knowledge as well as power is His of right.
33. Take ye heed, watch and pray : for ye know not when
the time is.
Here are three rules for a Christian's life. Let him "take heed," or
consider wisely where he is and what temptations are near ; let
him " watch " by being always on his guard, having his words and
temper well in hand and his good resolutions ready; let him "pray,"
feeling his own weakness. Nothing of our own is sufficient in the
hour of trial, our best strength is to feel that there is One much
stronger near. Our own ignorance and weakness drive us to our
Almighty Friend.
34. For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey,
who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, and to
every man his work, and commanded the porter to watch.
This is what the Master wants, in the house faithfulness and diligence,
that everything should go on there as well as if He was by, no
disorder, no waste, no sloth, no uncleanness, all duties rightly
done ; and at the door a careful eye, that no evil persons or things
enter, that no precious treasures are carried off. O my heart, is
this a picture of thy condition ? Soon the Master will be in the
doorway, His piercing eye will see how thy watch has been kept.
35. Watch ye therefore : for ye know not when the master of
the house cometh, at even, or at midnight, or at the cock-crow
ing, or in the morning ;
This life is a dark night and a long one, sleep is apt to overcome us,
our Lord delays His coming, and our faith grows dim and we
become careless. Lord, if it be Thy will that I have long to wait,
forsake me not, strengthen me to endure to Thy coming, whenever
it be, and to keep on praying and hoping as the years pass by.
When morning comes the past night will seem like a vanished
dream.
36. Lest coming suddenly he find you sleeping.
Thy judgments thunder in my ears, Thy saints show me a light, the
book of Thy Providence is open for me to read in, I have tasks
enough to employ me, I know the wakeful enemy is looking in and
waiting for a chance to get by my side and do me a mischief, I
know that my Lord has a key and may come in at every instant ;
yet all these together cannot keep me awake, I need special grace.

278 The Passover draws near. [S. Mark XIV.
37. And what I say unto you I say unto all, Watch.
Jesus left this short caution with us, no one is beyond the need of it.
If the sentinel on guard has to watch, or the sailor on the lookout,
or the servant sitting up for his master's return, what place is there
for a slothful Christian ? he too has enemies and storms to guard
against and work to do for His Master. Our Lord here is not
forbidding needful rest for the body, but He requires a wakeful
mind.

CHAPTER XIV.
r. A conspiracy against Christ. 3. Precious ointment is poured on his
head by a woman. 10. Judas selleth his Master for money. 12.
Christ himself foretelleth how he shall be betrayed of one of his
disciples : 22. after the passover prepared, and eaten, instituteth his
supper : 26. declareth aforehand the flight of all his disciples, and
Peter's denial. 43. Judas betrayeth him with a kiss. 46. He is
apprehended in the garden, 53. falsely accused, and impiously con
demned of the Jews' council : 65. shamefully abused by them : 66.
and thrice denied of Peter.
AFTER two days was the feast of the passover, and of un-
Xi_ leavened bread : and the chief priests and the scribes
sought how they might take him by craft, and put him to death.
These are the ministers of the true God and teachers of His holy
law. They are just about to observe the great memorial of their
deliverance from bondage, but instead of any love, any praise,
any true desire to serve God, their minds are full of revenge,
they think only how they may show themselves the stronger, and
punish Jesus for His reproofs which had shamed them before all
the people. It is the case still that when God's priests become evil
they outdo all others in wickedness and turn the holiest occasions
to their own ruin.
2. But they said, Not on the feast day, lest there be an uproar
of the people.
So they planned, but God ordered it otherwise. His wise Providence
so guided their evil passions as to bring about the ransom of the
world, through their crime, on the same day as that feast which
figured it. When sinners are doing their worst let us remember
they can only work out God's plan. He overrules their doings for
His own glory and the trial of His saints.
3. IT And being in Bdhany in the house of Simon the leper,
as he sat at meat, there came a woman having an alabaster box
of ointment of spikenard very precious ; and she brake the box
and poured it on his head.

Ver. 8.] Mary anoints Christ's Head. 279
This costly perfume was but a figure of the love that filled Mary's
heart She thought that nothing could be too good for her Lord
and Master, that is the reason why He accepted it, though at all
other times He put away anything that savoured of luxury. Let
us draw near with a heart full of love and thankfulness, and the
Lord will make known to us what offering He needs.
4. And there were some that had indignation within them
selves, and said, Why was this waste of the ointment made ?
Look at home before you blame the spending money in Christ's
honour. Do you never spend money on your own pleasure, your
own vanity? do you not desire to have all things elegant and
comfortable about you ? Then do not rashly blame those devout
souls who have lavished their money and themselves upon the
beauty of God's house, or its service, or the perfection of some
work for Him. Why should we grudge Him the best there is ?
5. For it might have been sold for more than three hundred
pence, and have been given to tlie poor. And they murmured
against her.
We may look for blame even from well-meaning people. There are
many good souls who will judge harshly of any one who is led to
go beyond them in devotion, they will suspect his motives and
show how he ought to have been less presuming ; but the soul that
feels love and reverence, and the great claims of God, and the honour
due to His ordinances, will pay little regard to what men say.
6. And Jesus said, Let her alone ; why trouble ye her ? she
hath wrought a good work on me.
What a Defender, and what praise ! The world's judgment matters
little to one who has Christ on her side. Lord, let me do some
good work for Thee while I am here, give me some spark of that
devotion which made Mary's ointment acceptable, let me honour
Thee with my substance and my whole heart.
7. For ye have the poor with you always, and whensoever ye
will ye may do them good : but me ye have not always.
Our Lord is not visibly here. We can honour Him at any time by faith
and love, but His bodily presence is withdrawn, though He comes
among us in a spiritual manner. But the poor represent Him ; they
are His agents, and take care of the gifts that we design for Him.
Here is a chance for us always at hand of offering a service to Christ
Himself.
8. She hath done what she could : she is come aforehand to
anoint my body to the burying.
Mary felt her Master's death was approaching, she sought to honour
Him while it was in her power. A week afterwards His body was
laid hastily in the grave, nor did it ever obtain full funeral rites,

280 Judas arranges to betray his Master. [S. Mark XIV.
but her love had anticipated what was to come. We should honour
the day of our Saviour's death and burial when it comes round, and
do what we can to get it well observed.
9. Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be
preached throughout the whole world, this also that she hath
done shall be spoken of for a memorial of her.
See how Jesus Christ, on the eve of His Passion, looked onward to
His victory, and to His Gospel being spread abroad through the
world ; see how He takes care for the honour of His saints. He
would have their name known throughout all nations. We can with
Him rejoice in any act of devotion, and thank God for it. He passes
over nothing that is done out of love for Him.
10. IT And Judas Iscariot, one of the twelve, went unto the
chief priests, to betray him unto them.
Alas, how often Christians betray their Master to His enemies ! They
prefer a little gain, or a little pleasure, to a good conscience. They
have often fed at His Table, often heard His Word, often professed
themselves His friends, and yet nothing will keep them now from
going over to the side of sin. ' Before we are shocked at Judas'
treachery let us consider what sort of disciples we are.
11. And when they heard it, they were glad, and promised
to give him money. And he sought how he might conveniently
betray him.
The opportunity came next day. If we resolve to do the devil's work
the occasion will not be long coming. Judas had forgotten all his
Master's glory, all His kindness, all the great powers which he had
himself been intrusted with ; covetousness and disappointment
and a fancied affront had driven all those happy memories out of
his mind, and left only this hateful purpose of betraying Him.
12. IT And the first day of unleavened bread, when they
killed the passover, his disciples said unto him, Wliere wilt thou
that we go and prepare that thou may est eat the passover ?
Into what heart wilt Thou come, O Lord ? where shall the Paschal
Lamb be spiritually eaten ? who shall be a worthy entertainer of
the King of kings? Christian ministers should often ask as these
two disciples did, what hearts their Master wishes prepared to
receive Him. The feast will be spread, the altar ready, but some
preparation of heart is needed for those who will partake. If we
have little time to prepare as we ought, yet He accepts of our poor
efforts and our regrets that we have not done more.
13. And he sendeth forth two of his disciples, and saith unto
them, Go ye into tlie city, and there shall meet you a man bear
ing a pitcher of water : follow him.
Our Saviour knew that His enemies were watching Him, so He sought
a place for His Holy Supper cautiously, and as if in secret. He

VER- i 9-] The Upper Room. 281
could not claim it as King. This pitcher of water which pointed
the way for the guests reminds us of Holy Baptism and of the tears
of sorrow which those need who have profaned their baptism. For
a good communion some purifying, some real sorrow must go
first.
14. And wheresoever he shall go in, say ye to the goodman
of the house, The Master saith, Where is the guestcliamber,
where I shall eat the passover with my disciples ?
Jesus alone knows what hearts have room for Him. Alas ! in some
there is too much business, in others sin, in others all the room is
taken up by earthly love. How few preserve a shrine there in which
the Lord can dwell and bring with Him peace and love and heavenly
communion ! Let us strive to keep in mind this truth, that He is our
Master, and all we have belongs to Him, and He has a right to our
love and duty.
15. And he will shew you a large upper room furnished and
prepared: there make ready for us.
This room is the believer's heart. It should be large, that is, full of
charity ; and raised up above the stir of the world and sin ; and
furnished with humility and prayer and other needful graces. Lord,
make my heart such, and come Thou to dwell in it. How can it
be worthy unless Thy saving presence make it so ?
16. And his disciples went forth, and came into the city, and
found as he had said unto them: and they made ready the
passover. So we, if we trust His Word, shall find all come true as He has said.
He bids us to the feast, He promises to give us the spiritual food
of His Body and Blood, He tells us to make ready, and that this
partaking will be a means of comfort and strength to us ; if we
believe and obey He will not fail us. Temptations and sorrows may
be at hand, but let them not drive us from this means of grace
where our Master has promised to meet us.
17. And in the evening he cometh with the twelve. 18. And
as they sat and did eat, Jesus said, Verily I say unto you, One
of you which eateth with me shall betray me.
Our Saviour's feast had sadness in it ; there was joy too, yet not of
this world, and the thought of His approaching death was never
absent. He grieved that His chosen friend whom He had called
and made an apostle should turn traitor. Lord, in seasons of joy
do Thou keep me from too thoughtless gaiety, and guard me lest I
too betray Thee in some careless moment.
19. And they began to be sorrowful, and to say unto him
one by one, Is it I? and another said, Is it I ?
Alas ! many of those who eat at Christ's Table have great reason to
suspect themselves of treason to Him. How often have I been

282 Christ's Body and Blood. [S. Mark XIV.
ashamed of my profession, how often taken pleasure in sinful
thoughts, how often been hard and unforgiving ! Indeed, O Lord,
my own conscience answers that it is I and no one else who have
acted thus. I feel with sorrow how frail I am, yet Thy mercy is
greater than my sins.
20. And he answered and said unto them, It is one of tlie
twelve, that dippeth with me in the dish.
Observe how patiently our Saviour warns Judas, not upbraiding or
openly convicting him, but endeavouring by all means to make
him reflect. All our purposes are known to God, and He lets us
go on after due warning, because He is able to overrule all things
to a good end. What a grave thought is this, that acts of sin are
known to and allowed by Him 1 His judgment will be served by
our doings if His mercy is not.
21. The Son of man indeed goeth, as it is written of him :
but woe to that man by whom the Son of man is betrayed I good
were it for that man if he had never been born.
We rejoice at a child's birth, yet perhaps one day we shall wish it had
never been born. The true joy will be over those who persevere and
enter heaven. We have in us a hidden spring of sin and vileness
which may lead us to ruin. Lord, with Thy grace quench what is
evil in us, and fit us for the happy society of Thy saints, whence
there is no falling away.
22. 11 And as they did eat, Jesus took bread, and blessed,
and brake it, and gave to them, and said, Take, eat : this is my
body. Our Saviour makes us a present of inestimable value, yet it is to
earthly eyes but a little bread given with two or three simple words.
The world's gifts look beautiful, and are given with pomp and
ceremony, yet their glory soon fades, while the Holy Sacrament is
a priceless treasure for all times. Here is God present with us, here
is a store of all graces, here is strength and life to the soul. Lord,
make us discern and value Thy Sacramental Body, and partake of
it in humble faith.
23. And he took the cup, and when he had given, thanks, he
gave it to them: and they all drank of it. 24. And he said
unto them, This is my blood of the new testament, which is shed
for many.
This precious Blood ratifies the covenant of mercy which God has
made with us in Christ. No sins of ours are beyond its power. It
still flows freshly from His side ; its power in earth and heaven is
the same ; it refreshes the weary and cleanses the sinner. Unworthy
communicants make a mockery of it ; they come in wilful deadly
sin or unbelief, and have their hearts hardened the more. Lord,
when I think of my own communions I tremble, yet I believe in
the power of Thy Blood to wash out my profaneness and fit me to
approach more worthily.

Ver. 29.] Going out to the Mount of Olives. 283
25. Verily I say unto you, I will drink no more of the fruit
of the vine, until that day that I drink it new in the kingdom
of God.
The Holy Sacrament is a foretaste of heaven. There we shall enjoy
God's Presence in a new manner without the need of outward signs ;
there we shall see His glory and feel His love in a way beyond
what we can understand at present. Lord, give Thy servants grace
to put away the cup of this world's pleasures, remembering the
sacramental cup to which Thou invitest them here and the cup of
eternal joy which Thou promisest them hereafter.
26. IT And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into
the mount of Olives.
After heavenly communion and joyful thanksgiving the time comes
again to go out and meet temptation. We have felt God near us, we
have enjoyed His presence and given Him thanks. All this will
never cease in heaven, but in this world it soon passes, and dark
ness, fear, agony, and bitter enemies surround us instead. Lord,
keep in our minds the remembrance of the happy hours that we
have spent with Thee to uphold us when troubles come.
27. And Jesus saith unto them, All ye shall be offended
because of me this night : for it is written, I will smite the
shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered.
Such is human weakness. The apostles, immediately after their first
Communion, would have their faith sorely tried, and would leave
their Master for a while ; they should be scattered, yet only to be
soon joined together again and meet the Lord Jesus and bring in
all nations to know Him also. The Great Shepherd did not forget
His sheep even when they deserted Him. Lord, so let it be with
me. My desertions and failures are without number, but Thy mercy
is greater still.
28. But after that I am risen, I will go before you into
Galilee. How the Lord Jesus looks beyond death as if it were but a passing
journey ! He again took charge of His flock after He rose and
never left them more, nor did they any more leave Him. He has
gone before, but He looks back on us to help us as we tread the
same road that He went by.
29. But Pder said unto him, Although all shall be offended,
yd will not I.
How ignorant we are of our own weakness ! How can we dare to
think we are better than others ! Lord, in this rash answer which
S. Peter made Thee I recognise my own folly. I have often
boasted of my faith and wondered at the dreadful falls which came
to my brethren. Keep me, I beseech Thee, from such presumption.
I am nothing without Thy restraining hand. I might cast away my
hope of heaven in a moment, but all my trust is in Thee.

284 Amazement and Sorrow of Jesus. [S. Mark XIV.
30. And Jesus saith unto him, Verily I say unto thee, That
this day, even in this night, before the cock crow twice, thou shalt
deny me thrice.
Christ knows our hearts ; He knows things to come, and could unfold
all the tale of our misery. When we have fallen it is a help in turning
to God to reflect that our downfall was all known to Him, and that
He kept us from worse ruin still. Temptation may come at any
moment, let us pray for grace to meet it
31. But he spake the more vehemently, If I should die with
thee, I will not deny thee in any wise. Likewise also said they
all. Peter loved His Master, and wished to die for Him, yet he had not
strength to speak the truth when the hour of trial came. The other
disciples also protested their stedfastness, yet could not persevere.
Glory be to Jesus, Who took frail men like these and made them
saints and martyrs, and caused their words to kindle mankind and
their glorious deaths to encourage other Christians to die ! Such
was the power of grace.
32. And they came to a place which was named Gethsemane :
and he saith to his disciples, Sit ye here, while I shall pray.
Jesus our Lord did Himself what He bids us do. Trouble was
coming on Him, so He turned to prayer. He sought in communion
with His Father that comfort which men could not give Him.
There are many occasions when our best resource is prayer, times
when it is impossible for us without praying to submit or obey as
God would have us.
33. And he taketh with him Peter and James and John, and
began to be sore amazed, and to be very heavy;
What a sight for our Lord's three friends I How they must have been
confounded to see their Strength thus prostrate ! If God opened our
eyes to see sin and death and judgment as they truly are, should
not we be overcome with horror ? Thanks be to Him for sparing us
this sight. Fear and pain filled the soul of Jesus, and shall sinful
men be surprised if they too have times of anxiety ? how could they
be like Him otherwise ?
34. And saith unto them, My soul is exceeding sorrowful
unto death : tarry ye here, and watch.
We are admitted here into the secrets of Christ's soul. He was full
of sorrow, He leaned on His friends for sympathy, yet got little help
from them. If our friends fail to understand us or to feel for our
condition, we resemble Christ in that, and must turn to Him, for He
knows what suffering is and can hear and help us. O Lord I will
not be surprised by dark hours, why should they not come to me?
Thou. Who wert innocent, hadst a full share of such.

Ver. 40.] Prayer of Jesus in the Garden. 285
35. And he went forward a little, and fell on the ground,
and prayed tliat, if it were possible, the hour might pass from
him. Our Saviour had foreseen His Passion and hastened to it, yet when it
came near He prayed that if it were possible He might be spared
it. This is the natural distaste of man for pain and death. Jesus
felt this like His servants do, yet He overcame it, that they too
might have grace to overcome.
36. And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto
thee ; take away this cup from me : nevertheless not what I
will, but what thou wilt.
God can deliver us from any cross, yet His glory is often more shown
by His sustaining us while on the Cross. It may be that sickness
and decay and approaching death are at hand for me, it may be
that I have to lose those I love best or see the ruin of all my hopes,
still I know that Thy will is best, and that the cup of bitterness if
presented by Thy hand has a healing virtue.
37. And he cometh, and findeth them sleeping, and saith unto
Peter, Simon, steepest thou ? couldest not thou watch one hour ?
His disciples slept, yet meanwhile Jesus was working out their salva
tion. He never forgets His chosen though they may forget Him.
From time to time He comes and warns us and bids us awake.
If we do not profit by His rebuke of our lesser failings, He lets us
fall more gravely, so as to wake us from our dangerous slumber.
38. Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. The
spirit truly is ready, but the flesh is weak.
What a kind and tender excuse the Lord makes for His sleeping
friends ! He knew they were His in heart, though they could not
for the time bear Him company in His troubles. How often I
have found the weakness of the flesh overbear the readiness of the
spirit ! The flesh loves comfort, ease, praise, and the spirit, even if
it does love Christ and heaven, loves so feebly that it cannot give
strength to the frail flesh.
39. And again he went away, and prayed, and spake the
same words.
How simple are Christ's prayers ! He prays as any poor sufferer
might pray. He shows us that God does not care for eloquent
words, but for plain requests that express what we feel. He told
His heavenly Father in a simple manner of His grief, His fear,
His resolution, and this three times over till He had gained peace1
and strength by doing so.
40. And when he rdurned, he found them asleep again, (for
tlieir eyes were heavy,) neither wist tliey what to answer him.
Is it strange, dear reader, that you should lack that sympathy which

286 The Kiss of Judas.  [S. Mark XIV.
your friends ought to give you, or that you should have no intimate
friend on whom to retire in hours of trouble? Look at your Master ;
it was very seldom that He leaned upon His friends, and when He
did they failed Him, as here. He experienced the bitterness of
disappointment, longing as man for comfort and help, and not
finding it.
41. And he cometh the third time, and saith unto them,
Sleep on now, and take your rest: it is enough, the hour is
come ; behold, the Son of man is betrayed into the hands of
sinners. Now the chance was gone, they could no longer watch or pray with
their Master. He had sought their help in vain, and now all the
hours of their attendance in His suffering life were over for ever.
How bitterly we shall one day regret our selfishness, and wish that
we had shown kindness while there was time ! The hour had now
come which the flesh feared but the spirit desired. Our Saviour
was now to begin His long night and day of shame and ill-usage.
42. Rise up, let us go ; lo, he that betray eth me is at hand.
But now He was prostrate on the ground and full of heaviness.
How is it that He is able to go forth boldly and meet His enemies ?
All His agony is past, He has courage for His disciples also, He
is ready for all that may come. We see in this the effect of
prayer. As our Lord Jesus in His weakness represents to us man's
natural frailty, so in His renewed calmness He shows us what grace
can do, how it can overcome grief and make us do all things in
God's strength.
43. IT And immediately, while he yet spake, cometh Judas,
one of tlie twelve, and with him a great multitude with swords
and staves, from the chief priests and tlie scribes and the elders.
Here is one of our Lord's apostles at the head of His enemies. So
it has often been since. What persecution, what wrongs, what
cruelties, have been committed in the name of religion, and by
those highly placed in the Church ! There is no bad cause but has
had some of God's priests to maintain it. If Jesus Himself
endured so much at the hands of false apostles and corrupt priests,
believers must not marvel at the great names which countenance
wrong-doing.
44. And lie tliat betrayed him had given them a token, saying,
Whomsoever I shall kiss, that same is he ; take him, and lead
him away safely. 45. And as soon as he was come, he goeth
straightway to him, and saith, Master, master ; and kissed him.
We do not often have to suffer such a cruel falsehood as this treach
erous kiss, but yet life is full of small affronts under a civil appear
ance. Our friends often deal unfairly with us, or seek their own
interests instead of ours. Can we at such times take whatever
happens in a patient spirit? It is hard to overcome nature and follow

Ver- 5°-] Jesus taken Captive. 287
the example of our Master, yet what is our friend's falseness com
pared with our unfaithfulness to God? There is the unkindest return
of all. Our heavenly Friend has indeed cause to complain of our
ingratitude to Him.
46. IT And they laid their liands on him, and took him.
Here is Christ our Saviour a prisoner. No doubt His enemies rejoiced
at doing what they had so often tried in vain to do before.
Prisoners should bear their captivity patiently, remembering what
their Master bore for them ; and other Christians should pray for
and help those who are in prison. What lessons their captivity may
teach them ! Sinners and saints alike have had to bear the loss of
liberty, and God has used it to convert or purify them.
47. And one of them that stood by drew a sword, and smote
a servant of the high priest, and cut off his ear.
Christ's soldiers are often too ready to use earthly arms. They should
defend God's cause by patience and prayer and gentle words, not
by bluster or violence. What a mistake it is to quarrel, or de
nounce, or nourish party spirit, in the hope of doing good 1 Love
is the best warfare and overcomes all resistance.
48. And Jesus answered and said unto them, Are ye come
out, as against a thief, with swords and with staves to take me ?
Our Lord was arrested as a common criminal, yet He was the Son of
God, full of glory. He was also the holiest and wisest of the sons
of men, a Person full of every excellence, and Whom all generations
since have honoured. How strange that the Jews should have made
such a frightful mistake ! Alas ! one day we shall look back on
our own doings and marvel at our blindness. We need to pray for
light to discern God's messengers. Human eyes are dull, and cannot
see what goodness is.
49. I was daily with you in the temple teaching, and ye took
me not: but the scriptures must be fulfilled.
Whoever suffers any ill-treatment for Christ's sake may reflect, like
His Master, " I have to fulfil the Scriptures, it is not men's malice
but God's wise decree for my salvation. They cannot hurt my
soul, though for a while, according to God's appointment, I seem to
be in their hands. They could do nothing unless my Father had
ordered it so."
50. And they all forsook him, and fled.
What trust can we put in men ? Our Lord's friends thought no longer
how they might defend Him, how they might comfort Him or bear
witness in His favour ; all was gone except the thought of saving
themselves. Shall we be amazed at being left alone? shall I have
some one left to lean on
"When gathering clouds around I view,
And days are dark, and friends are few"?

288 Peter enters the Palace. [S. Mark XIV.
51. And there followed him a certain young man, having a
linen cloth cast about his naked body ; and the young men laid
hold on him : 52. and he left the linen cloth, and fled from
them naked.
We know not who this youth was who was almost made a prisoner
along with Jesus Christ. It would seem he was roused up suddenly
from his bed in some neighbouring house, and came out just as he
was to see what was being done with the Lord Jesus. He grieved
to see the Lord in His enemies' hands, and would have helped Him
if he could, but he had hard work to save himself.
53. IT And tliey led Jesus away to tlie high priest : and with
him were assembled all tlie chief priests and the elders and the
scribes. How sight and faith differ ! Human eyes beheld in this assembly all
that was most venerable and most holy. Here are the teachers of
God's law and the guides of His people solemnly assembled in
His Name to do justice, but in truth they were erring men led on by
Satan and their own evil passions to commit a great crime. They
met not to do justice but to revile and oppress the innocent
54. And Peter followed him afar off, even into the palace of
the high priest : and he sat with the servants, and warmed him
self at the fire.
Why did he not remember the warnings he had received ? The high
priest's fireside was not the place nor his servants the company for
S. Peter. All this only drew him onward to his fall. Lord, open
the eyes of Thy servants that they may see where their danger lies,
help tempted ones to keep away from the place and the company
that are dangerous to them.
55. And the chief priests and all the council sought for wit
ness against Jesus to put him to death; and found none. 56.
For many bare false witness against him, but their witness
agreed not together.
The judges sought for witnesses against Christ, and accepted any,
though it was false, and all that in the name of religion. Let us
beware of a like spirit. How many hard words we have used or
repeated about others without knowing if they were really true !
Indeed it was hard to find any evidence against our Saviour, for
He had done nothing amiss, yet He listened patiently to the lies
that were brought forward and pardoned them.
57. And there arose certain, and bare false witness against
him, saying, 58.^ We lieard him say, I will destroy this templa
that is made with hands, and within three days I will build
another made without hands. 59. But neitlier so did their
witness agree together.

Ver. 63.] The Son of the Blessed. 289
Is it strange that we should be misunderstood, that our wisest words or
best writings should be taken ill, and we ourselves thought heretics,
when the words of Divine Wisdom were misconstrued ? Let us speak
the truth boldly in God's Name according to our conscience, and
leave the issue with our Master. His holy words were brought up
against Him, were perverted and wrongly applied, yet He bore it
patiently.
60. And the high priest stood up in the midst, and asked
Jesus, saying, Answerest thou nothing ? what is it which these
witness against thee ?
The judge did not really mean to deal fairly or give the Prisoner a
chance to defend Himself ; he spoke only in contempt, and wishing
to turn our Lord's answer against Him. How shameful such treat
ment seems when applied to the Lord Jesus ! When shallwe learn the
lesson ourselves, and refrain from hasty judgment, bitter words, and
unfairness to those who differ from us ?
61. But he held his peace, and answered nothing. Again
the high priest asked him, and said unto him, Art thou the
Christ, the Son of the Blessed ?
This was the greatest of questions, put solemnly by God's high
priest and truly answered by Jesus, and yet the answer was of no
profit, none who heard it believed. What a terrible thing it is to
inquire of God and get a right answer, and yet only be ruined by-
it ! When we look on God's Word, when we seek counsel, or
consider what we shall do, let us do so in an upright spirit, lest the
answer turn to our condemnation. Let us pray that we may ask
aright and listen aright also.
62. And Jesus said, I am : and ye shall see the Son of man
sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of

Our Saviour broke silence at last. He tells His judge of the day
when He shall sit Himself in judgment and correct the world's
injustice. Then the oppressed will hold up their heads and the
oppressors will bow down in shame and seek in vain a place to
hide in. O Lord, I appeal to Thy judgment-seat from the injustice
of the world and of the Church. Thou art true, and wilt bring
truth to light.
63. Then the high priest rent his clothes, and saith, What
need we any further witnesses ?
The high priest pretended to be shocked at this avowal. What !
this poor despised man calling Himself the Divine King ! He was
filled with anger and shame at the thought. Ah, one day the
truth will come out ; sinners will have real reason to be shocked
and grieved then, instead of pretending to be angry with the bold
ness of God's servants. Caiaphas cared little about God himself.
This great zeal was quite make-believe. T

290 Peter in the High Priests Hall. [S. Mark XV.
64. Ye have heard the blasphemy: what think ye? And
they all condemned him to be guilty of death.
It was our sins which condemned Him, not His own. He was worthy
of death because He stood in our place and represented the world's
guilt, which cried aloud for condemnation. What wonder is it if
good men are condemned by the world ! Their Master was thought
only fit to die. His holy words were judged to be blasphemies.
65. And some began to spit on him, and to cover his face,
and to buffet him, and to say unto him, Prophesy: and the
servants did strike him with the palms of their hands.
What honour we should pay to our Lord and Master, Who underwent
such insults for our sake ! What care we should take to avoid hard
usage of others! When Jesus our Lord beholds oppression ' or
cruelty must it not remind Him of what He Himself went through ?
God keep us from unkindness to any. And further, does it befit
us to indulge ourselves ? A love of comfort and luxury does not
suit with disciples of a Master Who was so hardly used.
66. IT And as Peter was beneath in the palace, there cometh
one of the maids of the high priest :
Temptation came suddenly to Peter. He had forgotten our Lord's
warning and his own great need of prayer. His faith and love were
growing cold, and so he could not resist in the hour of trial. Lord,
I know by sad experience how ready I am to deny Thee. Give
me a constant wakeful sense of my own weakness, such as may lead
me always to Thee for help.
67. And when she saw Peter warming himself, she looked
upon him, and said, And thou also wast with Jesus of Nazareth.
68. But he denied, saying, I know not, neither understand I
what thou sayest. And he went out into the porch ; and the
cock crew.
Alas, how many have been with Jesus at His Holy Table, and when
they rise and go back into the world they are ashamed of His
company, and behave as though they have never known Him ! It
does not need great threats to drive us into sin ; we cannot stand
a laugh, a contemptuous look, an enticing word. All our good
resolutions melt away at such times. Lord, forgive what is past
and give us strength for the future.
69. And a maid saw him again, and began to say to them
that stood by, This is one of them.
There was no great temptation. Surely he might have refused to
answer, or might have said, ' ' Well if I be, I hope there is no great
harm. . We don't read that the bystanders reviled or threatened
him, only that it seemed shameful and might prove dangerous to

Ver. i.] The Second Cock-crow.

291

be a friend of One Who was in trouble. Lord, I have often been
ashamed of Thy side, and have been afraid to stand up for charity
arid love and duty even in small things.
70. And he denied it again. And a little after, they that
stood by said again to Peter, Surely thou art one of them : for
thou art a Galilaan, and thy speech agreeth thereto. 7 1. But
he began to curse and to swear, saying, I know not this man of
whom ye speak.
This is he who said, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the
words of eternal life ; " and no w he swears that he does not know
the man. We may have had deep faith, fervent love, long experience,
and yet fall in a moment and be dashed to pieces. If we trust to
our own gifts we are lost. Only a humble spirit can keep us safe.
Lord, never leave me to my own strength. I see that it cannot
uphold me.
72. And the second, time the cock crew. And Peter called to
mind the word that Jesus said unto him, Before the cock crow
twice, thou shalt deny me thrice. And when he thought thereon,
he wept.
Lord, give me a true penitent sorrow for my sins. I have often for
gotten Thee and gone over to Thine enemies. I have shamefully
betrayed Thy side. I acknowledge in this example the greatness
of Thy mercy. Do Thou call to my mind Thy words and speak
to my heart, and make me grieved and ashamed of my own folly.
I have cause enough to be sorry when I think what I ought to have
been and what I am.

CHAPTER XV.
1. Jesus brought bound, and accused before Pilate. 15. Upon the clamour
of the common people, the murderer Barabbas is loosed, and Jesus
delivered up to be crucified. 17. He is crowned with thorns, ig. spit
on, and mocked : 2x. fainteth in bearing his cross : 27. hangeth
between two thieves : 29. suffereth the triumphing reproaches of the
Jews : 3g. but confessed by the centurion to be the Son of God : 43.
and is honourably buried by Joseph.
AND straightway in the morning the chief priests held a con-
Xi sulfation with the elders and scribes and the whole council,
and bound Jesus, and carried him away, and delivered him to
Pilate. The chief priests had determined to put Jesus to death, so great was
their fear and hatred of Him. But they were obliged for this to
bring Him before the Roman governor, as they had now no legal
power to condemn any one to die. We behold our Saviour bound

292 Pilate questions Jesus. [S. Mark XV.
like a criminal, cast out by His own people, handed over to the
Gentiles, helpless amidst so many who sought His life; but we see
in Him no sins of His own to provoke such treatment, no, He
bears ours, He stands in our place and endures the_ condition we
had deserved. What do we not deserve, if God's justice had its
way apart from His redeeming mercy ?
2. And Pilate asked him, Art thou tlie King of the Jews ?
And he answering said unto him, Thou sayest it.
Here is our King, and He declares His dignity, though no outward
signs of it appear. God's true Israel throughout the world recognise
their Lord in Him. He is no King in the sense of enjoying this
world's gold or palaces.or swords, but He gives laws to His servants,
rewards their obedience, punishes rebels, disposes all things for
good ; even in the depths of shame and outrage He remains Him
self.
3. And the chief priests accused him of many things : but he
answered nothing,
So there were many things that could be publicly said against the
Holy One, even though untrue. Who shall hope to escape evil
tongues ? What wonder is it if we who are so liable to fall have
many faults brought forward against us ? Let us when wrongfully
accused be as patient as Christ was, and when we make answer
let it be gently and without passion, remembering that we are often
to blame, even though not in this instance.
4. And Pilate asked him again, saying, Answerest thou
nothing ? behold how many things they witness against thee. 5.
But Jesus yet answered nothing ; so that Pilate marvelled.
That was not the time for our Lord to defend Himself. He knew that
the accusations were not proved, and that the governor saw that ;
but He desired no vindication of Himself at the time. He willingly
put off the establishment of His innocence till the time of His
triumph should come. Meanwhile He had to die and bear the
penalty of our sins, though He had none of His own. Here in this
life truth often stands silent and covered with confusion, but a day
will come for it to make answer triumphantly.
6. Now at that feast he released unto them one prisoner,
whomsoever they desired.
This was a favour which the Roman governor granted to the Jews,
that every year at the Passover some one prisoner should be set
free whom they might choose ; it mattered not what crimes he had
committed or what his sentence was, if he was lucky enough to
obtain the people's voice for, him he might go free. We see
herein a figure of the deliverance which Christ has wrought, and
which can unloose all chains and set free all sinners ; not one, but
all criminals can be set free by His grace.

Ver. 14.] Christ refected for Barabbas. 293
7. And there was one named Barabbas, which lay bound
with them tliat liad made insurredion with him, who had com
mitted murder in the insurrection. 8. And the multitude
crying aloud began to desire him to do as he had ever done unto
them. The bold exploits of Barabbas were more to the people's taste than
our Saviour's acts of mercy. They had forgotten all the love and pity
of Jesus, but recalled Barabbas' daring, and determined to save him.
We often forget the kindnesses which men have shown us and the
great mercies that we have received from God. Worldly friends and
boastful talk and plans of g%i put aside all memories of grace, as
Barabbas made Jesus of little account.
9. But Pilate answered tliem, saying, Will ye that I release
unto you the King of the Jews ? 10. For he knew that the
chief priests had delivered him for envy.
Pilate knew well that it was not the guilt of Jesus but His goodness,
not anything false in His teaching but His great popularity that
had set the chief priests against Him. They were jealous of Him
because He had won the people's love. Pilate therefore hoped
that the people would speak up for Jesus and demand His release.
That envious spirit which prevailed among the chief priests is not
dead yet, it still makes Christians grudge their brethren's gifts and
depreciate them as much as they can.
1 1. But the chief priests moved the people, that he should
rather rdease Barabbas unto them.
How quick the people were at forgetting ! Our Lord's words had
seemed so Divine to them, His acts of mercy so wonderful, His
claim to be the Christ so sure, yet now they pass Him by without
difficulty, and shout for Barabbas' life instead. This would seem
incredible but for our own hearts' testimony that we behave much
the same in seasons of temptation. Where is our faith gone, our
sure trust in God, our hope of heaven? who has robbed us of it so
easily ?
12. And Pilate answered and said again unto them, What
will ye then that I shall do unto him whom ye call the King of
the Jews ?
A Christian may ask himself, " Here I have my Lord, what shall I do
unto Him ? " I have Him revealed to me in His Word and bestowed
on me in His Sacraments, what behaviour is fitting from me to
Him ? I have much to ask Him, much to thank Him for, much to
beg His pardon for, I ought not to let Him go without having tried
to make amends for my long neglect.
13. And they cried out again, Crucify him. 14. Then
Pilate said unto them, Why, what evil hath he done ? And
they cried out the more exceedingly, Crucify him.

294 The Crown of Thorns. [S. Mark XV.
This ingratitude shocks us, yet it is not worse than the conduct of
many nominal Christians who insult their Master by deadly sins
and open blasphemies ; they prefer a little pleasure to their duty,
or the praise of sinners to the praise of their own conscience, just
as the Jews put Barabbas before Jesus.
15. 1T And so Pilate, willing to content the people, released
Barabbas unto them, and delivered Jesus, when he had scourged
him, to be crudfied.
All this came of complaisance. Pilate did not want to do anything
wrong, his desire was only to content the people. He chose the
easiest way, but this meant the- scourging and crucifixion of the
Lord of Glory. Beware of giving way to please men where your
conscience says "No," lest you find your easy, careless good fellow
ship has brought you into endless ruin. Stand out stedfastly for the
Lord's side, and never give way in order to content men ; their
applause is not worth God's anger.
16. And the soldiers led him away into the hall, called Prce-
torium ; and they call together the whole band.
How many of Christ's faithful servants have had to bear like mockeries
with their Master ! They too have fallen into the hands of the
triumphant world, and have had to remain silent under scornful
reproaches; but they look forward to a day when God's angels
and saints will assemble, and the world hide its head in confusion.
Now they may be the weaker, but their side will get the better in
the end.
17. And they clothed him with purple, and platted a crown
of thorns, and put it about his head,
Here are the royal robes and crown of our King. What could the
great ones of the earth do when their turn comes to suffer pain, if
they did not know of One Who was aware of the hollowness of
royalty and felt its thorns? He can feel for them in the great
burden of their lofty condition. All this world's glory is but an
actor's dress put on to disguise, and soon stript off.
18. And began to salute him, Hail, King of the Jews/
Here are the shouts of His subjects. Men delight in praise, they drink
in great draughts of it and enjoy its sweetness, yet it is unwhole
some food. Better be surrounded by scoffs than meet always with
admiration. Let those who are popular and successful humble
themselves before God, and pray that their heads be not turned by
their brethren's praise. If men only knew us as we are they would
not have much reason to applaud us so.
19. And they smote him on the head with a reed, and did
spit upon him, and bowing their knees worshipped him.
Here are the reverences of His courtiers; they bow, they kneel, they
worship, what is wanting? Indeed it is all in insult; no true

Ver. 23.] Simon the Cyrenian. 295
reverence there, all is in bitter contempt. Ah, consider a Christian
church and see the communicants at the altar, all alike appear
reverent ; but the All-seeing Eye sifts their worship and sees who
bow down in spirit and truth, who come merely on pretence or
out of custom.
20. And when they had mocked him, they took off the purple
from him, and put his own clothes on him, and led him out to
crucify him.
Our Saviour had done with the world now. He had felt its favour
for a while, then its bitter mockery, now He laid aside the ensigns
of His royalty and went forth to die. A time will come when I
must lay down all that the world has clothed me with, whether it
be wealth and honour, or contempt and rags, and must -prepare to
meet my end. Let me in that hour bear my Lord in mind, and take
up my cross patiently as He did His.
21. And they compel one Simon a Cyrenian, who passed by,
coming out of the country, the father of Alexander and Rufus,
to bear his cross.
Simon bore in silence the heavy load, he had it laid upon him
suddenly and by way of insult, but he embraced it with a willing
heart. This was a great honour, to bear the Cross on which salvation
was wrought, and it has made Simon's name famous to all ages.
His wife and son were dear friends of S. Paul's long afterwards
(Rom. xvi. 13). How often they must have talked of Good Friday
morning and Simon's share in the great events of Redemption !
22. And they bring him unto the place Golgotha, which is,
being interpreted, The place of a skull.
This was just outside the city. The sacrifices within had lost their
virtue, they were but dead lifeless figures. It is here without the gate
that the true Sacrifice must be offered which could redeem, not the
Jews only, but all men. This was the place where Jesus had to
die, not a quiet room with loving friends in attendance, but an open
roadside under the curious eyes of a crowd and the jeers of enemies.
Where will my deathbed be ? I know not, but God has marked
it out in His Providence, and has arranged all its circumstances,
may it be for me the threshold of a better world.
23. And they gave him to drink wine mingled with myrrh:
but he received it not.
Our Lord would not allow His senses to be overcome by this drugged
wine, He desired to face death with a free spirit. Sometimes the
friends of dying persons dose them in mistaken kindness with wine
and brandy, and so their faculties are overcome. They can neither
pray nor attend to prayer, nor give their last directions. How
much better it is to meet death bravely, and have the mind clear to
count the stages of the last journey !

296 Jesus crucified. [S. Mark XV.
24. And when they had crucified him, they parted his gar
ments, casting lots upon them, what every man should take.
Christ's garments had sometime been instruments of His wonder
working power, but now they are divided among the soldiers as if
of little account. How little those soldiers thought when nailing
Jesus to the Cross or watching His dying agonies that He was their
Lord, and would one day return in majesty ! His glory was
altogether hidden beneath shame and agony. Let us seek eyes to
discern it even in His humiliation.
25. And it was the third hour, and they crucified him.
Our Saviour when raised on the Cross made it an altar where He
offered His sufferings to His Father in atonement for all our sins.
It is also a pulpit whence He preached to us, . bidding us fight
against sin. And it is even a throne whence He judges us, separating
between good and bad, and bestowing graces on His faithful
servants. Let us draw near to the Cross, trusting wholly in that
Sacrifice, obeying that teaching, adoring that judgment.
26. And the superscription of his accusation was written
over, THE KING OF THE JEWS.
Let my heart be loyal to this Divine King. His own Church and
people refused to obey Him, but I will be His faithful subject, and
allow His enemies no claim over me. True Israelites throughout
the world recognise His royalty, indeed He died for it, and yet by
His death proved and won it the more. Earthly kings are but
shadows of this One. He is a King not in show but in lasting
power.
2 7. And with him they crucify two thieves ; the one on his
right hand, and the other on his left. 28. And the scripture
was fulfilled, which saith, And he was numbered with the
transgressors. The outward aspect of death may be the same with good and bad.
Jesus and the thieves all shared the same doom of the cross, but
with what different feelings ! Some find the pain of a sickbed an
opportunity of sacrifice, others at least a call to repentance, others
again an encouragement to discontent and evil passions. Men
reckoned our Lord a transgressor as bad as the others. But
God judged very differently. Some have died in great agony,
great shame, great abandonment by all, who have yet been God's
dear children. Their cross has been the path of Paradise to them.
29. And they that passed by railed on him, wagging their
heads, and saying, Ah, thou that destroyest the temple, and
buildest it in three days, 30. save thyself, and come down from
the cross.
Christ's enemies thought He could do no harm now. No fear of His
destroying the temple now that He was safely nailed to the Cross.

Ver. 36.] Jesus forsaken of God. 297
Yet within a few years of His death that great temple was utterly
destroyed, and has never been rebuilt. It is thus that shortsighted
sinners mock at God's warnings, and yet wrath comes suddenly
upon them. They use their brief span of life to insult the Saviour,
and lo, they are passed away and gone, but His glory remains for
ever.
31. Likewise also the chief priests mocking said among them
selves with the scribes, He saved others ; himself he cannot save.
He saved others by suffering the worst pangs Himself. During His
earthly life He wrought many cures for diseased bodies, as even
His enemies confessed. But since His Passion He has wrought
numberless cures for sick souls by the very virtue of the fiery trial
which He underwent on the Cross. Let me alter this verse thus :
He saved others, therefore He can save me.
32. Let Christ the King of Israel descend now from the cross,
that we may see and believe. And they that were crucified with
him reviled him.
Christ the King remained on the Cross that the whole world might
learn to believe. If He had come down true faith would not have
begun. Let me learn to lift my gaze above what I can see and to
believe on my Saviour's kingdom, which is glorious and mighty
though seen only by faith as yet. I will believe now and trust to
see hereafter.
33. And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness
over the whole land until the ninth hour.
Such a darkness is caused in the heart by mortal sin. God and the
true path are hidden. Only a spark of faith remains for a while
by God's mercy. Those are happy on whom the light of grace
shines out again, who feel their darkness, who turn to the true light
and resolve to walk by it. My soul has known such hours of
darkness. God keep me from falling under them again.
34. And at the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice,
saying, Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani ? which is, being inter
preted, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?
Why was God's Son forsaken by His heavenly Father ? Because He
would Himself feel all that sinners had deserved to feel, would
give up all comforts and consolations, would teach afflicted souls
that He has known the sad way in which they have to walk.
Such a forsaking is only for a time. His Father's love was soon
restored to Him again, and His Father's hands received His spirit.
Lord, I adore without fully comprehending this wonderful mystery
that Thou wast for a while as one forsaken of God. And I entreat
Thee forsake not me, or how can I persevere ?
35. Andsome of them that stood by, when they heard it, said,
Behold, he calleth Elias. 36. And one ran and filled a spunge

298 The Rending of the Veil. [S. Mark XV.
full of vinegar, and put it on a reed, and gave him to drink,
saying, Let alone ; Id us see whether Elias will come to take
him down.
This was all the comfort that He had from men, to be misunderstood
up to His last moments, and have such a bitter refreshment offered
to wet His dying lips. The Lord Jesus is more grieved now with
the misunderstandings among believers and the sour temper and
bitterness of one against the other than He was with the banterings
of the bystanders at His Passion and the vinegar which was offered
Him to drink.
37. And Jesus cried with a loud voice, and gave up the ghost.
Thus the Lord of Glory died. He had won His great victory, obeyed
His Father's will, offered the one abiding sacrifice for us. Now
He passed into another state to carry on His work in the world
beyond the grave. Lord, when my time comes to die may I give
up my life in entire obedience, trusting only in Thy merits, and be
ready to enter into eternity how and when Thy good pleasure may
appoint.
38. And the veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top
to the bottom.
Heaven was now open to men. The true High Priest had offered
His sacrifice and entered within the holy place. The glory of that
old temple and the virtue of its sacrifices were gone, henceforth
all the earth is holy to God, and men in every place can offer accept
able sacrifices of praise and renew the memory of that one which
Jesus offers for us. Glory be to God for opening the veil ! We
live now, not under figures and types, but in the clear light of the
Gospel.
39. IT And when the centurion, which stood over against
him, saw that he so cried out, and gave up the ghost, he said,
Truly this man was the Son of God.
This was the firstfruits of the Gentile world which was soon to be
brought to Christ. No doubt the centurion knew not the full
meaning of what he said, he meant only that this Sufferer was a
righteous man, and dear to God. But we see in the words a con
fession of Christ's Godhead and Manhood. This Man Who suffered
and died as an outcast, yet in the depth of His humiliation showed
that He came from above. Great majesty appeared in His death
as well as great shame.
40. There were also women looking on afar off: among whom
was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less
and of Joses, and Salome; 41. (who also, when he was in
Galilee, followed him, and ministered unto him ;) and many
other women which came up with him unto Jerusalem.
These women had followed the Lord Jesus in His lifetime, had

Ver. 46.] Joseph buries the Sacred Body. 299
supplied His wants and those of His disciples, had themselves been
enlightened by His Word or saved by Him from the devil's power.
Thus they were able to stand by and see His sufferings. Other
friends fled, but they stood by to the last. Grant us, Lord, a love
like theirs, which may persevere to the end and burn the more
brightly when all the world's prospects have grown dark.
42. IT And now when the even was come, because it was the
preparation, that is, the day before the sabbath, 43. Joseph of
Arimathcea, an honourable counsellor, which also waited for the
kingdom of God, came, and went in boldly unto Pilate, and
craved the body of Jesus.
This was the secret of Joseph's courage. He went in boldly to ask
for our Saviour's body, because he was one who waited for the
kingdom of God. He desired to feel grace reigning within him
and see God's glory manifested to the world. If we trust in the
coming of God's kingdom, pray for it, and wait for it patiently, the
world's scoffs will be of no account to us. Joseph did not hesitate
to declare himself a friend of the Crucified. God grant me courage
like his when religion is held in contempt.
44. And Pilate marvelled if he were already dead: and
calling unto him the centurion, he asked him whether he had
been any while dead.
Pilate could not believe that the Prisoner Who had shown such
wisdom, such patience, such courage throughout, had yielded to
death so soon. He had not been brave enough to declare Him
innocent, but he still felt uneasily the injustice of condemning Him.
When he heard of His dying words, and the signs that had occurred,
all this came home to his mind still more keenly. Lord, keep me
from giving Thee over to Thine enemies by committing any deadly
sin, lest I repent too late and find that I cannot undo what I have
done.
45. And when he knew it of the centurion, he gave the body
to Joseph.
What a treasure Joseph received, the Body in which salvation had
been wrought ! It is the same Body which we receive spiritually
at the Holy Table. There we receive Christ not only in our hands
but into our hearts, not in a lifeless form but in a living power,
able to give us strength and change us after God's image. Let us
approach as Joseph did, boldly, but with a deep reverence.
46. And he bought fine linen, and took him down, and
wrapped him in the linen, and laid him in a sepulchre which
was hewn out of a rock, and rolled a stone unto the door of the
sepulchre. Let my heart be like this sepulchre in purity and in fresh remem
brance of Christ's death, and in being shut against worldly

300 The Women at the Sepulchre. [S. Mark XVI.
thoughts. There must be room in it for me to be sometimes alone
with my Master, grieve over His sufferings and my sins, and
prepare myself for that new life which is soon to begin. How can
the soul live if it never has a quiet time for recollection free from
strife and care ?
47. And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses
beheld where he was laid.
What better tie can there be between two friends than a common
devotion to Christ? They follow His footsteps together, study
His Word, help His poor members, share His sorrow and joy, and
so dispose themselves to behold Him in His resurrection glory.
Lord, raise up for Thy Church many faithful helpers after the
pattern of these women. Let our devotion follow Thee carefully all
thy life through from the cradle to the sepulchre.

CHAPTER XVI.
1. An angel dedareth the resurrection of Christ to three women. 9. Christ
himself appeareth to Mary Magdalene : 12. to two going into the
country : 14. then to the apostles, 15. whom he sendeth forth to preach
the gospel : 19. and ascendeth into heaven.
AND when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and
Xi Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought
sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.
They had forgotten the promise that He should rise again on the
third day, but they had not forgotten their love and gratitude to
Himself. Nothing could make them forget how much they owed
Him, or keep them from showing honour to His dead Body ; and
thus it came about that they were the first heralds of the resurrec
tion. What gifts God has for brave and enduring love ! He shows
it His truth, and leads it on into full daylight.
2. And very early in the morning the first day of the week,
they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.
This was the first Lord's day, the day when the true Sun first rose in
His glory and scattered the shades of death. Let us make every
Sunday morning an Easter Day by rising early and seeking our
risen Lord. Those are happy who give the earliest hours of the
day to communion with Him. What a loss it is to turn Sunday
into a mere occasion for idleness, forgetting that it has been
hallowed by Christ's resurrection !
3. And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away
the stone from the door of the sepulchre ?

Ver. 7.] Christ is risen. 301
A Christian sees the difficulties that lie in his way, and perhaps,
humanly speaking, finds no issue from them ; but yet he goes on in
the path of duty, trusting in God's almighty power to bring about
what he cannot do for himself. If he has undertaken a work in a
spirit of prayer and trusting in God's help, he will persevere though
his own resources are too little ; he knows that God has an infinite
abundance of strength.
4. And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled
away : for it was very great.
So God does for souls, He rolls away great obstacles of prejudice,
burdens of evil habits, heavy chains of sloth. His saving grace can
make a way where man sees no road. Let us only in prayer offer
such closed hearts to God, beseeching Him to do for them what is
beyond our power.
5. And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man
sitting on the right side, dothed in a long white garment; and
they were affrighted
This is a message from those worlds above where youth and
innocence never alter. Here the young grow old and white robes
get soiled, but, thank God, there is a .country where faithful souls
will recover again all they have lost here. The sight of an angel
alarms us now, but one day we and they shall live together as
brethren in God's presence.
6. And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted : Ye seek Jesus
of Nazardh, which was crucified : he is risen ; he is not here :
behold the place where they laid him.
The despised name of Nazareth and the shame of the Cross are turned
to glory now. The pain and disgrace which God's saints endured
for His sake will in like manner become their everlasting glory.
This earth will only be the place where they worked for a few
years, and where their lifeless remains lay for a while, but they them
selves will find a lasting home elsewhere. Our Captain went first
through life, through shame, and through the tomb; what Christian
will fear to follow after ?
7. But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he
goeth before you into Galilee : there shall ye see him, as he said
unto you.
Our risen and glorified Lord does not forget His friends though they
had for a moment forsaken Him. He even remembers Peter who
had denied Him, and has a special message sent to assure the sorrow
ing apostle that he has still a share in the promises. Peter was
still bowed down by grief for his great fault, but this glad news
made him rejoice again and hope for pardon and look forward to
meeting his Divine Friend again. Even if we have denied Him,
let us remember there is pardon offered us now, and the sight of
God in the world to come ; it is not too late to repent.

302 Christ seen by Mary. [S. Mark XVI.
8. And they went out quickly, and fled from the sepulchre ;
for they trembled and were amazed: neither said they any
thing to any man ; for they were afraid.
What ! these chosen souls who are full of love for Christ, and had been
so favoured by a message from heaven, were yet a prey to fear, were
confounded and amazed ! So God's ways often are with souls. He
lets His friends pass through seasons of fear, He tries them with
doubts and sorrows, He bids them remain in darkness for a while,
and then at last sends them light and peace and joy. We must not
expect to comprehend the full glory of the Gospel news at once, it
is only by degrees that we understand what it is.
9. IT Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the
week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of wliom he had
cast seven devils.
She had stood by the Cross when Jesus was in the extremity of shame,
and so she was favoured with the first sight of Him in His risen
life. Once she had lived without God and let evil powers reign in
her heart, now she shared in Christ's sorrows, but found them
sweeter than all the world's joys, and He soon made her rejoice
again with Him.
10. And she went and told them that had been with him, as
they mourned and wept.
What better news can we give to mourners ? —
"Jesus lives — no longer now
Can thy terrors, death, appal us."
Jesus the Lord has triumphed over death. The grave does not end
all, there is a shore beyond where our departed ones are safe with
Him. This message will help Christian mourners to dry their
tears.
11. And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and
had been seen of her, believed not.
How hard it was to believe in Christ's resurrection ! He had often
spoken of it beforehand. His messengers spoke of it now, and yet
it seemed too good news to be true. How could it be that the
Crucified One had overthrown His enemies' malice and left the
grave empty ? Glory be to God for the apostles' very slowness of
belief 1 It helps our faith to see how much evidence they had before
they could believe.
1 2. IT After that he appeared in another form unto two of
them, as they walked, and went into the country.
This was the walk to Emmaus on the afternoon of Easter Day, when
the hearts of the two disciples burned within them as this wonderful
Stranger explained to them all the texts about Christ's Passion • it
ended in their recognising Him when He took bread and blessed
and brake and gave it to them, and then vanished from their sight.

Ver. 17.] The Disciples sent to convert the World. 303
Lord, if in my earthly journey I fail to recognise Thy Providence at
once, yet do Thou forsake me not. Go with me and enlighten me,
and let me see at last how mercifully Thou hast guided all my way.
13. And they went and told it unto the residue: neither
believed they them.
There were degrees of belief and unbelief. Somefas S. Luke mentions)
said by this time, " The Lord is risen indeed ; " others refused (like
Thomas) to believe such a thing could be until they had themselves
seen Him. It is such great news that our Master has overcome
death, it is so important to us, and so comforting, that no wonder
our frail hearts should scarcely trust themselves to accept it.
Lord, increase our faith and make it firmer.
14. IT Afterward he appeared unto the eleven as they sat at
meat, and upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of
heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after
he was risen.
This was at night on Easter Day that the disciples saw their Master
again, and He blamed their weak faith. Had He not foretold that
He would rise ? was not His power over death known to them of
old ? had He not declared Himself the Resurrection and the Life ?
should not very slight evidence have been enough to assure them
that it was not possible that the Lord of life could remain in the
grave ? Let us believe so firmly in Christ's Divine glory that we
may never come under this reproof ; we have the witness of many
ages to go by now.
15. And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and
preach the gospel to every creature.
Here is the commission of Christian preachers. The world is their
charge, man's soul their prize, the Gospel their message. How
many there are who have not heard it yet ! Lord, raise up tongues
to declare the message of Thy peace, and dispose hearts to
welcome it. It is for the good of all. No soul should remain
outside its saving power.
16. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he
that believeth not shall be damned.
The burden is, love or wrath, mercy or justice. Either find in
Christ's Blood pardon for past sins and grace to walk aright and
hope of perfect purity to be revealed, or else miss all these blessings.
Either take the gracious Word and bring it home to your conscience
by all appointed means, or else be left in your sins to encounter
God's awful judgment. What can save you if you wilfully put aside
God's own way of salvation ?
1 7. And these signs sliall follow them that believe ; In my
name shall they cast out devils ; they shall speak with new
tongues;

304 Jesus received into Heaven. [S. Mark XVI.
The holy Name of Jesus is still powerful to drive away evil thoughts.
Though the devil is strong, yet Christ is stronger. He can bring
us safely through the fire of temptation and at last shut out all the
suggestions of the evil one. Christian, do not despair. Yet a little
while and you will possess a new and clean heart and a tongue
with which to praise God worthily.
1 8. They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any
deadly thing, it shall not hurt them ; they shall lay hands on
the sick, and they shall recover.
Lord, make these good promises come true in us. Hatred is like a
serpent, bad language and examples are like draughts of poison,
our own frailty like, some clinging sickness. Give Thy servants
grace to triumph over all these evil things and go on victoriously
towards heaven by the straight road. The last-recorded word of
Jesus is a word of power. It fills us with courage to go on and do
our best
19. *h So then after the Lord had spoken unto them, he was
received up into heaven, and sat on the right hand of God.
Our Lord's work on earth was over, He had sown the good seed of
faith by His labours here and now entered into His rest. But He
has never ceased from His throne in heaven to look down on,
help, and bless His faithful servants here below who are walking
in the same way that He walked. He is our Friend still, though
raised to almighty power and glory. What can hurt us if we
remain His?
20. And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord
working with them, and confirming the word with signs follow
ing. Amen.
This is our confidence, that Christ works with us and in us. Of our
selves we are less than nothing. But there is One mighty, though
unseen, Who is able to prevail through our poor means. His
Providence disposes events outwardly, His grace works inwardly in
the heart. Through Him alone we may hope to persevere ourselves
and to persuade others of the truth. Glory be to Jestis our Lord
for His great goodness ! Beside Him who else is there in earth or
heaven to whom we can go for succour ?

6". L UKE.

CHAPTER I.
1. The preface of Luke to his whole gospel. 5. The conception of John the
Baptist, 26. and of Christ. 3g. The prophecy of Elisabeth, and of
Mary, concerning Christ. 57. The nativity and circumcision of John.
67. The prophecy of Zacharias, both of Christ, 76. and of John.
FORASMUCH as many have taken in hand to set forth in
order a declaration of those things which are most surely
believed among us,
Many undertook to write Gospels, but their efforts have perished.
God did not wish anything imperfect or erroneous on such a subject
to come down to us. He in His mercy has provided us with four
accounts of the life of Jesus which are to be trusted, and where the
great matters of salvation are plainly set forth. It is for us to love
and study them.
2. Even as they delivered them unto us, which from the be
ginning were eyewitnesses, and ministers of the word;
Christ's apostles were the fountain from which this living water flowed
forth to the world. They saw His life and death and rising again,
then they went out into the world and preached it. Our Lord
chose them to be His friends, and to win other souls' to know and
love Him. We must trust their report, and follow His footsteps
by faith in the message that they bring.
3. It seemed good to me also, having had perfect understand
ing of all tilings from the very first, to write unto thee in order,
most excellent Theophilus,
S. Luke had gathered up the history of our Lord's childhood, he
had inquired about His miracles and parables and journeyingSj
about His Cross and His Resurrection and Ascension. And as he
learned all this, he wrote it down for us. What a blessed employ
ment, to store up tidings of pardon for all generations ! The book
was dedicated to Theophilus, but it is meant to be a guide and
companion for each of us.
4. That thou mightest know the certainty of those things,
wherein thou liast been instructed. u

306 Zacharias and Elisabeth. [S. Luke I.
God has made us Christians, and instructed us in the chief truths of
religion. But we need to study the Holy Scriptures, because God
shows us there the meaning and order and purpose of all His
Revelation. Our faith is nourished by devout study of the books
which contain the declaration of God's will to man. I come to
meditate on this Gospel with a firm faith in Christ and prayer for
the aid of God's Holy Spirit.
5. II fTlHERE was in the days of Herod, the king of
_1_ Judasa, a certain priest named Zacharias, of the
course of Abia : and his wife was of the daughters of Aaron,
and her name was Elisabeth.
The time had now come for our Saviour's history to unfold itself.
Faithful men had waited so long for the Christ, and now at last
He draws near. His message is one of pardon and grace to all,
and the ordinances of the old law pass away before it, yet His
forerunner is born of a priestly family and announced by the angel
during the temple service. The Jewish rites were still sacred and
honoured by God, though now near to their end.
6. And they were both righteous before God, walking in all
the commandments and ordinances of the Lord blameless.
Here is a pattern for married persons. This priest and his wife
spent a long life together, united not merely by the marriage tie
but by well-doing, by constant prayer, by entire obedience ; and
God's grace had kept them blameless, not indeed of all infirmity,
"for in many things we offend all," but yet free from any great
fault. And it was in such a household that John was brought up,
who turned many to righteousness.
7. And they had no child, because that Elisabeth was barren,
and they both were now well stricken in years.
It was a. reproach in Israel to have no children, yet they bore this
patiently as from God. When a Christian couple have children, let
them receive them as a dear and precious gift from God; but if His
will is to deny them, they may find in God's love and service, and
in care for His people, a still better task. God provides duties of
love for all. Some have their own family to care for. Some
must go out beyond their own hearth and share others' cares.
8. And it came to pass, that while he executed the priest's
office before God in the order of his course, 9. according to the
custom of the priest's office, his lot was to burn incense when he
went into the temple of tlie Lord.
Zacharias performed his holy office with diligence and regularity. He
regarded it as an honour to stand in God's house and offer sacrifice
and prayers to Him. The incense which he offered represented
prayer. When the sweet-smelling clouds of smoke rose up and filled
the temple the worshippers considered what sort of prayers ascend
to God and are agreeable to Him.

Ver. i 4.] The Angel appears to Zacharias. 307
10. And the whole multitude of the people were praying
without at tlie time of incense.
So Christian people should gather together in God's house, and offer
their prayers in union with those which the priest makes in the
name of all. The time of incense for us is the hour of Divine
service. How sad it is that among the Jews the whole multitude
of the people joined in figurative worship of the temple, while with
us so many keep away from the spiritual sacrifices of Christ's
Church. Our great High Priest is Christ, and all our offerings must
be made in union with that one which He made once for all.
11. And there appeared unto him an angel of the Lord
standing on the right side of the altar of incense.
We should behave reverently in church, knowing that heavenly
powers are near. The angels veil their faces. They sing, ' ' Holy,
holy, holy." They speed at an instant to do God's bidding.
What must they think of our bold irreverence, our cold praises, our
indifference to God's Word? Let us pray God to stir up our
hearts that we may unite with all the company of heaven to praise
His Name as it should be praised.
12. And when Zacharias saw him, he was troubled, and fear
fell upon him.
Our weak nature trembles at the sight of a being from the spiritual
world. It is more than we can bear, and yet one day we are to
behold God and Christ, and saints and angels. Strengthen us, O
Lord, to discern Thy messengers in whatever form they come, and
to think much on heavenly things, so as one day to behold Thy
glory without being ashamed. Sometimes I feel trouble and fear
when I think of the world to come, and yet God is my Friend, and I
know that I am safe with Him.
13. But tlie angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for
thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a
son, and thou shalt call his name John.
Let us so pray that God may hear us. Some prayers never reach His
ear because they are offered wrongly or carelessly or for unfit ends.
But He hears the earnest desire of the heart that prays in submis
sion to His will. This holy child was to be the forerunner of
Him Whom all nations longed for. His very name means God's
grace, for which he was to prepare a way amongst men.
14. And thou shalt have joy and gladness; and many sliall
rejoice at his birth.
God does not deny joy to His chosen, though they have sorrows too.
He gives Christian parents many pure and holy joys in their
children, yet they should rejoice most of all in their children being
made children of God and growing up in His love and service.
They feel "joy that one is born into a world forgiven."

308 John Baptist to be born.  [S. Luke I.
15. For he shall be great in the sight of the Lord, and shall
drink neither wine nor strong drink ; and he shall be filled with
tlie Holy Ghost, even from his mother's womb.
Let this be our inspiration too, God's Holy Spirit. The world
offers stimulants which hurt the body and soul of the drinker, but
God offers to His children a constant spring of inward joy which
never dries up. Raise up, O Lord, such preachers of righteous
ness who shall seek to be great only in Thy sight, and shall avoid
the world's pleasures. By the power of Thy Spirit keep us from
dangerous excitement, that we may hearken quietly to Thy voice.
1 6. And many of the children of Israel shall he turn to the
Lord their God. 17. And he shall go before him in the spirit
and power of Elias, to turn the hearts of the fathers to the
children, and the disobedient to the wisdom of the just; to make
ready a people prepared for tlie Lord.
In these days too we need conversion, we are estranged from God
and from each other. We lack true wisdom, we are not ready for
the Lord's coming. The saints of old time would not recognise
us as their children, so. changed are Christian hearts from the old
faith and love. Yet still, O Lord, Thy Word has power, and Thou
canst send us prophets to declare Thy bidding. Pour out in us
Thy Holy Spirit to turn our hearts to heavenly things.
18. And Zacharias said unto tlie angel, Whereby shall I
know this ? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken

When God's power is in question do not say that anything is
impossible. There are many objects both in life and in spiritual
work which we cannot see how to bring about, and yet we can
commit ourselves with a firm faith into the hands of God, knowing
that He is able to accomplish these in His good pleasure, when
and how He wills.
19. And the angel answering said unto him, I am Gabriel,
that stand in tlie presence of God ; and am sent to speak unto
thee, and to shew thee these glad tidings.
This was the same angel who had talked with Daniel five hundred
years before, and revealed Gospel promises to him ; now he comes
to give to Zacharias and to Mary the glad tidings that the promised
Saviour is at hand. One part of the Scripture throws light on
another, and all conspire together to lead us up to the message of
salvation.
20. And, behold, thou shalt be dumb, and not able to speak,
until tlie day tliat these things shall be performed, because thou
believest not my words, which shall be fulfilled in their season.

Ver. 27.] Elisabeth is with Child. 309
It was not what Zacharias had said, but the inward unbelief of his
heart which the angel blamed, and which drew upon him this
punishment. God knows our thoughts, and passes judgment on
them. When we indulge in vain or evil or angry thoughts, all is
open to Him. When we disbelieve His Word, He writes down
our want of faith, however much we may profess before men.
21. And the people waited for Zacharias, and marvelled that
he tarried so long in the temple. 22. And when he came out,
lie could not speak unto them : and they perceived that he had
seen a vision in the temple : for he beckoned unto them, and
remained speechless.
Zacharias, under this penalty of silence, able to perform the ritual of
the law but no longer to explain or apply it, is a figure of the
Jewish Church in its latter days going through the rites which spoke
of Messiah, but not able to announce His presence or apply to Him
what was done. Grant, O Lord, that our Christian service may not
be the mere transaction of outward rites, but full of heartfelt praise
and real converse with God.
23. And it came to pass, that, as soon as the days of his
ministration were accomplished, he departed to his own house.
He finished his duties at the temple, even after so great a visitation,
and only when they were over returned to his own home. We, too,
should not be easily disturbed from our attendance on God's
sanctuary. Joy or sorrow, bad or good news, home cares, should
not easily drive us from the Lord's house and the Lord's Table till
we have duly presented ourselves before Him.
24. And after those days his wife Elisabdh conceived, and
hid herself five months, saying, 25. Thus hath the Lord dealt
with me in the days wherein he looked on me, to take away my
reproach among men.
Among the Jews it was a reproach to have no children ; a childless
person was thought to be displeasing to God. This blame was
now to be wiped away from Elisabeth, but she remained in retire
ment until her pregnancy was manifest. Under the new law
barrenness is no longer a reproach, for all alike may be fruitful in
good works and raise up children to God. Those are blessed who
give their children to His service, and those no less blessed who
give themselves and their works.
26. And in the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from
God unto a city of Galilee, named Nazareth, 27. to a virgin
espoused to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of
David; and the virgin's name was Mary.
The time had come at last for the Saviour of mankind to appear.
God was about to manifest Himself in His own creation in order
to give men a new hope and new life. All was prepared by His

310 The Annunciation. [S. Luke I.
wise counsel, and He chose for the scene of such an event an
obscure town, an humble household, a life hidden from public view.
O my God, how wonderful are Thy counsels, how different from
those of human wisdom ! I begin to read the history of Thy
humiliation with thanks and praise and amazement.
28. And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou
that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou
among women.
The Lord's mother enjoyed God's grace and blessing above all
women. She is exalted by the great honour that she received.
And yet all believers may take her as their pattern. Happiness is
found, not in the world's riches or beauty or wisdom, but in possess
ing God's favour, holding communion with Him, and obeying His
Word. This is a blessedness which does not pass away.
29. And when she saw him, she was troubled at his saying,
and cast in her mind what manner of salutation this should be.
Mary lived a retired and simple life, and thought humbly of herself,
therefore she was troubled at such a message. God led her
through trouble to light and peace. Thus He deals with His
saints, first sending them fear and anxiety, and afterwards shedding
comfort and joy on their hearts.
30. And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary : for thou
hast found favour with God.
What should she fear who is loved oy God? Grant to me, Lord, in
times of distress to receive such an assurance of Thy favour on
which I may lean. These words were said to calm Mary, but I
also have a portion in them as Thy child and redeemed by Thy
• Son's Blood. All Thy mercies to me in time past to me are signs
that I am still Thine. Thy goodness in giving Thy Son to be
born of Mary is a sure pledge that Thou art Love.
31. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring
forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS.
How much is wrapped up in these words ! Here is the glad tidings
of God's Son become Man and our Saviour. His Name is full of
sweetness to all who believe. He is given to Mary, and in her to
us all. What great honour God bestowed upon a mother's duties
in intrusting His own Son to an earthly mother ! We also may
receive Him spiritually into our hearts.
32. He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the
Highest : and the Lord God shall give unto him tlie throne of
his father David: 33. and he shall reign over the house of
Jacob for ever; and of his kingdom there shall be no end.
Christ is God's Son and Israel's King. His own people, indeed, did
not receive Him, but He became King of the spiritual Israel
throughout the world. His kingdom lasts on though others change

Ver. 38.] Mary converses with the Angel. 311
and decay. He still rales over redeemed mankind. O Lord,
take Thy great power and reign. We believe in Thy kingdom ;
show it forth, and let it be manifested in us. .
34. Then said Mary unto the angel, How shall this be, seeing
I know not a man ?
These words do not express unbelief, but the inquiry of a pure
conscience. She asked in what way she should become a mother,
as she had always lived in chastity. Our Lord's mother is a
pattern of a pure and holy woman who allows no evil thoughts to
rest in her heart and before whom iniquity is ashamed. Thanks
be to God for the many souls He has kept in innocence !
35. And the angd answered and said unto her, The Holy
Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall
overshadow thee : therefore also that holy thing which shall be
born of thee shall be called the Son of God.
Divine power at the beginning created man, and now it creates man
anew. It is not more marvellous that God's Son should be born of
a virgin mother than that living creatures should be formed of the
dust of the ground. Both alike are the works of Divine power.
The same Spirit which moved on the waters at the creation, and
which caused Mary to conceive the Saviour, is still mighty to sanc
tify our hearts and give them a new life in Jesus.
36. And, behold, thy cousin Elisabeth, she hath also con
ceived a son in her old age : and this is the sixth month with
her, who was called barren.
Mary had not doubted nor asked for a sign, yet God gave her one by
telling her of the pregnancy of her cousin, on whom God had had
mercy in her old age and barrenness. He confirms the faith of
those who believe by giving them fresh proofs of His truth and
making all things clearer to them.
37. For with God nothing shall be impossible.
God's almighty power is the foundation both of faith and duty. We
must believe and obey and love, for we have an Almighty Friend
Who can make worlds, can change hearts, can strengthen weakness,
and cleanse foulness, and raise the dead. God gave His Son to be
born of a human maiden. We marvel at this, yet it is but one of
the wonders of Omnipotence of which we see part accomplished
here, and shall glorify the completion in heaven.
38. And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be
it unto me according to thy word. And the angel departed
from her.
Mary in these words gave herself to God to perform His will in all
things. She teaches us to submit ourselves entirely to God's
Providence, even though we may not fully comprehend it, desiring

3 1 2 The Visitation. [S. Luke I.
only to renounce our own choice and take what He sends us. We
are His servants, and it is our highest honour to wait on His good
pleasure.
39. And Mary arose in those days, and went into the hill
country with haste, into a city of Juda ; 40. and entered into
the house of Zacharias, and saluted Elisabeth.
Mary sought out Elisabeth to share with her this great secret which
overpowered all her mind. The message of salvation had been
told to her only. She was anxious to speak of it and declare the
' wonders which God had wrought for her. Let us entreat of God
to give us missionaries after Mary's pattern, who will hasten over
mountain and valley to tell of the new birth which God has wrought
in their hearts, and share the great mystery of grace with believing
souls.
41. And it came to pass, that, when Elisabeth heard the
salutation of Mary, the babe leaped in her womb; and Elisabeth
was filled with the Holy Ghost;
Even before Christ was born His presence had such effects, as the
sun gives light before he has actually risen. What peace and joy
may not a faithful communicant expect when the Divine Saviour
has spiritually visited him and come to dwell in his heart? At
such seasons make us, O Lord, feel Thy presence and all its
benefits.
42. And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed
art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
Mary is blessed in being Christ's mother. She was so near to God,
and had such gifts bestowed on her ; yet her Son tells that we can
share the same blessedness, and be as dear to Him, if we will hear
God's Word and do His will. We should love Mary and admire
God's gifts to her, yet still ascribe all to her Son and Saviour.
43. And whence is this to me, that the motlier of my Lord
should come to me ? 44. for, lo, as soon as the voice of thy
salutation sounded in mine ears, the babe leaped in my womb
for joy.
Whence is this to me, a sinner may say, that not the Lord's mother,
but He Himself should so often come to me ? He condescends to
visit me in His Holy Word, to strengthen me in His Sacraments,
to comfort me with His grace. What is man, O Lord, that Thou
art mindful of him, and visitest him with such mercies? Even the
unborn babe was affected by Thy presence, and shall I still be
unmindful of it ?
45. And blessed is she that believed: for there shall be a
performance of those things which were told her from the Lord.
Mary is blessed also for her faith. She believed that God could
accomplish His promise, though it was beyond all reason and

Ver. 52.] Magnificat. 313
experience. So will it be with us if in the darkest days we but cast
ourselves upon God, and trust to Him to provide a way. Give me,
Lord, this grace of faith which turns earth into heaven and lightens
all the darkness that gathers round my path.
46. And Mary said, My soul doth magnify the Lord,
Mary did not seek her own praise, but turned at once to God and
ascribed all to Him. Scripture, which she knew well, supplied
her with most of the words, but she uttered them with a deeper
feeling and truer joy than did the saints of old time.
47. And my spirit hath rejoiced in God my Saviour.
This is the best joy of all, that God is our Saviour. Other joys pass
away, but this remains with us. The world may bring troubles, but
if God is our Friend we have a perpetual spring of happiness rising
up for us in Him.
48. For he hath regarded the low estate of his handmaiden :
for, behold, from henceforth all generations shall call me blessed.
She was a simple person and unknown to the world, yet God chose
her out to be so favoured. Here is a figure of Divine grace which
chooses us out and saves us for no worthiness of our own. What
am I that God should so love me, and give me His Son and His
Spirit, and a home in heaven? What claim have I to such infinite
mercies ?
49. For he that is mighty hath done to me great things ; and
holy is his name.
God's power appeared in His exalting human nature and joining it
to His own. The Incarnation is full of wonders above our compre
hension ; and His holiness appeared in the spotless purity of the
holy Child Jesus, Who is also the Lamb to wash away our sins.
These are two great perfections of Almighty God, His power and
holiness.
50. And his mercy is on them tliat fear him from generation
to generation.
Another attribute is His mercy. This is the perfection whereby He
comes down to us, hears our prayers, and helps us to be His children.
Let us, like Mary, rejoice to praise God under these three great
titles of Almighty, Holy, and Most Merciful, and reflect on all He
has done for our souls.
5 1. He hath shewed strength with his arm ; he hath scattered
the proud in the imagination of their hearts. 52. He hath put
down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low
degree. Mary considers the ways of God's Providence. She observes that He
often humbles the proud and exalts the simple, and in this she sees

314 Birth of John Baptist. [S. Luke I.
a figure of the great work of salvation. It was hidden from the
great of this world and made known to simple persons. How
wonderful are God's dealings, how different from our expectation !
53. He hath filled the hungry with good things ; and the rich
he hath sent empty away.
Let the poor seek earnestly for the blessings of grace, and the rich
beware lest they enjoy the good things of earth and miss those of
heaven. The blessings of this life are but a figure of the living
Bread and true riches which God offers His faithful servants. Lord,
evermore give us this Bread, that our hearts may live by it.
54. He hath holpen his servant Israel, in remembrance of his
mercy ;
God seemed to have forgotten His promise. He waited so long to
fulfil it, and yet at last the Messiah came for the relief and comfort
of the faithful. He does not forget, though for a while He delays
to help. We must stir up our faith by considering His ancient
mercies and remembering that He has never forsaken those that
trust in Him.
55. As he spake to our fathers, to Abraham, and to his seed
for ever.
Mary had studied the Scriptures. She had thought over God's
promises, and now she welcomes their fulfilment. God is the
Eternal Truth, and what He has said will stand fast. We should,
like Mary, nourish our faith by devout study of God's Word.
This song of praise is used by the Church every evening, and should
be dear to all Christian hearts. Therein we praise God for the
greatest gift He could give us — His own Son.
56. And Mary abode with her about three montlis, and
returned to her own house.
Outwardly there was nothing to distinguish her from other women ;
she performed all ordinary duties that her life required, yet in her
heart she bore this marvellous promise, and felt that it was coming
true. Grant us, Lord, like her to obey quietly Thy blessed will
and praise Thee continually in our hearts.
57. Now Elisabeth's full time came that she sliould be
delivered; and she brought forth a son. 58. And her neigh
bours and her cousins heard how the Lord had shewed great
mercy upon her; and they rejoiced with her.
It was a great mercy, and gave cause for joy that she who was so old
should have a son. Yet what good will our birth into this world
be to us, unless we have also the heavenly birth that is from above ?
1 his life and its blessings speak to us of God's mercy. But there
are greater things than these, and more worthy causes for joy God
is good. Let us not be ashamed to praise Him for His blessings
in nature and in grace.

Ver. 67.] Name of the Forerunner given. 315
59. And it came to pass, tliat on the eighth day they came to
circumcise the child ; and they called him Zacharias, after the
name of his father.
John was received into the Jewish Church by circumcision, as all
others were. The common rule was not dispensed with in his case,
though he had been sanctified from his birth and called to be our
Lord's forerunner. Thus those who wish to be saints must not
turn aside from ordinary rules and common duties. It is enough
for us in all things outward to be as our brethren are.
60. And his mother answered and said, Not so ; but he shall
be called John. 61. And they said unto her, There is none of
thy kindred that is called by this name. 62. And they made
signs to his father, hoiv he would have him called. 63. And he
asked for a writing table, and wrote, saying, His name is John.
And they marvelled all.
This very name, like others given in Scripture, signified his character
and work. God's grace, his parents felt, had given him to them, and
it was God's grace which he came to set forth to others. His life
was indeed a short one, and much of it spent in retirement, yet it
was long enough for him to preach repentance and lead believing
hearts to their Saviour. When our dear children are -taken into
God's family at their baptism, we must pray that they too may be
messengers and servants of Jesus Christ.
64. And his mouth was opened immediately, and his tongue
loosed, and he spake, and praised God.
The first use he made of his recovered speech was to praise God.
He made no complaints of his dumbness, but submitted to God's
visitation, and thanked Him for it. What a happy day will that
be when all infirmities shall be removed, and all believing souls
able with one heart and voice to declare what God has done for
them! Then shall "the tongue of the dumb sing" of God's
mercies.
65. And fear came on all that dwelt round about them : and
all these sayings were noised abroad throughout all the hill
country of Judwa. 66. And all they that heard them laid
them up in their hearts, saying, What manner of child shall
this be I And the hand of the Lord was with him.
These warnings were meant to draw attention to John's mission, and
invite faith in what he had to say about Jesus Christ God's hand
was manifest in the circumstances of his infancy, and was ever with
him to protect him from sin or harm. We too may lean on that
Fatherly hand and be sheltered by it
67. And his father Zacharias was filled with the Holy
Ghost, and prophesied, saying,

316 Benedictus. [S. Luke I.
Prophecy had ceased for three hundred years, and now it is opened
again, and wonderful truths are brought out concerning the salva
tion to come through Christ. Zacharias had been separated from
this world's talk for nine months, and was all the more fit on that
account to speak of heavenly things. We often by much talking
unfit ourselves for speaking of religion.
68. Blessed be the Lord God of Israel ; for he hath visited
and redeemed his people,
What a visit was the Incarnation ! God enters into man's nature,
and shares its weakness, so as to redeem it from sin and death.
God looked on His suffering people and came down to help them,
and He does not now forget those who are oppressed, He will
surely visit them. He will redeem their bodies from the power of
the grave.
69. And hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the
house of his servant David ;
It is a mighty salvation, strong to overcome sin and death ; we may
lay hold of it and be safe. David's kingdom was one of earthly
power, but the heavenly kingdom is poor and weak outwardly,
though mighty to save those who embrace it.
70. As he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which
have been since the world began :
All the goodly fellowship of prophets had looked forward to a
Deliverer, to a reign of peace, to a time of purity and love. What
they longed for has come, God on earth amongst men. They had
great faith, and looked onward to the future when their words
should come true. We too must wait in patience for the great
fulfilment to come.
71. That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the
hand of all that hate us;
Save us, O Lord, from earthly and from spiritual enemies. The
world, the flesh, and the devil are against us, our only hope is in
Thy saving grace. However many or strong or successful are thine
enemies, O my soul, yet far mightier is He Who created and
redeemed thee, and conquered in the fight that thou mightest gain
the victory too.
72. To perform the mercy promised to our fathers, and to
remember his holy covenant ; 73. the oath which he sware to
our father Abraham,
God had chosen Abraham to be His friend, and had promised that in
his seed all nations should be blessed, and now at last this holy
promise was coming true. Let us receive God's present promises
with the same faith and obedience which holy men of old showed
when He spoke to them.

Ver. 8o.] Early Days of John Baptist. 317
74. Tliat he would grant unto us, that we being delivered out
of the hand of our enemies might serve him witliout fear, 75.
in holiness and righteousness before him, all the days of our
life. This is Christian service, to walk before God without slavish fear, in
purity of life, and with an upright heart ; and this not for a short
season, but all our days. This comes only of His mercy, not our
own strength, yet by His grace it is possible for us. His word is
sure. It is only we who are wanting to it.
76. And thou, child, shalt be called the prophet of the
Highest : for thou shalt go before the face of tlie Lord to pre
pare his ways ;
This was to be John's work, and it is that of Gospel messengers in
every age, to prepare a way for Christ into the hearts of men.
The King is coming, let us make ready. Let sin be put away, and
strife healed, and minds enlightened, that so the Lord of mercy
may come with all His gifts and enter our poor hearts and abide
there.
7 7. To give knowledge of salvation unto his people by the
remission of their sins,
Let us be learners in this school. The knowledge of salvation is the
most needful of all learning, and God teaches us that it consists
not in any power or wisdom or goodness of our own, but in His
pardoning love. The best of us have much to be forgiven.
78. Through the tender mercy of our God ; whereby the day-
spring from on high hath visited us,
The first ray of light which pierces a darkened heart, and all the
graces which follow it, are alike the effects of God's love. It is
His gift, not our own doing. We can turn with confidence to Him,
knowing that He cares for us. The coming of Christ into the
world is the dawn of day to mankind, and it rises on each of us in
our turn.
79. To give light to them that sit in darkness and in tlie
shadow of death, to guide our feet into the way of peace.
We must no longer sit brooding and helpless in the darkness, but rise
and step forward towards the heavenly city. Once we were lost, and
had nothing but death to look for ; but now the light is come, and
we can see our way.
80. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, and was
in the deserts till tlie day of his shewing unto Israel.
John grew strong in spirit, no fear of man had power over him, but
he remained waiting quietly till his time was come to go forth and
preach to Israel. He obeyed God by silence as he did by speak
ing. Who can preach rightly except he has been at times alone
with God and felt His presence near ?

318 Bethlehem. [S. Luke II.

CHAPTER II.
Augustus taxeth all the Roman empire. 6. The nativity of Christ. 8.
One angel relateth it to the shepherds : 13. many sing praises to God
for it. 21. Christ is circumcised. 22. Mary purified. 28. Simeon
and Anna prophesy of Christ : 40. who increaseth in wisdom, 46.
questioneth in the temple with the doctors, 51. and is obedient to his
parents.
AND it came to pass in those days, that there went out a
Xi decree from Ccesar Augustus, that all the world should
be taxed. 2. (And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius
was governor of Syria. )
The emperor desired an account of the population and wealth of his
great empire and its dependent kingdoms, so he had a census
taken, which embraced Judea amongst other countries ; but God
overruled all this in order to bring about the birth of His Son at
Bethlehem. Augustus and his court knew nothing of the coming of
Christ, the true King. God revealed it to a few simple persons,
but hid it from the great ones of the world.
3. And all went to be taxed, every one into his own dty. 4.
And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the dty of
Nazareth, into Judcea, unto the dty of David, which is called
Bethlehem ; (because he was of the house and lineage of David .¦)
5. to be taxed with Mary his espoused wife, bang great with
child. Joseph and Mary went up to Bethlehem, whence their family came,
to give in their names there according to Jewish custom ; they took
a long journey for the purpose, and obeyed in all things the orders
which the government had issued. Hence we learn that believers
should submit cheerfully to the powers that be (in all that does
not cross God's law). They entered as poor strangers the city
which their ancestor the great king David had made so famous,
but they were not discontented nor desirous of a different position.
6. And so it was, that, while they were there, the days were
accomplished that she should be delivered.
The time was come for the Lord of Glory to appear in His own
world, yet He came in the form of a helpless Infant, born of a poor
mother in a mean lodging amongst strangers. Nothing indicated
the wonderful nature of this birth. Christ takes pains to teach us
from His very earliest days that we should submit patiently, and
not seek great things for ourselves.
7. And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him

Ver. 12.] The Shepherds on Christmas Night. 319
in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there
was no room for them in the inn.
Let us adore Christ our Saviour lying as a Babe in the manger. We
are not ashamed to think of Him in such a poor and helpless
condition, for we know it was for our sakes He put it on. He
wished to make trial for Himself of all our life from its beginning
to its end, to make us sure of His perfect sympathy. Let us make
room for Him in our hearts, and never let care or sin drive away
the remembrance of Him from thence.
8. And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in
the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.
The heavenly news of Christmas was revealed to whom? to plain
and ordinary persons engaged in keeping sheep. God did this to
show honour to labour, and prove to us that human wisdom and
grandeur are not the fittest preparation to discern His mysteries.
All was silent, they had their work to do and their flock to keep,
they expected nothing strange to happen, when the marvellous
news came.
9. And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the
glory of the Lord shone round about them : and they were sore
afraid. Thanks be to Thee, O Lord, for the ray from heaven which shone
into this world's darkness ! Shine on my darkened heart, that I may
shake off dreams and serve Thee with a wakeful mind. Who
would not fear at finding suddenly that God is so near ? and yet
He is always with us. Our fear should be a constant temper.
10. And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I
bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.
Here is the true joy, not belonging to this world's pleasures, which are
soon over, but a joy which remains even in sorrow, and which can
be shared with all and becomes greater in the sharing, the joy of
God's salvation. If your life supplies little earthly joy, God can
make up for it by large draughts of that which is from above.
11. For unto you is born this day in the dty of David a
Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
Glory to Thee, O Lord and King, for Thy entry into this world to
fulfil prophecies, to bestow grace, to work out salvation ! I believe
in Thy power. I trust in Thy mercy. Thou art my Saviour from
sin and death and endless woe.
12. And this sliall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the
babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
What a strange sign by which to find the Royal Child ! Instead of a
palace and royal robes and a majestic presence, they should see only

320 Gloria in Excelsis. [S. Luke II.
a helpless Infant laid in a manger. God's ways are not as ours.
He is able to bring to nought all the might of this world by means
of the poor and weak.
13. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of
the heavenly host praising God, and saying,
The angels came to honour God's Son in His humble condition, and
to express their joy at man's redemption drawing near. They are
always obedient, unselfish, and humble. Their delight is to do
God's will, and to see us improve. When shall we find our joy in
such a temper of mind as theirs ?
14. Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good
will toward men.
This is why God sent us His Son, to set forth His glory in heaven,
and to spread peace and love upon earth. A Christian should put
before himself this twofold object, to praise God and to promote
kindness and peace in men's hearts. It is good news when we are
told that we can be at peace with God and enjoy His favour again.
15. And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from
them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now
go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass,
which the Lord hath made known unto us.
When God has spoken, we must hasten to put His message into
practice. If He has stirred our hearts, let us rise and go to God's
house, or get ready to partake at His Table, or visit some afflicted
person, or heal some strife. We must not sit and dream away our
time, but set about doing good.
16. And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph,
and the babe lying in a manger.
They found no great sight outwardly. There was glory there, but
inward and spiritual, to be discerned by faith only. Grant me, O
Lord, in reading Thy Word and attending Thy Sacraments, grace
to pass beyond what I see, and apprehend Thy power and glory
there.
17. And wlien they had seen it, tliey made known abroad the-
saying which was told tliem concerning this child.
These were the first preachers of the Gospel. They declared in a
simple manner what they had seen and heard. They had believed
and obeyed, and so they were able to speak. God grant us such
preachers now who can speak from the fulness of their hearts.
18. And all tliey that lieard it wondered at those tilings which
were told them by the shepherds. 19. But Mary kept all these
things, and pondered them in her heart.
Others wondered, but Mary pondered; they felt a mere passing interest,

Ver. 25.] The Purification. 321
but she was continually employed in considering God's ways and
putting together all that she had heard about her Child. Mary is
an example of one who meditates on God's Word, and so enters
into its meaning.
20. And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising
God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was
told unto them.
After a communion or a festival we return to our daily work, but
still we take the thought of God with us. His mercies should be
our daily song. He is faithful if we will only do our part. The
whole world must have looked different to these shepherds after
their great vision. They knew now how near they were to things
invisible.
21. And when eight days were accomplished for the drcum-
cising of the child, his name was called JESUS, which was so
named of the angel before he was conceived in the womb.
To obey and to suffer pain, such are the earliest lessons taught me by
the Holy Child. He submitted to the Jewish law so as to free me
from it and bring in a new and better way of service. His holy
Name is a pledge to me that God can save ; let it be to me a dear
name, the name of a Friend on Whom I can call in time of
temptation.
22. And when the days of her purification according to the
law of Moses were accomplished, they brought him to Jerusalem,
to present him to the Lord ; 23. (as it is written in tlie law of
the Lord, Every male that openeth tlie womb shall be called holy
to the Lord;)
Firstborn children under the law belonged to God, and were redeemed
by a payment from service in His temple, which was performed by the
tribe of Levi instead. For this reason the Holy Child was taken to
the temple and the payment made, and then He was brought home
again. Yet in reality He was always consecrated to God's service,
and the outward presentation was only a sign of His inwardly
giving Himself up to serve God and profit men.
24. And to offer a sacrifice according to that which is said
in the law of the Lord, A pair of turtledoves, or two young
pigeons. This was the offering of a poor mother, who was not rich enough to
bring a lamb for her purification. Yet Mary brought a precious
offering, because she brought faith and love, and a pure and grate
ful heart, and all these sanctified by the presence of her sinless
Child. What we offer to God should be brought with such a heart
as this, and it will be acceptable in His sight through Jesus Christ.
25. And, behold, there was a man in Jerusalem, whose name
x

322 Nunc dimittis. [S. Luke II.
was Simeon; and the same man was just and devout, waiting
for the consolation of Israel : and the Holy Ghost was upon him.
Here is a pattern for old age. Simeon had led a just life, had a
devout heart. God's Spirit spoke to him, and he looked for the
promised Saviour to comfort Israel. Christians now look for the
second coming of that glorious Saviour, as Simeon waited for His
first coming. It is their consolation to think of their Lord, Who
once came in humility, and will come again in glory.
26. And it was revealed unto him by the Holy Ghost, that
he should not see death, before he had seen the Lord's Christ.
God's faithful people now are allowed to see Christ after a spiritual
manner, as Simeon saw Him literally. He is with them to give
them peace, and carry them through decay and death. Let us not
regret that our life is drawing to an end, if we have but Christ and
the Holy Spirit revealed to us. In such company we can come to
no harm.
27. And he came by the Spirit into the temple: and when the
parents brought in the child Jesus, to do for him after tlie
custom of the law,
We should come to God's house not merely out of custom, but with
prayer that the Holy Spirit may be with us ; and we should look
forward to finding Christ there. We desire when we are in church
to speak of Him in praise, to address Him in prayer, to receive
Him in Communion. When the Holy Child was brought in, the
world saw nothing but a small company of poor persons bringing
an Infant like other infants, but Simeon was enlightened by God
to see things as they really were.
28. Then took he him up in his arms, and blessed God, and
said, What an honour was this for Simeon, to take the Lord Jesus into his
arms 1 yet it would not have profited him unless he had long had
Him in his heart, and embraced Him by faith. This was the
crown of Simeon's long life which God's mercy had reserved for
him.
29. Lord, now lettesl thou thy servant depart in peace, accord
ing to thy word :
A Christian may say, ' ' Lord, I am ready to go. I look forward to my
release from this world of pain and care. I die in peace, casting
myself wholly on Thy infinite mercy. I have before been impatient
and sought my own will, but now at last 1 have overcome that, and
can go into the unknown darkness leaning on Thy hand. "
30. For mine eyes have seen thy salvation,
For I know that my Redeemer is come. Once I looked this way
and that to find guidance, but now I have myself found Christ, and

Ver. 37.] The Sword to pierce Mary's Soul. 323
I know that He is a Saviour for me. I have not only heard of
Him, but have by experience found Him true.
31. Which thou hast prepared before the face of all people ;
There is no one who may not profit by Christ's work. He is lifted
up before all men to draw them to Himself. He is not only my
Saviour, but that of all other souls. What have I done to set
before men His saving truth ?
32. A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of thy
people Israel.
He brings light to the darkened and glory to the degraded, yet many
choose their darkness and their shame in preference to His bright
ness. I die, but the time will come when the saving Name of
Jesus will be glorified by all people, and His light shine on every
heart •
33. And Joseph and his mother marvelled at those things
which were spoken of him.
Though we have been taught the great truths of salvation, yet they
are always new, full of fresh interest and power. A believer finds
every day new matter for praising God and magnifying His
wonderful works. What God has revealed cannot be compre
hended all at once. Even Mary had need to learn and meditate.
34. And Simeon blessed them, and said unto Mary his mother,
Behold, this child is set for the fall and rising again of many
in Israel ; and for a sign which shall be spoken against ;
The saving Name of Jesus, which is to many the means of rising
to new life here and hereafter, becomes to some the means of
falling into endless ruin, and the object of their scorn and hatred.
Be to me, O Lord, resurrection and life, praise and honour.
Whatever doubts others may express, whatever they may say against
God and His Church, I have taken my side, and will seek refuge
there only.
35. (Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also,)
that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.
Thus God treats those whom He loves ; they do not escape the
piercing sword. Mary's great blessedness did not give her freedom
from it. When it comes to us in some sharp and bitter trial
which pierces us to the very soul, let us not murmur but recognise
His wise dispensation. One day He will reveal all hearts, let ours
be purified and enlightened now.
36. And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of
Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser : she was of a great age, and had
lived with an husband seven years from her virginity ; 37. and
site was a widow of about fourscore and four years, which

324 The Holy Childhood. [S. Luke II.
departed not from the temple, but served God with fastings and
prayers night and day.
God here approves a devout old age that has long resigned worldly
hope and cares, that is constantly in God's house, that refuses
luxuries, loves prayer, and looks for God's saving mercy. If I am
to live long on earth, grant to me' such closing days as these.
38. And she coming in that instant gave thanks likewise unto
tlie Lord, and spake of him to all them that looked for redemp
tion in Jerusalem.
This was the tie between so many, they looked for redemption ; not
for a mere earthly king, but for some one to redeem them from sin
and death, and to spread the light of God's knowledge through the
world. We too look for redemption, for Jesus to appear and
redeem our bodies from the grave. Our common faith in His
coming should join our hearts together.
39. And when they had performed all things according to
the law of the Lord, they returned into Galilee, to their own
dty Nazardh.
Here the visit of the wise men and the flight into Egypt must come
in, before the Holy Family settled at Nazareth again. After being
welcomed by a few faithful souls who praised God for His coming,
the Holy Child goes down to Nazareth to be brought up there in
a poor and obscure way, and wait till the time of His appearing
came. He teaches us to put away the love of human praise, and
obey in all things our Father's will.
40. And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, filled
with wisdom : and the grace of God was upon him.
Our children should be brought up after this pattern. As they grow
in body so they should grow in understanding. They should be
encouraged to choose the right and remain stedfast in it. They
should seek strength and grace from God by prayer. How
beautiful a thing is a pure and loving childhood after the pattern
of the Child Jesus ! God delights in such children as He did in
Him.
41. Now his parents went to Jerusalem every year at the
feast of the passover. 42. And when lie was twelve years old,
they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast.
They went up once a year and not oftener, for they desired to keep
the law, and yet lived at so great a distance that they could not
accomplish the journey oftener; but this they did with great
regularity . We who have access everywhere to the Holy Jerusalem,
and can keep a continual feast of the redemption which Jesus
wrought, ought to appear before God constantly, to remember His ¦
saving mercies and offer ourselves afresh to Him. We should
teach our children to love God's house and keep His festivals.

Ver. 48.] Christ as a Child in Jerusalem. 325
43. And when tliey liad fulfilled tlie days, as they returned,
the child Jesus tarried behind in Jerusalem ; and Joseph and
his mother knew not of it.
On this occasion the Child Jesus made the first visit since His
infancy to the holy city and to God's temple. He saw the scene
where He was afterwards to teach, and to die, and to rise again.
And He remained behind when His friends had departed, in
communion with His heavenly Father. Our dear children too must
be led to God's presence, and taught that He is their Father, and
that all their life is ordered by Him.
44. But they, supposing him to have been in the company,
went a day's journey ; and they sought him among their kins
folk and acquaintance. 45. And when they found him not,
they turned back again to Jerusalem, seeking him.
Our business here is to seek Jesus. The cares and vanities of the world
hide Him from us, as we fulfil our journey ; we need to give our
whole hearts to this search, that we may at last enjoy peaceful
communion with Him. We must seek earnestly if we would under
stand His mysteries and what He would have us do.
46. And it came to pass, that after three days they found
him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hear
ing them, and asking them questions.
Christian boys may learn from their Saviour's example to listen
earnestly to religious teaching, and try to enter into its meaning.
Even as a Boy He loved God's house and His Word. He came
there not yet to teach, but to learn in humility from those who had
authority to declare God's law.
47. And all that heard him were astonished at his under
standing and answers.
Yet except on this one occasion His great wisdom and admirable
words are entirely hidden during the first thirty years of His life.
If the doctors of the law were astonished at Thy answers, O Lord,
much more reason have I to marvel at Thy long silence. I can
learn from Thy silence even better lessons than from Thy words.
48. And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his
mother said unto him, Son, why hast thou thus dealt with us ?
behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing.
Christian parents may learn from Mary's wonder and grief that God
sometimes calls their children to walk in other paths than theirs,
and search deeper into truth than they have done. They may
indeed grieve at any difference of opinion or separation of heart
that comes between them and their children, but still cease not to
love them and encourage them in God's way.

326 The Hidden Life of Jesus. [S. Luke III.
49. And he said unto them, How is it that ye sought me ?
wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business ?
These are the first words of Jesus Christ on earth which are recorded
for us, and they teach that God must come first of all. Time must
be made for His business, visits paid to His house, whatever else
we have to do. Thanks be to Thee, O Lord, for thus in Thy boy
hood reminding me of my duty ! I have business to do for my
heavenly Father, when shall I set about it in earnest?
50. And they understood not the saying which he spake unto
them. In what God says and does there are often things too hard for us.
We should listen reverently, and in due time the full meaning will
appear. The union of Godhead and Manhood in one Person is so
marvellous that all sayings which refer to it are hard to understand.
God's Son, wholly occupied with the Father's business, was yet a
Child and the Son of Mary; even the saints can scarcely comprehend
this truth, but yet believe and live by it.
51. And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth,
and was subjed unto them: but his mother kept all these
sayings in her heart.
Jesus lived a life of obedience, He was a dutiful Son. Nor can there be
any good in us unless we obey. He approves of respect and duty
paid by the young to the old. Mary lived a life of contemplation,
pondering over all which spoke to her of her Son's Divine nature.
She teaches us that it is not always the time to speak of religion,
but always time to cherish it in our hearts.
52. And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in
favour with God and man.
As our children grow up, and their bodies and minds develop, so
should their spiritual nature grow year by year. They should learn
more, love God more, behave more kindly and fairly to all. In
Jesus Christ all was in harmony, all grew together. How sad it
is when the bodily life increases without wisdom or modesty or
tenderness finding a home in the young heart 1

CHAPTER III.
1. The preaching and baptism of John : 15. his testimony of Christ. 20.
Herod imprisoneth John. 21. Christ baptized, receiveth testimony
from heaven. 23. The age, and genealogy of Christ from Joseph
upwards.
"|\TOW in the fifteenth year of the reign of Tiberius Ccesar,
UN Pontius Pilate being governor of Judcea, and Herod

Ver. 6.] The Baptist's Preaching. 327
being tetrarch of Galilee, and his brother Philip tetrarch of
Iturcea and of the region of Trachonitis, and Lysanias the
tetrarch of Abilene,
Holy Scripture takes notice of heathen rulers and dates of this world's
history, not as if these could stand for us in place of the know
ledge of salvation, for we might know all history well and yet not
have accepted Christ, but to make us feel the reality of God's
saving work. It took place at a certain time, in a certain place,
when this world's rulers were so and so. It is literal fact and truth.
2. Annas and Caiaphas bring the high priests, the word of
God came unto John tlie son of Zacharias in the wilderness.
God's high priests were worldly men, expelling each other from the
sacred office, or corruptly sharing it with each other. Their white
robes and golden mitres were an empty form which could not hide
their unbelief. And all the while there was growing up secretly a
true prophet trained by God to move hearts, sent to rebuke sin and
bring a message from on high. God's Word found no place in the
temple, but a heart to receive it in the wilderness.
3. And he came into all the country about Jordan, preaching
the baptism of repentance for the remission of sins ;
This is what we must begin with, repentance, if we would have our
sins forgiven. Our hard, cold hearts must be softened, and a sense
of transgression brought home to us, if we would enjoy peace and
holy love. People commit sin willingly, but dislike the remedies
which can cure them of it.
4. As it is written in tlie book of the words of Esaias the
prophet, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Pre
pare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight.
The preacher of repentance cries loud because our ears are deaf to such
voices, and he cries in the desert because in the world he can get
no hearing. When trouble comes, or pain, or we lose our friends,
then we are set in the wilderness and hear the voice which bids us
be ready for the Lord's coming.
5. Every valley shall be filled, and every mountain and hill
shall be brought low ; and the crooked shall be made straight,
and the rough ways shall be made smooth;
Sloth and pride and jealousy must be got rid of. How can the Spirit
of God dwell in us while such tempers hold possession ? Let it be
our great object to make a royal road for God to come and abide
in us and conform us to His likeness.
6. And all flesh shall see the salvation of God.
The power of God and the reality of saving grace are seen in the
conversion of a sinner. There God's hand is specially manifest.

328 John's Advice to Penitent Sinners. [S. Luke III.
Oh for faith that we might lift up our eyes and behold the work of
God's Holy Spirit going on among us, and ourselves experience its
saving power !
7. Then said he to tlie multitude that came forth to be bap
tized of him, 0 generation of vipers, who hath warned you to
flee from the wrath to come ?
Thanks be to God for His wonderful goodness in awakening us to
repentance. Many dream away their life without thinking of judg
ment to come. If God has spoken to our hearts and bid us know
our vileness and fear His wrath, how great a grace it is ! I believe,
O Lord, in the approach of that great day of wrath and terror, let
me find in Thee a safe refuge before it comes.
8. Bring forth therefore fruits worthy of repentance, and
begin not to say within yourselves, We have Abraham to our
father : for I say unto you, That God is able of these stones to
raise up children unto Abraham.
Out of stony hearts God can make His children. He can change all
their coldness and deadness into love, while those who trust in their
own strength or privilege are passed by. All good in us must come
of His mercy, we have no right to it, the beginning and the crown
of faith are alike His.
9. And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees :
every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn
down, and cast into the fire.
Death is at hand. In what condition will it find us ? Will there be
any fruit remaining from our lives ? Any good works or blessings
or prayers to show in that day when God visits us ? What result
will there be of our life ? God grant it may be good fruit, not
rotten, poisonous, or deadly fruit, such as some lives bear.
10. And the people asked him, saying, What shall we do
tlien? A teachable heart is the mark of a true penitent. He says to God,
or to wise guides who speak to him from God, " What wouldst Thou
have me to do ? " Let us put this question sincerely, prepared to
accept any sacrifice or self-abasement or trouble that God may point
out to us.
11. He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two
coats, let him impart to him that hath none ; and he that hath
meat, let him do likewise.
The spirit of this advice is suited for all. We ought to feel for others'
wants and love to help them as we can. We should consider how
we can best supply their needs. When I think that I always enjoy
good food and wear good clothes while so many want, I have
reason to be ashamed. God give me ~a more open heart to think .
of my brethren's needs.

Ver. 17.] John speaks of a Mighty One to come. 329
12. Then came also publicans to be baptized, and said unto
him, Master, what shall we do? 13. And he said unto them,
Exact no more than that which is appointed you.
S. John said to those who collected the taxes, " Be just and honest,
do your work as in God's sight" He reminds us in all matters of
business to be scrupulously fair, and not very eager after large pro
fits. The desire of gain is so mighty it swallows up all truth and
righteousness unless we watch against it sharply.
14. And the soldiers likewise demanded of him, saying, And
what shall we do ? And he said unto them, Do violence to no
man, neither accuse any falsely; and be content with your
wages. S. John taught soldiers also. He bade them keep from violent acts,
from ill-usage of the country-people, and from a seditious mutinous
spirit. A soldier's life has many temptations, yet it is possible to
serve God in it, as many true Christians have found. We are all
Christ's soldiers, and bound to fight against His enemies and not be
ashamed of His colours.
15. And as the people were in expectation, and all men
mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or
not ;
John did no miracle, but his self-denying life and fervent words
touched people's hearts. He told them of God's wrath, and advised
them how to live. Let us too in our own circle be messengers to
speak of God, and help our friends to live a new life of righteous
ness. If we are sincere they will give heed to us.
16. John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize
you with water ; but one mightier than I cometh, the latehet of
whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose : he shall baptize you
with the Holy Ghost and with fire :
If John was not fit to be our Lord's servant and untie His shoes, how
can I be fit to come into His presence at all ? He is so great and
holy that my shortcomings make me tremble before Him. Only
then I remember His great kindness and the power of His Holy
Spirit to renew my heart, and thus I am comforted. All that John
could give was but an outward sign of cleansing. Jesus Christ
gives an inward grace also.
1 7. Whose fan is in his hand, and he will throughly purge
his floor, and will gather the wheat into his garner ; but the
chaff he will burn with fire unquenchable.
Here there is some distinction between good and bad. There the
difference will be clearly known and unchangeable, the wheat and
chaff will be separated once and for ever. Here there is a fire of

330 John Baptist in Prison. fS. Luke III.
Christian love and devotion in some hearts, while others are cold.
There a fire of wrath and misery will seize on all the hearts which
the saving fire of love has not caught before.
1 8. And many other things in his exhortation preached lie
unto the people.
The other exhortations to repentance and foretellings about Christ
are unknown to us. God has not thought fit to preserve them.
Indeed many words of our Lord or of His apostles are not recorded.
God has given us what is sufficient to teach His will and our duty.
Enough of John's sermons remain to stir us up to repentance. Let
us give heed to them rather than seek curiously for more.
19. But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him for
Herodias his brother Philip's wife, and for all the evils which
Herod had done,
John feared nothing, and desired nothing in this world, and so he
had courage to tell the prince of his sins. In such circumstances
all motives of interest and persuasions of friends join to make us
quiet, and prevent our speaking to great people of their faults.
We let their souls perish for fear of offending them. John was
bolder, and spoke out.
20. Added yet this above all, that he shut up John in prison.
This was what he got by his plain speaking, a close prison, with a
violent death to follow ; and yet in God's judgment it is a blessing
for any one to be kept out of the world's temptations and at last
suffer for righteousness' sake. He appoints such a lot to His
chosen saints. To one who loves God a stifling prison and death
itself are not the worst evils.
21. Now when all the people were baptized, it came to pass,
that Jesus also being baptized, and praying, the heaven was
opened, Jesus was not ashamed to come to be baptized along with sinners.
He wished to share in all God's ordinances for His faithful people.
He shared, too, in their prayers. What He says of obedience and
of prayer He had Himself practised. Let us be content with a
humble place in life, and bear a part in others' cares, and pray for
them and ourselves. Our Lord's first public appearance had
nothing dazzling about it. He came with others, and was scarcely
known. All the difference was within.
22. And the Holy Ghost descended in a bodily shape like a
dove upon him, and a voice came from heaven, which said, Thou
art my beloved Son ; in thee I am well pleased.
It seems that besides John, only Jesus Himself saw and heard this
heavenly sign which pointed out the Son of God possessing the
fulness of His Spirit. The heavenly light and brooding Dove and
awful Voice joined together to witness Who He was. If Jesus is

Ver. 36.] Joseph's Descent from Adam. 331
so beloved by God and pleases Him so well, can I not also find
delight in knowing Him, and become pleasing to God by following
His pattern ?
23. And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age,
bdng (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was tlie son of
Heli, The hidden life of Jesus had lasted thirty years. He teaches therein
the great value of an honest upright life, that does not make a stir
in the world, but goes on in the quiet and humble performance of
common duties. He spent three or four years in mighty works
and powerful discourses. But He was thirty years teaching us the
value of silence. Let us be ready, if God calls us, to step forward,
but glad if we have merely to live, as our Master did for so long a
time, a life of obscurity and humble duty.
24. Which was the son of Matthat, which was the son of Levi,
which was the son of Melchi, which was the son of Janna, which
was the son of Joseph, 25. which was tlie son of Mattathias,
which was the son of Amos, which was the son of Naum, which
was the son of Esli, which was the son of Nagge, 26. which was
the son of Maath, which was the son of Mattathias, which was
the son of Semei, which was the son of Joseph, which was tlie
son of Juda, 27. which was the son of Joanna, which was the
son of Rhesa, which was the son of Zorobabel, which was the son
of Salathiel, which was the son of Neri, 28. which was the son
of Melchi, which was the son of Addi, which was the son of
Cosam, which was the son of Elmodam, which was the son of
Er, 29. which was tlie son of Jose, which was the son of Eliezer,
which was the son of Jorim, which was the son of Matthat,
which was the son of Levi, 30. which was the son of Simeon,
which was the son of Juda, which was tlie son of Joseph, which
was the son of Jonan, which was the son of Eliakim, 3 1. which
was the son of Melea, which was the son of Menan, which was the
son of Mattatha, which was the son of Nathan, which was the
son of David, 3 2. which was the son of Jesse, which was the son of
Obed, which was tlie son of Booz, which was the son of Salmon,
which was the son of Naasson, 33. which was the son of Ami
nadab, which was the son of Aram, which was the son of Esrom,
which was the son of P hares, which was the son of Juda, 34.
which was the son of Jacob, which was tlie son of Isaac, which
was the son of Abraham, which was the son of Thar a, which
was the son of Nachor, 35. which was the son of Saruch, which
was the son of Ragau, which was the son of Phalec, which was
the son of Heber, which was the son of Sala, 36. which was the

332 Our Lord in the Wilderness. [S. Luke IV.
son of Cainan, which was the son of Arphaxad, which was the
son of Sem, which was the son of Noe, which was the son of
Lamech, 37. which was the son of Mathusala, which was the son
of Enoch, which was the son of Jared, which was the son of
Maided, which was the son of Cainan, 38. which was the son
of Enos, which was the son of Seth, which was the son of Adam,
which was tlie son of God.
We are God's children, made by Him after His own likeness, and
renewed again in Christ. How far we have fallen from our birth
right I Man had so deeply forgotten that he came from God, that
God's own Son came into the ranks of creatures to recall him to a
sense of his heavenly sonship. If we are tempted to deadly sin,
let us stir up the thought that we are children of God, and redeemed
by Christ, and so different from the beasts that perish. Though
we have wandered from home, yet God is our Father. All things
come from Him and return to Him again. All creation is His, and
meant to show forth His glory.

CHAPTER IV.
The temptation and fasting of Christ. 13. He overcometh the devil: 14.
beginneth to preach. 16. The people of Nazareth admire his gracious
words. 33. He cureth one possessed of a devil, 38. Peter's mother
in law, 40. and divers other sick persons. 41. The devils acknow
ledge Christ, and are reproved for it. 43. He preacheth through the
cities.

AN

ND Jesus being full of the Holy Ghost returned from
Jordan, and was led by the Spirit into the wilderness,
Jesus followed the Holy Spirit's leading, though it brought Him into
a wilderness and a place of trial. He did not begin His mighty
works at once after His Baptism, but sought a time of recollection
first. Let us set ourselves to seek God's guidance and follow it all
our life through, not drawing back if He leads us along paths of
loneliness, dulness, or sharp trial. If we have come there by no
self-will of our own, He will bring us through.
2. Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days
he did eat nothing : and when they were ended, he afterward
hungered. He was tempted, so that He might feel for our temptations. Our frail
body with its many weaknesses and desires has been worn by Him ;
He subdued it to the higher will, and did not suffer it to be master.
Remember, O Christian, when tempted, that you have a Friend at
hand to help you, only persevere and cry to Him, so you will gain
the victory as He did.

Ver. 8.] Satan's Persuasions. 333
3. And the devil said unto him, If thou be the Son of God,
command this stone that it be made bread.
The devil says sometimes to us, " You are hard worked, or in want, or
under disadvantages ; can you be God's child if He cares so little
for you ? why not take what pleasure or profit you can, and forget
the noble words and lofty professions that religion utters." This is
a sharp temptation, and easily yielded to, and yet God warns us
that it is the tempter who is leading us wrong.
4. And Jesus answered him, saying, It is written, That man
shall not live by bread alone, but by every word of God.
Our Father will supply our needs in the way that He thinks best.
We will not gratify our appetites when His Word forbids us.
Besides the body that perishes we have a spirit within us in the
image of God, we must nourish that and fit it for heaven. Let us
take heed to live this higher life, and not merely devote ourselves
to the earthly one.
5. And the devil, taking him up into an high mountain,
shewed unto him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment of
time. Sometimes we are tempted by the power of money, we consider what
we should be able to do with it, and make plans of usefulness or of
display. We apply ourselves to getting rich by any means wrong
or right. Our hearts are wholly set on earthly prosperity, and we
forget God's love and our own souls. Keep us, O Lord, from this
dazzling vision, lest it hide Thee from our eyes.
6. And the devil said unto him, All this power will I give
thee, and the glory of them : for that is delivered unto me ; and
to whomsoever I will I give it.
The devil's servants sometimes are very rich and great They enjoy
this world's goods while Christ and His members want. The world
seems delivered to them for a while — but patience ! Earth's true
Master will soon appear to claim it. Outward glory may be in
Satan's hands now, but truth and love and inward peace are be
stowed by God only.
7. If thou therefore wilt worship me, all shall be thine.
The tempter says, "Comply this once. Do not be singular. Join
in sin like others do, and you will be better off. Afterwards you
may be good if you please." He would have us withdraw our
hearts from God and let evil reign there. He points out the
advantage of being unscrupulous.
8. And Jesus answered and said unto him, Get thee behind
me, Satan : for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy
God, and him only shalt thou serve.
We have one Master, and we will be loyal to Him. Though all the

334 Satan misapplies the Promises. [S. Luke IV.
world rebel against Him, yet we will remain faithful ; we will accept
the portion He gives us, be it large or small, and do nothing dis
honest to increase it. O Lord, strengthen this resolution in us, and
let us never be ashamed of Thy service.
9. And he brought him to Jerusalem, and set him on a pin
nacle of the temple, and said unto him, If thou be the Son of
God, cast thyself down from hence :
High place is dangerous if it is of our own seeking. When God puts
any one into a place of responsibility or power, He will uphold
him ; but if his own ambition or covetous striving has gained it,
there is great cause for fear. It is a much happier thing to have a
humble place and less danger of falling. May God set us in a
lowly valley rather than on a lofty pinnacle, and uphold us with
His grace wherever we are.
10. For it is written, He shall give his angels charge over
thee, to keep thee: 11. and in their hands they shall bear thee
up, lest at any time thou, dash thy foot against a stone.
Scripture is indeed full of sweet and comfortable promises. God is
my Friend and my Protector, and guards me with all His angelic
hosts. I have been redeemed, sanctified, justified ; and yet if I
become careless I may fall ; if I rashly run into temptation presum
ing on God's favour, it may be my utter ruin. I need to deny
myself and know my own weakness, lest the thought of my privi
leges should make me too secure.
12. And Jesus answering said unto him, It is said, Thou
shalt not tempt the Lord thy God.
Our safety is in the plain path of duty, our danger in presuming in
our strength, or on God^s favour, and so becoming careless and
ready to fall. While death and sin last, so long our danger lasts, and
we need to watch and pray. Let God's children beware of false
teachers, who profess to raise them to heights of spirituality by
another path than that of self-denial and a careful humble walk.
13. And when the devil had ended all the temptation, he
departed from him for a season.
The tempter only leaves us for n season. It is not well to be too
secure. When we have overcome his attacks we should still watch,
that he may not take us unawares when we are off our guard ; yet
we must never lose heart even if temptation returns again and
again. Our great Captain won and can make us win.
14. IT And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into
Galilee : and there went out a fame of him through all the
region round about.
All the steps of Jesus Christ were divinely ordered, all His actions
full of heavenly power. Let ministers of the Gospel learn that

Ver. 19.] Jesus reads in the Synagogue. 335
worldly motives and the love of human influence should be wholly
laid aside. They must begin their work in the power of the Spirit,
or it will come to nothing.
15. And lie taught in their synagogues, being glorified of all.
Jesus was not harmed by this praise, for He had spent weeks in the
desert alone, and He snatched long hours for prayer before His
busiest days. But it is a dangerous thing for us to be successful
and popular, unless we take great care about the-inner life. If we
are praised, let us give the glory to God, and humble ourselves the
more.
16. IT And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought
up : and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the
sabbath day, and stood up for to read.
This was our Lord's parish church. He had been here as a Boy and
as a young Man. We can imagine how constantly, how reverently,
with what attention and devotion He had heard God's Word and
joined in His praises there. What are our memories of church.
going ? Do we show in God's house a lowly reverence and strict
attention, or have we bitter memories of profane behaviour there ?
1 7. And there was delivered unto him the book of the prophet
Esaias. And when he had opened the book, he found the place
where it was written,
When we read the Holy Scripture let us call to mind our Saviour
reading it on this occasion, and pronounce the words reverently
and clearly as He doubtless did. The prophet Isaiah has many
admirable passages about redemption to come, on which the
Jewish Church loved to dwell, and which we can now understand
better than they did. Jews valued and were proud of the Old
Testament, what ought we to feel who have the whole Bible ?
18. The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath
anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me
to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives,
and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that
are 1

All this still holds true of Jesus Christ. He has good tidings for the
poor, comfort for mourners, freedom for those who are bound by
sin, light for the darkened, power to rise and rejoice for those who
have been crushed by some heavy trial. What a wealth of mercy
is here ! Though all things on earth fail us, yet His love and power
are able to triumph over sorrow. The only lasting grief is that
there should be so many who prefer their chains and darkness and
gloom to Christ's freedom.
19. To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
This is the time of mercy. God now offers us pardon and life and
glorious promises; let us not despise it lest we find too late that it

336 Our Lord's Words admired. [S. Luke IV.
has passed away beyond recall. We may be accepted now, but who
will answer for the future if we let the present time pass away
without repenting ?
20. And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the
minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all tliem that were in
the synagogue were fastened on him.
This is a picture of an attentive congregation. God grant to us in our
hours of prayer and study, as well as in His house, an earnest mind
that fastens on the Divine Word and draws out all its meaning.
Some read or hear in such a way that they remember nothing and
get no good.
2 1. And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture
fulfilled in your ears.
The old foreshadowings of a mighty One to come Who should save
and redeem, Who should overcome by suffering, Who should bring
light — all these came true in Christ. Nor are the words of Holy
Scripture empty or useless now. They have a fulfilment for us,
they guide and strengthen us every day.
22. And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious
words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is
not this Joseph's son ?
Our Lord utters an abundance of gracious words. They are simple
and even severe at times, but they reveal to us a spring of love
which can renew our life. Let us not be content with wondering
at the words, but go on to love the Speaker.
23. And he said unto them, Ye will surely say unto me this
proverb, Physidan, heal thyself: whatsoever we have heard
done in Capernaum, do also here in thy country.
When we speak to unbelievers of the spiritual remedy which the
Gospel provides, they reply, " Physician, heal thyself;" they bid
us remember that we too have to suffer pain and death and
encounter fiery temptations. We too need a Deliverer ; yes, but
we have something which they do not know of, we have a Friend
and Healer to Whom we can turn. He has done much for us
already, and will do all if we wait in faith and patience.
24. And he said, Verily I say unto you, No prophet is
accepted in his own country.
When we are treated with indifference or our exhortations despised,
let us call to mind that the greatest of all prophets was little heeded.
If His countrymen despised Jesus Christ, we must not wonder if we
are made of no account. Acceptance of the Divine message is a
gift from above ; let us do our best to set it forth, and leave the
result in God's hands..
25. But I tell you of a truth, many widows were in Israel in

Ver. 30.] The Nazarenes reject Him. 337
tlie days of Elias, wlien tlie heaven was shut up three years and
six months, when great famine was throughout all the land ;
There have been great judgments from time to time— war, pestilence,
and famine. God uses them to punish the wicked and purify the
good by suffering. If our lot is cast in quieter days, and we have
no lack of anything, let us thank God for sparing us the trial, and
resolve to be open-handed with what we have.
26. But unto none of them was Elias sent, save unto Sarepta,
a city of Sidon, unto a woman that was a widow.
Elijah left his own country and was sent to be fed by a poor widow
woman among heathens, and to supply her need in turn. God's
ways are not as ours. Let us be faithful to His guidance always
and seek it by frequent prayer. He knows where to send us, and
what we are to do for His Name.
27. And many lepers were in Israel in the time of Eliseus
the prophd ; and none of them was cleansed, saving Naaman
the Syrian.
Elisha had power to cure Naaman the Syrian, though there were
many sick left in Israel. Here is a type of God's free grace. He
can convert whom He wills, none are outside the reach of His
mercy. My soul needs to be sustained like the widow, and to be
cleansed like the Syrian. Let me not harden myself against God's
messengers. These poor Nazarenes got no profit from the gracious
words to which they "had at first listened so eagerly. Let me hear
the message of life more profitably than they did.
28. And all they in the synagogue, when they heard these
things, were filled with wrath,
What ! only anger when Jesus speaks ! What corruption is there in
the human heart that it cannot bear reproof, but turns against its
admonisher? Give me grace, O Lord, to take blame patiently
and thankfully and get good from it.
29. And rose up, and thrust him out of the dty, and led
him unto the brow of the hill whereon their dty was built, tliat
they might cast him down headlong.
Anger turned to hatred, and they wished to kill Him Who had pre
ferred others before them. They forgot all the years that He had
lived among them so uprightly, and had done so many kindnesses
to all, and listened only to their jealousy. Beware of indulging
gloomy and suspicious thoughts of any one, lest they lead on to acts
of passion and ruin us before we are aware.
30. But he passing through the midst of them went his way,
He passed quietly and without harm through His enraged enemies ;
and in like manner a Christian, trusting in Him, will pass safely
through all difficulties. Let but our way be His way and we shall
pursue it without harm. Even though there are fightings without
we can maintain an inward peace. Y

338 An Unclean Devil cast out. [S. Luke IV.
31. And came dawn to Capernaum, a dty of Galilee, and
taught them on the sabbath days.
Our Saviour was not frightened or discouraged from preaching by
His reception at Nazareth. He made Capernaum His home, and
persevered in teaching and doing good there for a long while. The
Sabbath which brought rest from daily work also brought a fresh
store of His Divine words for the dwellers there to listen to. We
too have Sabbath rests given us wherein to learn from God.
32. And they were astonislied at his dodrine: for his word
was with power.
This was the special mark of Christ's preaching. He did not quote
human authorities or apply Himself to please the fancy or rouse the
admiration of His hearers, but He uttered deep truths that had
power over the heart. What He said came from God, and found
a response in the nature of man.
33. IT And in the synagogue there was a man, which had a
spirit of an unclean devil, and cried out with a loud voice,
How many there are who are possessed by such a spirit ! They are
slaves to sin, and cannot get back a pure heart again. They join in
Divine service, and mix with others, but cannot shake off this terrible
bondage of uncleanness. Lord, give us grace not to yield ourselves
as slaves to Satan, but keep on fighting so that we may at last have
the victory.
34. Saying, Let us alone ; what have we to do with tliee, thou
Jesus of Nazardh ? art thou come to destroy us? I know thee
who thou art ; the Holy One of God.
Theevil spirit knew Who Jesus was, but would have nothing to do
with Him, and abhorred His sacred presence. It is a long step from
knowing to loving. God's enemies know something of Him, but
His children know and love and praise Him.
35. And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and
come out of him. And when the devil had thrown him in tlie
midst, he came out of him, and hurt him not.
O mighty Deliverer, free us now from Satan's power ! He suggests
to us every kind of blasphemy and vileness. His continual assaults
almost make us despair, but Thou art able as of old to purify our
hearts and destroy the dominion of evil.
36. And they were all amazed, and spake among themselves,
saying, What a word is this I for with authority and power he
commandeth the unclean spirits, and they come out. 37. And
the fame of him went out into every place of the country round
about. If we tremble at the power of sin, let us remember for an encourage-

Ver. 42.] A Crowd of Sufferers. 339
ment that the power of Jesus is much greater. He has power over
evil spirits as well as over men's bodies and souls. He is able to
drive away the tempter and give us peace. No one else can do
this for us but Jesus only.
38. IT And he arose out of the synagogue, and entered into
Simon's house. And Simon's wife's mother was taken with a
great fever; and they besought him for her.
It was a great privilege for any one to have Jesus Christ in his house.
The Saviour's presence brought healing and life. He listened
kindly to His host's troubles, and relieved them. We can still
welcome Him by a loving attention to His poor members. We
can still lay our needs before Him in prayer, and rely on His kind
sympathy.
39. And he stood over her, and rebuked the fever ; and it left
her : and immediately she arose and ministered unto them.
Such was the power of the Lord of life. With one word He cured
the fever, and restored strength and health to the weak body.
This is a lively image of His saving grace, which can abate the
fever of our sinful passions and enable us to serve God again with
a pure heart.
40. IT Now when the sun was setting, all tliey that had any
sick with divers diseases brought them unto him ; and he laid
his hands on every one of them, and healed them.
These persons were brought to the Saviour in great suffering and
weakness, but after the touch of His merciful hands they went
away relieved and joyful. When we think of that evening we are
encouraged to bring our daily burden to Him. His hand is not
shortened nor His mercy less when He is among us, though unseen,
and beholds our various needs.
41. And devils also came out of many, crying out, and say
ing, Thou art Christ the Son of God. And he rebuking them
suffered them not to speak : for they knew that he was Christ.
Jesus would not be preached by devils. To declare Him savingly there
is needed a pure heart and humble lips. His messengers must be
those who have declared themselves to be on His side. A merely
intellectual view of religion is that of devils; they have knowledge,
but neither love nor obey.
42. And when it was day, he departed and went into a
desert place : and the people sought him, and came unto him,
and stayed him, that he should not depart from them.
He sought a quiet place and hour to pray. How different were
such prayers from our hasty formal utterances ! When shall we seek
God, as His children, to pour out our hearts in His presence ? Yet
the Lord Jesus did not reprove or send away harshly those who
broke in on His retirement.

340 Jesus preaching by the Lake. [S. Luke V.
43. And he said_ unto them, I must preach the kingdom of
God to other cities also : for therefore am I sent.
The Son of God would neglect no part of His duty. His desire was
to fulfil His appointed work in every particular. Here is a rule
for us in serving either our earthly or heavenly masters. Not mere
success, not applause, not pleasure, but a thorough discharge of
the duty which is enjoined us. Grant us, Lord, to remember why
we are sent into this world.
44. And he preached in the synagogues of Galilee.
We sometimes marvel that any one could despise or neglect such a
Preacher; and yet when He speaks to us in His Holy Word, or by
His Spirit in our hearts, we turn a deaf ear. Certainly it was a
great privilege to have heard Jesus Himself preach, and it is
wonderful that so many remained indifferent; but it is also strange
that we enjoy so many privileges in the Church and are not better
than we are. Speak, O Lord, to our hearts with a mighty voice
which we may not put aside.

CHAPTER V.
1. Christ teacheth the people out of Peter's ship: 4. in a miraculous taking
of fishes, sheweth how he will make him and his partners fishers of
men : 12. cleanseth the leper : 16. prayeth in the wilderness : 18.
healeth one sick of the palsy : 27. calleth Matthew the publican : 2g.
eateth with sinners, as being the physician of souls : 34. foretellefh
the fastings and afflictions of the apostles after his ascension: 36.
and likeneth fainthearted and "weak disciples to old bottles and
worn garments.
AND it came to pass, that, as the people pressed upon him to
Xi liear the word of God, he stood by the lake of Gennesaret,
What eagerness there was to hear our Saviour's words! And yet
many of these hearers went back after a while and did not persevere.
God bids us not merely to take pleasure in listening to sermons or
reading about religion, but give up our lives to Him. Not all
those who pressed to hear Him were His true followers, and it is
the same now with those who throng our churches.
2. And saw two ships standing by the lake : but the fislier-
xnen were gone out of them, and were washing their nets.
Christian workers must at times lay aside their fishing and clean their
nets ; that is, they must examine their hearts, remove any vain or
worldly motives that have got in, acknowledge their mistakes, and
pray God for more power to win souls. Also they must wait God's
time. It is no good trying to convert men unless He begins and
blesses the work. Grant, O Lord, to Thy Church in these days true
and skilful fishers who may try all ways to gain souls.

Ver. 8.] The Miraculous Draught of Fishes. 341
3. And he entered into one of the ships, which was Simon's,
and prayed him that he would thrust out a little from the land.
And he sat down, and taught the people out of the ship.
This boat served our Lord for a pulpit, whence He taught the great
truths of salvation. He was free from the pressure of the crowd,
and yet close by so that they could see and hear Him well. This
is a figure of His whole life. He was free from our sins and our
worldly cares, and yet able to understand and feel for us and bring
His Word home to our hearts.
4. Now when he had left speaking, he said unto Simon,
Launch out into the deep, and let down your nets for a draught.
Our Lord saw in these men fit instruments for His saving work, and
He bade them push out into the troubled sea of this world and
spread out the net of God's Word. First of all He would try their
obedience, and make them feel the greatness of His power. He still
calls men to be His ministers, and bids them make a venture for
Him.
5. And Simon answering said unto him, Master, we have
toiled all the night, and have taken nothing : nevertheless at thy
word I will Id down the net.
Success is of God's gift. Often we toil for a long while and no result
comes. But our business is to obey and to persevere. We must
trust our Master and follow where He leads. If we have Him
with us even failure will be blessed. Dear friend, never be quite
disheartened. Even if your work and life have failed so far, yet
there is all eternity before you.
6. And when they had this done, they inclosed a great multi
tude of fishes : and thdr net brake.
This was a figure of what was to come. After the day of Pentecost
the apostles gathered together a great company of believers
throughout the world, and after a while the net broke, divisions
and offences came, yet still God was with His Church and kept it
from breaking up altogether. To gather in a great multitude of
souls may be beyond our power, yet God's Spirit is still at work to
draw in His scattered children.
7. And they beckoned unto their partners, which were in the
other ship, that they should come and help them. And they
came, and filled both the ships, so that they began to sink.
Let us readily and gladly join our brethren in any good work. God's
call to save souls (which is here figured) requires the common labour
of many. We are set here to work together for God, and to help one
another by sympathy and love. God keep us from being selfish
in religion, or envying the good that others do.
8. When Simon Pder saw it, he fell down at Jesus' knees,
saying, Depart from me ; for I am a sinful man, 0 Lord.

342 The Disciples leave all and follow Him. [S. Luke V.
Knowing our sin and God's holiness, we cannot bear His presence.
Yet Peter did not really want to lose Jesus. It was only that he
felt so strongly his own unworthiness to remain with Him. The
feeling that we are unworthy keeps us away from God, and
yet His love and mercy bid us draw near again, for how else shall
we be purified and made worthy except by Him?
9. For he was astonished, and all that were with him, at the
draught of the fishes which they had taken:
The multitude of souls which Peter afterwards converted was a far
more astonishing marvel. He and the other disciples brought in
thousands to the Church and made them God's children, all which
was figured by this wonderful catch of fish. Conversion comes of
God's power, not of the preacher's own wisdom ; he needs to look
off himself to God and commit the matter to Him.
10. And so was also James, and John, the sons of Zebedee,
which were partners with Simon. And Jesus said unto Simon,
Fear not ; from henceforth thou shalt catch men.
Jesus says, "Fear not, thy sins are great, but My mercy greater. I have
chosen thee to win souls, not fish, and to win them for life, not for
death, to draw them out of the unquiet sea of this world into a
haven of rest where they may live a new life."
11. And when they had brought their ships to land, they for
sook all, and followed him.
If we are not required outwardly to forsake all when Jesus calls us,
we must do so inwardly and in the preparation of our hearts, hold
ing all things henceforth as lent us by Him, and to be given up
cheerfully whenever He requires them. To follow Him we must sit
loose to everything here ; it is His, and we only retain it for a
while till He asks for it again.
12. II And it came to pass, when he was in a certain dty,
behold a man full of leprosy : who seeing Jesus fell on his face,
and besought him, saying, Lord, if thou wilt, thou canst make
me dean.
A heart may be full of sin, and as hopeless morally as was this poor
sufferer's case physically, yet the power and mercy of the Great
Healer of souls can make it clean. With this leper let me cry out,
" I am filthy, vile, and miserable ; but Thou, O Lord, canst make me
clean again. Thy power is greater than my wretchedness."
13. And he put forth his hand, and touched him, saying, I
will: be thou clean. And immediately the leprosy departed
from him.
The touch of Christ brought life and health. He was not defiled by
touching the leper, but drove all defilement away. His power is
still the same. We can spiritually touch Him and experience in our-

Ver. 19.] Jesus among Multitudes. 343
selves His life-giving grace. There are many who remain in their
foulness and do not care to approach Jesus and feel His saving
hand.
14. And he charged him to tell no man: but go, and shew
thyself to the priest, and offer for thy cleansing, according as
Moses commanded, for a testimony unto them.
If God in His great mercy has brought us to repentance we should
not talk much of our religious state, but rather walk humbly and
quietly in the way of duty, trying to fulfil all God's commands.
Let us give to God not mere words and feelings but an exact
obedience, that is the best testimony of our gratitude to Him.
15. But so much the more went there a fame abroad of him :
and great multitudes came together to hear, and to be healed by
him of their infirmities.
16. IT And he withdrew himself into the wilderness, and
prayed. Jesus interposed times of prayer and retirement even when all
crowded round Him to listen to His words or profit by His Divine
power. If He found such moments necessary, how much more must
we ? Our lives get shallow and our hearts dry unless we make time
to be quiet with God and hear what He has to say to us.
17. And it came to pass on a certain day, as he was teaching,
that there were Pharisees and doctors of the law sitting by, which
were come out of every town of Galilee, and Judcea, and Jeru
salem : and the power of the Lord was present to heal them.
Thy power to heal, O Lord, is not exhausted. We bring our human
learning and experience, we seek advice from books or friends, but
we must come into Thy presence and feel Thy saving grace if we
would be spiritually whole. Let us know better than these
Pharisees did what our need is of the Great Healer.
18. 1T And, behold, men brought in a bed a man which was
taken with a palsy : and they sought means to bring him in,
and to lay him before him.
These are kind friends who seek to bring the sufferer to Jesus. Too
often when we are ill or when we have gone astray in sin our
friends keep us back from conversion. There is no better service
we can do our dear ones than to seek means to bring them near to
Jesus that they may lay their cares upon Him. He will sustain them
when their own powers fail.
19. And when they could not find by what way they might
bring him in because of the multitude, they went upon the
housetop, and let him down through the tiling with his couch
into the midst before Jesus.

344 Christ proves His Power to forgive. [S. Luke V.
The crowd in the doorway represent the many hindrances which keep
us back from religion, and yet faith can find a way to overcome
them. After the sick man was healed his friends rejoiced that
they had taken so much trouble. Shall not we do all that is in our
power to bring a hardened unbelieving soul to God ? What trouble
is too great to take if we may but cure one that suffers from such a
dangerous malady ?
20. And when he saw their faith, he said unto him, Man,
thy dns are forgiven thee.
This is the best message. What matters our outward condition if our
souls can hear these good tidings from Almighty God? Grant us
a portion in this free forgiveness and a full trust in Thy cleansing
love.
21. And the scribes and the Pharisees began to reason, say
ing, Who is this which speaketh blasphemies ? Who can forgive
sins, but God alone ?
God alone can forgive. Yet He is manifest in Jesus Christ, and so
has set up upon earth the throne of His mercy. It were blas
phemous to expect forgiveness of any other but God, or on any
other condition but repentance and faith. Yet in becoming man,
God brought mercy nearer to us, and appointed outward means as
a seal and pledge that we are forgiven.
22. But when Jesus perceived their thoughts, he answering
said unto them, What reason ye in your hearts ? 23. whether is
easier, to say, Thy sins be forgiven thee ; or to say, Rise up
and walk ?
By the proof which Jesus offers of His power over the body we discern
His power over the soul. No eyes but God's could see that sins were
forgiven, but all could see that the sick was healed. Christ's
words are not in vain, but have power in them over body and soul
alike. I entreat Him to grant me a firm faith, that I may never
despair of His mercy though my sins are great and many.
24. But that ye may know that the Son of man hath power
upon earth to forgive sins, (he said unto the sick of the palsy,)
I say unto thee, Arise, and take up thy couch, and go into thine

O Lord, if in my sickness I do not hear the voice which bids me rise
and be strong, let me hear at least that inner voice which tells me
that I am forgiven and at peace with Thee. One day the time will
come for the redemption of my body, now is the time for my soul
to be raised up to higher things.
25. And immediately he rose up before them, and took up
that whereon he lay, and departed to his own house, glorifying
God.

Ver. 30.] The Publican's Feast. 345
This is the figure of a true conversion. The pardoned sinner obeys
God's word, overcomes his former failings, puts the world aside,
and glorifies God for His great goodness to him. We who feel
that God has been good to us should lead new lives and depart from
temptation lest we fall again.
26. And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and
were filled with fear, saying, We have seen strange things to day.
If we applied ourselves more to observing God's dealings with souls
we too should marvel. His wonders in the world of nature are
very great But it is a greater work still to raise the fallen and
heal the many sicknesses of our hearts. Lord, make Thy pardon
ing grace more felt among us, that we may see its effects with joy.
Things which are impossible for us are easy for Thee.
27. IT And after these things he went forth, and saw a publi
can, named Levi, sitting at the receipt of custom . and he said
unto him, Follow me.
Jesus looked on the publican with a look of mercy and spoke
powerfully to his heart. I also believe, O Lord, that Thou hast
looked on me in Thy goodness and called me to follow Thee. The
means of grace and many mercies that I enjoy are a pledge to me
that I am Thine. Let no worldly profit keep me back when God
calls me.
28. And he left all, rose up, and followed him.
He became poorer, and yet gained by the exchange. The friendship
of Christ, gifts of the Spirit, company of the saints, and prospects
of heaven, are not these worth more than all the world's riches ?
It is little profit to be well to do and yet lack God's favour. It
were better at once to make sure of the one thing needful.
29. And Levi made him a great feast in his own house : and
tliere was a great company of publicans and of others that sat
down with them.
Full of thankfulness for God's mercy, he wished to bring his old friends
to feel as he did ; so he brought them in to meet the Lord Jesus.
This was Matthew's farewell to his old life and former friends. After
this he gave himself entirely to do Christ's work. Let us at any
feast take care to remember our Master's presence, and eat and
drink only as He would approve.
30. But their scribes and Pharisees murmured against his
disdples^ saying, Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and
sinners ?
Let us not despise any. The worst and lowest here are not outside
God's mercy, we may meet them in His kingdom. Let us only
beware lest we also fall as they have done, and with much less
excuse. What are we that men should think so well of us as they
do?

346 The Bridegroom will be taken away. [S. Luke VI.
31. And Jesus answering said unto tliem, Tliey that are
whole need not a physidan ; but they that are sick.
This is a comforting word for those who know that they are sick.
They alone benefit by the Great Physician of souls. Let me know
my own folly and vileness, and feel my immense need of Thy saving
mercy. Above all things keep me from fancying that I am secure
and need Thee not.
32. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.
Sin is the worst sickness. Righteousness is health. Jesus is the
Physician. Repentance is the medicine which He bids us take.
Often it is bitter and painful, but we must take it if we would be
cured. We must not draw back when our soul's life is at stake.
33. U And they said unto him, Why do the disdples of John
fast often, and make prayers, and likewise the disdples of the
Pharisees ; but thine eat and drink ?
Let us be different from others, not so much in outward practices as
in our inward life. We should be content to join with others in all
the ordinary duties of life, while yet we keep our hearts for God.
He does not consider whether our profession and talk are religious,
but whether we are inwardly His.
34. And he said unto them, Can ye make the children of tlie
bridechamber fast, while the bridegroom is with them?
While Jesus was with His chosen they were full of joy. Their outward
condition was poor, but they felt the sweetness of His presence, the
power of His Word. When shall I too feel that He is the Lover
of my soul, and that I cannot be dull or sad while I have Him with
me?
35. But the days will come, when the bridegroom shall be
taken away from them, and then shall they fast in those days.
Now I must fast by taking time to repent and pray, for my Lord is
gone and I am getting ready for His return. And yet I have times.
of rejoicing too, for I know that He is with me and loves me.
Lord, enable me to join together in my life true sorrow and true
joy; that I may become fit in these days for the better days to
come.
36. IT And he spake also a parable unto them; No man
putteth a piece of a new garment upon an old; if otherwise,
then both the new maketh a rent, and the piece that was taken
out of the new agreeth not with the old.
We must be renewed thoroughly, not put on a mere respectable
character or mere outward devotion over a profane heart Jesus
offers new precepts, new life, a new character. Let us entreat
Him to reveal to us His full salvation and clothe our souls entirely
in the new garment of His grace.

Ver. 2.] Christ 's Friends pluck Ears of Corn. 347
37. And no man putteth new wine into old bottles ; else the
new wine will burst the bottles, and be spilled, and the bottles
shall perish. 38. But new wine must be put into new bottles ;
and both are preserved.
To preach God's Word I must lay aside old prejudices and open my
heart to the Holy Spirit's power. My own mind cannot contain
His mysteries nor my own strength declare them, but God can fit
me to be His instrument. If God's Word is so mighty, so full of
fire and love and power, His ministers need much preparation to
receive and declare it rightly. Some have been ruined by rashly
venturing to guide souls before they had found the right way
themselves.
39. No man also having drunk old wine straightway desireth
new : for he saith, The old is better.
How full of forbearance is my Saviour ! He is not easily vexed with
those who cling to their Jewish ways. He excuses their fondness
for the old law. He teaches me not to be impatient when I do not
persuade souls to advance as fast as I wish. How much care,
patience, and kindness is necessary before we can bring God's Word
home to any heart !

CHAPTER VI.
x. Christ reproveth the Pharisees' blindness about the observation of the
sabbath, by scripture, reason, and miracle : 13. chooseth twelve
apostles : 17. healeth the diseased : 20, preacheth to his disciples
before the people of blessings and curses : 27. how we must love our
enemies : 46. and join the obedience of good works to the hearing of
the word : lest in the evil day of temptation we fall like an house
built upon the face of the earth, without any foundation.
AND it came to pass on the second sabbath after the fir d, that
Xi. he went through the cornfields ; and his disciples plucked
the ears of corn, and did eat, rubbing them in their hands.
When we pass through the fields and see God's bounty in them, we
can recall the walks which Jesus took, and try to look at things as
He did. He was full of praise for His Father's mercies. He
admired the beauty of flowers and wise instincts of birds, and
brought spiritual truth for men's souls out of all that He saw. In
His society only kind and pure and wise words were spoken. Our
walks ought to be after this pattern.
2. And certain of the Pharisees said unto them, Why do ye
that which is not lawful to do on the sabbath days ?
It is easy to blame others, God would have us rather try ourselves.
The disciples had not really broken the Sabbath rest by taking

348 The Holy Bread. [S. Luke VI.
these ears of corn, but the enemies of Jesus were resolved to find
fault with anything that was done or approved by Him. _ God
keep us from a malignant heart, which takes everything in the
worst sense.
3. And Jesus answering them said, Have ye not read so
much as this, what David did, when himself was an hungred,
and they which were with him ;
The history of the Old Testament is useful to us in many ways. Let
us take care to read for ourselves, and teach the young, how God
dealt with men under His old covenant, how He enlightened them
with true religion by degrees, how He trained brave and loving
souls to carry out His wise purposes. David's life is full of lessons
and his sweet songs still express our heart's longings.
4. How he went into the house of God, and did take and eat
tlie shewbread, and gave also to them that were with him ; which
it is not lawful to eat but for the priests alone ?
David was flying for his life, and had no food for himself and his men,
therefore he took without scruple the holy bread from the taber
nacle which the priests alone were allowed to eat. God is merciful
to our necessities. Let us imitate His charity when we see others in
want, and assist them even at some sacrifice.
5. And he said unto them, That the Son of man is Lord also
of the sabbath.
The Jewish Sabbath was but a means to recall God to the people's
minds, and Jesus Christ did away with it when the time came.
Our Christian Lord's Day brings before us His saving work, and
bids us put aside the world to praise God for what He has done.
Yet this too will pass away with this world. Christ alone remains
for ever as the Strength and Rest of His people.
6. And it came to pass also on another sabbath, that lie
entered into tlie synagogue and taught : and there was a man
whose right hand was withered. 7. And the scribes and
Pharisees watched him', whether he would heal on the sabbath
day; that they might find an accusation against him.
Jesus and His enemies were both within the same house of God,
both joining in the same prayers and hearing the same Scriptures.
Yet His heart was full of love, theirs of hatred and jealousy. So
it is now. Some bring to God's house a devout, loving, peaceful
disposition ; others come there with all their quarrels still fresh.
They join outwardly in the service, but have their thoughts on the
world meanwhile.
8. But he knew their thoughts, and said to the man which
had the withered hand, Rise up, and stand forth in the midst.
And he arose and stood forth.

Ver. 13.] A Night spent in Prayer. 349
There is among us One to Whom all hearts are open and all desires
known. For a while He puts up with our hardness of heart, but
one day He will convict us out of our own mouth. Let us remem
ber that we go to church to present ourselves before Him Who will
one day be our Judge.
9. Then said Jesus unto them, I will ask you one thing ; Is
it lawful on the sabbath days to do good, or to do evil ? to save
life, or to destroy it ?
Jesus tells us that it is evil-doing if we miss a chance of doing good,
that if we leave any in pain or in sin whom we can help out of it,
we might as well hurt or mislead them ourselves. Let such words
stir us up to be active in doing good. There is all around us much
suffering and much ignorance that we might lighten if we would.
10. And looking round about upon them all, he said unto
the man, Stretch forth thy hand. And he did so : and his
hand was restored whole as the other.
Christ's word is full of power. The sufferer could not stretch out
His feeble hand before, but as soon as he tried to do the Lord's
bidding strength came. What God requires of us often seems
beyond our present power, but if we try in faith to obey Him, He
will give us more strength. All that is corrupt and defiled in us
He will make whole.
n. And they were filled with madness; and communed one
with another what they might do to Jesus.
Why do we think it strange to meet with ingratitude ? All the acts of
mercy which Jesus did could not win some hearts. Why should
we complain of the little result of our labours? See what befell the
Holy One and the Just when He laid Himself out to gather a
faithful people.
12. And it came to pass in those days, that he went out into
a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God.
"When gathering clouds around I view,
And days are dark and friends are few,"
Then is the time for me to seek the same remedy which suited my
Master. He brought before His Father the progress of His work,
and the opposition which had been roused, and the need of helpers.
He considered the choice that He was about to make. He
looked out of this world into the eternal glory again, and so
strengthened Himself.
13. IT And wlien it was day, he called unto him his disciples :
and of them he chose twelve, whom also lie named apostles ;
These were to be Christ's messengers to the world. He provided in
this way that His work should go on. He established the twelve
as the founders of the new Israel, of which God's elect everywhere

350 Our Lord with His Disciples round Him. [S. Luke VI.
are members. It is still Jesus Who calls and chooses and sends
His ministers, if they are worthy of the name. None can go rightly
unless at His bidding.
14. Simon, (whom he also named Peter,) and Andrew his
brother, James and John, Philip and Bartholomew, 15. Matthew
and Thomas, James the son of Alphceus, and Simon called
Zelotes, 16. and Judas the brother of James, and Judas Is
cariot, which also was the traitor.
Judas was rightly called and well trained to the ministry. The teaching
he heard was sound. He bore suffering and a hard life with his
Master. He received power to do wonders, yet in the end he for
sook this blessed company and perished as an outcast. What
shall we say of our own strength ? Lord, do Thou keep us by Thy
side, lest after enjoying many privileges we also fall away.
17. IT And he came down with them, and stood in the plain,
and the company of his disciples, and a great multitude of
people out of all Judcea and Jerusalem, and from tlie sea coast
of Tyre and Sidon, which came to hear him, and to be healed
of their diseases ;
Here is the first picture of the Christian Church, wherein the Lord
Jesus is Head, and round Him are gathered His faithful ministers
and people from all lands ; where all are invited to hear the Divine
Word and obtain full healing for their souls. This is the Holy
Catholic Church of which by God's grace I am a member. May I
continue faithfully in it, and keep my eyes fixed upon Jesus and His
true disciples.
1 8. And they that were vexed with unclean spirits : and they
were healed.
No passion, no failing, but what Jesus can cure it. Grant me, Lord,
a firm faith in Thy Divine power, that I may not cease to bring
before Thee in prayer my own grievous follies and troubles which
wellnigh drive me to despair. Thou hast power and love suf
ficient to make me whole.
19. And the whole multitude sought to touch him: for there
went virtue out of him, and healed them all.
Though Jesus is now out of sight, yet we can touch Him in prayer.
Also at His holy altar He is spiritually near to us. Nor is He
less able to help us than in His earthly days. Heaven has not in
the least altered His power and goodness.
20. IT And he lifted up his eyes on his disdples, and said,
Blessed be ye poor : for your's is the kingdom of God.
These first disciples of Jesus stood round Him ready to press in to
the heavenly kingdom of which He spoke. They were poor, but

Ver. 26.] Blessings and Woes contrasted. 351
they submitted patiently to their lot, and set their hearts on heavenly
riches, not earthly. The Good Master had a message for them which
glorified and transformed their whole life.
21. Blessed are ye that hunger now : for ye shall be filled.
Blessed are ye that weep now : for ye shall laugh.
They were hungry often and had to suffer pain, but they looked to
God only for help and rejoiced in His salvation. How great is
that hope which can sweeten all the troubles of this present life
and make tliem seem as nothing !
22. Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and wlien they
shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you,
and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man's sake.
They had to suffer shame too, and be rejected as outcasts for their
faith in Christ. This was the hardest of all trials to bear, more
bitter than the narrow means and scanty meals and many sorrows
which had been their lot before.
23. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold,
your reward is great in heaven : for in the like manner did
thdr fathers unto the prophets.
Jesus showed them that this persecution was the portion of saints in
old time, and that it would be their crowning glory to have suffered
for His sake. Are there no believers now to whom He speaks
in these verses, blessing their very hardships, and turning what is
most bitter into peace and joy?
24. But woe unto you that are rich! for ye have received
your consolation.
Those who were rich did not believe the promises of Jesus, they were
content with their money, and ridiculed the thought of heavenly
treasures. God keep me from covetousness, and open my heart
that I may give liberally to console others instead of heaping up
wrath against myself.
25. Woe unto you that are full I for ye sliall hunger. Woe
unto you that laugh now I for ye shall mourn and weep.
The luxurious and idle still pursued their way of life. Those who
loved to enjoy themselves despised the Prophet of Nazareth, Who
bade them take up the Cross. But their life of pleasure soon
turned into weariness and disgust, and one day brought a terrible
awakening.
26. Woe unto you, wlien all men shall speak well of you/
for so did their fathers to the false prophets.
Those who cared much for men's praise had no ear for Jesus. He
was on the unpopular side. His servants must make up their
minds to be despised, or at least passed over ; they must not live
for applause.- Let us not heed what society says of our pleasant
qualities, but what the all-seeing eye of God observes in our ways.

352 Curses turned into Blessings. [S. Luke VI.
27. IT But I say unto you which hear, Love your enemies
do good to them which hate you,
Here is a word from Jesus to a true disciple. He bids us feel kindly
and act justly towards those who have been our enemies. Lord,
Who hast given us this excellent command and practised it Thy
self, be pleased to give us power to fulfil it. Let not revenge get
dominion over us.
28. Bless them tliat curse you, and pray for them which
despitefully use you.
Further, He bids us speak kindly to or of them, and wish them well
from our hearts. God, Who has given so liberally to us, requires us
to give up something in return. We must offer up our quick
temper, and our remembrance of injuries, and our opportunities
of paying out spiteful treatment. God claims all this from us.
Let us make up our minds to resign it.
29. And unto him that smiteth thee on the one cheek offer
also the other ; and him that taketh away thy doke forbid not
to take thy coat also.
Jesus does not forbid our claiming protection from the law. Often
it is a duty to do this. But what He says is that love knows no
limit of sacrifice. Love will never say, " I have been resigned and
patient so long, now it is my turn to revenge." Love is always
willing to give up, and make peace, and suffer unkindness without
being angry.
30. Give to every man that asketh of thee ; and of him that
taketh away thy goods ask them not again.
Give, yet wisely and what it is right to give, not otherwise. Submit,
and yet not weakly but in patience, to the losses which God sends
on you through others' means.
31. And as ye would tliat men should do to you, do ye also
to them likewise.
O golden rule ! I am to treat others as liberally, as kindly, as patiently,
as fairly as I would have them treat me. Grant me, Lord, to try
my own ways by this pattern.
32. For if ye love them which love you, what thank have ye?
for sinners also love those that love tliem. 33. And if ye do
good to them which do good to you, what thank have ye ? for
sinners also do even the same.
If our love and duty do not exceed those of unbelievers,, how can God
recognise us for His children ? The ungodly have their impulses of
generosity, their kindly feelings, and natural ties ; but we are God's
children, bound to lead a new life and set a high example of love.
Jesus has given Himself for us, and so He requires us to take His
love as our pattern.

Ver. 39.] Lend, forgive, and give. 353
34. And if ye lend to them of whom ye hope to recdve, what
tliank have ye ? for sinners also lend to sinners, to receive as
m,uch again.
Lay out money where it can do most good, thus it will bring back a
stream of blessing on your own heart, whatever be the result in
cash. Look forward to a reward from God only for your charity.
It will take away the blessing if you are paid in praise or profit
here.
35. But love ye your enemies, and do good, and lend, hoping
for nothing again; and your reward shall be greatj and ye
shall be the children of the Highest : for he is kind unto the
unthankful and to the evil.
God has forgiven so freely, has given so bountifully, has borne with
so much. Shall this ransomed creature who owes all to His free
mercy be hard to exact and slow to forgive ? Nay, rather let us
find in God's love an ample consolation for all the world's
harshness.
36. Be ye therefore merdful, as your Father also is merciful.
Think of God's love, of Christ's death, of the Spirit's pleading, and
that you will one day depend wholly upon mercy for an entrance
into heaven. Think of all God's goodness in bygone days, and con
sider what a debt you owe Him. Thus you will feel that you are
bound to be very tender with others' shortcomings towards you.
37. Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not,.
and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be for
given :
Our Saviour bids us be slow to judge others. Often we cannot get
at their hearts, often we are not sure about their deeds, often it is
better to excuse than condemn. One who feels that he has him
self to appear before the awful judgment-seat of Christ, and to give
an account of his own life, will refrain from reckless blame of others.
We are all much in need of pardon.
38. Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure,
pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men
give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete
withal it shall be measured to you again.
All I have is God's, and He has lent it me to be employed in various
ways for His service. I must not hoard anything nor waste it.
After I have provided for my own wants and those of my family,
He bids me seek out His poor members who are in need either in
body or soul, and make a liberal provision for them. If I do this
with a goodwill, He will reward me bountifully.
39. And he spake a parable unto them, Can the blind lead
the blind? shall they not both fall into the ditch ?

354 The Mote and the Beam. [S. Luke VI.
Who are we to lay down the law to others ? We grope pitifully to
find our own way amidst much darkness. Do Thou, O True Light,
shine inwardly on our hearts and outwardly on our path through
life. When others come to us for light, may we be able to direct
them to the True Guide of souls, Who alone cannot err.
40. The disdple is not above his master : but every one that
is perfect shall be as his master.
Others will fashion their lives upon ours, others will take their notions
of truth from us. We must sanctify ourselves for their sakes. We
must learn from God daily what to teach them. It is a grave thing
to be responsible for the example we give. Our behaviour, our
prayers, our talk, are either a help or a hindrance to many souls.
41. And why beholdest thou the mote that is in thy brother's
eye, but perceivest not the beam that is in thine own eye ?
We blame others for the same faults which are to be seen far worse
in ourselves. How foolish is it when an angry person blames an
outbreak of temper, or a lazy, slothful one speaks against idleness,
or a covetous man speaks against avarice ! Grant us, Lord, to
know our own hearts and see ourselves as Thou seest us.
42. Either how canst thou say to thy brother, Brother, let me
pull out the mote that is in thine eye, when thou thyself be
holdest not the beam that is in thine own eye ? Thou hypocrite,
cast out first the beam out of thine own eye, and then shalt thou
¦ see clearly to pull out the mote that is in thy brother's eye.
That is the true way to correct — look at home first, and put things
right there. Cast out first by repentance and a careful walk
your own besetting sin. Do your best to make your peace with
God, and then you will be able to do good to many souls. Then
you will understand their difficulties and how to help them on the
right way.
43. For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit ; neither
doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
If God has set me over others I cannot do them good unless I am
striving to be good myself. Here is a grave consequence of my
own faults. I cannot sin without hindering others' salvation also.
If my own heart is foul, I cannot help others to purify their hearts.
44. For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns
men do not gatlier figs, nor of a bramble bush gather tliey
grapes. What do I produce that is fit for Christ's garden ? He desires to see
in me the sweet and nourishing fruit of good works, a life in
obedience to His law, a character which can refresh and strengthen
other souls. God grant that I may not become useless, quarrel
some, selfish, and remain a mere encumbrance in His Church.

Ver. 49.] The Treasure and the Rock. 355
45. A good man out of the good treasure of bis heart bringeth
forth that which is good; and an evil mom out of the evil
treasure of his heart bringeth forth that which is evil : for of
the abundance of the heart his mouth speaketh.
Let teachers of God's Word consider this, and acknowledge the
necessity of a true conversion of heart before they can win others
to be God's children. How can they put forth a good influence
unless their own hearts feel it ? What great care we should take
to guard our thoughts 1 How we ought to store our minds with
upright and clean thoughts, instead of sinful dreams ! O Lord,
Who alone can bring good out of evil, Thou canst make my heart
other than it is. I confess with shame what it has been, and
entreat Thy mercy to make it pure.
46. IT And why call ye me, Lord, Lord, and do not the
things which I say ?
A faithful servant does not dispute orders, or make loud professions
of service, but sets himself to do his master's will. He does his
appointed work every day quietly and in order. His chief object
is to give satisfaction wherever he is. Let our heavenly Master
find us so doing. Let Him see in us, not great professions of piety,
but a stedfast heart which loves to obey Him.
47. Whosoever cometh to me, and heareth my sayings, and
doeth them, I will shew you to whom he is like :
Let us attend to what follows. Christ Himself offers to show us the
portrait of a true Christian. It is His grace alone that draws us,
teaches us, helps us to perform what is good. And yet it is our
own fault if we learn to no purpose. Oh great mystery of grace !
who can tell us why it is that one soul obeys and another comes
and goes with no profit? We must be content to leave this hidden
with God.
48. He is like a man which built an house, and digged deep,
and laid the foundation on a rock : and when the flood arose,
the stream beat vehemently upon that house, and could not shake
it : for it was founded upon a rock.
Dig deep by knowing your own nothingness. Make the rock your
base by knowing Christ. Strengthen your walls by a diligent hope
and constant prayer. Prepare yourself against the day of trouble, and
then fear not. Though fiery temptation or great sorrows come in
like a flood, yet God is able to keep you, nothing shall harm you.
Be not afraid in such moments, for you know Whom you have
believed. The storm will soon be over.
49. But he that heardh, and doeth not, is like a man tliat
without a foundation built an house upon the earth ; agaimt
which the stream did beat vehemently, and immediately it fell ;
and the ruin of that house was great.

356 Jesus and the Centurion. [S. Luke VII.
When Jesus ends H's sermon with these awful words, we each feel
the rising flood, and see it dash against the stately house, and
presently it begins to crack and give way, and soon it is altogether
vanished ; and we think, Such is my condition at the judgment-day
if I hear religion and do not practise it. It is a great ruin in God's
sight when a ransomed soul has become the prey of Satan. Lord,
Who hast taught us so wisely and so patiently, grant us to turn
Thy heavenly Word to our everlasting good.

CHAPTER VII.
1. Christ findeth a greater faith in the centurion a Gentile, than in any of
the Jews: 10. healeth his servant being absent : 11. raiseth from death
the widow's son at Nain : 19. answereth John's messengers with the
declaration of his miracles : 24. testifieth to the people what opinion
he held of John : 30. inveigheth against the Jews, who with neither
the manners of John nor of Jesus could be won : 36. and sheweth by
occasion of Mary Magdalene, how he is a friend to sinners, not to
maintain them in sins, but to forgive them their sins, upon their faith
and repentance.
"VTOW when he had ended all his sayings in the audience of
X. 1 the people, he entered into Capernaum.
In Christ's life teaching and doing went together. When He had
finished for the time instructing by His words, He proceeded to do
so by His actions. Let a Christian remember that his work is not
ended when he has said what is good. He has to show an example
of it also.
2. And a certain centurion's servant, who was dear unto him,
was sick, and ready to die.
Masters and servants should be joined together by a bond of kindness.
This officer regarded his slave as a friend, and grieved for his suffer
ings. How much more should Christian masters care for the souls
and bodies of those who serve them ! Death will soon put all ranks
on a level. But meanwhile it is salutary to remember that we are
all alike in the sight of God.
3. And when he heard of Jesus, he sent unto him the elders
of the Jews, beseeching him that he would come and heal his
servant. He did not venture to come unbidden into the presence of Christ,
but entreated those who were in authority among God's people to
present his prayer. He asked nothing for himself, but only healing
for his afflicted servant. Though a soldier, and brought up as a
heathen, yet God had taught him much.
4. And when they came to Jesus, they besought him instantly,

Ver. io.] The Centurion's Servant healed. 357
saying, That he was worthy for whom he should do this: 5- for
he loveth our nation, and he hath built us a synagogue.
Instead of despising God's afflicted people (as most Roman soldiers
did) he loved tliem in their poor estate, and built for them a house in
which to worship. Thus he gained their intercessions with Christ.
Those who, relying on Christ only, have yet given of their substance
to help God's poor and adorn His Church, will find other prayers
offered for them when they most need it.
6. Tlien Jesus went with them. And when he was now not
far from the house, the centurion sent friends to him, saying
unto him, Lord, trouble not thyself: for I am not worthy that
thou shouldest enter under my roof:
His exclamation was, " Lord, I am not worthy. " He was confounded
at the thought of seeing in his own house this great and glorious
Personage. He bade Him not trouble Himself to come in. It was
no loss to him not to have Jesus in his house, for he enjoyed Him
in his heart ; that was a better kind of presence.
7. Wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto
thee : but say in a word, and my servant shall be healed.
A deep sense of our own unworthiness is a means to obtain grace
from God. What are we that the All-holy One should draw near
and enter into communion with us? Yetwe must add to this a hearty
faith in God's power. However great be the mischief, yet He can
with one word heal and sanctify us.
8. For I also am a man set under authority, having under
me soldiers, and I say unto one, Go, and he godh; and to
another, Come, and he cometh; and to my servant, Do this,
and he doeth it.
"I receive," he said, "the general's orders, and obey them. I give
orders to my soldiers, and they are performed. Thou, O Lord, art
supreme over all things. Thou hast all power, and heaven and earth
wait on Thy bidding. " Let us take up this faithful word, and
regard ourselves as soldiers in the great army of the King of kings,
set there to carry out His orders.
9. When Jesus heard these things, he marvelled at him, and
turned him about, and said unto the people that followed him,
I say unto you, I have not found so great faith, no, not in
Israel. .
The very Lord Who put into the officer's heart this faith yet
marvelled at it. Whatever is good in us comes from God's gift,
and yet He is pleased to reward us for it. Do not think that any
faith, any love, any humbleness of heart, will go without notice
from the Great King.
10. And they that were sent, rdurning to the house, found
the servant whole that had been sick.

35 8 The Widow's Son. [S. Luke VII.
When any of us are raised from a sick-bed, let us not fail to recognise
God's mercy, and to keep the good resolutions which we made in
time of sickness. God alone lays low and raises up. Physicians
are but instruments in His hands. God grant that our recovery
may leave us whole in spirit as well as in body.
n. IT And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a
dty called Nain ; and many of his disdples went with him,
and much people.
Let us also go with Jesus, and behold the mighty power and tender
compassion which meet in His works. We shall find enough to
fill us with great fear, but also much to encourage and comfort us.
Only let not our faith waver when accompanying the Lord of life.
We must make up our minds to meet here with more than a
human power.
12. Now when he came nigh to the gate of the dty, behold,
there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother,
and she was a widow : and much people of the dty was with
her. Jesus met a sad procession as He entered the town. He was not
indifferent to death, for He viewed it as the wages of sin, and the
sign of a fallen race. One day He was Himself to wrestle with it.
One day He will abolish its empire. When it comes before us let
us print it deeply in our hearts and learn its solemn lessons.
13. And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her,
and said unto her, Weep not.
Jesus still comforts Christian mourners. His heart still feels for
those who grieve. He does not yet raise their dear ones to life,
but He points out heaven and the eternal joy, and the many duties
and blessings which still remain below, and thus sustains their
hearts with His grace. All true sorrow finds in Him a tender
Friend. He had Himself a mother and a home and chosen
comrades.
14. And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare
him stood still. And lie said, Young man, I say unto thee,
Arise. What a solemn moment this was ! The voice of Jesus penetrated
into the other world and brought back the parted soul. One day
we shall hear that voice and shall awaken from the dust. May it
be to us a moment of joy. May the face of the Great judge appear
to us full of mercy.
15. And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And
he delivered him to his mother.
The Lord's voice was obeyed at once. The body of clay was again
quickened by the living soul. The young man rose up and spoke.
All the mothers terrible grief fled away in a moment. Thou, 0

Ver. 21.] A Message from John Baptist. 359
Lord, art able to quicken souls that are dead in sin. The most
hardened and lost characters are not beyond Thy power to convert.
Enable us to tell them of Thy saving grace.
16. And there came a fear on all: and they glorified God,
saying, That a great prophet is risen up among us ; and, That
God hath vidted his people.
God's power raises in us this double feeling. We are afraid at its
awfulness, we rejoice in its beneficence. Even in our cold and
faithless days God still puts forth His hand and quickens dead
souls to life again. Lord, increase the wonders of Thy mercy.
Visit all those many souls that are lifeless, and restore them as
living members of Thy Church.
17. And this rumour of him went forth throughout all
Judcea, and throughout all the region round about.
There are still many homes amongst ourselves where the knowledge
of Jesus in His power and mercy has never penetrated. Let us
spread this saving knowledge among our friends. We have a
Shepherd full of care, full of love, full of power, Who is able
to quicken dead souls to life again. All men must hear this
message.
18. And the disdples of John shewed him of all these things.
19. IT And John calling unto him two of his disciples sent
them to Jesus, saying, Art thou he that should come ? or look
we for another ?
This was John's work, to lead men to Christ. All the devotion of
Old Testament saints was to look forward to Him Who should
come. Sometimes their faith grew weak, and God's delays sorely
tried them ; but He came at last. We also look for Him to come,
yet in another form than He wore then — in glorious majesty, to
reward and judge men according to their works. May we have
patience to wait in faith for that coming.
20. When the men were come unto him, they said, John
Baptist hath sent us unto thee, saying, Art thou he that should
come ? or look we for another ?
These two did their message faithfully. They came at their master's
bidding, and delivered his question exactly. This is the way to
come to Christ savingly, the way of obedience. Let us think over
this question. Do we believe that Jesus is the promised Saviour,
or do we expect pardon and grace, and strength to overcome from any
other but Him ? Can we expect to see any one else arise with
greater power than He has ?
21. And in that same hour he cured many of their infirmities
and plagues, and of evil spirits ; and unto many that were blind
he gave sight.

360 The Tokens of God's Messengers. [S. Luke VII.
We recognise Thee, O Lord, by these signs.- Thou alone art able to
set free and cleanse and heal and enlighten us. Complete Thy
gracious work, and let all men see that we have been delivered from
our old sins and are now leading a new life. Thou hast power to
change hearts and make the blind see.
22. Then Jesus answering said unto them, Go your way, and
tell John what things ye have seen and heard; how that tlie
blind see, the lame walk, the lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear,
the dead are raised, to the poor the gospel is preached.
These were to be the proofs of the Messiah's kingdom. It should
come in works of mercy, not in the splendour of this world. Let
me be poor in spirit so as to apprehend this Gospel, and let me set
it forth as the peculiar inheritance and support of the poor of this
world in their trials. What a wickedness it would be to deprive the
poor of Christian preaching ! The Gospel is their chief comfort.
23. And blessed is he, wlwsoever shall not be offended in me.
There are some whom even Jesus Christ cannot please. They find
fault with His doings or sayings, they blame His Church and His
Sacraments, but a humble Christian submits with joy to His Saviour's
commands, and accepts His Word with undoubting faith. The
Gospel is mere matter of offence to some. They wish it were other
than it is, but to us it is our very life.
24. IT And when the messengers of John were departed, lie
began to speak unto the people concerning John, What went ye
out into the wilderness for to see ? A reed shaken with the wind ?
John was not thus. He persevered in the right way, even against a
king's wrath. He kept on the same manner of life without being
drawn aside by the world, and therefore his presence had a power
to draw men out into the wilderness and stir them up to conversion
of heart. A consistent life is the true secret of influence for good.
25. But what went ye out for to see ? A man clothed in soft
raiment ? Behold, they which are gorgeously apparelled, and
live delicately, are in kings' courts.
Some greatness is of this world. It consists in titles, wealth, fine
dresses, and a command of luxuries. It is much gaped at and
coveted by the foolish. Other greatness is wholly inward and
independent of all such appliances. Worldly greatness will pass
away with its trappings, but God has work to do in eternity for
those who have sought to be great in His sight only.
26. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? Yea, I
say unto you, and much more than a prophet.
The prophets foretold from afar their Master's coming. They lived
amidst figures, and saw only some fragments of the great reality.
John lived in the time when it began to unfold, and showed men

Ver. 32.] God's Counsel, refected.' 361
the way into it. If the prophets believed, and loved, and prayed,
with such small glimpses as they had, how devout we ought to be
who have the whole unveiled to us !
27. This is he, of whom it is written, Behold, I send my
messenger before thy face, which shall prepare thy way before
thee. So a Christian minister should do. His object is to make ready a way
for Christ into the souls of men. He speaks not of himself but of
his Master, and desires to make Him better known and loved.
God sends him on Christ's behalf.
28. For I say unto you, Among those that are born of women
there is not a greater prophet than John the Baptist : but he
that is least in the kingdom of God is greater than he.
We live under that kingdom. We have mysteries declared unto us
which John only foresaw dimly. Let us beware lest the greatness
of our opportunities bring a corresponding ruin upon us. John
was greater than all other prophets, because he was so near to
Jesus Christ, and yet the Christian enjoys his Saviour's presence
and has the blessed promise that He is always with him. He too
should be a prophet to make his Master known unto men.
29. And all the people that- heard him, and the publicans,
justified God, bring baptized vrith the baptism of John.
The common people approved God's plan and submitted to it They
listened to the call to repentance, and profited by the day of mercy.
Let us study God's great designs in order to justify them, i.e. to
approve them and carry them out in our doings. It does not
require gifts of learning to do this, but a humble heart
30. But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of
God against themselves, being not baptized of him.
God's great plan came to nought for them. They had knowledge and
high position, but they refused to humble themselves or listen to
John's warning words. I desire to submit to God's ordinances, and
come where He bids me. What pride it would be if I despised
any means which God offers whereby my soul may find a blessing 1
31. IT And the Lord said, Whereunto then shall I liken the
men of this generation ? and to what are they like ? 32. They
are like unto children ritting in the marketplace, and calling
one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you, and ye
have not danced ; we have mourned to you, and ye have not wept.
Our Lord looked round to find a pattern for the foolish indifference
of the Jews, and He found one in boys' games. One while they
want their companions to act a merry part, another while a sad one,
according to their varying fancy. God's messengers are blamed
for not humouring the tastes and fancies of the men to. whom they
come.

362 Our Lord at Simon's Feast. [S. Luke VII.
33. For John the Baptist came ndther eating bread nor
drinking wine ; and ye say, He hath a devil.
John spoke of wrath to come, lived in the desert, taught repentance.
But the Pharisees blamed his severity, and said that he was beside
himself, that his awful words and solitary life savoured of the
demon's influence. They said he was too harsh, and required too
high a standard.
34. The Son of man is come eating and drinking ; and ye
say, Behold a gluttonous man, and a winebibber, a friend of
publicans and sinners !
Jesus our Lord joined in the common ways of men. He was found
at the marriage feast. He won men with gracious words. He
spoke of Divine mercy, and therefore the zealous Jews despised
Him. They said He was too easy and too gracious. They gave
a bad interpretation to His acts.
35. But wisdom is justified of all her children.
But there were some chosen souls who recognised God's wisdom
under either aspect. They obeyed the warnings of John. They
welcomed the sweet promises of Jesus Christ. It was God Who
spoke to their hearts, and they heard His voice. Let us not be
hasty to criticise preachers or services or the method of any good
work, but rather be ready to obey God's will as He makes it
known to us.
36. 1T And one of the Pharisees desired him that lie would
eat with him. And he went into the Pharisee's house, and sat
down to meat.
Our Lord accepted this kindness from the Pharisee, though he did
not offer it with much warmth or devotion. But He accepted in
order to confer a blessing on His host by stirring up his cold heart
and making him feel his lack of love. In Christ our Lord there
was a gentleness and simplicity which endeared Him to all true
hearts, and encouraged them to be with Him.
37. And, behold, a woman in the dty, which was a sinner,
when she knew that Jesus sat at meat in the Pharisee's house,
brought an alabaster box of ointment,
This woman had seen Jesus or heard Him speak, and her heart had
been touched to feel her sins, so she came to Him at once, full of
shame at herself and of thankfulness to God for looking on her in
mercy. When we meet a hardened sinner, let us not despise him,
but remember that God's love is able to bring him to repentance.
Only et him not put off the day of better things, but come at once
to seek pardon.
38, And stood at his feet behind him weeping, and began to
wash his feet with tears, and did wipe them with the hairs of

Ver. 44.] The Woman who was a Sinner. 363
her head, and kissed his feet, and anointed them with the oint
ment. Here are deep grief and shame, and a reverent love for Christ, and
a liberality in pouring the perfume on His feet Dear friends, if
we have loved sin, let us feel now how vile we are and how full of
pardoning love is our Lord God, and let us give up ourselves and
all that we have to be His in future.
39. Now when the Pharisee which had bidden him saw it,
he spake within himself, saying, This man, if he were a prophet,
would have known who and what manner of woman this is that
toucheth him : for she is a sinner.
Simon refused to believe that Jesus was a prophet, because He let the
sinner approach so near. I recognise Him as a Saviour for this
very same reason. Who else, while yet full of purity, could attract
sinners, could give them sorrow and love and pardon, could know
all about them and yet forgive all? Thou knowest, Lord, my heart,
and what I have delighted in ; all is open to Thee.
40. And Jesus answering said unto him, Simon, I have some
what to say unto thee. And he saith, Master, say on.
How kindly our Lord speaks ! how wisely He teaches and reproves !
Let us pray God for grace to say the right thing at the right time,
and so teach men the lessons they need to learn. We must give
account for idle words, but a word in due season, how good it is !
41. There was a certain creditor which had two debtors : the
one owed five hundred pence, and the other fifty. 42. And
when they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both.
Tell me therefore, which of them will love him most ?
God has given me many blessings, has forgiven me many sins, has
set me in His holy Church amidst gifts of nature and grace, has
made me a promise of still better things to come. What should I
render to Him for all this ? Who can reckon up what I owe to His
goodness? Other creatures may know little of Him, other nations
be less favoured, but what have I to say when He asks for some
return from me for all He has given ?
43. Simon answered and said, I suppose that he, to whom he
forgave most. And he said unto him, Thou hast rightly judged.
I know that I have committed many sins, have left undone many
duties, have many a time been held by God's merciful hand from
utter ruin, have showed little love for my neighbour, and that if I
enter into heaven it can only be by His wonderful mercy. I am
utterly unfit for that holy place. And yet I have hope. Am I not
then one of those who have experienced the immensity of His love ?
Who should love Him in return if not I ?
44. And he turned to the woman, and said unto Simon,

364 Christ's Feet anointed. [S. Luke VIII.
Seest thou this woman ? I entered into thine house, thou gavest
me no water for my feet : but she hath washed my feet with
tears, and wiped them with the hairs of her head.
Our Lord begins to reckon up the omissions and neglects which
showed that Simon cared little for Him, and which the penitent
woman had supplied. Do not think God despises small things.
He notices how we behave in His house, how we say our prayers,
how we treat the poor ; there is nothing so small but what we can
bring to it a loving heart, and perform it carefully and diligently.
45. Thou gavest me no kiss: but this woman since the time
I came in hath not ceased to kiss my feet. 46. My head with
oil thou didst not anoint : but this woman hath anointed my
feet with ointment.
How can we spiritually imitate this woman's actions ? Jesus is not
present among us bodily, but we can meditate with devotion on all
that He did. We can treat His poor members with sympathy.
We can reverence His sanctuary and approach His Sacraments with
fervour. Thus we too can honour His sacred feet and show that
we feel what He has done for us. It is a shame to bestow great
attention on men for a worldly end, and to neglect God's house
and His poor.
47. Wherefore I say unto thee, Her sins, which are many,
are forgiven ; for she loved much : but to whom little is forgiven,
the same loveth little.
Dost Thou mean, O Lord, that it is better for us to have sinned much
and then to be able to love more? that sinfulness is better than
purity ? God forbid that we should take the words thus. They
mean that the woman had plainly been forgiven even all her multitude
of sins, for she had been showing so much love. She felt how
great the debt had been, and so her tears obtained a full and perfect
pardon ; while Simon showed little love, because he thought he had
not done much to be forgiven. My sins and shortcomings are so
many, may my sense of forgiveness and peace be in proportion to
them.
48. And he said unto her, Thy sins are forgiven.
He says this to confirm her faith in His mercy, and to assure the
bystanders of it. She had already been purified by His inward
grace, but this is the outward declaration of His goodness towards
her. Let all sinners learn from this history the great power and
mercy of God, and the need of a speedy repentance. Oh blessed
change from a life of shame to the state of one made pure and
forgiven and become dear to God again !
49. And they that sat at meat with him began to say within
themselves, Who is this that forgiveth sins also ? 50. And he
said to the woman, Thy faith hath saved thee ; go in peace.

Ver. 4.] Women minister to Christ. 3.65
Unbelief doubts the guilt of sin and the reality of pardon. Faith
feels deeply both the greatness of its debt and the immensity of
God's mercy. Faith brings us to acknowledge the Godhead of
Jesus Christ, the power of His saving Cross, the graces He bestows
in His Church, the approach of the other world, and so leads us to
seek peace where alone it can be found. God deliver us from a
cold heart, and make us feel more and more Who Jesus is and
what He has done for our souls.

CHAPTER VIII.
3. Women minister unto Christ of their substance. 4. Christ, after he
had preached from place ty place, attended with his apostles, pro-
poundeth the parable of the sower, 16. and of the candle: 21. dedareth
who are his mother, and brethren : 22. rebuketh the winds : 26. casteth
the legion of devils out of the man into the herd of swine : 37. is re
jected of the Gadarenes : 43. healeth the woman of her bloody issue,
4g. and raiseth from death Jairus' daughter.
AND it came to pass afterward, that he went throughout every
Xi. dty and village, preaching and shewing the glad tidings
of the kingdom of God : and the twelve were with him,
Christ our Saviour and His little company neglected no place how
ever small ; no fatigue hindered them, no coldness or opposition
daunted them. They declared everywhere the glad tidings of
1 salvation. Lord, grant that Christians nowadays may follow this
blessed example, that they may set forth Thy Word simply and
patiently and in love, and so win many to follow it.
2. And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits
and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went
seven devils, 3. and Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward,
and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of
their substance.
Jesus and His disciples were supported by the charity of these kind
women, who had themselves received far greater benefits from Him.
He accepted their offerings as if He were a poor man with nothing
of His own. He teaches us thereby to accept kindness gratefully,
and to be contented with a position of dependence. To spend
money on Christ's service and on His poor is the best use to make
of riches.
4. IT And when much people were gathered together, and
were come to him out of every dty, he spake by a parable :
Crowds came, but Jesus knew their hearts and saw that many listened
to no profit So He began a new kind of teaching, that by

366 God's Sowing. [S. Luke VIII.
parables, so as to reveal deep things to those that were in earnest,
and to show the careless ones living pictures of their own condition.
The fields round supplied Him with the imagery which He used
to illustrate spiritual truth.
5. A sower went out to sow his seed : and as he sowed, some
fell by the way side ; and it was trodden down, and the fowls
of the air devoured it.
God's Word finds no place in careless hearts. They are hardened by
sin. They are open to the evil one's suggestions, they never apply
the message to their own case. Lord, make my heart soft and
tender, and keep the hardening power of Satan from it.
6. And some fell upon a rock ; and as soon as it was sprung
up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
Nor can the blessed seed thrive in a shallow or selfish heart. In
such there is no obedience, no repentance, no perseverance. Lord,
my heart is dry and my good resolutions ready to perish. Send me
the dew of Thy grace to moisten it with some real sorrow. I need
some tears of repentance, some earnestness of purpose, to keep the
good seed alive.
7. And some fell among thorns ; and the thorns sprang up
with it, and choked it.
Nor does God's Word prosper in a covetous heart where plans of
making money or spending it, engagements of business or society,
put heavenly things out of sight. Let me ever set apart the first of
my time and best of my thoughts for the study of God's Word,
and the more pressed I am with business, let me be the more
careful to keep room for devotion.
8. And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare
fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he
cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
God sows so bountifully, and yet He gets so partial a return. Much
of the seed is lost, and yet some prospers exceedingly. The good
ground is an honest heart, attentive, persevering, and true, where
the heavenly message produces abundant good works. Lord,
make my heart fit to hear Thy Word, bring my good resolves to
perfection, pardon my many failures to obey, and let the future be
better than the past
9. And his disdples asked him, saying, What might this
parable be? 10. And he said, Unto you it is given to know
tlie mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables;
that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not
understand. The parables had a double purpose. They enlightened some but
repelled others. So it is all through the Bible. Some study it

Ver. 15.] The First Parable explained. 367
with joy, beholding there God's Providence, doctrines of salvation,
counsels of good living, in fact all treasures and comforts. Others
find it only puzzling, full of hard passages and dry facts. It has no
light for them. On which side are we ? Do we read God's Word
with humility, and rejoice in it? or is it a burden, an empty,
wearisome tale ?
11. Now the parable is this : Tlie seed is the word of God.
Humble outwardly, and yet having a hidden power of life which can
reproduce itself in soul after soul, and multiply a thousandfold.
In every seed God has set a likeness of His Divine Word, but all
seeds do not prosper. So it is even with the Lord's own sowing.
12. Those by the way side are they that hear ; then cometh
the devil, and taketh away the word out of thdr hearts, lest
they should believe and be saved.
The devil makes use of the round of business and pleasure, the
constant excitement and mixed company in which so many pass
their days, to harden their hearts utterly and to prevent their caring
at all for the love of God. What has the Gospel with its sweet
promises, its message of love and purity, its lofty precepts and
deep mysteries, to do with such hearts ? they care not for it.
13. They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive
the word with joy ; and these have no root, which for a while
believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
Break up the rock, dear reader, by true repentance. Pray God for
perseverance. Do not seek spiritual joy and comfort only, but a
steady continuance in well-doing. Serve God for Himself, not for
the pleasure of it, and be as constant in times of dryness as when
all seemed precious to you.
14. And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when
they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches
and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
These are serious people. They speak sensibly, they lead sober lives,
their conduct is without reproach ; but which world are they work
ing for? Is not their whole life laid out in making the best of
this world to the ruin of true devotion? Earnest prayers, fervent
charity, brave resolutions, all are dwarfed and wither away in the
worldly air in which they live.
15. But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest
and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth
fruit with patience.
I want patience to keep the Word safe, for this I must pray ; and
patience to live by it, for this I must work also as well as pray ;
and patience to suffer for it, and for this I must with prayer cheer-

368 What is hid shall be made known. [S. Luke VIII.
fully embrace whatever suffering God sends me. These are three
rules by which the honest heart will go. Pray, work, and suffer,
with entire trust in God's goodness.
1 6. IT No man, when he hath lighted a candle, cover eth it
with a vessel, or putteth it under a bed; but setteth it on a
candlestick, that they which enter in may see the light.
Our Saviour's words are meant to enlighten us that we on our part
may enlighten others. It is not enough to believe on Christ in
your heart, you are bound not to be ashamed of Him in your life,
you are bound to tell others of Him.
1 7. For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest;
neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad.
We may succeed in hiding our sins from men for a few short years,
we may avoid shame and enjoy ease, no one may know our faults
or reprove us. But what shall we do when God visits ? Then
will come a light to discover all, a truth to judge all, a justice to
repay all. Let us examine ourselves and give up our secret faults
before that great day comes.
1 8. Take heed therefore how ye hear : for whosoever hath, to
him shall be given ; and whosoever hath not, from him shall be
taken even that which he seemeth to have.
In reading God's Word or listening to the explanation of it re
member that it is a responsible thing to be a Christian. Mean3
of grace make us worse if they do not make us better. If we,
do not profit by our opportunities they will soon pass from us.
God enable us to use them rightly now while we have them.
19. U Then came to him his mother and his brethren, and
could not come at him for the press. 20. And it was told him
by certain wliich said, Thy mother and thy brethren stand with
out, desiring to see thee.
What respect and love His friends must have felt for the Lord
Jesus ! How much they must have desired His company and
grieved when He left home to preach the Gospel ! They could
not understand His mission, but would fain have kept Him with
them instead of letting Him preach the kingdom of God. We
should desire to see Him and love to dwell on His words, but also
copy Him in putting God's work first of all.
21. And he answered and said unto them, My mother and
my brethren are these which hear the word of God, and do it.
Jesus does not despise His mother or His brethren, but declares that
the closest tie of all is a common faith and obedience. All who
believe in God and Christ and serve one heavenly Master should
be dear to each other. No strife should come between tliem. If

Ver. 27. J Jesus crossing the Sea. 369
they hope to live together in heaven, they must live in love now
together on earth. Lord, make us feel this hearty goodwill towards
all our brethren.
22. IT Now it came to pass on a certain day, that he went
into a ship with his disdples : and he said unto them, Let us
go over unto tlie other side of tlie lake. And they launched
forth. The present life is a passage from one side to the other of a narrow
but troubled sea. We are on our voyage now and shall soon
have reached the farther shore. Let us only take care to be sail
ing in company with Christ and with good people, then we may
sail on boldly, and meet danger calmly, trusting in Him.
23. But as they sailed he fell asleep : and there came down
a storm of wind on the lake ; and they were filled with water,
and were in jeopardy.
The storms of temptation beat upon us. The world seems to be
filling our hearts. We make no progress and are in danger of
ruin. We fancy that God does not hear nor help us. Dear friend,
do not mistrust Him. He sees and knows all, and orders it for
your greater good. Only cry to Him and fight against sin. Keep
on with the struggle and peace will come at last.
24. And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master,
master, we perish. Then lie arose, and rebuked the wind and
the raging of the water : and they ceased, and there was a calm.
When the storm comes let us call upon the Saviour and represent to
Him our great weakness. Without His help we are in constant
danger, yet He is with us though we see Him not. He allows these
fierce storms of evil men without and evil passions within to beat
upon us, but yet He is able in His good time to give us perfect
peace again.
25. And he said unto tliem, W lier e is your faith? And they
bang afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of
man is this / for he commandeth even the winds and water, and
they obey him.
Where is my faith ? When things look black I should remember my
Father's wise Providence and commit myself in His hands. I
ought not to be disquieted whatever comes, so long as I do not
leave Him. Men's fiercest passions can but work out His purposes.
26. IT And they arrived at the country of the Gadarenes,
which is over against Galilee. 27. And when he went forth to
land, there met him out of the dty a certain man, which had
devils long time, and ware no clothes, neither abode in any
house, but in the tombs. 2 A

370 The Evil Spirits entreat Jesus. [S. Luke VIII.
The sad condition of this poor sufferer figures the effects of certain
deadly sins. They enslave the heart to Satan. They make it
avoid pure joys and honest work, they make it love corruption. O
Lord God, defend Christian hearts, which are Thy temple, from such
deadly assaults. Make clean our thoughts, rescue those who are
in such frightful bondage.
28. When he saw Jesus, he cried out, and fell down before
him, and with a loud voice said, What have I to do with thee,
Jesus, thou Son of God most high ? I beseech thee, torment me
not. See, such a one abhors Jesus Christ and is tormented by His
presence. The thought of religion is odious to him. What
happiness can he look forward to in the world to come? So long as
he can indulge in his wonted pleasures he likes to shut out all other
thoughts. What will he do when brought face to face with Christ
in judgment?
29. (For he had commanded the unclean spirit to come out
of the man. For oftentimes it had caught him : and he was
kept bound with chains and in fetters; and he brake the bands,
and was driven of the devil into the wilderness.)
Some chains there are of human justice which retain evil-doers;
some of sinful habits, which are harder still, and more difficult to
break though invisible ; some there are, again, of Divine love. None
can be stronger than these last. We must long to be freed from
the evil chain, and bound only with the good one, which will keep
us fast to God. His service is perfect freedom.
30. And Jesus asked him, saying, Wliat is thy name ? And
he said, Legion : because many devils were entered into him.
Here is a mighty host, a great army of evil powers ranged against
the soul. They are fierce and well armed. They break down
body, soul, and spirit. They suggest many various sins. Lord, who
can help us but Thou ? If Thou art with us, we do not fear those
that are against us.
31. And they besought him that he would not command tliem
to go out into the deep.
They prayed that He would not send them into the depths of hell,
the deep where is no refreshment, or light, or joy. Devils fear hell.
Shall men mock at it and lightly risk the chance of going there ? '
32. And there was there an herd of many swine feeding on
tlie mountain : and they besought him that he would sufer them
to enter into them. And he suffered them. 33. Then went the
devils out of the man, and entered into the swine : and the herd
ran violently down a steep place into the lake, "and were choked.

Ver. 38.] Frenzy healed. 371
The purpose of this strange scene may have been to show by clear
evidence to this sufferer that he was really free. He felt his
enemies let go their hold. He saw the swine seized with sudden-
terror and rushing down the steep hillside. He recognised that now
his bondage was broken and he was able to love God and man.
The swine destroyed by the devils represent to us many persons
who shorten their days by sinful habits.
34. Wlien tliey that fed tliem saw what was done, they fled,
and went and told it in the dty and in themuntry.
The news of this marvel soon spread. Our Lord's works of conversion
or of healing, the many proofs of His goodness, were often passed
over. But when He permitted once only a miracle of destruction,
then men feared and told each other in trembling what had been
done. Let us not wait for God's judgments, but rather rejoice to
tell of His mercies.
35. Then tliey went out to see what was done ; and came to
Jesus, and found the man, out of whom the devils were departed,
sitting at the feet of Jesus, clothed, and in his right mind : and
they were afraid.
What a glorious change in his condition ! Now for the society of
devils, he has that of Christ our Saviour ; for nakedness, and frenzy,
and the tomb, he has a quiet mind and sober look, and is fit to
praise God and work for others. How many there are now
who are enslaved to deadly passions for whom we long to bring
about such a deliverance !
36. They also which saw it told them by what means he that
was possessed of the devils was healed.
They heard with fear and curiosity, but not with joy. The healing
mercy brought to their minds no spark of sympathy. They did
not care for a rescued soul. Grant me, O Lord, a heart to care for
the miserable condition of so many of Thy children, and to rejoice
when any of them are brought to God again.
37. IT Then the whole multitude of the country of the Gada-
renes round about besought "him to depart from them ; for they
were taken with great fear : and he went up into the ship, and
returned back again.
O foolish people who drive away the messenger of peace ! Lord, abide
with me ; hearken not to the unruly desires of my sinful heart, which
is at times rebellious and would fain shake off Thy yoke. Let me
lose everything sooner than Thy presence. Let my fear bring me
to Thy altar, not keep me from it.
38. Now the man out of whom the devils were departed be
sought him that he might be with him: but Jesus sent him
away, saying,

372 Jairus1 Daughter. [S. Luke VIII.
One so lately under the power of Satan was not allowed to share in
the apostles' work and be constantly with Jesus. A humbler place
was more fit for him. True penitents will accept readily whatever
is sent to humble them. They will be content with a lower place,
and less joy in prayer, and less ease in life, so long as they are
Christ's. AH that comes to them will be well.
39. Return to thine own house, and shew how great things
God liath done unto thee. And he went his way, and published
throughout the whole city how great things Jesus had done unto
him. Glory and praise be to Thee for Thy great mercies. Thou hast created
and redeemed me, hast adopted me into Thy family, hast rescued
me from many sins and great dangers, hast fed me with Thy
grace, guided me along Thy way, given me a sure promise of
something better to come. Words fail me, O Lord, to express what
I owe Thee, a debt which I can never pay.
40. And it came to pass, that, wlien Jesus was returned, tlie
people gladly received him : for they were all waiting for him.
God at times makes souls wait for His mercy, that it may be more
precious when it comes. He never deceives those who wait for
Him, though He seems to delay long. He is full of goodness, and
His very delays are for our profit in the end. Let us only persevere
in waiting.
41. IT And, behold, there came a man named Jairus, and he
was a ruler of the synagogue : and he fell down at Jesus' feet,
and besought him that he would come into his house :
Men took their troubles to Him. He listened kindly and helped
willingly. Grant me, O Lord, a feeling heart that I may never
turn away coldly from any sufferer.
42. For he liad one only daughter, about twelve years of age,
and she lay a dying. But as lie went the people thronged him.
He had one daughter, and was deeply anxious for her as she lay in
great danger; he had no other but her, and would have been left
desolate if she had died. In like manner each of us has but one
soul; if we lose that, all is lost. Let us watch over the health of
sick aPPly eagerly t0 tlle Good Physician to heal it when
43. IT And a woman liaving an issue of blood twelve years,
which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could
be healed of any,
This woman's disease represents to us the corruption of our human
£ , -i J.-S W°-"ld S £acllers. with their maxims and systems, try to
heal it, but in vain. They cannot give pardon for the past, or hope
for the future, or power to overcome evil. No money can buy -
those gifts, no wisdom discover them.

Ver. 49-] The Woman healed secretly. 373
44. Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment :
and immediately her issue of blood stanched.
Only Jesus can heal the soul. Some there are who come to Him super-
stitiously, or in much ignorance, or very fearfully, yet He does
not deny His mercy to any soul that sincerely seeks. He deals
tenderly with weak and doubting hearts that do not dare as yet
to stand up bravely for Him.
45. And Jesus said, Wlio touched me ? When all denied,
Peter and they tliat were with him said, Master, the multitude
throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me ?
Many Christians throng after Jesus and press on Him outwardly,
they profess His Name, they fill His house, and yet they do not
touch Him by a living faith. He looks round invisibly to find a
faithful follower among all the multitude of professed believers.
46. And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I per-
cdve that virtue is gone out of me.
No good thought or good deed but flows from God's grace. It does
not spring in ourselves, but is imparted from above. When we
draw near to Christ in His holy ordinance, we ought to derive
new power and love from His saving presence.
47. And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came
trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him
before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and
how she was healed immediately.
Come forward, O pardoned soul ; do not be afraid to profess yourself
on the Lord's side, and declare His mercy and your own unworthi-
ness; do not forget to ascribe all to God, remembering that nothing
is hid from Him. " I came to Jesus because of His goodness and
my sins. I used prayer and means of grace, and now He has helped
me to lead a new life. " Such will be your words.
48. And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort :
thy faith hath made thee wlwle; go in peace.
Faith, healing, peace, here are precious gifts which God has in store
for us. Here are words of encouragement for the troubled spirit.
It was not any magic power in Christ's garment, but His mercy
responding to her faith which brought about this cure.
49. U While he yet spake, there cometh one from the rider of
the synagogue's house, saying to him, Thy daughter is dead ;
trouble not the Master.
We must not be discouraged from praying. Nothing is impossible to
God's power. We ought to continue our confidence and trust quietly
in Him, though things seem at the very blackest. Bad news will
not utterly destroy a Christian's peace of mind.

374 Mourning turned into Joy. [S. Luke IX.
50. But when Jesus heard it, he answered him, saying, Fear
not : believe only, and she shall be made whole.
God's Word strengthens our faith, faith sustains prayer, prayer brings
down an answer from God. We do not rely on human means for
pardon and life, but on God's almighty power. Let us ask for
more faith, as this world's temptations so soon weaken it.
51. And when he came into the house, he suffered no man to
go in, save Peter, and James, and John, and the father and
the mother of the maiden.
We must avoid worldly company if we want God to speak to our
hearts. His great works are carried on within the hearts of those
who stop and listen to His voice. Our Lord's chosen friends and
the girl's parents were the sole spectators of this marvellous rising
again. Jesus would not bring it to pass in the presence of
unbelievers.
52. And all wept, and bewailed her : but he said, Weep not;
she is not dead, but sleepeth.
Death is a frightful thing when viewed by the natural eye, but faith
regards it as a sleep, where the soul is refreshed after this world's
labour, and waits the Master's voice to awaken it again. We may
indeed weep for the dead, yet with a quiet mind, and hoping soon
to rejoin them.
53. And they laughed him to scorn, knowing that she was
dead. Christians are now ridiculed by the world, their hope is considered a
mere dream. It is thought a sad thing to lose the pleasures or
advantages of life. All seems over when we die ; but one day the
tables will be turned. Then the believer will be happy indeed,
and the scoffer ashamed to find things come out as the Scripture
said they would.
54. And he put them all out, and took Iter by the hand, and
called, saying, Maid, arise.
I look forward to the great day when Thou, O Lord, wilt call us all
from the grave and we shall obey Thy voice. Raise my soul now,
I beseech Thee, to a new life, so that I may be ready then to
behold Thy face in mercy and hear Thy gracious words.
55. And her spirit came again, and she arose straightway :
and lie commanded to give her meat.
Jesus Christ feeds us with the Bread of Life at His Holy Table, but
such food will not profit those who are dead in unrepented sin.
Their souls must first be quickened by grace, and then they can
draw near and eat to their strengthening and refreshing. He
provides what is needful for us in nature and in grace.

Ver. 3.] Christ sends out His Disciples. 375
56. And lier parents were astonished: but he charged them
that they sliould tell no man what was done.
We who read this are astonished also, yet God's power is still mighty
to save. What shall we feel at the coming of that great day,
when all the dead shall rise ? Our Saviour wrought such marvels
then, that our faith might be quickened to trust in His power now.

CHAPTER IX.
1. Christ sendeth his apostles to work miracles, and to preach. 7. Herod
desired to see Christ. 17. Christ feedeth five thousand : 18. enquireth
what opinion the world had of him : foretelleth his passion : 23. pro-
poseth to all the pattern of his patience. 28. The transfiguration.
37. He healeth the lunatick : 43. again forewarneth his disciples of
his passion : 46. commendeth humility : 51. biddeth them to shew
mildness towards all, without desire of revenge. 57. Divers would
follow him, but upon conditions.
THEN he called his twelve disdples togetlier, and gave them
power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.
They had before this been chosen to be disciples, viz. to be in our
Lord's company and witness His works and acts, that was their
preparation. Now they are sent out to carry on His work and
perform acts of mercy as He had done. We should desire these
same gifts for ministers of the Gospel now. They must have been
called out of the world by Christ, and must have spent some time
in communion with Him, if they would have power to deal with
sin and suffering in His Name.
2. And he sent them to preach the kingdom of God, and to
heal the sick.
The time is come for God to reign. Heart and life must be His.
Ye souls that suffer, accept peace and joy again. Such is the sub
stance of the saving message. Grant, Lord, that Thy ministers
now may be full of power to set up this kingdom, and of love to
comfort the afflicted. In this kingdom is a plentiful store of par
don that can heal all our soul's infirmities, however great they be.
3. And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey,
neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money ; neither
have two coats apiece.
We must trust in God, He will provide. Not that we are forbidden
now to make a reasonable provision of things necessary, but that,
whatever we do, we must look to Him to prosper our way. He
must raise up friends and supply our many necessities. Before we
can persuade others, we must firmly believe ourselves in God's
good Providence. If we feel that He cares for us, we shall win
others to trust in the same love.

376 Herod desires to see Jesus. [S. Luke IX
4. And whatsoever house ye enter into, there abide, and
tlience depart.
It is a great hindrance to religion whenwe are very particular about
comforts, when we are vexed at inconveniences, and complain
bitterly if this or that goes wrong. To one who has heaven in view,
all earthly dwellings are of little account; they are but shelters for
a short time, not an abiding city.
5. And whosoever will not receive you, when ye go out of
tliat dty, shake off the very dust from your feet for a testimony
against them.
It is a dangerous thing to reject God's message. The opportunities
which we have slighted will rise up against us. The saints we
have refused to listen to will cast us out from their company.
6. And they departed, and went through the towns, preaching
the gospel, and healing every where.
Jesus and His disciples taught the poor rather than the rich, they
preached with the utmost plainness, they relieved body as well as
soul. Here are hints for a Christian teacher. Let him frequently try
his own work by this pattern and see where he falls short.
7. IT Now Herod the tetrarch heard of all that was done by
him . and he was perplexed, because that it was said of some,
that John was risen from the dead;
Herod heard of our Lord, but he heard to no profit, and he was
perplexed, but not converted. With him the good tidings of
salvation being near, were but the entertainment of an idle moment,
not a matter of life and death. Lord, reveal Thy Son to my heart,
that I may hear of Him fruitfully and persevere faithfully.
8. And of some, that Elias had appeared; and of others,
that one of the old prophets was risen again.
There were stirrings of heart and rumours about Jesus, and Herod's
guilty conscience made him uneasy, wondering whether John,
whom he had murdered, could really have come back to life
again.
9. And Herod said, John have I beheaded : but wlw is this,
of whom I hear such things ? And lie desired to see him.
Indeed he wished to see Jesus, and he obtained his wish; for our
Lord was taken before him ou the morning of Good Friday (chap.
xxiii. 8), yet he got no good from his Divine Visitor, but only made
his own guilt deeper. The visit of Jesus may be for condemnation
as well as for healing. We may approach Him in His Word, or at
His holy altar, and be worse, not better, for the opportunity.
jo. IT And the apostles, wlien they were returned, told him

Ver. 16.] Five Thousand are fed. 377
all that they had done. And he took them, and went aside
privately into a desert place belonging to the dty called Bethsaida.
Let us be ready to give account to God of what we have done,
committing it into His hands, and asking pardon for its short
comings. Whatever in it was good is His. Let our care be to
commune with Him in retirement, and so prepare ourselves for a
fresh effort.
11. And the people, when they knew it, followed him: and
he received them, and spake unto them of the kingdom of God,
and healed them that had need of healing.
What a pattern for me is my Master's patience, His courtesy to the
people who broke in upon His rest, His earnest desire to
enlighten their minds and relieve their pains ! what a contrast is
this to my own selfishness !
12. And when the day began to wear away, then came the
twelve, and said unto him, Send the multitude away, that tliey
may go into the towns and country round about, and lodge, and
get victuals : for we are here in a desert place.
We are inclined to complain of the situation in which we find our
selves, and to long for more advantages (whether spiritual or
worldly). We think our lot is hard, and that others are so much
better off. Is there not something distrustful about this temper ?
If we are where God would have us, it is not really a desert, God
will provide for our needs.
13. But he said unto tliem, Give ye them to eat. And they
said, We have no more but five loaves and two fishes ; except we
should go and buy meat for all this people.
Learn first your own nothingness. Others come to you for help,
counsel, bodily or spiritual relief, good example, guidance towards
heaven, and you feel that you are unable to help them, your poor
human wisdom runs dry, your means fall through. Happy are you
if you recognise this and turn in faith to Him Who can supply all
needs, His fulness suffices for all.
14. For they were about five thousand men. And he said to
his disdples, Make them sit down by fifties in a company. 15.
And they did so, and made them all sit down.
Order and decency are agreeable to God. He would have even
our behaviour and our conversation well ordered. Above all when
we come to meet Him in His house, He would have us come before
Him reverently, avoiding any talking, and thinking only of His
praise, not about others who are in church. Before these hungry
guests could partake of His bounty, they had all to sit down in
peaceable order, and prepare themselves to receive a blessing.
16. Then he took the five loaves and the two fishes, and look-

378 Jesus declared to be the Christ. [S. Luke IX.
ing up to heaven, he blessed them, and brake, and gave to the
disciples to set before the multitude.
Glory and praise be to Thee, O Lord, for Thy bounties in nature and
grace. Our food and its power to nourish us is Thy gift. Thou hast
shed Thy mercies abundantly on our path. Thou hast provided
heavenly food to nourish our souls. All that we receive through
friends or ministers of religion comes of Thine hand.
17. And they did eat, and were all filled: and there was
taken up of fragments that remained to them twelve baskets.
Let us be ready to impart God's Word to all. There is in it an
infinite store of spiritual nourishment ; it grows by distributing.
We must feed on it, and yet the more we share with others, the
more good it does to ourselves. We must not despise any frag
ments, whether of grace, or time, or opportunities ; all may be
made use of.
18. % And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his
disdples were with him : and he asked them, saying, Whom say
the people that I am ? .
It was on a journey, yet our Saviour found a place and time for
devotion. He was about to ask His disciples of their faith in His
Divine power, and teach them about His saving death, and He
prayed first that they might answer and might hear aright. Our
teachings would prosper better if we had first entreated God to
enlighten our hearers' hearts and open their lips.
19. They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say,
Elias ; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen
again. Many have wrong or imperfect ideas about Jesus Christ. Let us thank
God for His gift to us of a true faith ; of ourselves we could not
have found out the truth. We believe and confess that Christ our
Lord is far greater than the prophets, and all that they knew, they
learned of Him.
20. He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am ? Peter
answering said, The Christ of God.
Though others despise or deride Thy Name, though long ages have
passed since Thy earthly sojourn, though I have to meet suffering
and death, and to fight with sin, yet I take Thee for my Master.
I know that Thou art God's Son, man's Saviour, the Friend of
sinners ; nothing shall rob me of this faith.
21. And he straitly charged them, and commanded them to
tell no man tliat thing;
They might not tell it then, for the people's hearts were set on having
an earthly king and so mistook our Saviour's work ; but we may tell
it now, and try to win every one to the same faith that we enjoy.

Ver. 27.] How to follow Jesus. 379
2 2. Saying, The Son of man must suffer many things, and
be rejected of the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be
slain, and be raised the third day.
Our Lord's true manhood, His bitter death, and His resurrection
are taught in this verse. Let us listen to it with great reverence.
The apostles indeed heard it with dread. This was the first time that
Christ's Passion was clearly foretold to them, but we have learned
now to find life and glory in the very shame.
23. IT And he said to them all, If any man will come after
me, Id him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and
follow me.
His road is to be our road. We must give up what? Ourself, our
own way and pleasure. Take up what ? The Cross, which means
a measure of trial and shame. Go after whom ? Jesus Christ, by
leading a life after His pattern. O Lord, these words are hard to
flesh and blood ; help me to obey them.
24. For whosoever will save his life shall lose it : but whoso
ever will lose his life for my sake, the same shall save it.
Here is a riddle, of which Jesus Christ bids us find the meaning. If
we set our hearts on saving our life, we lose it ; if we are willing to
lose it, ve save it. The meaning is, that if any one makes enjoy
ment, peace, or comfort his object here, he will wake up to find,
too late, that he has lost himself and his happiness for ever ; but if
he is willing to give up all this cheerfully for Christ, he will gain
infinitely in the end.
25. For what is a man advantaged, if he gain the whole
world, and lose himself, or be cast away ?
Here is a bad bargain. All the world, its splendour and comforts, won,
and the soul lost. Glory and honour here, but eternal shame and
ruin in the judgment of God. The fools at that day will be those
who have thrown away purity or faith, though they won all else.
26. For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words,
of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he sliall come in
his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels.
Give me courage that I may not fear to confess Thy Name and obey
Thy words, to pray, to come to the altar, to avoid bad company,
to choose religion for my portion. It is hard at times to stand up
against ridicule and endure the scoffs of ungodly men, only there
will be an ample reward in that day when we shall see in great
glory Him Whom we have believed in here.
27. But I tell you of a truth, there be some standing here,
which shall not taste of death, till they see the kingdom of God.
We must taste of death, nay, drink up its bitterness, before we see the
full glory of that kingdom ; yet God shows us some glimpses of it

380 The Holy Mount. [S. Luke IX.
in this world. There are hopes, and longings, and a sure persuasion
of His mercy which He bestows upon His people, and which lift
them up at times to see His glory.
28. IT And it came to pass about an eight days after these
sayings, he took Peter and John and James, and went up into
a mountain to pray.
Great sufferings had been foretold, how were the disciples to meet
them ? Jesus takes them apart from the stir of the world to join
with Him in prayer. He prepares them there, by communion with
God and the sight of heavenly things, to meet whatever should come
upon them. This will be our strength in the evil day, to have
been with Jesus apart in prayer.
29. And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was
altered, and his raiment was white and glistering.
One who prays sincerely will experience a change, not, like his
Master, in outward glory (at least in this world), but in his dis
position and manners ; he will grow in patience, in good temper,
in purity ; he will be a help and comfort to his brethren. Lord,
grant me this inward alteration, even though I may be outwardly
little regarded.
30. And, behold, there talked with him two men, which were
Moses and Elias :
This was to show that the law and the prophets lead to Christ.
What Moses did in bringing the law from Sinai, what Elijah did in
recalling the people from Baal to worship the Lord again, all
these were but steps in the history of God's Church, they were
part of the preparation for Christ. Moses and Elijah, when they
were alive, only saw Christ dimly, and in figure, but after death
God showed them the whole truth.
3 1. Who appeared in glory, and spake of his decease which
he should accomplish at Jerusalem.
Even in glory Jesus did not put away the thought of His coming
death. How soon we also must depart ! That journey should not
be long out of our thoughts, we must all set forth upon it. We
know not whence we shall start, but we pray that we may end it at
the heavenly Jerusalem.
32. But Peter and they that were with him were heavy with
sleep : and wlien they were awake, they saw his glory, and tlie
two men that stood with him.
Oh what a happy moment that will be when we shall awake from the
sleep of death and behold the glory of Christ and His saints ! That
will be a true wakening. This world and all its miseries and follies
will have vanished like a dream, and something better will have
come instead.

Ver. 38.] The Overshadowing Cloud. 381
33. And it came to pass, as tliey departed from him, Peter
said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let
us make three tabernacles ; one for thee, and one for Moses, and
one for Elias : not knowing what he said.
In this world we may not live for our own pleasure, even though it
be of a religious kind. We must not spend our time in prayer to the
neglect of common duties. It is indeed good to enjoy communion
with God, yet when the time comes we must rise and go down
from the mount, God has work for us to do.
34. While lie thus spake, there came a cloud, and overshadowed
them : and they feared as they entered into the cloud.
God is close by us, though we see Him not, and at times He makes
us feel His presence. I desire, O Lord, to have an abiding fear
and love of Thy holy Name, and often to remember Thy over
shadowing wings, and take refuge under them. If God is so near,
I must fear sin and not be afraid of men. I do not expect to see
everything clear in this world, it is enough for me to feel that God
is with me.
35. And there came a voice out of the cloud, saying, This is
my beloved Son : hear him.
Jesus speaks to us in many ways, let us not turn a deaf ear to Him.
Mercies and judgments, Holy Scriptures, good example and warn
ings, the voice of our hearts, all lead us one road, if we will but
heed. What ! shall God's only Son come down from heaven to
enlighten us, and we refuse to listen to Him ? Who else is there
who can declare to us the will of God and our own duty ?
36. And when the voice was past, Jesus was found alone.
And they kept it dose, and told no man in those days any of
those things which they had seen.
Do not be too ready to talk about your religious experiences, let
much remain hidden between yourself and God. It is enough for
you to rise from prayer strengthened and enlightened, and set
about the work which He has given you to do. Our Saviour did
not wish anything spoken of which merely magnified Himself.
Imperfect believers might have had their curiosity satisfied, but it
would have done them no good.
37. 11 And it came to pass, that on the next day, when tfaey
vjere come down from the hill, much people met him.
On the mount there had been heavenly visions and mysteries of
grace ; down below there were cares and trials, and work to be done.
Yet our Lord did not linger on the mount, but came down readily
to mingle with the people and help them.
38. And-, behold, a man of the company cried out, saying,
Master, I beseech thee, look upon my son : for he is mine only

382 A Child delivered from the Unclean Spirit. [S. Luke IX.
child. 39. And, lo, a spirit taketh him, and he suddenly crieth
out ; and it teareth him that he foameth again, and bruising
him liardly departeth from him.
God is already working on us in mercy, when we bring before Him
the needs of our soul, when we grieve over its evil passions, its
weakness, its clinging to sin, when we feel our own folly and
misery. As this poor father brought to Jesus his child's sad case,
so let us represent to Him our manifold needs and our helpless
ness in the hour of temptation. How strong is sin, how easily I
yield, how miserable it is that foul passion should so deform my
heart !
40. And I besought thy disciples to cast him out ; and they
could not.
If, the disciples are imperfect, let that all the more drive us to have
recourse to the Master. They are but flesh and blood, often they
make great mistakes, but Jesus Christ is infinite in power and
mercy, and never can deceive those who put their trust in Him.
41. And Jesus answering said, 0 faithless and perverse
generation, how long shall I be with you, and suffer you ? Bring
thy son hither.
How slow we are in learning Christ's lesson ! how little faith He finds
in us after so many mercies and warnings ! Jesus came down from
the glory of heaven to sojourn amongst sinners and bear with then-
failings. Shall we be impatient or complain of not being appreci
ated ? If He showed patience, we ought to be patient too.
42. And as he was yet a coming, the devil threw him down,
and tare him. And Jesus rebuked the unclean spirit, and
healed the child, and delivered him again to his father.
Give me, O Lord, more faith in Thy almighty power. I know that
there is no sin, no despair, no vileness so great as to be out of the
reach of Thy mercy, only I need a living faith to trust in this, and
to go out and tell the hardened and vicious that there is still a
power that can do them good. Whatever the devil may have
done against us, yet grace can do more for us, if we will hearken
to God s voice.
43. IT And tliey were all amazed at the mighty power of God
But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus
did, he said unto his disciples, 44. Let these sayings dnk down
into your ears : for the Son of man shall be delivered into the
hands of men.
It is not enough to admire Christ's mighty works, we must turn.to the
Cross and apply ourselves to feel its power. His humiliation for
us, His agony and shame and death have more virtue to heal our
souls than all the mysteries of glory have. He did not wish to be

Ver. 49.] A Child chosen to teach Humility. 383
praised, but put away praise and sought for contempt and suffering.
He Who could deliver otliers from Satan's power, yet allowed
Himself to be delivered into the power of evil men.
45. But they understood not this saying, and it was hid from
them, that they perceived it not : and they feared to ask him of
that saying.
The mystery of the Cross is to be learned under the Cross ; it requires,
in order to be understood, a willing mind that readily accepts the
same lot which came upon Christ Himself. May God bring round
the time to each of us when we shall perceive the sweetness of the
Cross, and ask Him in prayer to teach us more and more of its
meaning.
46. 1T Then there arose a reasoning among them, which of
them should be greatest.
What a mistake, for the disciples of a crucified Master to dispute
about distinction for themselves ! Yet this is deeply rooted in the
human heart. We long for praise, we take delight in anything
that sets us above otliers. When shall we learn to rejoice in
humiliation ? It is a Divine favour to be obscure and little regarded.
If such is our lot, we should accept it gratefully at His hands.
47. And Jesus, percdving the thought of their heart, took a
child, and set him by him,
Our Saviour took a child for His text. He recommends us to be
humble, trustful, and free from ambition, as children are. He tells
us that service done to them for His sake is precious to Him. Let
us treat the children with kindness, bear with them, guard them
from sin, as they are dear to Christ's heart.
48. And said unto them, Whosoever shall receive this child in
my name recdveth me : and whosoever shall receive me receiveth
him that sent me : for he that is least among you all, the same
shall be great.
Here is the true road to greatness, honour and welcome Jesus Christ.
How can I do this? He is out of sight and reach now. Yes,
but He has left representatives. All the helpless are in His place.
He is the real receiver of what you do for them.
49. IT And John answered and said, Master, we saw one
casting out devils in thy name ; and we forbad him, because he
followeth not with us.
The Name of Jesus Christ had power. It wrought marvels even
beyond the company of the disciples. Let us not be slow to
acknowledge the same truth. In the present day Jesus is preached
with power, nay, He is loved and obeyed by many who are not at
one with us in church communion. We must not deny or hinder
this, but accept it as of God's appointment.

384 James and John rebuked. [S. Luke IX.
50. And Jesus said unto him, Forbid him not: for he tliat
is not against us is for us.
True charity will recognise and love what is good wherever it is found.
All those who hate sin, who live by faith, who show love, are on
our side. May God increase them, and knit them together at last
in the one framework of His Holy Catholic Church, there to be one
for ever.
51. IT And it came to pass, when the time was come that lie
should be received up, he stedfastly set his face to go to Jerusalem,
When the time of His death drew near, He did not faint nor draw
back, but set forward to Jerusalem with a courageous heart When
we foresee suffering in our path we must make up our minds to
bear it in the same spirit. Jesus has gone over the way of sorrow
first, and His strength will help us. A Christian should, like his
Master, set his face towards the heavenly city.
52. And sent messengers before his face : and tliey went, and
entered into a village of the Samaritans, to make ready for him.
53. And they did not receive him, because his face was as
though he would go to Jerusalem.
These Samaritans would not give food or lodging to the Son of God
Himself because He was going to Mount Zion, and they had their
own holy mountain, which they thought was the only true one
(John iv. 20). It must not seem to us strange to meet with con
tempt or harsh treatment We are not better than the Lord Jesus.
If He was not always welcomed, why should we expect to be?
Indeed it is sometimes a proof that we are in the right way if we
are out of favour with the world.
54. And when his disciples James and John saw this, tliey
said, Lord, wilt thou that we command fire to come down from
heaven, and consume them, even as Elias did ?
Elijah (2 Kings i.) called down fire upon the two scornful captains
with their fifties. Should not those who insult God's Son meet
with a like vengeance? Should not we punish with severity all
those who speak against God and His Church, or meet religion
with scoffs ? No, too often we mix up our own wrongs with God's,
and think that religion has been assaulted when we meet with an
affront.
55. But he turned, and rebuked them, and said, Ye know
not what manner of spirit ye are of. 56. For tlie Son of man
is not come to destroy men's lives, but to save them. And tliey
went to another village.
Ah, no. Such a spirit is not that of Christ. He came to die for His
enemies, so as to gain them by patience. Insult is best met by a
quiet and humble temper that cares not for it. To feel revenge
and repay scorn with scorn is not the right spirit for Christians.

Ver- 62.]  The Three Aspirants. 385
We must leave revenge on God's hands, and set ourselves, like
Christ did in His earthly days, to save and comfort, not to judge.
It is indeed true that God is a consuming fire and hates sin, and
that a day of judgment will come. Yet we can best overcome evil
now by forbearance and meekness. Lord, enable us to give way,
and forgive, and love, as our Master did.
57. IT And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a
certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whitherso
ever thou goest. 58. And, Jesus said unto him, Foxes have
holes, and birds of the air have nests ; but the Son of man hath
not where to lay his head.
On what do you as a Christian set your heart ? If you seek an easy
and quiet life unbroken by care, if you long for prosperity and
honour, then you plainly do not go Christ's way. His way leads
through hardships, pain, and sorrow. When such come, take them
as signs of His love ; and when you are at ease yourself, then take
pains to share others' burden. We say sometimes, " Lord, I will
follow Thee," without fully meaning it. There is need for Divine
grace to strengthen us to perform our good purpose.
59. And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord,
suffer me first to go and bury my father. 60. Jesus said unto
him, Let the dead bury their dead : but go thou and preach the
kingdom of God.
What ! leave my father's last moments, or the care of his unburied
body, to others ! Can any duty be higher than that ? Yes. By
such an extreme case the Lord shows us that He must be first of
all. No love can stand in competition with His. No work with
that of proclaiming His Word. If we would give life to others by
teaching them about God, our souls must be living too. The dead
cannot do more than bury the dead.
61. And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee ; but let
me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.
62. And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand
to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.
You would be a true Christian, but not at once. You wish to give a
little time to getting free from present cares. Then you propose
to give yourself to God. It is to you that our Lord is speaking
here. He says, "Follow Me at once, let nothing hinder your
conversion. Do not look back with longing to what is behind."
The ploughman spoils his work if he turns and looks back, so does
a Christian if he lets his mind dwell on past follies and idle
pleasures. Notice in these three cases the Majesty of Christ. He
discerns hearts. He claims the whole man, and that instantly.
He is no mere teacher, but our sovereign Lord and Master,

2 B

386 The Seventy are sent out. [S. Luke X

CHAPTER X.
1. Christ sendeth out at once seventy disciples to work miracles, and to
preach : 17. admonisheth them to be humble, and wherein to rejoice :
21. thanketh his Father for his grace : 23. magnifieth the happy
estate of his church : 25. teacheth the lawyer how to attain eternal
life, and to take every one for his neighbour that needeth his mercy :
41. reprehendeth Martha, and commendeth Mary her sister.
AFTER these things the Lord appointed, other seventy also, and
Xi sent them two and two before his face into every dty and
place, whither he himself would come.
Their office was to prepare the way of Christ, to speak of their
Master and His doings, so that He might be welcomed when He
came. And yet His grace was needed to go before them. Unless
their Lord had invisibly gone first and disposed their hearers' hearts
to listen and believe, they would haVe laboured in vain. They
went two and two as being knit together in love, that helps
travellers along the road.
2. Therefore said he unto them, The harvest truly is great,
but the labourers are few : pray ye therefore the Lord of the
harvest, that he would send forth labourers into his harvest.
There is a great harvest now ripe and ready to fall, but so few who
are in earnest to gather it. There are souls in every place without
God, living in sin, not knowing the way of life, needing some one
to bring them back to God. It is a glorious harvest-work this.
Saints and angels are our fellow-reapers. The sheaves are
gathered into heaven, and even a little work is well rewarded.
Send forth, O Lord, more reapers, and quicken the hearts of those
who are now in the field.
3. Go your ways : behold, I send you forth as lambs among
wolves. What chance have lambs against wolves ? Yet God's mighty grace
is able, when He sees fit, to give the wolves lambs' hearts, i.e. to
convert the proud, scornful, and vicious into meek disciples of
Christ. Without His grace we are all wolves, fit only to prey on
each other. With Him we can become lambs after the pattern of
the Lamb of God.
4. Carry neither purse, nor scrip, nor shoes: and salute no
man by the way.
Make no provision, use no delay, but start at once to do God's work.
The abiding spirit of this command is that of a cheerful trust in
God s Providence, and a regard for the welfare of souls first. I
must not be with others merely to pass away time, if I can get in a
word for my Master.

Ver. ii.] Jesus instructs them. 387
5. And into whatsoever house ye enter, first say, Peace be to
this house.
That is the first blessing we can wish our friends, peace within and
without, with God and with each other. A family where peace
reigns is a happy sight, and fit for God's servants to delight in.
True peace is not indifference but love, union in the best of all
ties.
6. And if the son of peace be there, your peace shall rest
upon it : if not, it shall turn to you again.
Are we sons of peace ? They are those who try to check their own
tongue, to appease strife, to give up their own way, to seek God's
blessing on all they do. A son of peace has sought peace with
God by confession of sin, and is at rest, whatever comes. He
seeks and obtains God's blessing through His appointed means.
7. And in the same house remain, eating and drinking such
things as they give : for the labourer is worthy of his hire. Go
not from house to house. 8. And into whatsoever city ye enter,
and they receive you, eat such things as are set before you :
A Christian should not be particular about his eating and drinking ;
to talk much about such things is unbecoming. When necessity and
health are provided for, we should render thanks to the Giver, and
be no otherwise concerned about our meals. Certainly a minister
of Christ, whose business it is to set an example to others, ought to
be entirely indifferent to luxuries ; it is shameful for such a one to
be greedy or a lover of wine.
9. And heal the sick that are therdn, and say unto them,
The kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
The kingdom of God is love, and joy, and righteousness. It is
Jesus Christ ruling over men and angels, and they all serving Him
with cheerful obedience. It is a state where all goes right and is
well ordered. Here we can only see it dimly, yet it has come nigh
to us, and we can be its members. Rejoice in this message, and
pray for the still nearer coming of that kingdom ; in it all diseases
of body and soul will be healed.
10. But into wliatsoever dty ye enter, and they receive you
not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, 1 1.
Even the very dust of your dty, which deaveth on us, we do wipe
off against you : notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the
kingdom of God is come nigh unto you.
Ah, wasted opportunities, they will one day rise up against us;
teaching, communions, impressions of good, examples set before us,
all may only be to our condemnation. They did not do us good,
and yet God came nigh to us ; He called us, but we regarded not.
How grave a thing it is to think of the immense heap of neglected
graces and warnings that we have left behind us !

388 Encouragements for Christ's Ministers. [S. Luke X.
12. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable in
that day for Sodom, than for that city.
If you reject Christ as a Saviour, to whom else can you go? Sodom
drew down a fearful judgment for her sins. Let Christians beware
lest they store up for themselves a fiery indignation, which shall
devour them in the great day. Is it worth while to indulge sinful
desires now, and fall afterwards into endless ruin? Self-denial
and the Cross are more tolerable now than the fire and worm will
be then.
13. Woe unto thee, Cliorazin I woe unto thee, Bethsaida / for
if the mighty works had been done in Tyre and Sidon, which
have been done in you, they had a great while ago repented,
sitting in sackcloth and ashes. 14. But it shall be more toler
able for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you.
Oh great mystery of God's judgments ! Those who might have
repented did not have the call, those had it who did not profit by
it. We were naturally far more unworthy than others who have
lived without hearing of Jesus Christ, yet the saving message came
to us, and not to them. All such matters we must leave in God's
hands, knowing that He does right. His dealings with men are
full of wisdom, though we cannot comprehend them yet. We
must leave others' souls to Him, and for ourselves repent while
we may.
15. And thou, Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt
be thrust down to hell.
High place is dangerous. To be well thought of, rich, highly placed
in the world, is not a position that a Christian should desire.
Those are happy also who live unknown and in a simple way. If
God raises us above our brethren, we should pray all the more
earnestly that it shdtild not turn to our condemnation.
16. He that heareth you heareth me; and he that despiseth
you despiseth me ; and he that despiseth me despiseth him tliat
sent me.
Such words encourage a Christian minister, yet also make him fear
ful. It is a great thing for our weakness to be supported by such-
a promise, to have our words taken up by God Himself, only then
what sort of persons ought we to be to bear such a character ? If we
are in God's place to be obeyed or rejected, we should be all purity,
full of love, full of power, otherwise our life and office are painfully
inconsistent, and God's promise becomes of no effect.
17. IT And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord,
even the devils are subjed unto us through thy name.
It should be a subject of joy to a Christian to see the devils of pride,
of impurity, of hatred, cast out of people's hearts. Only then he
must take care not to ascribe it to himself and his influence, but

Ver. 22.] Our Lord rejoidng in Spirit. 389
only to the power of Divine grace. What can we do in this work ?
God alone can cleanse hearts, and yet we must do our best to bring
sinners to Him.
18. And lie said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall
from heaven.
Satan's power is nothing in comparison withGod's. Christian, be more
hopeful, do not despair of victory. The same glorious Lord Who
cast him out and bound him once, and triumphed over him by the
Cross, is still mighty to save. The devil is but a creature, and
subject to our Master's power.
19. Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and
scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy : and nothing
shall by any means hurt you.
The disciples enjoyed such powers for a while, but our Lord dots
not appear to give them now. Yet in a spiritual sense He enables
those who love Him to overcome fiery temptations and poisonous
suggestions of evil. Nothing can hurt him who is on God's side.
Love God, and whatever comes will be sweetened and made
wholesome for you.
20. Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are
subjed unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are
written in heaven.
Rejoice in God's mercy toward you, and take all that He has done as
a sure pledge that He will never leave you. Nothing earthly can
afford perfect joy. We must wait till another world for that.
Only remember that God blots out of His book those who sin.
The joy of heaven is for those who have lived here after a heavenly
pattern.
21. 1T In that hour Jesus rejoiced in spirit, and said, I
thank thee, 0 Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that thou hast
hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed
them unto babes : even so, Father ; for so it seemed good in thy
sight. Here we can enter into the heart of Jesus, and see what pleased
Him. He found more sorrow than joy as He passed through the
world, but yet He delighted in His Father's Providence, and in
simple hearts that could believe and love. Heavenly truth is often
utterly unknown to the wise, while poor and ignorant persons
receive and understand it. Glory be to God for His wise
Providence in all things !
22. All things are delivered to me of my Father : and no
man knoweth who the Son is, but the Father ; and who the
Father is, but the Son, and he to whom the Son will reveal him.

390 The Lawyer's Question. [S. Luke X.
Teach us, 0 Lord, to know Thee in Thy Word and in Thy Sacraments,
and in constant experience. What other friendship can be com
pared with this, to have God's Son for our Friend ? He teaches us
plainly, an'd gives us more and more light all our days. This is the
only way to God, through Christ our Saviour and the Cross. Thus
we are brought near to God and He to us.
23. IT And he turned him unto his disdples, and said
privately, Blessed are the eyes which see the things that ye see :
Give me eyes to see this sight. Moses only saw the skirts of God's
glory. We can see it fully displayed to us in the person of Christ.
In His goodness, power, and love we see as in a glass the image of
Almighty God, arid this sight beheld with love makes us happy.
24. For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have
desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them;
and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not lieard them.
If it was so desirable to see Christ on earth in the day of His humility,
and to hear His parables then, what happiness it will be to see Him
in His glory and understand His full meaning ! How shameful
it would be for me to despise the Gospel, which the best and wisest
of other days would have given everything they had to learn !
25. IT And, behold, a certain lawyer stood up, and tempted
him, saying, Master, what shall I do to inherit eternal life ?
He asked rather to find out what our Saviour thought, and what
knowledge He had of Scripture, than to profit by the answer. This
is like those who hear a sermon or read a pious book out of
curiosity, without applying what they read or hear to their own case.
He said, " What shall I do?" yet not truly intending to do it.
26. He said unto him, What is written in the law? how
readest thou ?
Look in God's Word ; what does that say ? There is a fountain of
light and truth open to us in the Holy Scripture from which we can
always get guidance. You read the law, and teach it to others, what
does it say about your own duty ?
27. And he answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy
God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy
strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbour as thyself.
Make no division. God will not share with any other. He wants all
your heart, all your time, all your mind, all your property. It is
theft to deprive Him of anything; to have any time without the
remembrance of Him, any pleasures where He is not present, any
friendship which He does not bind together. The thought of Him
should lie at the bottom of our hearts, even in our busiest hours.
It should be something on which we can always rest and depend,
and we shall love our neighbour all the more for our loving God
first. s

Ver. 34.] The Good Samaritan. 391
28. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered riglit: this
do, and thou shalt live.
True piety does not consist only in knowing the truth or feeling its
beauty, but in active service. It is not enough to believe and hope,
but we must love also, and show our love in our actions. And if
we feel that we are unable to do this, let us cry all the more
earnestly to Him without Whom we can do nothing. He will help
us to do it, or rather will do it in us.
29. But he, willing to justify himself, said unto Jesus, And
who is my nrighbour ?
This is the question, Whom am I bound to help and love ? I will
show kindness to near relations and personal friends, but what
claim has any one else on me ? Now listen to the answer which
Jesus gives, and remember that He came down from heaven to
help you, though you had no claim on His mercy.
30. And Jesus answering said, A certain man went down
from Jerusalem to Jericho, and fell among thieves, which
stripped him of his raiment, and wounded him, and departed,
leaving him half dead.
Here is a helpless sufferer, wounded and destitute ; he claims our help,
and therefore is our neighbour ; but his wretched state figures
to us clearly what we ourselves are without God. We have left
the heavenly city, have lost our innocence, have suffered in body
and soul, we cannot walk in the right way or gain everlasting life.
There is no health in us.
31. And by chance there came down a certain pried that way :
and when he saw him, he passed by on the other side. 32. And
likewise a Levite, when he was at the place, came and looked on
him, and passed by cm the other side.
Here the ministers of God under the law came by, but they gave the
wounded man no help. So there are many now who pass by coldly
and show no kindness to suffering fellow-creatures. But they figure
to us the operation of Moses' law, which could not save our souls or
cure their frailties. The law and the prophets showed men their
faults, but gave them no salvation. Some one else was needed to
be a Saviour.
33. But a certain Samaritan, as he journeyed, came where
he was : and when he saw him, he had compassion on him, 34.
and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and
wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn,
and took care of him.
Here is a foreigner, one whose nation were at enmity with the Jews ;
yet he pitied the sufferer, assuaged his pain, carried him to an inn,
in fact saved his life. All he thought of was the man's great distress,

392 Martha receives Christ. [S. Luke XI.
which gave him a title to compassion. This figures to us Christ
our Saviour, Who passed through the world doing good, Who feels
for us, pardons our sins, instructs and guides us, gives us grace to
do better. He alone can set a fallen sinner free, and enable him
to live to God again.
35. And on the morrow when he departed, he took out two
pence, and gave them to the host, and said unto him, Take care
of him; and whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again,
I will repay thee.
Not only did he bring him to the inn, but, as far as he could, provided
for his keep there, and promised to defray the remainder on his
return. Two pence seems little to us, but would go some way then,
for we read in another place that labourers in the vineyard were
content with a penny as a day's wages. It was therefore worth
several shillings of our money, and no doubt this was all the
Samaritan could spare. This inn is a figure of the Church, where
we are placed for our souls to be cured by God's Word and Sacra
ments, and where we must remain till our Saviour returns.
36. Which now of these three, thinkest thou, was neighbour
unto him that fell among the thieves ? 37. And he said, He
that shewed mercy on him. Then said Jesus unto him, Go, and
do thou likewise.
We have learned now what makes the tie of neighbourhood. It is not
merely blood, nor friendship, nor interest that should make us show
kindness. Every one who needs our help is our neighbour. As God
made and redeemed us all, so all alike are bound to show to each
other offices of love. Christ our Lord above all showed us this
pattern in His life and death, and we are to go and do likewise. O
Good Samaritan, do Thou heal our souls, that are wounded and
helpless with sin. Thou alone art able to save and help us. In Thy
Church there is sufficient grace to sustain us till Thou comest
again.
38. IT Now it^ came to pass, as they went, that he entered
into a certain village : and a certain woman named Martha
received him into her house.
Martha was happy in enjoying so great a privilege as to receive
Christ into her house, for He came to instruct, and bless, and save
her and her household. We too, by showing kindness towards the
needy, are able to welcome Him. Our liberality will bring us
blessing.
39. And she had a sister called Mary, which also sat at
Jesus' feet, and lieard his word.
Mary was even happier in receiving Christ's words into her heart.
She thought that the best honour that she could show to such a
Guest was to listen humbly to His Divine words. She represents to

Ver. 2.] Mary chooses the Good Part. 393
us a Christian quietly meditating on the Scriptures, or praying, or
attending Holy Communion, and putting aside everything else for
the time.
40. But Martha was cumbered about much serving, and came
to him, and said, Lord, dost thou not* care that my sister hath
left me to serve alone ? bid her therefore that she help me. 41.
And Jesus answered and said unto her, Martha, Martha, thou
art careful and troubled about many things :
This is the danger of a busy life, even for good people. Their
hearts are too much taken up by their work ; they are filled with
care and anxiety, and lose the sweetness of religion. If we are like
Martha in leading an active life, let us still do our work in peace
and love, and make time for heavenly things. Most Christians
are situated as she was, and while they should be active like her, yet
they should not fret or murmur.
42. But one thing is needful: and Mary hath chosen that
good part, which shall not be taken away from her.
One thing only is needful, and that is to live to God and give Him
our hearts. Mary had set her mind upon this, and so had chosen
something that she could not lose. In heaven all our earthly work
will be over, but work done or prayer offered or obedience shown
for God's sake will not lose its reward. If good Christians are
oppressed with Martha's burden of care in this world, let them look
forward to enjoying Mary's part in the world to come.

CHAPTER XI.
i. Christ teacheth to pray, and that instantly : xi. assuring that God so
will give us good things. 14. He, casting out a dumb devil, rebuketh
the blasphemous Pharisees : 28. and sheweth who are blessed : 29.
preacheth to the people, 37. and reprehendeth the outward shew of
holiness in the Pharisees, scribes, and lawyers.
AND it came to pass, that, as he was praying in a certain
Xi place, when he ceased, one of his disciples said unto him,
Lord, teach us to pray, as John also taught his disciples.
The example of Jesus and His saints should make us pray. How can
we live without prayer ? We should try also to lead our friends to
cake up this Divine habit ; yet it is God alone Who can enable us
to pray as we should, or incline others to pray with us. If every
household were careful to pray, what peace and happiness would
reign around us !
2. And he said unto tliem, Wlien ye pray, say, Our Father
which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom
come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.

394

The Lord's Prayer. [S Luke XI.

This prayer shows us what we should wish for. We wish (i) that
every one should have a worthy notion of Almighty God ; that is
the first thing to be desired, that God's true image should shine
in our hearts and we should believe and adore Him ; (2) that all
men should obey Him and do His will. We long to see earth
changed after the pattern of heaven, and this can only be by sub
mission to God's will.
3. Give us day by day our daily bread.
We desire, further, (3) needful support for body and souL We have no
right to claim abundance, but enough of God's grace and of earthly
food to carry us through the day's necessities. Give us, O Lord,
manna every day as we journey through this wilderness till we
get to the promised land, where we shall need it no more.
4. And forgive us our sins ; for we also forgive every one
tliat is indebted to us. And lead us not into temptation; but
deliver us from evil.
We seek (4) pardon for our faults. God is merciful ; He is able and
willing to blot but our past transgressions as we also in our humble
sphere forgive and excuse the faults of others, only God's mercy is
wider and freer than ours. And (5) we entreat for perseverance.
Our great weakness makes us fear the devil's snares and our own
corrupt nature. O Lord, leave us not to ourselves, nor to the
persuasions of evil angels or men. Without Thy hand stretched
forth to help us we are nothing. Thanks be to Thee, O merciful
Lord, for this pattern of prayer; let us frame our supplications and
desires according to it.
5. And he said unto them, Wliich of you shall have a friend,
and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend,
lend me three loaves ;
A Christian is better off than this man was, for his Friend never sleeps,
and has no unsuitable hours or bolted doors to keep him off. He
can always go to that great and rich Friend and plead others' ne
cessity or his own. He can say, ' ' O Friend Who hast redeemed me
with Thy Blood, help me now, for I have no grace, or strength, or
love except from Thee."
6. For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and
I have nothing to set before him ?
My soul has come home, back to a right mind again after wandering
in the world, but I have nothing of my own to supply its needs.
Many, too, come to me from the world, or from unbelief, and seek for
truth, and my frail, faltering tongue cannot instruct them rightly.
Supply my greaj: ignorance and poverty from Thy fulness.
7. And he from within shall answer and Say, Trouble me
not : the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed;
I cannot rise and give thee.

Ver. 13.] Prayer must be trustful. 395
God enjoys perfect bliss in heaven, the angels adore Him there. Does
He indeed look down on this sinful world and see our sad con
dition ? This wearied man at rest and quiet, with his household also
slumbering, is unwilling to rise and get the loaves for his friend,
he will not be disturbed. Nay, God is not really like that, He
does care, though for a while He seems not to heed us ; He waits
to be more gracious in the end.
8. I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him,
because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will
rise and give him as many as he needeth.
The man went on knocking and calling till he made the master of
the house rise and get him the bread, so prayers will win a richer
answer if they are importunate. He delays to grant them, that we
may feel our need the more, and cast ourselves on His love more
confidently.
9. And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you ; seek,
and ye shall find ; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10.
For every one that askdh receivdh; and he that seeketh findeth;
and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
Have you ever prayed like this, asking with your whole heart for
victory over some fault, the conversion of some friend, the
prosperity of some good work, and renewing your prayer day after
day with fresh zeal ? God is not deaf or hard-hearted, and yet He
bids us pray as if He were. Earnest, persevering prayer, will bring
a blessing in the end, though not always in the way that we
expected. God has His own way of answering.
11. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father,
will he give him a stone ? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish
give him a serpent ? 12. or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer
him a scorpion ?
Children trust their parents, they sit down at home without suspicion
and take what is given them ; so should we accept with confidence
what our heavenly Father gives to us. It is He Who spreads the
table and appoints our portion ; what we have to do is to thank
Him for it and receive it as dutiful children. All that He gives is
good, though it may seem bitter at first.
13. If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto
your children : how much more shall your heavenly Father give
tlie Holy Spirit to them that ask him ?
That is the best thing to ask for, God's Holy Spirit to purify our
hearts and make us better than we are. Indeed we may ask God
for all that we want, but for this above all else. An earthly 'father,
though imperfect, yet studies his children's wants, and loves to
provide for them ; shall we think less of our Father in heaven ?

396 The Dumb Spirit cast out. [S. Luke XI.
14. II And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb.
And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb
spake ; and the people wondered.
The devil often makes us dumb ; he prevents us from confessing our
sins when we feel their burden ; he inspires us with a false shame
that will not let us speak and ask for pardon. He stops us from
speaking the truth, from praying, from teaching others, or comfort
ing them when they are in trouble. Our Saviour can make us
speak, He can drive out this spirit of cowardice, or sloth, or bad
temper which stops our mouth.
15. But some of them said, He casteth out devils through
Beelzebub the chief of the devils. 16. And others, tempting
him, sought of him a sign from heaven.
Some persons who saw our Saviour's miracles only reviled Him the
more and remained unbelievers, while many who have never seen
them have yet felt their power and adored His goodness manifested
therein. In reading Holy Scripture we can receive thankfully the
signs recorded there, they are enough to make us discern God's
hand. They bear the Divine characters of Almighty power and
love.
17. But he, knowing their thouglits, said unto tliem, Every
kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation ; and a
liouse divided against a house falleth. 18. If Satan also be
divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand ? because
ye say that I cast out devils through Beelzebub.
Even Satan's kingdom is united. His ministers work for one end,
and do not contradict each other. Why should Christians oppose
each other so bitterly ? Above all things true believers should be
at one. We can never overcome Satan unless we are united. O
Lord, grant us to lay to heart the great danger we are in by our
unhappy divisions. What scandal we give, how we hinder
Christ's kingdom !
19. And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your
sons cast them out? therefore shall they be your judges. 20.
But if I with the finger of God cast out devils, no doubt the
kingdom of God is come upon you.
There were not a few among God's people who had this power of
driving out evil spirits, but none whose cures were so plainly
Divine as those which Christ wrought His miracles were plainly
done with the finger of God. How many hearts there are whom
the devil still holds captive ! We long to see him cast out of them,
and God s sweet Spirit ruling there instead.
21. When a strong man armed keepeth his palace, his goods
are in peace : 22. but wlien a stronger than he shall come upon

Ver. 27.] The State of a Backslider. 397
him, and overcome him, he taketh from him all his armour
wherdn he trusted, and divideth his spoils.
O strong and mighty Lord, how is it that Satan rules so peaceably
in so many hearts ? He has forgotten Thy old victories, and does
not seem to fear. Drink, and blasphemy, and hatred, and selfish
ness reign all around us. Christians are so cold and careless.
" We pray Thee, Lord, arise and come in Thy great might." We
know that Thou art mighty to save, and canst with one word heal,
enrich, and sanctify us. We must not seek to enjoy the world's
peace, but rather to fight under Christ's banner, if only we may at
last overcome.
23. He that is not with me is against me: and he tliat
gathereth not with me scattereth.
You must be on one side or the other, either with Christ and right
eousness and love, or against them ; either storing up good thoughts
and kind acts and gathering erring souls, or scattering away God's
inspirations and driving souls from Him by a bad example. If
you are not with tlie saints now, where will you be in the great
day ?
24. When the undean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh
through dry places, seeking rest ; and finding none, he saith, I
will return unto my house whence I came out.
Do we not need to watch and pray ? The evil one has been cast out,
but he seeks to return. Bad companions, and sinful thoughts, and
old temptations are all ready to lead us astray. Should we be quite
at ease with a deadly enemy so near ? When any one has been
converted the work is not done, he has still to' keep his heart with
all diligence and strengthen himself in good habits, he has to learn
to walk in God's way.
25. And when he cometh, he findeth it swept and garnished.
Take care the heart is not empty, fill it with good thoughts and
wholesome pursuits. It is not enough to be respectable and smart
in men's eyes, this will not keep the devil off. Only God dwelling
in our hearts and ruling our whole life is able to give us victory
when the tempter comes.
26. Then goeth he, and taieth to him seven other spirits more
wicked than himself; and they enter in, and dwell there : and
the last state of that man is worse than the first.
How grievous is the state of a backslider ! Once he felt the weight of
sin, he repented earnestly, he made good resolutions, he came to
Communion, he walked as one of God's people ; and now he scoffs
at religion, or remains dull and cold to its call, or he gives himself
over to worse sins than of old. Without God's grace such may
be the state of any one of us, let us walk in fear and be watchful.
27. IT And it came to pass, as lie spake these things, a certain'

398 The Queen of the South. [S. Luke XI.
woman of the company lifted up her voice, and said unto him,
Blessed is the womb that bare thee, and the paps which thou
hast sucked.
This woman so admired His gracious words that she declared that
the mother of such a Son was blessed. If He was so wise and
good, how happy and how honoured must she be who gave Him
birth ! We may join with her in proclaiming the blessedness of
our Saviour's mother ; she was brought so near to God, was so
favoured by Him, we may without blame magnify her gifts.
28. But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear Hie
word of God, and keep it.
Only remember that Mary's blessedness came of her faith ; she was
highly favoured not only in being Christ's mother, but in having a
believing and obedient heart. This blessedness will be ours too
if we are like her. It is of no profit to honour her unless we follow
her footsteps.
29. IT And wlien the people were gathered thick together, he
began lo say, This is an evil generation : they seek a sign; and
there shall no sign be given it, but the sign of Jonas the prophet.
30. For as Jonas was a sign unto the Ninevites, so shall also
the Son of man be to this generation.
Jonah was miraculously delivered from the sea and sent to convert
Nineveh. So Christ our Lord rose from the grave again and sent His
apostles to preach to the world. God vouchsafed many signs and
wonders to faith in those days, and yet many hardened their hearts
against them. Nowadays He shows many marvels in nature and
Providence, let us keep our eyes open to behold His tokens and
praise Him.
31. The queen of the south shall rise up in tlie judgment
with the men of this generation, and condemn them : for she
came from the utmost parts of the earth to hear the wisdom of
Solomon; and, behold, a greater than Solomon is here.
We need not, like the queen of Sheba, take a long and toilsome
journey to hear true wisdom ; we need only pray, open our Bibles,
come devoutly to the Holy Table, and we shall find access to
wisdom itself. Jesus can resolve our doubts, enlighten our dark
ness, lead us in the right way ; we can always be learning from Him.
Solomon's wisdom was little in comparison with the heavenly
truths which fell from Christ's lips.
32. The men of Nineve sliall rise up in the judgment with
this generation, and sliall condemn it : for they repented at the
preaching of Jonas ; and, behold, a greater than Jonas is here.
The men of Nineveh believed Jonah's warning, they repented and
forsook their sins, and God spared them. Should not Christians

Ver. 38.] Jesus dines with the Pharisee. 399
listen to the Son of God when He bids us repent, when He warns
us of eternal ruin, when He bids us to take up the Cross and follow
Him ? We need to learn more about true repentance. God grant
us to hate sin, and to grieve for our past misdoings.
33. No man, when he hath lighted a candle, putteth it in a
secret place, neither uncle)' a bushel, but on a candlestick, tliat
they which come in may see the light
Christ our Saviour, the Light of the world, shines for us in His holy
Gospels, where we can behold His brightness and see our duty and
our hope. Those who never read of Him, but let their Bibles lie
unopened on the shelf, are like people putting the lamp into a
cupboard and preferring to be in the dark.
34. The light of the body is the eye : therefore when thine
eye is ringle, thy whole body also is full of light ; but when
thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness. 35. Take
heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness.
Do not trust too much to your own judgment, but take heed and
consider your ways. Ask God to enlighten you to see clearly
what is right, and follow that only. When any one makes revenge,
or covetousness, or any other sin his ruling principle, he turns His
light into darkness, flow can such a darkened soul find his way
towards heaven !
2,6. If thy whole body therefore be full of light, having no
part dark, the whole shall be full of light, as when the bright
shining of a candle doth give thee light.
Here is the picture of a true Christian. He is entirely sincere and
upright. His path is clear before him. God enlightens him with
His Holy Spirit. Even in the darkest times his lamp does not
fail, and at length he comes to the light of everlasting life.
37. IT And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to
dine with him : and he went in, and sat down to meat.
Our Lord did not go for His own pleasure, but in order to teach the
Pharisee. He always had in mind the great work for which He
came, to teach and save men, and he used all opportunities to carry
it on. What an honour to entertain Jesus Christ in one's house !
Yes, but still greater to have Him abiding in one's heart.
38. And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled tliat he liad
not first washed before dinner.
They thought that was a deadly sin. For any one to eat without
dipping his hands in water immediately beforehand was as bad
as to commit some great wickedness, and so the Pharisee was
shocked. He condemned Jesus at once because He did not
observe this trifling custom. God keep us from bestowing harsh
rebukes about trifles, as we often do.

400 An Outside Religion. [S. Luke XI.
39. And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make
clean the outside of the cup and the platter ; but your inward
part is full of ravening and wickedness. 40. Ye fools, did not
he that made that which is without make that which is within
also? If you serve God with only a decent outside but a foul heart, you are
like a host who should offer his guests cups and plates clean out
side and foul within. Carry out your cleansing thoroughly. It
must not stop at hands or dress, but extend to heart, and words,
and life. How many Christians on Sunday are bright and smart
outside, but grievously unprepared within ! God looks through us
and sees us as we really are.
41. But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and,
behold, all things are dean unto you.
If you wish' your entertainments to be pleasing in God's sight, then
let the poor be sharers. He does not require all this scrupulous
exactness about outward details, but a kind and liberal heart
Charity will bring a blessing on all you have. Comforts will do
you more good if you do not keep them to yourself.
42. But woe unto you, Pharisees/ for ye tithe mint and rue
and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love
of God : these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other
undone. They paid tithe carefully, even of their garden herbs, yet they refused
to deal justly and love God. Here is a warning to us lest we are
particular in small things and yet fail in our chief duties. We
should be just and fair towards all. We should love Almighty
God. This comes first, then we can attend to other matters in
their places. •
43. Woe unto you, Pharisees/ for ye love the uppermost
seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.
The love of praise is deeply rooted in the heart. We live for it, and
perform all our best actions with a secret complacency. When
shall we do any great deed without this poisonous ingredient
coming in to spoil it ? The only safe rule is to like to be unknown
and passed over, and try in all ways to keep from seeking popu
larity.
44. Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites / for ye
are as graves which appear not, and the men tliat walk over
them are not aware of them.
Men step heedlessly over the grave, and know not of the decaying
body within. So those who converse with us daily may be quite
ignorant of the deadly sins that defile our inmost soul. God indeed

Ver 51.] Building the Prophets' Sepulchres. 401
knows us as we are. Let us try to know ourselves and abhor our
faults. It is a sad thing to be esteemed holy persons and yet
inwardly be so vile.
45. IT Then answered one of the lawyers, and said unto him,
Master, thus saying thou reproachest us also.
They were learned in God's law, yet used their learning to little profit.
All their study was to teach people to observe trifling rules, what
they might eat, what they might touch, how they should dress or
stand, and the like. But there it ended. No one learned from
them how to be better and do more good. Our Lord reproaches
all such teachers sharply, and bids them consider the real needs of
the soul.
46. And lie said, Woe unto you also, ye lawyers / for ye lade
men with burdens grievous to be borne, and ye yourselves touch
not the burdens with one of your fingers.
Let not the poor say this of us who are better off in the world. They
have many trials to bear, and rich people often stand apart from
them and enjoy their own comforts. If we would ever find support
from God to bear our burden, we must lighten that of the sick
poor. Often they labour under heavy cares which we might lighten
if we chose. We are ready enough to preach patience, let us rather
help, the poor to improve their condition.
47. Woe unto you I for ye build the sepulchres of the prophets,
and your fathers killed them. 48. Truly ye bear witness that
ye allow the deeds of your fathers : for they indeed killed them,
and ye build their sepulchres.
It is easy to honour saints departed, to praise the good men and good
deeds of past time. What is needed in us is that we should live like
the saints, should have a zeal for goodness, should give liberally, and
work hard, and help others, as they did. The martyrs got liberty
for us to pray, and we pray only in name; they overcame the world,
and we have made friends with it.
49. Therefore also said the wisdom of God, I will send tliem
prophets and apostles, and some of them they shall slay and
persecute :
The Lord's messengers have often been reviled and persecuted, yet
all their sufferings were known beforehand to God, and He turned
them to His own glory and the sufferer's final perfection. Those
who would work for Him need not fear if they have to encounter
adversaries ; they must not mind scorn or hatred, but remember
Whose business they are on.
50. That the blood of all the prophets, which was shed from
the foundation of the world, may be required of this generation;
51. from the blood of Abel unto the blood of Zacharias, which
2 c

402 Not to take away the Key of Knowledge. [S. Luke XII.
perished between the altar and the temple : verily I say unto
you, It shall be required of this generation.
What a great sea of blood our Saviour saw ready to overwhelm the
Jews 1 In His eyes the blood of martyrs who hadbeenslain hadnever
passed away, but had swollen into a great flood ready to burst upon
this wicked people. Remember that if any souls perish through
your neglect or bad influence, God will require their blood. What
can we do in this prospect of judgment but fly to the saving Blood
of Christ, Who alone can purify us from guilt
52. Woe unto you, lawyers / for ye have taken away the key
of knowledge : ye entered not in yourselves, and them that were
entering in ye hindered.
Enter into the Holy Scriptures, study them with delight, and introduce
others to the same privilege ; they are a palace full of heavenly
treasure. Thanks be to God for giving us keys to open them. Our
Bibles will only be to our condemnation if we have not studied
them or led others to do so. To have this key does not require
much learning or leisure, God's Spirit gives it to simple persons who
approach His Word with an earnest desire to learn.
53. And as he said these things unto them, the scribes and
the Pharisees began to urge him vehemently, and to provoke him
to speak of many things: 54. laying wait for him, and seeking
to catch somdhing out of his mouth, that they might accuse him.
They tried in vain to provoke the Lord Jesus and make Him say
something hasty, but we must be on our guard lest we get put out
and lose command over our own tongue. How easily we are led
into foolish talking, and say something which we are sorry for
afterwards I The only safeguard is to pray God earnestly that He will
guard us through the day and help us to restrain our tongues. " Set
a watch, O Lord, before my mouth, and keep the door of my lips."

CHAPTER XII.
1. Christ preacheth to his disciples to avoid hypocrisy, and fearfulness in
publishing his doctrine: 13. warneth the people to beware of covet-
ousness, by the parable of the rich man who set up greater barns.
22. We must not be over careful of earthly things, 31. but seek the
kingdom of God, 33. give alms, 36. be ready at a knock to open to our
Lord whensoever he cometh. 41. Christ's ministers are to see to their
charge,4g. andlookforpersecution. 54. The people must take this time
of grace, 58. because it is a fearful thing to die without reconciliation.
IN the mean time, when there were gathered together an in
numerable multitude of people, insomuch that they trade
one upon another, lie began to say unto his disdples first of all,
Beware ye of tlie leaven of the Pharisees, which is hypocrisy.

Ver. 7.] Christians must be bold. 403
Christ's disciples may seem lost amidst the great multitudes of the
world, yet He is with them ; He knows them, and encourages them
to stand up boldly. All these next few verses are full of inspiring
words tliat stir up the faint heart and enable it to resist a world in
arms. Only let not the believer adopt his enemies' plans. What
ever they do, let him be straightforward, upright, and true.
2. For there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed ;
neitlier hid, that shall not be known.
One day sin shall be known in its full character. Sometimes that day
comes in this life. When scorn, ruin, and suffering in body and
mind overwhelm a sinner, he reaps the evil that he has sown.
Sometimes it delays until the end of life. So live that you may not
fear God's bringing to light your most secret hours.
3. Therefore whatsoever ye have spoken in darkness shall be
lieard in the light ; and that which ye have spoken in the ear in
closets shall be prodaimed upon the housetops.
We are not regarded when we speak of God's truth, of purity, of
prayer, when we blame covetousness, when we enforce a strict line
of conduct. No matter, one day these despised maxims will be
accepted by the universe. If we are in a small minority now, who
are on the Lord's side, let us remember that our day will come.
This was the comfort of the saints to remember that they might
perish, but their message would remain and overcome.
4. And I say unto you my friends, Be not afraid of them
that kill tlie body, and after that have no more that they can do.
Our Lord spoke to His friends with the utmost tenderness. He knew
what they v, ould have to bear, and told them plainly, and bade them
not fear it. The utmost malice and cruelty of men must soon have
an end ; it is terrible indeed for a while, but lasts not long. This
is a true Friend's word which bids us not to be afraid of men.
5. But I will forewarn you whom ye shall fear : Fear him,
which after he hath killed hath power to cast into hell ; yea, I
say unto you, Fear him.
God alone is to be feared ; if He is our enemy, no earthly favour can
save us. Would Christ our Lord have said these awful words
unless He knew that there was such a place as hell, a state of
hatred and misery to last for ever ? He wished, by speaking of it,
to keep us from falling into it. Lord, give me a firm faith in Thy
judgments and a great fear of them, joined to a hope in Thy mercy.
6. Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one
of them is forgotten before God? 7. But even the veryliairs of
your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore : ye are of
more value than many sparrows.
God's wisdom, love, and power cannot fail us. We are unquiet
because we forget this. He never forgets us, but orders all our life

404 Confessing Christ. [S. Luke XII.
according to His wise Providence. We are of such value in His
sight because we are made in His image, and bought by Christ's
Blood. No other creatures, however beautiful, or strong, or swift,
or rare, have such a claim to His regards.
8. Also I say unto you, Whosoever shall confess me before
men, him shall the Son of man also confess before the angels of
God: 9. But he that denieth me before men shall be denied
before the angels of God.
There are many ways of confessing and denying Christ ; each
generation has its own, but in some way or another this trial comes
to us all. Blessed will those be who have not been ashamed of
their religion, but have stood up manfully for it against sneers, and
blows, and deadly temptations ; who have kept to Christ in com
munion, and prayer, and in a Christian life ; who have taken Him
for their portion. If you have denied Him as Peter did, repent
and you will find pardon, only beware lest you fall another time
and perhaps do not repent.
10. And whosoever shall speak a word against the Son of
man, it shall be forgiven him : but unto him that blasphemeth
against the Holy Ghost it shall not be forgiven.
God can pardon one who is honestly mistaken in his religious views,
but not one who despises goodness and disbelieves in God's love.
How can any one seek forgiveness who does not believe that there
is a Divine mercy which blots out the stains of the soul ? God
keep us from such hardening of our hearts.
11. And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and unto
magistrates, and powers, take ye no tliought how or what thing
ye shall answer, or what ye shall say : 12. for the Holy Ghost
sliall teach you in tlie same hour what ye ought to say.
When I have to speak for Thee give me an understanding heart,
wisdom to discern what is needful, humility and patience in con
ducting an argument, grace to bring home the truth to my hearers'
conscience. I am ignorant and weak, but Thy light, Thy power,
Thy love, give me strength. If I am a fool, yet Thou art full of
wisdom and able to satisfy all needs from Thy fulness.
13. 11 And one of the company said unto him, Master, speak
to my brother, that he divide the inheritance with me. 14. And
he said unto him, Man, who made me a judge or a divider
over you ?
This man who, while our Lord was speaking of heavenly things,
could think of nothing else but the money which ought to have
been his share, reminds us of those who bring their worldly
business into church or talk of it all Sunday. What ! is there no
time and place to put aside the thought of profits and losses ?
Think rather of your -transactions with heaven and how you prosper
in them. r r

Ver. 2i.] The Rich Fool. 405
15. And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covet-
ousness : for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of tlie
things which he possesseth.
In what does the true happiness of life consist? It is mostly a gift
from God. It requires a heart at peace within. It certainly
cannot be assured by any sums of money. What can buy off death,
or pain, or domestic misery? What money can make a man at
peace with God and with others ?
16. And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground
of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: 17. and he
thought within himself, saying, Wliat shall I do, because I have
no room where to bestow my fruits ?
If he had been wise he would have known what to do. He would
have fed the hungry, clothed the naked, provided teaching for the
ignorant. He would have laid up his treasures in heaven, and got
at the same time far more pleasure from them thus than in any
other way. There are plenty of good works on which a man can
spend his money and do good with it. Those are most miserable
who do not know the pleasure of giving.
1 8. And he said, This will I do : I will pull down my barns,
and build greater ; and there will I bestow all my fruits and
my goods. 19. And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast
much goods laid up for many years ; take thine ease, eat, drink,
and be merry.
He provided carefully against all chances except one. He had
planned how to build, how to store his goods, how to spend his
money and enjoy himself. Only he never took into account the
possibility of his dying. What fools men are to arrange all else
and never to consider their own mortality, which is the most certain
event of all !
20. But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul
shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be,
which thou hast provided ?
How shall we feel when that voice speaks to us ? Some day, either
in our own weakness and pain, or in the opinion of the doctor, or
the face of friends, we shall read that grave sentence which tells
us that God requires our soul. God grant we may be ready to go
and not be torn away unprepared and unwilling. What we possess
is not our own, but only lent us for a few years. Soon it will all
pass to other occupiers and our connection with it be ended.
21. So is lie that lay eth up treasure for himself, and is not
rich toward God.
Even a poor man can be rich toward God. He can store up good
works, and love, and duty done. He can impart what he has

406 Lessons from Birds and Flowers. [S. Luke XII.
freely. This kind of riches will remain with us after death.
Riches gained in prayer, in study of -the Bible, in doing kindnesses,
in overcoming temptations, in living to God, are stored in a bank
that cannot break.
22. IT And he said unto his disdples, Therefore I say unto
you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat ; neither
for the body, what ye shall put on. 23. The life is more than
meat, and the body is more than raiment.
Our Lord does not forbid us to work and to provide for our support,
but He would have us do so without distrust. He bids us rely on
our Father's care in every circumstance of life. God gave us life,
He formed our body, He has cared for us so far, cannot we trust
Him still to help us ? Think on God's past mercies to you, and
you will be encouraged to hope for them in time to come.
24. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap;
which neither have storehouse nor barn ; and Godfeeddh them :
how much more are ye better than the fowls ?
The spectacle of the great world, with all its thousand families of
creatures to whom God gives meat in due season, raises the mind
to admire its Creator's wisdom. How wisely ordered and beautiful
are all things in nature ! They tell us of a guiding hand, of an
intelligence that designed them, and a love that cares for them.
Tliey do not indeed know their heavenly Father, but we do, and
can praise Him.
25. And which of you with taking thought can add to his
stature one cubit? 26. If ye then be not able to do that thing
which is least, why take ye thought for the rest.
God's power and skill are more than ours, and we depend absolutely
on Him. Our health and spirits, the wind that blows on us, the
chances of life, the qualities of our mind and heart, all these are
out of our power, and are ordered by Him as He pleases. We
can do something, but we are in the hands of One Who is far
greater. What peace this thought should be, to feel that our
Father is so near !
27. Consider the lilies how they grow : they toil not, they spin
not ; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was
not arrayed like one of these. 28. If then God so clothe the
grass, which is to day in the field, and to morrow is cast into
the oven; how much more will he clothe you, 0 ye of little faith ?
When we admire the flowers in our gardens we can remember these
words. Our Saviour was pleased to notice the flowers and prefer
their beautiful forms and colours far before Solomon's royal robes.
He drew from the flowers such lessons as these. Be contented in
your place. Spread round you what sweetness you can. Trust
the Wise Gardener's ordering. When winter comes retire under
ground cheerfully to live again in the spring.

Ver. 34.] Treasures in Heaven. 407
29. And seek not ye what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink,
ndtlier be ye of doubtful mind.
A sure faith in God's Providence is a great stay amidst the troubles
of life. All things that happen to us (except our own particular
sins) are of God's sending, however sad or evil they may seem, and
meant to turn to our good. The fretful soul should learn to cast
its care on His goodness.
30. For all these things do the nations of the world seek
after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these
things. Is your life, dear reader, that of a heathen or a Christian ? Do you
live to gratify your own vanity, or covetousness, or selfishness? or
do you look upward towards God and live as He would have you ?
There are two ways of living, one wholly directed to this world's
commodities, and the other aiming higher and looking to a here
after.
31. IT But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all
these things shall be added unto you.
Let God's kingdom be set up in your own heart, in your family, and
among all those you can influence. Let this kingdom, its laws
and promises, be your delight. And then you may be sure that
peace, and joy, and sufficient of earthly blessings will never be
wanting to you. God does not forget His loyal subjects. Who
can reward them so well as Infinite Goodness ?
32. Fear not, little flock ; for it is your Father's good
pleasure lo give you the kingdom.
Glory be to God for His saving mercy. What can hurt us if it is His
good pleasure to give us everlasting life ? We may be but a few
among unbelievers, but we trust on an Almighty arm that can make
a way for His own through the most rough and dark wilderness.
God's good pleasure, His undeserved mercy to us, is a fit subject
of our praise for ever.
33. Sell that ye have, and give alms ; provide yourselves bags
which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not,
where no thief approachdh, neither moth corrupteth.
What we keep is subject to many dangers. It may be stolen, lost,
or wasted. What we give (taking care to bestow our alms wisely
and with prayer) is turned into a treasure that cannot be lost It
will become an everlasting reward laid up by God for us. Give us,
O Lord, liberal hearts, that we may not fear to intrust the poor
with our wealth to convey for us to the heavenly city.
34. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
What is your treasure? With some it is money, with others distinction.
Some make it popularity, others a gay and dissipated life. With

408 Christians must watch. [S. Luke XII.
some it is a learned leisure, or home comforts. It is whatever your
heart turns to and longs for anxiously. The real lasting treasure is
Almighty God. Happy are those who have already begun to find
Him and leave their hearts in His care.
35. Let your loins be girded about, and your lights burning ;
36. and ye yourselves like unto men that wait for their lord,
when he will return from the wedding ; that when he cometh
and knocketh, they may open unto him immediately.
Our Master may come at any time. We cannot see Him yet, and it
is still dark ; but yet we are sure that He will come, and it is our
wisdom to be ready. This world is only like one night, before it
is over Christ will come. When He knocks, by sending signs of
our approaching end, let us not shrink back and slumber again, but
welcome Him cheerfully.
37. Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh
shall find watching : verily I say unto you, that he shall gird
himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth
and serve them.
He will honour those who have honoured Him. He will give His
faithful servants everlasting peace and joy. Nothing can any more
disturb their rest. They are with the Lord, and He has made them
blessed for ever. There will be a great recompense in heaven for
a little labour here. Let us work hard now, knowing we have a
good Master.
38. And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the
third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.
Do not give up your watching, but persevere. If you have been an
earnest and faithful Christian in young days, do not give up your
religion in middle life. Be only more careful, do not let the world
creep in. If you have served God till middle life, there is all the
more reason for persevering when you grow old. It is sad when
a Christian gives up watching. The devil never gives up his
attempts on us, and if we grow careless we are sure to fall.
39. And this know, that if the goodman of the house had
known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched,
and not have suffered his house to be broken through. 40. Be
ye therefore ready also : for the Son of man cometh at an hour
when ye think not.
To those who do not watch Christ's coming will be sudden and
terrible. They will discern too late that they have lost all theii
hope. We should keep guard against a thief who wanted to rob
us of some precious jewel. Shall we not prepare for that solemn
hour which will take from us all earthly prospects and all further
opportunity of repentance ?

Ver. 46.] The Good and the Evil Servants. 409
41. H Then Peter said unto him, Lord, speakest thou this
parable unto us, or even to all ?
Who are the faithful servants who will enjoy the great reward ? We
all in our place are these servants. Not the apostles only whom
our Lord spoke to at the time, but all who have work to do for
God, who have to live and die as His servants. We all expect our
Master's return and have to give account of our doings.
42. And the Lord said, Who then is that faithful and wise
steward, whom his lord shall make ruler over his household, to
give them thdr portion of meat in due season ?
God has put under your care a family, or a business, or a parish. He
has given you at least one or two simple souls whom you can
influence for good. That is, He has put you in a place of trust.
He has committed to your care some of His household that you
should give them daily kindness, good example, patience, holy
teaching, according as your opportunity serves. What a great
charge to be trusted with these souls !
43. Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh
shall find so doing.
We cannot get rid of this trust when God has laid it on us, we can
but ask His help to perform it. When you take trouble for your
brethren, remember that you are only distributing what your Lord
has given you. His love and care for you are never weary. It is
a blessed thing to be able to repay it in some manner by helping
His children.
44. Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler
over all that he hath.
How can the joys of heaven be expressed in words ? God is infinite,
and so there is no end to what He can give us tliere. How little
will this world's troubles appear when we have gained such a
reward I
45. But and if that servant say in his heart, My lord delayeth
his coming; and shall begin to beat the menservants and maidens,
and to eat and drink, and to be drunken ;
Here is a picture of the selfish, who treat others unkindly or with
passion, or who live merely for their own pleasure. Such a life
and temper come from forgetting God. Is it not frightful that men
and women who have souls to be saved should spend so much of
their time and money in drinking, which ruins them in body and
soul ? A drunkard's house is full of quarrelling and misery.
46. The lord of that servant will come in a day when he
looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and
will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with
the unbelievers.

410 Christ's Fire and Baptism. [S. Luke XII.
It will be too late to promise amendment then . No time at death to do
our duty, or repair our faults, or get ready for heaven. The last
illness of many comes suddenly, and leaves no time for preparation.
47. And that servant, which knew his lord's will, and pre
pared not himself, neither did according to his will, shall be
beaten with many stripes.
A clergyman, an educated person, any one brought up by Christian
parents or in the enjoymen| of religious teaching, will have much
to answer for. All our neglected advantages may turn one day to
our utter damnation. What can I say ? I knew God's will, I did
it not; I have reason to fear His awful judgments.
48. But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of
stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever
much is given, of him shall be much required : and to whom men
have committed much, of him they will ask the more.
Many are very ignorant, brought up ill, exposed to temptation from
their childhood, and have much more excuse than I have, God
will deal mercifully with them. When I consider my own great
shortcomings I am less disposed to judge others. He has com
mitted to me various talents, perhaps the charge of some dear souls,
He is sure to ask me what account I can give of them.
49. U / am come to send fire on the earth ; and what will I,
if it be already kindled ?
God's Word is a consuming fire, kindling the heart, burning up
impurities, spreading from soul to soul. O Lord, strike a spark of
this into my dull, cold nature that I may set others on fire also. Why
do I remain so cold while all around me hearts are burning with
heavenly love?
50. But I have a baptism to be baptized with; and how am
I straitened till it be accomplished/
Christ already had His Cross in view. He felt it in His heart. He
longed for it to draw near, and yet it was grievous to flesh and
blood. So His followers can now meet suffering calmly, prepare
for its coming, and even desire to know its full weight.
51. Suppose ye that I am come to give peace on earth? I
tell you, Nay; but rather division:
What ! is this the Gospel ? that we should offend others, break off
from their ways, be singular, give up what we loved and take up
that we despised? Are we bound to protest against sin, and keep
away from so many lively friends and pleasant amusements ? Yes,
often, yes! The Lord came to divide us from many things which
we should naturally cling to. A true Christian must be bold and
give up a good deal rather than comply with sin.
52. For from henceforth there shall be five in one house

Ver. 58.] Discerning of Signs. 411
divided, three against two, and two against three. 53. Tlie
father shall be divided against the son, and the son against the
father; the mother against the daughter, and the daughter
against the mother ; the mother in law against her daughter in
law, and the daughter in law against her mother in law.
Keep on God's side and let nothing separate you from Him. You may
be despised by those you love most, friends may look coldly on
you, even dearest ties may break, but you have one Friend that
will not fail. He can be to you more than all the rest. Be
humble, and considerate, and modest, but still be brave at home ; let
your friends know that you are on the side of Jesus Christ, let them
see you value God's favours more than men's.
54. IT And he said also to the people, Wlien ye see a cloud
rise out of the west, straightway ye say, There cometh a shower;
and so it is. 55. And when ye see the south wind blow, ye say,
There will be heat ; and it cometh to pass.
We give heed to the signs of weather, we can talk of the crops, of
the changing seasons, yet we should remember that there is another
world besides that which we see. Storms rage there sometimes,
or a parching wind blows, and God's grace is needed to protect the
tender plant of faith and bring it to any good. Consider the soul,
its temptations and its needs, as well as the world without.
56. Ye hypocrites, ye can discern the face of the sky and of
the earth ; but how is it that ye do not discern this time ?
You say, " We must prepare for winter ; " why not prepare for death,
which is as certain ? You know what will grow on the land and
how to raise it ; why not take as much pains to cultivate holy
desires and good resolutions? Autumn with its decay is a picture
of life and bids us look within.
57. Yea, and why even of yourselves judge ye not what is
right? A little reflection, a little thought on ourselves and our duty, and
God's Word, would set us right ; but, alas ! so many go on to per
dition with their eyes shut. Let us resolve to do not what is
pleasant, but what is right. God will show us what that is.
58. IT When thou goest with thine adversary to the magistrate,
as thou art in the way, give diligence that thou mayest be
delivered from him ; lest he hale thee to the judge, and the judge
deliver thee to the officer, and the officer cast thee into prison.
Are you ready to meet God's judgment ? Think what a list of faults
may be made out against you, what a sad account of wasted
opportunities and criminal neglect. What can be done for us then
unless we have beforehand made our peace with the adversary, or
indeed been reconciled with the Judge Himself? It is dangerous

412 Christ's Words about Accidents. [S. Luke XIII.
to put off repentance. Perhaps our chance of it will soon be over,
and we shall wake to the reality of our condition when it is too
late.
59. / tell thee, thou shalt not depart thence, till thou hast
paid the very last mite.
If you have never loved God, never hated sin, or sacrificed yourself
for others, or been in earnest, or tried to speak God's Name before
you die, what chance will there be then to do all this ? How can
you be reconciled to God after death, if you have not sought Him
here? It is a frightful thing to think of, that a person who has
always lived to please himself must die, and find out too late that
he has missed happiness for ever.

CHAPTER XIII.
1 . Christ preacheth repentance upon the punishment of the Galilceans, and
others. 6. The fruitless fig tree may not stand, xi. He healeth the
crooked woman : 18. sheweth the powerful working of the word in
the hearts of his chosen, by the parable of the grain of mustard seed,
and of leaven : 24. exhorteth to enter in at the strait gate, 31. and
reproveth Herod and Jerusalem.
THERE were present at that season some that told him of the
Galilceans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their
sacrifices. 2. And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose
ye tliat these Galilceans were sinners above all the Galilceans,
because they suffered such things ?
Our Lord forbids us to judge rashly. All indeed have sins to suffer
for, but it is not the worst who suffer most in this life. We must not
say, " How wicked such a one must have been, for he has met with
such great troubles ! " No, for God's Providence is hidden from us,
and He chastises in mercy as well as in wrath.
3. / tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all like
wise perish.
When I listen to such tales of suffering I can apply them to my. own
instruction. I see in such and such a calamity God's awful judg
ments, shall I not repent and prepare before the sword comes to
me ? The use to make of the crimes and disasters which we see
in the world is to bring home to ourselves our own frailty, and our
dependence on Almighty God. But for His mercy what would
have come to us ?
4. Or iliase eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell,
and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men
that dwelt in Jerusalem? 5. I tell you, Nay: but, except ye
repent, ye shall all likewise perish.

Ver. ii.] Parable of the Fig-Tree. 413
All things are in the hands of God's wise Providence. Not a crime
or an accident happens but He overrules it for the welfare of His
people. All that seems most evil in the world is permitted by
Him, and He extracts from it amendment and profit for the
penitent sinner. What a marvel is God's Providence, that can
gather out of this evil world so many lessons of good, and make all
things work together for our salvation !
6. IT He spake also this parable ; A certain man had a fig
tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit
thereon, and found none.
It is not enough to be a Christian with an outward profession of
religion, a good character, and the esteem of men. God wants us
to love what is good, and really be in heart what we appear. How
often He has come to us by so many visitations and opportunities,
and has sought to turn our hearts, and yet we have profited little !
7. Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold,
these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find
none : cut it down ; why cumbereth it the ground ?
I have enjoyed so many graces, examples, warnings; God has spared
me so long, and I have done next to nothing in return for His
goodness. What cold prayers, scanty alms, wandering thoughts,
idle hours, bitter words, have been my return for His unwearied
patience ! At any moment the sentence may go forth and my
time for doing good be over.
8. And he answering said unto him, Lord, Id it alone this
year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it : 9. and if it
bear fruit, well : and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it
down. Glory and praise be to Thee, O Jesus, for Thy exceeding mercy to
sinners, Thy preaching, Thy death, Thy intercession for us. Give
us one more chance of repairing our faults. Stir up our hearts
while it is yet time, that we may bring forth the fruit of good works
and so be accepted in that day. If a soul, a church, or a nation
brings forth no fruit, shows no works of charity, no love, no fervour,
what remains for it but wrath and condemnation ?
10. And he was teaching in one of the synagogues on the
sabbath. Teach us, O Lord, when we listen to Thy Holy Word, read or
expounded on Thy day, in Thy house. Let us hear with attention,
and ask God's blessing on preacher and hearers, that we may
receive the message which Jesus Christ Himself would have us
learn. His voice is still heard among us ; let us give ear and
weigh His meaning.
11. IT And, behold, there was a woman which had a spirit

414 The Crooked Wowan healed. [S. Luke XIII.
of infirmity eighteen years, and was bowed together, and could
in no wise lift up herself.
In this deformed woman possessed by an evil spirit we see represented
the condition of one under the influence of a sinful habit. He
cannot look up to God, but remains tied and bound with the chain
of his sins, and his thoughts are all drawn down to the earth.
Perhaps this bondage has lasted for many years, and the sinner is
unable to get free ; his love of money, or his sinful passion, or the
memory of past follies is a load which he cannot shake off.
12. And when Jesus saw her, he called her to him, and said
unto her, Woman, thou art loosed from thine infirmity.
To us also this word of power and mercy is spoken. If we have but
faith we are already delivered from our sins. Christ has broken
the power of hell, and won healing, and life, and grace for us.
Recognise and confess your own utter weakness, that you can do
nothing of yourself, and then you can receive the word of pardon
which declares that you are free.
13. And he laid his hands on her : and immediately she was
made straight, and glorified God.
Make straight in me, O Lord," all that is crooked and out of order,
and let me with all other pardoned sinners glorify Thee for Thy
abundant mercies. This cure was wrought by the virtue of Christ's
word and touch. The fault is ours that we so often approached
Him spiritually, and yet our burden has remained.
14. And the ruler of the synagogue answered with indigna
tion, because that Jesus had healed on the sabbath day, and
said unto the people, There are six days in which men ought to
work : in them therefore come and be healed, and not on tlie
sabbath day.
He was wrong in blaming our Saviour's mighty works, they set forth
God's glory, and so were fit for the Sabbath day. Let us on the
Lord's day find room for acts of mercy, for visits to the sick and
infirm, for words of kindness. Let not that holy day be given to
worldly business or sinful pleasure, but yet it is a fit day on which
to do good.
15. Tlie Lord then answered him, and said, Thou hypocrite,
doth not each one of you on the sabbath loose his ox or his ass
from the stall, and lead him away to watering ? 16. And ought
not this woman, being a daugliter of Abraham, whom Satan
hath bound, lo, these eighteen years, be loosed from this bond on
the sabbath day ?
The cattle are cared for as is right, and shall we let so many precious
souls, who are made in God's own image, remain day after day in
utter bondage or darkness lacking their true happiness? Our Lord

Ver. 22.] Heavenly Truth growing and spreading. 415
pitied the poor woman who had been deformed so long, but there
is a bondage much worse than hers, that of drunkenness, which lays
hold on the bodies and souls of many. Lord, help those who are
enslaved by it to get free.
17. And when he had said tliese things, all his adversaries
were ashamed : and all the people rejoiced for all the glorious
things that were done by him.
It is a fit temper for a Christian to rejoice in his Master's glory.
When we read of Him or when we praise Him in church, or when
we keep His holy seasons as they come round, we may be glad
tliat He is so good and so mighty. Those are cold Christians to
whom Christmas, and Easter, and Ascension-tide bring no joy.
18. IT Then said lie, Unto what is the kingdom of God like ?
and whereunto shall I resemble it ?
God has so ordered things that the outward world is full of parables
which teach spiritual truth. The common ordinary doings of life all
became in our Saviour's hands figures of heavenly mysteries. Oh
for eyes that can discern God's wisdom, love, and power in the
world about us !
19. It is like a grain of mustard seed, which a man took,
and cast into his garden ; and it grew, and waxed a great tree ;
and the fowls of the air lodged in the branches of it.
This is Christ's Holy Catholic Church spreading throughout the
world. Its Founder was crucified, its first teachers were poor and
despised ; but it has now become great, and countless souls find
comfort and help under its shadow.
20. And again he said, Whereunto shall I liken the kingdom
of God?
No earthly words or figures can altogether express heavenly things ;
they can help as much to apprehend them, but still there is some
thing further. Our language is insufficient, our minds too feeble.
When will that time come when we shall see face to face, and know
even as we are known ?
21. It is like leaven, which a woman took and hid in three
measures of meal, till the whole was leavened.
This is Christ's doctrine received into the heart. God's grace
enlightens, changes, overcomes evil, and presents the whole man
renewed after God's pattern. How different is any one who has
been truly converted, from the same man in past days ! The silent
work of God in his heart has made him love what he once hated,
and hate what he loved before.
22. And he went through the cities and villages, teaching,
and journeying toward Jerusalem.

416 Seeking too late. [S. Luke XIII.
Here is a pattern for Christian teachers. They should everywhere
instruct souls ; all who fall in their way should be the better for it ;
their longing should always be to teach some one about God, and
yet all the time they should be advancing in the way to heaven
themselves. The end of our journey is the heavenly Jerusalem,
we journey thither by becoming more fit to enter it.
23. Then said one unto him, Lord, are there few that be
saved ? And he said unto them,
This is a curious rather than a profitable inquiry. God alone knows
who will be His. It would have been better to say, " Lord,
am I in the way to be saved ? " and to leave the final condition of
others to Him. In religion attend to what is plain and practical,
do not pry into mysteries which are too deep for you. God is
infinitely merciful and wise, that is enough.
24. 11 Strive to enter in at the strait gate : for many, I say
unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.
Salvation is not for the slothful. Those who only live for their own
pleasure will find out too late that they have missed the whole
happiness of their lives, and that it is now out of their reach. Our
Lord would not have said the gate was narrow and the way hard
to find unless He knew it to be true. What shall we say, then, of
those who carelessly put off their conversion ? Such a task requires
to be taken in hand at once.
25. When once the master of the house is risen up, and liath
shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at
the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us ; and he shall answer
and so,y unto you, I know you not whence ye are :
These words do" not mean that the Lord will refuse any contrite
sinner, but that a time may come when contrition will be no more
within our reach. If we reject His mercy now, a time may come
when we shall be unable to lay hold of it, when we shall wish to
be His and yet find no way to repent. Now, while the door stands
open, let us enter and embrace that tender mercy which is ready
to receive us before it is too late.
26. Then shall ye begin to say, We have eaten and drunk in
thy presence, and thou hast taught in our streets.
To have been at His Holy Table, to have attended services and
sermons, will not avail then, unless we have given our hearts to
God. Our great privileges will only turn to our ruin if we have
used them profanely. Let our communions and devotions here
be so in earnest that we become fitter thereby to meet the Judge,
otherwise we shall allege them in vain.
2 7. But he shall say, I tell you, I know you not whence ye
are ; depart from me, all ye workers of iniquity.
These awful words will dry up the heart and separate souls for ever

Ver. 32.] Pharisees seek to scare our Lord. 417
from all prospect of happiness. When we are tempted to any
deadly sin let us remember them and fear. Is it worth while to
lose our peace now, and our eternal blessedness hereafter, for a short
spell of sinful joy ?
28. There shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth, when ye
shall see Abraham, and Isaac, and Jacob, and all the prophets,
in the kingdom of God, and you yourselves thrust out.
These are vain and hopelfess regrets, and will do no good. What
rage and despair the lost will feel When they remember their many
opportunities, and think how easily they might have made their
calling sure. It is a serious thing to spoil our prospects for this
life by any youthful folly. What shall we say of those who ruin
themselves for ever by persevering in sin ?
29. And they shall come from the east, and from the west,
and from the north, and from the south, and shall dt down in
the kingdom of God.
lj From every country there is a road to heaven. Let us press thither
\ ourselves and bring others with us. It will be joyful to enter there
in company with ransomed souls who have found the way through
our help. After this world's cares and troubles God offers a place
of rest and everlasting peace.
30. And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there
are fir d which shall be last.
Human judgment will be often reversed there. Many who seem to us
holy will sink very low, and (thank God) many whom we do not
notice here will turn out- to be great saints. Let us not rely on
man's good opinion, but on that of God only. We should try to
please Him first of all.
31. IT The same day there came certain of the Pharisees,
saying unto him, Get thee out, and depart hence : for Herod
will Mil thee.
We do not know if Herod really planned our Saviour's death, or if
the Pharisees had merely invented this tale to frighten Him away
from His work in Galilee ; but at any rate He paid no regard to it,
for He feared nothing that man could do. One who is busy in
doing the Lord's work and trusts in His mercy is not upset by any
evil tidings, but always remains calm under the protection of his
heavenly Father.
32. And he said unto them, Go ye, and tell that fox, Behold,
I cast out devils, and I do cures to-day and tomorrow, and the
third day I shall be perfected.
A Christian, like his Master, should finish the work appointed to
him. Christ's work was glorious, and full of love and power. Ours
may be a humble task, but still we have to do it in a certain time,

418 Christ grieves for Jerusalem. [S. Luke XIV.
and that perhaps not long. Let us apply ourselves to our duties,
that death may find us ready to go. When the Lord puts any good
work, any kindness to show, or duty to do, into your hearts never
drop it, but persevere until it is fully done.
33. Nevertheless I must walk to-day, and to-morrow, and
the day following : for it cannot be that a prophet perish out of

There is no standing still possible for us in this life. Jesus drew
daily nearer to His sacrifice, and we also draw near to unknown
trials, and especially to the last trial of all, yet He viewed it with a
quiet mind and prepared for its approach. Where we have to die
matters not, but only whether we are ready for it.
34. 0 Jerusalem, Jerusalem, which killed tlie prophets, and
stonest them that are sent unto thee ; how often would I have
gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood
under her wings, and ye would not I
These are the words of One Who is full of love and pity. Let us take
to ourselves His warning, and think how often He would have
turned our hearts, how often He would have sheltered us under
His wings, and we have put aside the gracious call ! How His
mercy has watched over us ! How He has turned calamities away !
What return is due to Him for all His goodness ?
35. Behold, your house is left unto you desolate: and verily
I say unto you, Ye shall not see me, until the time come when
ye shall say, Blessed is he that cometh in the name of the Lord.
The desolation which came upon God's holy city, and His chosen
people, after their rejection of Christ, was but a figure of that
disgust and gloom and coldness which comes upon the hearts of
those who harden themselves against God's grace. God grant
them conversion, that they may at last welcome Jesus Christ and
profess themselves His true servants.

CHAPTER XIV.
a. Christ healeth the dropsy on the sabbath : 7. teacheth humility : 12. to
feast the poor : 15. under the parable of the great supper, sheweth
how worldly minded men, who contemn the word of God, shall be
shut out of heaven. 25. Those who will be his disciples, to bear
their cross must make their accounts aforehand, lest with shame
they revolt from him afterward, 34. and become altogether unprofit
able, like salt that hath lost his savour.
A ND it came to pass, as he went into the house of one of the
Xi. chief Pharisees to eat bread on the sabbath day, that they
watched him.

Ver. 8.] The Man sick with Dropsy healed. 419
Instead of profiting by the society of their wise and holy Guest, they
viewed Him with suspicious eyes to see what they could find amiss.
We should rather try to get good from other Christians, and join
them in doing God service, than be too curious in observing their
differences from ourselves. Let us profit by the good examples
God sends us.
2. And, behold, there was a certain man before him which
had the dropsy. 3. And Jesus answering spake unto the law
yers and Pharisees, saying, Is it lawful to lieal on tlie sabbath
day ?
God's holy day is most fitly observed by doing good. Christ our
Saviour went through the world healing sickness and relieving
distress. Wherever He was, sufferers found their way in, and He
attended to them. No one in need was ever sent away from His
presence without help. What puipose does misery fill in God's
creation except to call out our pity and bid us relieve it ?
4. And they held their peace. And he took him, and healed
him, and let him go ; 5. and answered them, saying, Which of
you shall have an ass or an ox fallen into a pit, and will not
straightway pull him out on the sabbath day ?
Christ can cure as easily the heart that is swollen with pride as He
did the sick man's swollen body. His merciful hand has not lost
its power. He bids us on the Lord's day not indeed profane it
with our business as some do, but yet be ready to visit, help, and
comfort any who are in need, and above all try to pull them out of
the pit of sin and lead them back to God.
6. And they could not answer him again to these things.
So it is when Heavenly Wisdom asks us why we do not pray,
whether it is not better to live a sober life, whether death and
judgment are not near, whether it is wise to follow profane
company? Then we have no answer to make, we feel that we
are wrong. God grant us to act upon this salutary confession and
answer these questions by our life.
7. 1T And he put forth a parable to those which were bidden,
when he marked how they chose out the chief rooms; saying
unto them,
Our Lord observed that the guests were all anxious to sit in places of
distinction. No one cared to go to the bottom of the table. So
He gave them a lesson on the wisdom of thinking humbly of our
selves, and being content with any place in which we are put. If
the great Master has set us in a lowly place, let us be content and
find our happiness there.
8. When thou art bidden of any man to a wedding, sit not
down in the highest room ; led a more honourable man tlian

420 Advice about Entertainments. [S. Luke XIV.
thou be bidden of him ; g. and he tliat bade thee and him come
and say to thee, Give this man place; and thou begin with
shame to take the lowest room.
This is the constant weakness of our hearts, the desire to be praised
and thought highly of. It mingles even in our good works. It
is the most difficult of all follies to be rid of. In all things we seek
for applause, and like to admire our own conduct. Yet this foolish
vanity brings only mortification, and spoils our good actions before
God and man too. Be content to take a humble place in men's
esteem, and it will be better for you in the end.
10. But when thou art bidden, go and sit down in the lowest
room; that when he that bade thee cometh, he may say unto
thee, Friend, go up higher : then shalt thou have worship in the
presence of them that sit at meat with thee.
How joyful will that day be for God's true servants who have
thought humbly of themselves and been little regarded by men !
Perhaps in this life they have had many affronts and trials, but
then they will be called to inherit a kingdom, then their shame
will be turned into glory. Let us have patience for a while. The
Master when He comes will set all things straight.
n. For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he
that humbleth himself shall be exalted.
This is a maxim for Christians. Praise yourself, and confusion will
come. Humble yourself, and honour will come ; humble yourself
by silence, by hearty confession of your sins, by patience with
others' weakness, by being content with what you have, and God
will repay you with true honour.
12. IT Then said he also to him that bade him, When thou
malcest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy
brethren, neitlier thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbours; lest
they also bid thee again, and a recompence be made thee.
Christian hospitality does not consist in any profusion or in a constant
interchange of entertainments. Some people spend far too much
money and time on such parties. They entertain others with a
view to their own worldly interest. They waste God's gifts and
indulge their own appetites.
13. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed,
the lame, tlie blind:
A Christian helps those who are in want, or who come to visit him.
He takes particular care of the sick poor. He inquires into their
needs, and provides them with any comforts that be in his power.
He does not shut his door harshly against his own friends or live
the life of a hermit, but he reserves his special sympathy for those
who cannot help themselves.

Ver. i9.] The Great Supper. 421
14. And thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense
thee : for thou slialt be recompensed at the resurrection of the
just. Blessed indeed are the merciful ! They go through life comforting
and helping others. Their charity sweetens their own life here, and
one day God will bestow on them an eternal reward. Do not take
all your pleasure in this life, but work now ; deny.yourself, and bear
in mind the great hereafter which will change all! A dying person
who has trusted God and committed his recompense into His
hands may await the event in peace.
15. IT And when one of them that sat at meat with him
heard these things, he said unto him, Blessed is he that shall
eat bread in the kingdom of God.
Heaven will indeed be perfect happiness, no pain or sorrow will
enter there. All wants will be supplied. Only let us who speak
of it take care to seek it earnestly, or we may miss it after all. It
is easy to talk about heavenly joys and yet all the while be living
for earthly ones.
16. Then said he unto him, A certain man made a great
supper, and bade many :
The great supper to which so many were invited means the blessings
of the Gospel both here and hereafter. God bids us to that supper
by calling us to repent, to believe His Word, to love Him, to find
in Him true peace and satisfaction. In the Gospel is something
to suit every taste. God is full of love, and only desires us to open
our hearts to Him.
17. And sent his servant at supper time to say to them tliat
were bidden, Come ; for all things are now ready.
First God sent messengers to the Jews, who had long ago been called
and prepared, and bade them come into His Church. He told
them of the treasures of grace and mercy that were open to them.
This same invitation He has often made to me. All things are ready
now — God, and the Lord Jesus, and the Holy Spirit, heavenly
grace, sacraments of love. The only thing not ready is my own
heart, which is as cold and careless as ever.
18. And they all with one consent began to make excuse.
The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and
I must needs go and see it : I pray thee have me excused.
Sometimes it is amusement which keeps us back. I want to go and
see this or that. I find some recreation necessary, and it so takes
up my time that I cannot give myself to God. My friends must
be attended to. Would you have me neglect social duties ?
19. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and
I go to prove them : I pray thee have me excused.

422 Idle Excuses. [S. Luke XIV.
Sometimes it is business. I have so much work to. get through. I
am busy from morning till night. I cannot surely be expected
to be religious. My work must be done. What time have I for
recollection or for attending means of grace ?
20. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore
'I cannot come.
Sometimes it is downright indifference. I do not care about religion.
I prefer to stop at home and live in my own selfish way. Why do
you come and trouble me with messages about God and heaven ?
I do not feel the need of such thoughts.
21. So that servant came, and shewed his lord these things.
Then the master of the house being angry said to his servant,
Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring
in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.
We make God angry by despising His gracious call. He bids us
come to His Table and give Him our hearts there, but we let trifles
keep us away or draw off our attention when we come. Thus we
offend Him and turn away His grace from us, unless we repent.
Those whom we despise may one day take our places. Their
ignorance and poverty cannot hinder God's designs for them. He
calls them to partake of His blessings.
22. And the servant said, Lord, it is done as thou hast com
manded, and yet there is room.
Let us spread this news abroad, " yet there is room. " God has places
for us. There is no one so vile, so miserable, so degraded, but
God invites him in, and will make him welcome. His mercy is
boundless. No heart should distrust God, but rather say, " There
is room for me to come in."
23. And the lord said unto the servant, Go out into the higli-
ways and hedges, and compel them to come in, tliat my house
may be filled.
God's mercy is not soon wearied. Sometimes He compels us to
come in. He sends us warnings and sufferings, He lays us low
and cuts off our earthly pleasures. He gives us strong impressions
of religion. Oh wonderful mercy, that has sought us out in all our
wanderings, and knocked at our hearts' door so often, and brought
us back to life again ! Only let us no longer resist that gracious
Voice, lest we find ourselves shut out at last.
24. For I say unto you, That none of those men which were
bidden shall taste of my supper.
Many who were brought up in a religious way, and had frequent
opportunities of grace, shall yet miss the heavenly reward. Others,
again, who seemed quite hardened shall be converted and live.
The judgments of God are mysterious and beyond my power to
comprehend. I humbly adore them, and pray that I may be found
among those who accept the Master's call.

Ver. 31.] The Unfinished Tower. 423
25. IT And there went great multitudes with him: and he
turned, and said unto them, 26. If any man come, to me, and
hate not his father, and mother, and wife, and children, and
bretliren, and siders, yea, and his own life also, lie cannot be
my disdple.
How can we hate our dear ones, for whom we ourselves would gladly
die ? How can we hate our own life ? Jesus means that He must
stand first with us. No earthly love must drive Him from our
hearts. No comfort or advantage, however great, must stand in the
way of our Christian profession. Love all these dear friends, and
love your own life, and yet be willing to part with all as soon as
ever God requires. He can be more to you than any one else in
the world.
2 7. And whosoever doth not bear his cross, and come after
me, cannot be my disdple.
How can we call ourselves Christians? The Cross means shame,
and pain, and loneliness, this must be borne patiently ; and going
after Jesus means zeal, and self-denial, and prayer, this must be
undertaken willingly. Without this bearing the Cross and imi
tating the Master we are not real Christians. He would not
acknowledge us.
28. For which of you, intending to build a tower, sitteth not
down first, and counteth the cost, whether he have sufficient to
finish it ?
The resolution to lead a Christian life, to give up sin and the world,
to prepare for heaven, is described as the design to erect a costly
building. You wish to erect the walls, and adorn the rooms, and
gather together the precious things of a truly Christian character.
It is well. Only consider what this means. Look into your own
heart and see if you have made preparation. Where are your
resources to come from ?
29. Lest haply, after he hath laid the foundation, and is not
able to finish it, all that behold it begin to mock him, 30. saying,
This man began to build, and was not able to finish.
This is a backslider, one who professed the Gospel without looking
into his own heart and preparing for the task. He trusted in his
own powers, and they soon failed him. He began to pray, and
deny himself, and do good works. Then on a sudden he gives it
all up, and becomes the scorn of angels and men. God alone can
supply stones for our building and strength to lay them. Christ
must be our Foundation.
31. Or what king, going to make war against another king,
sitteth not downfird, and consultdh whether he be able with ten
thousand to meet him that cometh against him with twenty
thousand ?

424 The War given up. [S. Luke XV.
Or again, the Christian life is like a warfare which no one could begin
unless he had soldiers and money. He would have no chance
unless his plans were ready and his stores well provided. You
would fain begin the war with your mighty enemy, look round
then and see what strength you will need. Seek God's grace.
Pray, and use all means that may strengthen you. A Christian has
to fight. He must then be always on the watch, and keep his
weapons ready.
32. Or else, while the other is yd a great way off, he sendeth
an ambassage, and desirdh conditions of peace.
This is a shameful downfall, to make terms with our deadly enemy
the devil ; and it comes of our heedlessness in not making prepara
tion for the fight. Do not be frightened by the strength of evil,
for God is far mightier and will never suffer you to be overcome if
you will do your part.
33. So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all
that he hath, he cannot be my disdple.
Lord, give me grace to forsake all, at least in the preparation of my
heart. What I have I will use as Thine and for Thy service. What
I lose I will resign cheerfully into Thy hands. I will not grasp
eagerly at any advantage here, and will try day by day to lay up a
better treasure elsewhere. I know this is the only way to build the
tower and fight the battle. Yet even this must come of Thy mercy.
34. 1T Salt is good: but if the salt have lost his savour,
wherewith shall it be seasoned ?
A Christian should enlighten others ; his example should encourage
good, he should purify and sweeten all around him. But what if
he has become corrupt, if he contradicts his holy calling, if he passes
from the Lord's Table to sinful feasts, if he blasphemes God after
praising Him ? Grant, O Lord, that I who am now Thy child may
not become reprobate and corrupt. If I cast away God's grace,
what is there that can turn me to good again ?
35. It is neither fit for tlie land, nor yet for tlie dunghill;
but men cast it out. He that hath ears to hear, let him liear.
Such Christians were once fervent Now they have become cold and
careless. Once they laboured to do good, now they willingly go
with the stream of evil. Once they listened to God's Word, now
they have no ears for it. The good God save us from such a
terrible change, and keep us in our first love. We cannot hear or
heed unless by His grace.

Ver. 7.] The Lost Sheep. 425

CHAPTER XV.
1. The parable of the lost sheep : 8. of the piece of silver : xx. of the
prodigal son.
THEN drew near unto him all the publicans and sinners for
to hear him.
What else should sinners do but draw near to Jesus Christ and give
ear to His Divine words? He is the True Physician of souls, and
has a great store of pardon for all that truly turn to Him. This
chapter is tlie record of His mercy to sinners.
2. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This
man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them.
To convert sinners is a noble work, worthy of the Saviour Himself ;
it is wrought by kindness and patience, not by harsh condemnation.
What drew these persons to Jesus Christ was the union of purity
with kindness which they saw in Him. He avoided all suspicion of
evil Himself, but yet behaved to the fallen as to brethren.
3. IT And he spake this parable unto them, saying, 4. What
man of you, having an hundred sheep, if he lose one of them,
doth not leave the ninety and nine in the wilderness, and go
after that which is lost, until he find it ?
In this parable we see the lost condition of a sinner and the great
compassion of God. The good shepherd feels the danger in which
the sheep is, and spares no trouble or pains to rescue it. He seems
to put aside all the rest in his search for the lost one.
5. And when he hath found it, lie layeth it on his shoulders,
rejoidng. He does not chide it or drive it onward harshly, but lifts it up in his
arms and bears its weight cheerfully. He fatigues himself, that it
may not be overwearied.
6. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends
and neighbours, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have
found my sheep which was lost.
He calls on his friends to share his joy in the rescue of the poor
sheep. His only feeling is gladness at having found it. He does
not blame the sheep for straying, or grudge the labours of his search.
7. / say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over
one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just
persons, which need no repentance.

426 The Lost Piece of Money. [S. Luke XV.
In this sweet picture we see our own danger as lost sheep. We see, too,
the mercy of Jesus when He gave Himself wholly to the work of
our redemption, not regarding trouble, or pain, or death. We
observe, too, His joy in our conversion, His forbearance with our
weakness, and the feelings with which the blessed in heaven welcome
a returning sinner.
8. IT Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she
lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and
seek diligently till she find it ?
This parable teaches us the value of a sinner's soul ; it is stamped
with God's image, and is precious to Him even in its lost condition.
His grace enlightens dark places on the soul's road, and sweeps
away hindrances that beset it, and restores its former brightness,
and sets it in its right place again.
9. And when she hath found it, she calleth her friends and
her neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me ; for I have
found the piece which I had lost.
It is of God's goodness only that the lost is found. How can any one
return from sin to God except Divine grace finds him out and brings
him back ? Let us implore this converting mercy for ourselves and
for others ; what else can find out the lost ?
10. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of
the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.
If you are a friend of God you will be glad at the repentance of any
sinner. The angels rejoice at it and praise God for it, why should we
alone be so indifferent ? All around us are many in need of repent
ance whose conversion would cause joy among the heavenly host
and gladden the heart of Christ Himself.
11. IT And he said, A certain man had two sons: 12. and
the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the
portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them
his living.
The sinner was God's child, brought up under His care, and having
work to do for Him; but he despised this state of dependence, and
wished to live just as he pleased, and gratify his own wishes in
every way. He became weary of obedience, and desired to have his
own way, and so God let him have it.
13. And not many days after the younger son gathered all
together, and took his journey into a far country, and there
wasted his substance with riotous living.
He now forgot God altogether, and lived for his own pleasure, quite
free from any restraints of religion ; all he cared for was to amuse
and gratify himself, and he devoted time and money, body and
mind, to this selfish indulgence.

Ver. 20.] The Prodigal Son. 427
14. And when he liad spent all, there arose a mighty famine
in that land ; and he began to be in want.
At last he became utterly disgusted with himself and his own life ;
his dissipation gave him no more pleasure, he had no comfort in
himself and no hope for the future, troubles came upon him and he
felt his own folly.
15. And he went and joined himself to a citizen of tliat
country ; and he sent him into his fields to feed swine.
Now he was no longer free ; sinful habits had such a deadly power
over him, that he could not amend his life ; he was under a heavy
yoke of sin, and had become contemptible to all. What a change
from the time when he was a beloved son in his father's home !
16. And he would fain have filled his belly with the husks
that the swine did eat : and no man gave unto him.
He tried in vain to satisfy himself with the lowest pleasures, and
yet. grew utterly weary of them. So far our Lord has drawn a
wonderfully true picture of the downward course which so many
take. We can see here what is the result of a selfish life, and how
little of real comfort this world's pleasures give.
17. And when he came to himself, he said, How many hired
servants of my father's have bread enough and to spare, and
I perish with hunger/
God's mercy sought him out and brought him to himself. He felt the
misery of his condition, sin appeared vile and hateful, and he found
nothing that could satisfy his empty heart. He envied God's meanest
servants their peace and obedience. They had something to sustain
them which he had lost.
18. / will arise and go to my father, and will say unto him.
Father, I have sinned against heaven, and before thee,
He determined to leave sin and return to God. He still felt that
God was his Father and would look on him in mercy, but yet he
knew that he must humbly confess his sins against God. All his
Father's love and all his own folly seemed to rise up before him at
once. He felt utter confusion when he thought of the life which he
had led.
19. And am no more worthy to be called thy son: make me
as one of thy hired servants.
He felt now how ungrateful he had been. True repentance brings
home this truth to us, that we are unworthy of God's mercies. The
prodigal son knew how great was that patient love and mercy of
God which he had so often despised, and he was willing to take a
low place and do hard work so long as he was reconciled with God
again.
20. And he arose, and came to his father. But when he

428 Welcome to the Penitent. [S. Luke XV.
was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had com
passion, and ran, and fell on his neck, and kissed him.
So he put his resolve into practice and returned to God, but God pre
vented him with His grace, comforted and encouraged him, filled
his heart with peace and joy. After all his fears he found how
right it had been to trust to his heavenly Father's mercy. Instead
of condemnation God set before the penitent pardon and joy.
21. And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against
heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called
thy son.
Yet the penitent was not ashamed to make a full confession as he had
purposed. He did not forget his own unworthiness. The more he
felt God's goodness the more determined he was to confess his sins
and amend his life. Acceptance with God does not do away with
the need of humbling ourselves.
22. But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best
robe, and put it on him ; and put a ring on his hand, and
shoes on his feet :
The more the penitent humbled himself the more grace God bestowed
on him.' He clothed him with Christ's righteousness, sealed his
heart with the Holy Spirit, enabled him to walk in the way of life.
Oh wonderful riches of mercy freely poured out after so much in
gratitude !
23. And bring hither the fatted calf, and kill it; and let us
eat, and be merry :
He was invited to the Lord's Table, and fed with the Bread of Life.
God had no reproaches or judgments for his past faults now that he
had repented of them. All was now peace and gladness.
24. For this my son was dead, and is alive again ; he was
lost, and is found. And tliey began to be merry.
Such is the story of the sinner's return to God told by the great
Searcher of hearts. If you, dear reader, know any who have
forsaken their heavenly Father, and wasted His gifts, and are still
far from Him, do your best to awaken them and lead them home to
their loving Father's arms again. If it is your own case, rise at
once and go to God and confess your sins. He is full of mercy, and
desires to receive us again after our wanderings.
25. Now his elder son was in the field: and as he came and
drew nigh to the house, lie heard musick and dandng. 26.
And he called one of the servants, and asked what these things
meant. The Pharisees who were occupied in the observance of God's law
felt amazement at the welcome which Jesus gave to sinners, they

Ver. 32.] The Elder Brother reproved. 429
could not understand His joy at the conversion of a soul. Let us
remember God's great mercies to ourselves, and then we shall
praise them in the case of others also.
27. And he said unto him, Thy brother is come; and thy
father hath killed the fatted calf, because he hath received him
safe and sound. 28. And he was angry, and would not go in :
therefore came his father out, and intreated him.
A Christian should not feel indifferent to anything which concerns a
brother's welfare. How much more when that brother has come
back from deadly sin to a state of pardon and grace. We should
try and enter into the sorrowful and also into the joyful occasions
of our holy mother, God's Church, and feel as she feels. If souls
are won, if the ignorant are taught, if the Church is extended, if a
holy day is to be kept, shall we not be ready to praise God ?
29. And he answeiing said to his father, Lo, these many
years do I serve thee, ndther transgressed I at any time thy
commandment : and yd thou never gavest me a kid, that I
might make merry with my friends :
It is a mistake to work in God's service as a hard bondage, and to
reckon up our good deeds as if they laid Him under a debt to us.
Those who are His have far more happiness than the merry feasters
of the world. They are His children and live in His love, they
should not look with envy on the pleasures of sin.
30. But as soon as this thy son was come, which hath devoured
thy living with harlots, thou had killed for him the fatted calf.
He entirely forgot his brotherly love and the happiness of finding the
sinner so changed ; all he felt was jealousy of the kindness which
his father showed the prodigal. Let us beware of such feelings.
God is infinitely merciful. If we have been kept back from deadly
sin it comes of His goodness only, not our own strength. We must
not despise any, or think them beyond hope. God is the Judge,
not we. What would have become of us but for His preserving
grace.
31. And he said unto him, Son, thou art ever with me, and
all that I have is thine.
To be in grace is to have God for our Father and His promise for our
stay. What are the world's joys to the happiness of communion
with Him ? Let us consider our own privileges, and then we shall
not envy the condition of any others. God is my Father and my
Friend, what can harm me ?
32. It was meet that we should make merry, and be glad : for
this thy brother was dead, and is alive again ; and was lost,
and is found.

430 The Unjust Steward. [S. Luke XVI.
How mighty is grace which can restore the dead to life and find
again the hopelessly lost ! Consider how many souls around you
are dead in sin or lost in error, and pray God to send forth His
Spirit and quicken them to new life. It is frightful when the soul
is killed by the breath of sin. It is joyful beyond words when the
dead soul hears God's voice and wakes up to life again.

CHAPTER XVI.
I. The parable of the unjust steward. 14. Christ reproveth the hypocrisy
of the covetous Pharisees. 19. The rich glutton, and Lazarus the
beggar.
AND he said also unto his disdples, There was a certain rich
Xi. man, which had a steward; and the same was accused
unto him that he had wasted his goods.
We are only God's stewards. What we possess is put into our hands
by Him that we may make a right use of it. It would be a great
mistake to suppose it was absolutely our own to do as we like with.
Time, and money, and health, and capacity are all goods that
belong to our Master, and are not to be wasted. What a treasure
is bodily strength ! How rich are those who enjoy the goodwill
of their fellows ! What powers of mind God gives to some gifted
persons 1 God keep us from wasting or misusing these treasures.
2. And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that 1
hear this of thee ? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou
mayest be no longer steward.
There are moments when God speaks to our hearts and warns us how
brief is our sojourn here. God says, " Consider how many of your
generation have passed away. Soon it will be your turn to die.
You have but a little while longer to finish up your earthly work,
and prepare to render account before My judgment-seat ! "
3. Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do ?
for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship : I cannot
dig; to beg I am ashamed.
Happy are we if we seriously consider such a message, and acknow
ledge that we have no resources of our own ready for that searching
day of account. When I die what have I to rely on ? I cannot
carry with me any money or friends. Books or worldly amuse
ments will not follow me. What shall I do to secure a happy
eternity?
4. I am resolved what to do, tliat, when I am put out of the
stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
Thank God there is a home ready forme. God's mercy will open its

Ver. 9.] How to make Friends of Mammon. 431
doors to the merciful. I know I must soon pass away from earth,
but if I make a good use of what I have, if I devote my time and
means to do good, then God's saints will pray for me and His
mercy welcome me. I must begin at once to think of the world
to come, and prepare for an eternal state. God give me grace to
cany out these resolutions.
5. So he called every one of his lord's debtors unto him, and
said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord ? 6. And
lie said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him,
Take thy bill, and dt down quickly, and write fifty.
The steward, who had all the accounts in his hands, was able to gratify
the debtors at his master's expense, and so establish a claim on
them to provide a home for him. Shall not we help the poor out
of what our Divine Master has intrusted to us, and this not
against His will, but as He Himself has desired? A Christian can
do innocently what the steward did dishonestly, he can turn his
Master's goods to his own lasting welfare by a charitable use of
them.
7. Then said he to another, And how much owed thou?
Arid he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said
unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.
He used discretion in handing over so much of the debt to one, so
much to another. So we should in doing good works employ our
money and pains to the best purpose, considering the circumstances
and fitting our liberality to the case. What a blessed art to be
able to spend our money at once for God's glory, and the comfort
of the poor, and our own eternal profit !
8. And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he
had done wisely : for the children of this world are in their
generation wiser than the children of light.
The rascally steward acted cleverly, and found many friends when he
gave up his place. Shall we forget that we are just about to leave
this life and have to provide for ourselves an eternal home with
saints and angels? What trouble business-men take to get rich
and lay out their money well ! Christians ought to let nothing
pass by, no time, or opportunity, or example, without doing some
good.
9. And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the
mammon of unrighteousness ; tliat, when ye fail, they may
receive you into everlasting habitations.
Riches can be sanctified in no other way than by almsgiving. By
spending our money wisely for others' good we exchange it for an
everlasting reward. All those whom we help, or clothe, or teach,
or comfort, will pray for us to God, and we shall find the blessing
of these prayers when we come to die.

432 Our Lord's Words about Riches. [S. Luke XVI.
10. He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also
in much : and he that is 'unjust in the lead is unjust also in
much. The great Master puts us in various situations here on earth, and
trusts us with His goods to make trial of our faithfulness. What
He regards is not the less or more that we have here, but the spirit
in which we use it. All men are His servants, and have work to
do for Him.
n. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous
mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches ?
Money is deceitful. It is often wrongly got, soon melts away, and
deserts us when we die. God has a better treasure in heaven for
those who serve Him faithfully on earth. Let us long for the true
riches. A pure heart, and good conscience, and kind temper are
worth more than any money. Those who have such are truly rich.
12. And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another
man's, who shall give you that which is your own ?
God lends us many things for a while, but He desires to give us
something better for eternity. Heaven is greater than earth, and
more lasting, and more our own. Should we not be foolish to
enjoy the earthly shadow and miss the heavenly reality ?
13. IT No servant can serve two masters: for dther he will
hate the one, and love the other ; or else he will hold to the one,
and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
We must one day make a choice. Some love God, others merely
their earthly profit. Which is our case? When God's Word
orders one course, and our worldly advantage or the favour of men
points another way, then it is seen whose servants we really are.
God give us grace to love Him and hold to Him, and despise all
Satan's persuasions to take the other side.
14. And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these
tilings : and they derided him.
A simple unworldly person is much despised by sharp unscrupulous
characters who have done well for themselves in this world, but
one day the laugh will be on the other side. It matters little if
we are laughed at here so long as we have the comfort of God's
approval.
15. And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify your
selves before men ; but God knoweth your hearts : for that which
is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of
God. J
His judgment alone will stand, for He knows all things. We may
rest contented amidst the false or mistaken judgments of the world,

Ver. 2i.] Dives and Lazarus. 433
knowing that God decides unerringly upon men's worth. What
does it matter what men think of us, so long as God is pleased ?
Try to approve yourself to Him first of all.
16. Tlie law and the prophets were until John: since that
time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth
into it.
It is not now the time of legal rites or outward cleansings. The
Gospel requires a heart-service, and bids all men alike to become
God's children. There are those who press to the mark, who deny
themselves, give up all, love God, and live for heaven. Let us join
ourselves to that blessed company, and press on with them towards
heaven. When so many turn to God, shall not we also accept the
message and enter at the open gate ?
1 7. And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one
tittle of the law to fail.
The law itself remained as a rule of holiness. What passed away was
only the outward part of it, while God's holy commandments and
the revelation of Himself as the only one true and living God
remained. All things in this world pass away, only obedience, and
purity, and love are eternal. Keep God's law and you are build
ing for eternity.
18. Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another,
committeth adultery : agd whosoever marrieth her that is put
away from her husband committeth adultery.
The bond of marriage is a holy one, and God will not have it broken.
Married people should pray for grace to discharge their promises
rightly. They should forbear, and love, and be patient with each
other. God meant them to be joined together not only for time,
but to meet again in heaven for ever. Surely Christians should not
enter without prayer and serious thought on so holy and binding a
state.
19. IT There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in
purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day :
It is not wicked to be rich, or to have good food or good clothes.
What brought the rich man to hell was that he thought of nothing
but his own pleasure. He was selfish. So long as he looked well
and fared sumptuously he cared not for the sufferings around him.
The picture here set forth is contrasted with the eternal misery
into which he soon fell. First comes luxurious splendour, then
hopeless woe. Is not this enough to frighten those who live at
ease?
20. And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which
was laid at his gate, full of sores, 21. and desiring to be fed
with the crumbs which fell from the rich man's table : moreover
the dogs came and licked his sores. 2 E

434 The Unseen World. [S. Luke XVI-
Lazarus was destitute, abandoned by all, full of pain, and looking
forward to death ; but he made no complaint, did not envy the rich
man's luxuries, put his trust in God only, and quietly committed
himself into His hands. There are many now whq suffer thus, and
whose sufferings are dear to God though men neglect them.
What does it matter to be outcasts from the world if we are God s
friends ? Pie accepts the submission and patience of the poor.
22. And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was
carried by the angels into Abraham's bosom: the rich man also
died, and was buried ;
As the two men's lives were different so were their funerals. No one
took trouble about the corpse of Lazarus, but the rich man was
buried in a suitable manner. Only with the other world a very
different scene opens on us. There we find Lazarus in happiness
with saints and angels, and the rich man wretched.
23. And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and
seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.
What will it be to awake from a dream of pleasure and find ourselves
in another scene, far from all that we have loved, far from comfort
or peace, and our happiness gone for ever, and to know that those
whom we despised have entered into rest and found what we miss !
God give us grace to lift up our eyes to Him now while it may
profit us, so that we may not experience the shock of such a fright
ful awakening there.
24. And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on
me, and send Lazarus, tliat he may dip the tip of his finger in
water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame.
Here the rich man lived in ease and pleasure while Lazarus suffered
want ; but in the world beyond the grave their conditions are
reversed, the one is parched with thirst and racked with pain, the
other is at peace. What is hidden under these words we do not
fully know, but enough is revealed to make us both hope and fear.
25. But Abraham said, Son, remember tliat thou in thy life
time recdvedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things:
but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented.
I do not desire a reward here. I must not seek for praise or profit
from good actions now, lest I have my reward on earth and get no
other. If I live for my own pleasure while so many toil, and suffer,
and want necessaries, what can I expect from a just God but utter
damnation ? God is just, and will not give heavenly joy along with
earthly, so I must welcome sorrow as a sign of His mercy.
26. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great
gulf fixed : so tliat they which would pass from hence to you
cannot; neither can they pass to us, tliat would come from
thence.

Ver. 31.] Fruitless Regrets. 435
This deep immeasurable gulf which none can pass is not opened in
this world, but we shall soon be on its edge ; it is very near, and a
moment may set us on one side or the other, never to cross any
more. If we die as God's enemies we may never find an opportunity
of pardon. Let us stand on the right side now with His friends,
then we need not fear.
27. Then lie said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou
wouldest send him to my father's liouse: 28. for I have five
brethren ; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into
this place of torment.
In the other world how shall we meet the remembrance of souls led
away by us, of friends and dear ones whom we have encouraged to
mock at religion or to live in deadly sin ? It will be more frightful
than any torment, to know that we have cast away others' happi
ness. Let us remember death and what comes after death while
there is yet time, lest we and our friends meet again only to curse
each other.
29. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and tlie
propliets ; let them, hear tliem.
Holy Scripture is a sufficient guide. If we walk by its light we shall
lead a godly life here, and reach God's presence hereafter. God
has done His part in warning us, we must take heed of His
gracious calls to repentance. Let me, O Lord, give ear while it is
yet time. I have these Divine books in my hands, but I have not
yet given heed to them as I ought.
30. And lie said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went
unto them from the dead, they will repent.
People often make this mistake. They say, "If I saw a miracle I
should be converted." But God bids us trust Him with our hearts at
once, and not wait for wonders and signs to be wrought. If such
persons did see a miracle, they would find something to cavil at
in it. Repentance is not caused by seeing marvels, but by God's
Spirit changing the heart.
31. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the
propliets, neither will tliey be persuaded, though one rose from
tlie dead.
No, for as matter of fact they were not persuaded when Jesus
Himself rose. Faith is content with the evidence which God gives
us in His Holy Word, it is enough if we choose to go by it. Weigh
now this picture which Jesus has drawn of the life and death of one
who lived only for his own pleasure, and pray Him to keep you
from such a life and such an end. Our Saviour has lifted a corner
of the curtain which hangs over the unseen world, not to make all
clear, but to stir us up to fear and hope.

436 Forgiveness must not be weary. [S. Luke XVII.

CHAPTER XVII.
j. Christ teacheth to avoid occasions of offence. 3. One to forgive another.
6. The power of faith. 7. How we are bound to God, and not he to
us. 11. He healeth ten lepers. 22. Of the kingdom of God, and the
coming of the Son of man.
THEN said he unto the disdples, It is impossible but that
offences will come : but woe unto him, through wliom they
come 1
In the world as it is souls are led into sin and lose their innocence
every day, yet God's justice will punish those who are the -seducers.
In spite of all the confusion of the world sin will bring punishment,
and those who lead others wrong will have greater condemnation.
Do your best to guard simple souls from evil. God has put them
into your care, and will avenge your neglect of them.
2. It were better for him that a millstone were hanged about
his neck, and he cast into the sea, than that he should offend
one of these little ones.
It would be terrible to be cast into the sea with a great weight
dragging one down to the bottom. Far more terrible to be cast
into hell with the weight of another's ruin on one's conscience.
Keep me, O God, from destroying the faith, or purity, or honesty
of any one soul. I know if I do this Thou wilt take heavy
vengeance for it.
3. II Take heed to yourselves : If thy brother trespass against
thee, rebuke him ; and, if he repent, forgive him.
When you are vexed or injured by any one God bids you " take heed
to yourself." He would have you not rage and storm, but tell the
offender quietly of his fault, and be ready and glad to receive his
apology. Remember how much need you have of pardon your
self.
4. And if he trespass against thee seven times in a day, and
seven times in a clay turn again to thee, saying, I repent ; thou
shalt forgive him.
Do not let his faults tire you out. God has put up with an immense
amount from you, so you should have great forbearance in your
turn. Never lose hope of any one. Godfs Spirit may be beginning
a gracious work, you may yet see a joyful fruit of your patience
with him.
5. And the apostles said unto the Lord, Increase our faith.
We also must say this. Increase in us that temper which looks at
the invisible, which can forgive any injury, which trusts always in

Ver. ii.] We are Unprofitable Servants. 437
God's help, which despises the delights of sin. Faith is Thy gift.
Lord; its beginning, and preservation, and perfection are all of
Thee. Help Thou our unbelief till it becomes deep and earnest
faith.
6. And the Lord said, If ye had faith as a grain of mustard
seed, ye might say unto this sycamine tree, Be thou plucked up
by the root, and be thou planted in the sea ; and it should obey
you. The tree which I would pluck up is my own pride, which is a barren
harmful tree, taking up all the good soil of my heart and towering
above everything else there. I should like to see it uprooted and
cast into the sea of God's infinite mercy, and no more thought of.
When will my faith avail for this ?
7. But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding
cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the
field, Go and rit down to meat ? 8. and will not rather say
unto him, Make ready wherewith I may sup, and gird thyself,
and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken ; and afterward
thou shalt eat and drink ?
We are God's servants depending entirely upon Him, and all we can
do for Him or for our brethren is no more than our bounden duty.
The servant after his work in the field got ready and waited at his
master's dinner. So we should apply ourselves readily to whatever
God gives us to do. This world is meant for work ; we shall have
all eternity to rest in.
9. Doth he thank that servant because he did the things tliat
were commanded him ? I trow not.
What does God owe us if we have bestowed alms, forgiven offences,
kept from any sin? Nay, it is all on the other side. We owe
Him infinitely for His mercy. It is our highest privilege to be the
servants of such a Master and to do His work well. Our works
are His gifts.
10. So likewise ye, when ye shall have done all those things
which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants :
we have done that which was our duty to do.
I heartily recognise that I am an unprofitable servant. I owe every
thing to God's goodness. If I devote to Him my whole soul, and
body, and means, and time, I am only paying Him back His own,
and I cannot do this without His help. Let me only do my duty,
and trust to Him for a reward. His mercy begins and ends all.
1 1. IT And it came to pass, as lie went lo Jerusalem, that he
passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
Our Lord on His way to His Passion still had thought for human
miseries. Wherever He came He did good. Nay, He doubtless

438 Ten Lepers healed. [S. Luke XVII.
planned His journey so as to meet and relieve such and such poor
sufferers and sinners. His own pleasure never guided His move
ments, but His Father's will and our good.
12. And as he entered into a certain village, there md him
ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
It is something to feel our unworthiness. That is the first step
towards the cure of our souls, to know our own state and feel its
wretchedness. God is spotless purity and I am vile. How can I
dare to approach Him ! the lowest place is the fittest for me.
13. And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master,
have mercy on us.
And the next step is to cry earnestly for help. While I have time,
while God invites me and the day of grace lasts, I will cry to Him
and say, O mighty Saviour and wise Guide, have mercy on me and
cleanse my heart ; I cannot overcome temptation without Thy special
help. Thou alone canst make me clean.
14. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew your
selves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went,
they were cleansed.
Further, I must obey His voice. Though reason may not be fully
satisfied, I will act upon faith, and do what He bids me, not doubt
ing the issue ; and thus before long I shall find with joy that my
heart is lighter and my sins gone. These men saw no change in
themselves, yet they took the journey which Jesus bade them take,
and on the way they found recovery. Such is the blessing on simple
obedience.
15. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned
back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
What remains but to be thankful for His mercy to us, to praise and
glorify God Who has delivered us from the devil's tyranny ? Those
who have been brought back to the fold by God's mercy ought to
praise Him all their life for His goodness.
. 16. And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks:
and he was a Samaritan.
A Christian will worship God with heart, and with tongue, and with
reverence of body too. He will delight to come to the Holy
Communion, which is the sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving, and
there fall down before Jesus Christ, Who is spiritually present, and
pour out all his gratitude for the past and good resolutions for the
time to come.
1 7. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed ?
but where are the nine ? 1 8. There are not found that returned
lo give glory to God, save this stranger.

Ver. 23.] How the Kingdom of God comes. 439
All of them felt their misery, and cried for mercy, and went to seek
for a cure, but only one came back to give thanks. Our Lord seems
to wonder at their ingratitude, yet it is too like our own case.
How earnestly we pray for some deliverance ! We cry out against
temptation or suffering, and yet when the Lord has brought us
through we forget all that He has done for us. Let me now at
least proclaim glory to Thee for all the mercies which Thou hast
shown to me.
19. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith
hath made thee whole.
I will rise up and lead a new life, not forgetting what I have been,
but thanking God daily for His mercy, and hoping to avoid future
pollution by His strength. Let my faith in His love be firm, and I
shall be able to lead a new life.
20. IT And when lie was demanded of the Pharisees, wlien
tlie kingdom of God should come, he answered them and said,
The kingdom of God comdh not with observation :
God's kingdom requires the eyes of faith to see it. Those whose
hearts are set on this world take no notice of it. To them the world's
power and splendour are the only worthy objects. They despise
prayer, and faith, and reverence, and the concerns of the heavenly
kingdom ; but the believer sees things in the light of God's Word.
2 1 . Ndther shall they say, Lo here 1 or, lo there I for, behold,
the kingdom of God is within you.
It is within us, it is rooted in faith and love, it requires a changed
heart, and flows out from within in all manner of good works.
Indeed God's kingdom has a place and name in the world, but still
it cannot be understood by any who are not inwardly prepared to
receive it Let the heavenly King reign in our hearts, and we shall
bring in many to be fellow-citizens with us.
22. And he said unto thei disdples. The days will come, when
yejhall dedre to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye
sliall not see it.
These are the days of which Jesus spoke. Faith has grown weak, and
love grown cold, and we desire earnestly that God would manifest
Himself as in former days, and restore us to spiritual life again. Once
Jesus Christ was the Light and Strength of believers, would that we
could see such days again.
"Come and comfort them that mourn.
Come as in the ancient days."
23. And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go
not after them, nor follow them.
Impatience must not lead us to forsake God's Church and join this or
that sect ; we are safest in the old way, which has sufficed for so
many generations before us. Let us remain in the Church, but yet
strive with all our power to promote true devotion in it. We are
best here, where God has dealt mercifully with us so long.

44° Warnings from the Old Testament. [S. Luke XVII.
24. For as the lightning, that lighteneth out of the one part
under heaven, shineth unto the other part under heaven; so
shall also the Son of man be in his day.
One day Christ will appear in glorious majesty, then will come the
reward of faith, then scoffers shall be confounded. We can wait
a while patiently, knowing that in His own good time He will justify
our cause.
25. But first must he suffer many things, and be rejeded of
this generation.
The way to glory is by the Cross ; first pain, and trials, and shame,
afterwards rest and glory. Learn, O Christian, by your Master's
example, first to suffer and endure, and afterwards to expect a crown.
His way was through shame to glory.
26. And as it was in the days of Noe, so shall it be also in
the days of the Son of man. 27. They did eat, they drank,
they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day
that Noe entered into the ark, and the flood came, and destroyed
them all.
The world before the Flood had long warning, but they paid no heed,
and the thought of religion gradually died away from their minds.
They cared only for this world's business, and thought all would go
on to-morrow as it did to-day. Then suddenly death and judgment
overwhelmed them, and there was no escape.
28. Likewise also as it was in the days of Lot ; they did eat,
they drank, they bought, they sold, they planted, they builded;
29. but the same day that Lot went out of Sodom it rained fire
and brimstone from heaven, and destroyed them all.
The people of Sodom lived in pleasure and in sin till the very day
that destruction came on them. Lot alone, who had kept to God's
side, was warned and rescued. Grant, Lord, that I may rise up like
Lot and forsake any pleasure or advantage sooner than be in the
way of deadly sin. Let me fly from sinners' company, lest I fall into
their ruin.
30. Even thus shall it be in the day when the Son of man is
revealed. Christ is near us now, but unseen. One day He will be revealed. That
will be to many a terrible surprise. It will come upon the careless
like the Flood did on the old world, or the storm of fire on Sodom.
Shall we be among those who will feel terror in that day, or those
who will find peace and joy in their Lord's return?
Si. In that day, he which shall be upon the housetop, and
his stuff in the house, let him not come down to take it away :
and he that is in the field, let him likewise not return back.

Ver. 37.] Sudden Partings to come. 441
Let us be ready to meet God's call without being over-anxious for
our worldly concerns. We can intrust ourselves into His merciful
hands here and hereafter. Let us not set our heart on any property,
or ornaments, or precious things, they are as nothing in comparison
with what is eternal.
32. Remember Lots wife.
Lot's wife stopped, and lingered, and perished in the destruction of
Sodom. When God calls any one from his way of sin, it is the best
wisdom to obey at once. Let him not look back with longing eyes
upon past follies lest he be ensnared again, rather let him set his
face towards Zion. Remember that many have been backsliders,
and take heed lest you be of their company.
33. Whosoever shall seek to save his life shall lose it ; and
wlwsoever shall lose his life shall preserve it.
There is a foolish care which turns only to loss, and a wise disregard
and contempt which ends in saving for ever. Be ready to give up
all, even life itself, sooner than offend Jesus Christ or fail in duty
to your brethren. In the end you will find you have chosen wisely.
What is worth keeping if God's favour is lost ?
34. / tell you, in that night there shall be two men in one
bed ; the one shall be taken, and the other shall be left.
The great division between those who are God's friends and those
who are separated from Him by sin is not certainly known in this
life, but it will suddenly become manifest after death. It will part
asunder one from the other, and divide even those who have been
closely united together here. Let me do all I can to join together
with me in God's true faith all those whom I love, that we may all
be taken and none left.
35. Two women sliall be grinding together ; the one shall be
taken, and the other left. 36. Two men shall be in the field;
the one shall be taken, and the other left.
In all trades and callings there are elect and reprobate souls, some
who serve God in faith and patience, and others who live only for
the world and its lusts. God knows who are on His side, and one
day He will make it manifest, only let us be ready for the call, for
it may be unexpected and sudden.
37. And they answered and said unto him, Where, Lord?
And he said unto them, Wheresoever the body is, thither will
the eagles be gathered together.
Of the place and manner of the judgment day we know nothing, but
wherever Christ our Master appears, there all His chosen will be
gathered together to Him. They will come from all quarters, like
the birds gather together to their prey. That great day has for us
an aspect of mingled fear and joy. Grant to us, Lord, that we may
meet it with a good hope, trusting still in Thy mercy though ashamed
of our own sins.

442 The Unjust Judge. [S. Luke XVIII.

CHAPTER XVIII.
3. Of the importunate widow. 9. Of the Pharisee and the publican. 15.
Children brought to Christ. 18. A ruler that would follow Christ,
but is hindered by his riches. 28. The reward of them that leave all
for his sake. 31. He foresheweth his death, 35. and restoreth a blind
man to his sight.
AND he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought
Xi always to pray, and not to faint ;
We ought to pray always, that is, be always mindful of God's presence,
feel that we are His servants, and look to Him for help ; and we
should exercise these feelings in acts of distinct prayer from time to
time. We cannot always be kneeling and saying prayers, but we
can always love God and wish to please Him, that is the prayer of
our hearts.
2. Saying, There was in a dty a judge, which feared not
God, neither regarded man :
Poor suitors persevered in asking justice of this unrighteous judge, who
had no religion nor cared what people said of him, and shall not
Christians persevere with their suits to their heavenly Father, Who
is full of goodness and mercy? God is a righteous Judge, and will
dispose of all things according to His justice. We must wait for
His decision.
3. And there was a widow in that dty ; and she came unto
him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
This widow represents the Christian soul that has to struggle against
sin and to bear suffering. Her cry is, ' ' Deliver me from evil. Save
me, O God, for the waters have come in even unto my soul." She
feels the great power of the world, the danger of impatience, her
own frailty. What can she do against such mighty adversaries unless
the great Judge will undertake her cause ?
4. And he would not for a while : but afterward he said
within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man ; 5.
yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by
her continual coming she weary me.
The judge interfered on the widow's behalf, and made some order
which gave her protection ; yet he was not moved by any wish to
do justice, but only wearied by her perpetual cries. He wanted to
get rid of her, and so granted her prayer. We must not have such
thoughts as this about God. He desires earnestly to help us, and
only delays for our own greater good.
6. And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith. 7.

Ver. 13.] The Pharisee and the Publican. 443
And sliall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and
night unto him, though he bear long with them ?
Then shall we not pray with confidence, who are God's own children
and have His promises pledged to us ? He delays for a while, and
we cannot understand the ways of His Providence, yet we know
that He hears us, and will deal with our case in His good time.
Only keep on fighting, and praying, and striving to do the right,
and in the end peace and joy will come.
8. / tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless
when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
" Soon will come the great awaking,"
Soon the rending of the tomb."
And yet faith and love will have waxed cold, and many will have
given up looking for Christ's coming. Let us persevere, knowing
that it is but a little while, and then comes the reward for ever,
and all troubles are at an end.
9. And he spake this parable unto certain which trusted in
themselves that they were righteous, and despised others :
Learn to know your own heart, its many failings, its hidden sins, the
poverty and meanness of its devotions, its narrow and selfish
motives, and you will be cured of this complaint. Look at God's
goodness, and the examples of saints, and the pattern which Jesus
Christ set, and so bring down this foolish swollen pride.
10. Two men went up into the temple to pray; the one a
Pharisee, and the other a publican.
We cannot tell from the outward appearance of any whether they
are acceptable worshippers or not. Often God approves and loves
those who are despised by men. He looks into the hearts of those
who come into His house.
11. The Pharisee stood and prayed thus with himself, God,
I thank thee, that I am not as other men are, extortioners,
unjust, adulterers, or even as this publican. 12. I fast twice
in tlie week, I give tithes of all that I possess.
The faults in this prayer were that he despised and condemned
others as worse than himself, and that he had no notion of
true goodness. Instead of feeling his own vileness, and longing to
be better and more like God, all he did was to take pleasure in his
respectability and recite bis acts of piety. Great God, open our
eyes that we may know our own hearts and come to Thee for
pardon. What has frail man to do with merit in Thy presence ?
13. And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up
so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, say
ing, God be merdful to me a rinner.
Let this be our prayer. Merciful Father, for Christ's sake forgive

444 Infants brought to Christ. [S. Luke XVIII.
my many sins. Let me feel how grievous -they have been. Let
me take shame and humble myself for them. Let me welcome
contempt and not seek for honour from men. Let me hate sin for
the future. I desire, O Lord, every day to remember my sin and
frailty, and the great power of evil, and so fly to Thee for help.
14. / tell you, this man went dawn to his house justified
rather than the other : for every one that exalteth himself shall
be abased; and he tliat humbleth himself shall be exalted.
To humble oneself before God is salutary to the soul. It repairs sin
and wins God's favour. How sad is the state of those who have
never felt the depth of their own unworthiness, never earnestly
sought pardon, never had a glimpse of God's holiness I They are
satisfied with themselves and so remain hardened.
15. And they brought unto him also infants, that he would
touch them : but when his disdples saw it, they rebuked them.
In this world even good people sometimes rebuke or discourage
humble souls ; but Almighty God is never harsh, He welcomes
and encourages all who come in simplicity. He is ever ready to
give a blessing. All that we have to do is to come ourselves and
bring others to Him.
16. But Jesus called them unto him, and said, Suffer little
children to come unto me, and forbid them not : for of such is
the kingdom of God.
What an encouragement is here for us to teach the little ones about
Jesus Christ I They can learn the story of His love, they can
praise Him. His grace can sanctify them. Their innocence and
trustful temper are dear in His sight.
17. Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not recdve the
kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter tlierdn.
A pure, simple, loving heart will enter into the depths of Scripture.
All will be clear to such a one. God's Spirit will enlighten him.
A childlike heart does not value honours, nor store up money, nor
bear malice, nor harbour any unclean thoughts, but trusts God and
looks for daily mercies.
18. And a certain ruler asked him, saying, Good Master,
what shall I do to inherit eternal life ?
This is a rare example of a young man of rank and wealth in earnest
about salvation. Though his life was very prosperous, yet he felt
that this world was uncertain and he needed to seek a life that
would not end in the grave ; so he came to the great Teacher for
guidance, and knelt before Him, saying, " Good Master."
19. And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good?
none is good, save one, tliat is, God.

Ver. 24.] The Young Ruler answered. 445
Our Saviour did not seek for praise. He referred all things to His
Father's glory rather than His own ; and He also pointed out that
all goodness must come from God. It is not by mere efforts of our
own, but by prayer to God for His Holy Spirit that we can become
better than we are. His goodness and mercy are infinite.
Creatures show us but some drops from that vast ocean.
2 o. Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery,
Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Honour
thy father and thy mother.
This is our first duty, to keep God's commandments. Nothing will
be acceptable unless we do that. Strive to be pure, harmless, honest,
truthful, dutiful at home, and God will lead you on to love Him.
God will judge us upon this, whether we have kept these com
mandments or no. O Lord, have mercy upon us who have broken
them, and incline our hearts to keep them for the future.
21. And he said, All these have I kept from my youth up.
No doubt he had not fully considered God's commandments. He
had observed them more in letter than in spirit. Still he was a
noble example of one who was exposed to many temptations and
yet led a pure and sober life. His youthful days had. been inno
cent and well spent.
22. Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him,
Yet lackest tliou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and dis
tribute unto tlie poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven :
and come, follow me.
Jesus knew his heart and how he clung to his riches, so He made
trial of him with the searching question, " Are you willing to give
yourself wholly to Me ? are you ready to part at once from all your
treasures and your comforts here when I summon you, and to look for
no other reward but a heavenly one ? Will you share My life and
work ? " What should you answer, O reader, if Jesus gave you
this same invitation, bade you part willingly with all you have,
fix your thoughts on heaven, embrace shame and suffering ?
23. And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful : for he
was very rich.
. He turned back and would not accept his answer now he had got it.
The Lord required so hard a thing that he could not obey. Let us
give up ourselves honestly into God's hands with a determination
to do exactly as He requires, to give up all (if He bids us), to endure
pain, and to lead a new life' after Christ's own pattern. Nothing
but sin should make us very sorrowful, all else can be remedied.
24. And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said,
How hardly sliall they tliat have riches enter into the kingdom
of God!

446 The Power of Grace. [S. Luke XVIII,
The comforts of life are, then, a hindrance to salvation. Those who are
well off in the world should read this verse with fear and resolve to
use their riches as means only of doing good, then they cease to
hurt their possessor. If Jesus Christ says that it is hard for the
rich to be saved, He must have good reason for His words.
25. For it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye,
than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.
Unless a rich man is poor in spirit, humble, self-denying, liberal to
others, mindful of his dependence upon God, all his wealth turns
to his ruin. Rich men can be Christians, but they have great
temptations to live only for this world. Our Lord means by this
proverb that it is terribly hard for any one to be rich and not to love
riches.
26. And tliey that heard it said, Who then can be saved?
So I feel when I consider the strength of temptation and the world's
many dangers. I see so many leading others into evil, and such
coldness and weakness amongst believers. I ask, Who can be right
eous ? who can escape the snares laid for him ?
27. And he said, The things which are impossible with men
are possible with God.
Jesus Christ shows me that everything is easy with God. He can
sanctify souls in any state, make them triumph over any sin, lead
them through every kind of danger. Oh wonderful power of God's
grace that can form, saints for glory out of vile earth and miserable
sinners ! what can Satan do against God's will to save us ?
28. Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee.
They had not left much, but yet it was all they had. In the sight of
God their offering was a great one, because they had made it at
once and with a willing heart. If we have little to give up, still let
us offer it in their spirit
29. And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, Tliere is
no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or
children, for the kingdom of God's sake, 30. who shall not receive
manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come
life everlasting.
God gives to those who love Him a great recompense even in this
world, and a hope of somewhat further to come which is beyond
human reckoning. No one ever who took His side complained
that he had lost by doing so. If your earthly ties are broken off
by your making a profession of religion, yet be sure that God can
supply them. No friend can be to you all that He is.
31. IT Then he took unto him the twelve, and- said unto them,
Behold, we go up to Jerusalem, and all things tliat are written
by the prophds concerning the Son of man shall be accomplished

Ver. 39-] The Blind Beggar healed. 447
Christ knew the time of His death ; we only know of ours that it is
fixed by God, and that we are drawing near to it daily. Soon the
appointed time will come to us. Let us prepare as Christ did to
meet with entire submission what God's wisdom has appointed.
His will must be done, we have but to fulfil it with a quiet mind.
32. For he shall be delivered unto the Gentiles, and shall be
mocked, and spitefully entreated, and spitted on: 33. and they
shall scourge him, and put him to death: and tlie third day he
sliall rise again.
Our death may be a quiet and peaceful one, or perhaps awfully sudden,
or perhaps one of violence and cruelty like that of Jesus Christ ;
yet whatever it may be, we can meet it patiently, looking onward
to the life to come. This death of pain and shame which Jesus
died was in order to free us from fear, and make us feel God's love,
when we come to die.
34. And they understood none of these things : and this say
ing was hid from them, neither knew they the things which were
spoken^ The mystery of the Cross must be learned under the Cross. When
God brings us into suffering, then we learn His lessons which fell
idly on our ears in prosperous days.
35. IT And it came to pass, that as he was come nigh unto
Jericho, a certain blind man sat by the way side begging :
We are by nature blind, for we cannot see the right road ; and we are
poor, for we have no resources of our own. All that we can do is to
recognise our darkness, and ask the Divine Mercy to enlighten us
and supply our needs. This kind of begging should be daily, for
we are in daily need.
36. And hearing the multitude pass by, he asked what it
meant. 37. And they told him, that Jesus of Nazareth
passeth by.
Catch at the occasions of grace. Jesus is now passing by. He comes
in His Word or His Sacraments, or in some sudden inspiration. He
is near us now, but if we let this opportunity of conversion pass,
perhaps our heart will be hardened and we shall no more notice
Him or He us. It is happy news that the Saviour is passing by.
38. And he cried, saying, Jesus, thou son of David, have
mercy on me.
O King and Saviour long promised to and desired by faithful hearts,
I acknowledge Thy Divine glory. I humbly implore Thy mercy.
Thou only canst help me, and so I presume to call on Thee, not
trusting in my own worthiness, but in Thy manifold and great
mercies.
39. And they which went before rebuked him, that he should

448 Faith giving Sight. [S. Luke XIX
hold his peace : but he cried so much the more, Thou son of
David, have mercy on me.
Sometimes professing Christians try to keep us back. They dissuade
us from coming to Communion, or from prayer; they discourage our
devotions. We are happy if, like this blind man, we persevere in
spite of them. Nothing should make us give over our prayers.
Whatever happens, we are always the more bound to come to the
throne of grace.
40. And Jesus stood, and commanded him to be brought unto
him : and when he was come near, he asked him,
Only persevere against difficulties, keep on with religion in spite of
scoffers or of fears, and in the end prayer will succeed. God will
plainly listen and come near. We shall find ourselves satisfied with
His mercy. We are helpless and all seems dark, yet if we cry for
mercy the Redeemer will not cast us out.
41. Saying, What wilt thou tliat I shall do unto thee? And
he said, Lord, that I may receive my sight.
At last the great King opens the heavenly treasure, saying, "What
wiltthou? have thy wish, whatever it be." Here is royal munificence,
but the soul desires light only. " Let me have sight, sight to see
God and the invisible world, to see the right path, to see true
hearts beside me and angels near, and God's Providence disposing
all things wisely. Let me have sight to see grace here and glory
hereafter. "
42. And Jesus said unto him, Receive thy sight : thy faith
hath saved thee.
What great power faith has ! It discerns Jesus Christ even in darkness,
it cries to Him and overcomes all contradiction, it finds Him out*
and wins healing from Him ; yet even this faith is altogether God's
gift, let us beg Him to plant it firmly in our hearts.
43. And immediately he received his sight, and followed
him, glorifying God: and all tlie people, when tliey saw it,
gave praise unto God.
This is the new life, to receive sight and to follow Christ along the
road toward heaven, praising God day by day for His mercy, and
trying to gain others to the same disposition. Let us not turn back
to spiritual darkness and indolence, but rise up and set forward
where Christ has shown the way.

Ver. 6.] Zacchceus.

449

CHAPTER XIX.
i. Of Zacchaeus a publican, n. The ten pieces of money. 28. Christ
rideth into Jerusalem with triumph : 41. weepeth over it : 45. driveth
the buyers and sellers out of the temple : 47. teaching daily in it.
The rulers would have destroyed him, but for fear of the people.
AND Jesus entered and passed through Jericho. 2. And,
Xi behold, there was a man named Zacchceus, which was the
chief among the publicans, and he was rich.
Zacchseus had a place which brought him in a large income, but
exposed him to bad company and to many crooked ways of
enriching himself. Up to this time he had been only known as a
wealthy man not very scrupulous as to the means by which he got
hold of money, but now God in His mercy had other designs for
him.
3. And he sought to see Jesus who he was ; and could not
for the press, because he was little of stature.
He had heard of the goodness of Jesus and His message of pardon
for sinners, and the words awoke an echo in his heart, yet he could
not at once get to speak with the Saviour ; the crowd hindered
him. Those who desire to leave their sins and turn to Jesus are
often hindered by others, or by a multitude of cares and vain desires.
4. And he ran before, and climbed up into a sycomore tree
to see him : for he was to pass that way.
Yet he persevered in endeavouring to see Him. No difficulties could
overcome his earnest desire. He climbed into the tree to look at
least on Him as He passed. When it is a question of salvation,
put all else aside, rise up above the follies and jeers of men, and
look to Jesus as your Friend and Healer.
5. And when Jesus came to the place, he looked up, and saw
him, and said unto him, Zacchceus, make haste, and come down ;
for to day I mud abide at thy house.
What a gracious message from the King to His servant ! He had only
hoped to see that holy face in passing, and he is accounted worthy
to receive the Saviour at his table and enjoy His company. God
makes choice of a soul by His free grace as our Sovereign Lord.
He offers Himself to dwell with us as our sympathizing Friend.
What is there in me, O Lord, that Thou hast promised to come into
my heart ? what attraction has such a poor dwelling for the Lord
of heaven and earth ?
6. And he made hade, and came down, and received him
joyfully. 2 F

450 The Effects of Christ's Visit. [S. Luke XIX.
Zacchaeus knew the privilege which he enjoyed; he cared not what
men thought of him, when he had Christ in his house. We too
should welcome this gracious Guest at His altar, or in His Word,
or in His poor. He is still to be found and received with loving
zeal.
7. And when they saw it, they all murmured, saying, That
he was gone to be guest with a man that is a sinner.
Do not throw doubt upon the conversion of sinners, or discourage
any who are turning to God. If He in His mercy has kept you from
great and deadly sins, remember that it comes not of your own
goodness. Many far worse in the world's sight have much less
to answer for than you have. Still, as in old time, our Saviour
chooses sinners to receive Him in their hearts and show forth a true
conversion in their lives.
8. And Zacchceus stood, and said unto the Lord ; Behold,
Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor ; and if I have
taken any thing from any man by false accusation, I restore
him fourfold.
This was the effect of Christ's society. Wealth seemed now so small
a thing to Zacchaeus that he resolved to part with half of his riches
at once, and the other half he would keep only in order to repair
any faults which he had committed in acquiring it. His heart is
so changed by grace that this world seems nothing, and he thinks
only of giving up to God himself and all he has.
9. And Jesus said unto him, This day is salvation come to
this house, forsomuch as he also is a son of Abraham.
His house was poorer now, but it had salvation in it. It was filled with
peace and good conscience, and thanks of the poor. Abraham
believed in God's promise, and lived in the thought of an inherit
ance to come; so Christians despise the present to secure the
future.
10. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which
was lost.
This is a comfortable saying. However laden any on e may be with the
burden of his sins let him not despair, since so mighty and gracious
a Lord desires his salvation. Let us strive to follow the pattern
which Christ has set us, and help our brethren to turn to God.
11. And as they heard these things, he added and spake a
parable, because he was nigh to Jerusalem, and because they
thought that the kingdom of God should immediately appear.
Not yet, we have much to do first, our King has given us work to do
for Him. In His own good time He will appear to rejoice the
hearts of His servants and confound His enemies. Meanwhile let
us try to use our life to the best advantages, so as to be able to give
a good account of it when He comes,

Ver. i 7.] Parable of the Pounds. 451
12. He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far
country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.
Jesus Christ has gone away into heaven, there to be enthroned in
glory and to return again to judgment. Indeed the time seems
long, and the heavenly country far from this poor earth ; yet in
God's sight the time is short, and the return to take place speedily.
13. And he called his ten servants, and delivered them ten
pounds, and said unto them, Occupy till I come.
Meanwhile we have all some work to do for Christ. We are His
servants, and have opportunities of doing good. He has bestowed
on us many graces. Beware and be not idle, but spend all your life
well, for you will have to give an account of it.
14. But his ritizens hated him, and sent a message after him,
saying, We will not have this man to reign over us.
So unbelief and sin say now. But we know Who He is, and will
acknowledge no other as the Disposer of our hearts. How much
those are to be pitied who hate and oppose Christ's Gospel and
despise His mercy !
15. And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having
received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be
called unto him, to whom he had given the money, tliat he might
know how much every man had gained by trading.
Soon we shall be called before God and have to give account of our
life, how we have employed body and mind, and long years, and
many opportunities. What shall we answer? What profit has
God gained by our labours ? Can you show, O reader, any sin
ners converted, any evil checked, any true service done for your
Master ?
1 6. Then came the first, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained
ten pounds.
How joyful will it be one day to give a good account ! We may not
see this gain while we are here, but yet God may be storing it up
for us against His judgment. It is not of ourselves that we can
do any good, but only of His own almighty grace. He works in
us, only let us do our part while we are here.
17. And he said unto him, Well, thou good servant : because
thou hast been faithful in a very little, have thou authority over
ten cities.
That is the only praise worth working for, what God will then give
to His faithful servants. Human praise is often deceitful and
unprofitable. God will reward abundantly whatever we do for
Him. A little self-denial, a few years' struggle, once or twice to
have taken His side, this will be the source of joy for ever.

452 Sloth will be punished. [S. Luke XIX.
1 8. And the second came, saying, Lord,, thy pound hath
gained five pounds.
He did less for his master, and yet something. If we have wasted
time and opportunity, yet let us up now and gather in some souls
for Christ. We may yet gain something for God's kingdom, though
our power and time are small.
19. And lie said likewise to him, Be thou also over five cities.
The king received this service too with praise and reward. What He
will give to do to the blessed in heaven we cannot tell, but doubt
less it will consist in doing good and in praise. If we live after
this manner here, we are preparing for that glorious state.
20. And another came, saying, Lord, behold, here is thy
pound, which I have kept laid up in a napkin :
This negligent and slothful servant who has gained nothing represents
those Christians who lead an idle, useless life, and do no good.
They do not teach, or help, or comfort others ; they do not praise
or glorify God. They may not be very bad, but God receives no
profit by them. The gifts they have are never improved.
21. For I feared thee, because thou art an austere man:
thou takest up that thou layedst not down, and reapest that thou
didst not sow.
This is a sinner's reproach against God. He regards Him as a hard
Master giving little and requiring much. He magnifies the diffi
culty of doing right and the weakness of our will, and so pretends
to excuse himself from keeping the commandments.
22. And he saith unto him, Out of thine own mouth will I
judge thee, thou wicked servant. Thou knewest that I was an
austere man, taking up that I laid not down, and reaping that
I did not sow : 23. wherefore then gavest not thou my money
into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine
own with usury ?
God will turn back our excuses on ourselves. If we trusted in His
mercy, it should have stirred us up to love Him; if we feared His
justice, it should have restrained us from sin. If life is short, and
temptation strong, and our burden heavy, then all the more need to
watch and pray. He will surely come and require an account from
us. Is it not folly for us to take our ease and waste His precious
gifts ?
24. And he said unto them that stood by, Take from him
the pound, and give it to him that hath ten pounds.
What we do not use rightly we shall lose. Health, and strength, and
powers of mind, and a. happy temper, and skill to lead and guide
others, all these will leave us if we do not use them for God. God's
graces are only lent us, and He will demand them again if we waste

Ver. 31.] The King's Enemies will be destroyed. 453
them, and will bestow them on others who will use them better.
How sad it is to see one who had a good character and abilities
gradually lose them and fall from bad to worse !
25. (And they said unto him, Lord, he hath ten pounds.)
26. For I say unto you, That unto every one which hath shall
be given ; and from him that hath not, even that he hath sliall
be taken away from him.
It is a law of God's kingdom, what you use grows and increases, what
you neglect dwindles away and is lost. Be faithful to what you
have, and God will give you more; do what good you can, and He
will give you larger opportunities. Lord, pardon my neglect and
supply from Christ's merits my exceeding lack of any good.
27. But those mine enemies, which would not that I should
reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me.
Be warned, God's enemies must be crushed in the end. Now for a while
they are bold, and boast of their rebellion, but His Word is sure
and His judgments will appear in due time. Wait, O faint-hearted
Christian, and do not be afraid for Christ's cause. A day will come
when those who have despised Divine love will tremble before
Divine wrath.
28. IT And when he liad thus spoken, he went before, ascend
ing up to Jerusalem.
The Lord has now reached the end of His journey, and arrived at the
place of His adorable sacrifice. Let us dispose ourselves humbly to
follow Him, not to share only in His triumph, but also in His shame
and suffering. He goes first, but the same road is to be travelled
by His followers. Even if it is steep and painful He will enable us
to persevere.
29. Audit came to pass, when he was come nigh to Bethphage
and Bdhany, at the mount called the mount of Olives, he sent
two of his disdples, 30^ saying, Go ye into the village over
against you; in tlie which at your entering ye shall find a colt
tied, whereon yd never man sat: loose him, and bring him
hither. In this is figured what happened later on when Christ sent His
disciples into all the world to loose souls from sin and bring them
in to bear the light burden of the Gospel and serve God in His
Church. God sends us out to do His work, let us trust in our
Master and obey humbly. He will be with us.
31. And if any man ask you, Why do ye loose him? thus
sliall ye say unto him, Because the Lord hath need of him.
How wonderful that God should have heed of us and ours ! We
have need of His wisdom, His mercy, His power every day,
but He also desires our poor hearts. He has need of our misery to

454 Jesus welcomed as King. [S. Luke XIX.
comfort it, of our weakness to strengthen it, of our poverty to fill us
with grace. God made us to do work for Him, and His work for
souls will not be done unless we set about it.
32. And they that were sent went their way, and found even
as he had said unto them. 33. And as they were loosing the
colt, the owners thereof said unto them, Why loose ye the colt ?
34. And they said, The Lord hath need of him.
Such is the Divine knowledge and royal power of Christ. His designs
are accomplished, His will is obeyed, all is in His hands. O Lord, let
the moment come for my heart to be unbound from sin and given
over wholly to Thy love and service. I desire to follow in Thy train,
never to leave it.
35. And they brought him to Jesus : and they cast their gar
ments upon the colt, and they set Jesus thereon.
What is required of us is to come to God readily, to bear about with
us the thought of His presence, to walk in His way with meekness
and obey His commands. Thus we too start on the way to the
holy city, where we shall happily enter and behold Him in glory
Who has been with us in humility here.
36. And as he went, tliey spread their clothes in the way.
Of what good is anything precious and delightful here on earth unless
it can serve to pave the royal road of Jesus ? It is right to strip off
our pride and trample under foot our dearest pleasures in order to
make the road to heaven easier. Jesus is our King and Lord, and
He will not be ashamed to confess before all the world that we are
His subjects.
37. And when he was come nigh, even now at the descent of
the mount of Olives, the whole multitude of tlie disdples began
to rejoice and praise God with a loud voice for all the mighty
works that they had seen ;
Let us not be indifferent at so great a spectacle. "Great and
marvellous are Thy works, Lord God Almighty ; just and true are
Thy ways, Thou King of saints. " We have but cold hearts and
stammering lips, but we will do our best to join in the praises
which Thy Church offers. How unhappy are those who never
praise God or rejoice in His glory !
38. Saying, Blessed be tlie King that cometh in the name of
the Lord : peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.
Glory be to Thee, O Saviour, for Thy work of salvation wrought for
us, by which God and man have been reconciled and Divine good
ness shown marvellously on earth. Here the old promises are
fulfilled and the old enmity destroyed. Through all eternity praise
and glory will be offered to Jesus Christ by those who have found
salvation in Hiin.

Ver. 44.] Jesus weeping over Jerusalem. 455
39. And some of the Pharisees from among the multitude
said unto him, Master, rebuke thy disdples.
This is what the world says, " Do not make so much of religion, do
not speak of it or sing of it so heartily." There are always some
who will despise religious persons and try to discourage their
profession. But tlie Christian must give no heed to such sneers,
he must never be ashamed of prayer or praise. What does it
matter that we displease men if our heavenly Friend approves us ?
40. And he answered and said unto them, I tell you that, if
these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry
out. God's grace can soften those who have hearts of stone, and can turn
them into faithful worshippers. Our hearts are indeed hard and cold.
We feel so little what God has done for us. Yet He will help us to
cry out and thank Him for His mercy. If the eloquent and wise
do not utter praise, we at least can bring some offering though it
be imperfect
41. IT And when he was come near, he beheld the dty, and
wept over it,
In the midst of His triumph Jesus wept. He did not think of His
own approaching death, but of the ruin which was soon to fall on
God's holy city and the souls therein. What grieved Him was
that they rejected the message that would have brought them life
and peace.
42. Saying, If thou hadst known, even thou, at least in this
thy day, the things which belong unto thy peace / but now they
are hid from thine eyes.
Now it is my day. Now Jesus speaks to me. Now my true peace
is set before me. Now I can see which is the right way to walk in.
If I put off turning to God, these impressions will soon be gone,
and I shall cease to care about my soul. Let me now without delay
take Christ for my Master and follow His gracious guidance.
43. For the days shall come upon thee, that thine enemies
shall cad a trench about thee, and compass thee round, and keep
thee in on every side,
Soon the holy city was to be surrounded by fierce enemies. Just
so deadly sins and evil men and angels attack the Christian soul.
Who will be able to protect it in the hour of temptation but God
only ? I know that every day strong temptations rise up against
me. Wherever I go they meet me, but in Thee is my trust.
44. And shall lay thee even with the ground, and thy children
within thee ; and they shall not leave in thee one stone upon
another ; because thou knewest not the time of thy visitation.
The frightful scene of the destruction of Jerusalem represents to me

456 God's House made a Den of Thieves. [S. Luke XX.
the ruin of a soul. God has made it His dwelling, visited it with
His grace, guided it along His way, and yet after all the soul has
cast Him out and gone wilfully to eternal loss. God did not spare
His own chosen dwelling-place, let us take heed lest He spare not
us if we despise His message.
45. And he went into the temple, and began to cast out them
that sold therein, and them that bought;
The Lord Jesus hated irreverence. He was impatient of profaneness.
He could not bear to see the temple filled with noise and business.
What would He say to our behaviour in God's house ? Would He
not find much reason to blame the thoughts and words of this world
which we bring there ?
46. Saying unto them, It is written, My house is the house
of prayer : but ye have made it a den of thieves.
How do you behave, O reader, in church ? Is it a house of prayer to
you, where you love to be, where you pour out your heart before
God, where you praise Him with heart and lips ? or do you go
there to get credit with men and pass away some of your Sunday,
without really giving God His glory or any share of your heart?
This beautiful title, " The House of Prayer," reminds us to pray
whenever we are in a church. It is always the time for that.
47. And he taught daily in the temple. But the chief priests
and the scribes and the chief of the people sought to destroy him,
Jesus went on teaching every day. He did not regard the trouble or
the danger of it, but persevered in His daily work. There is no
day when a Christian cannot teach some person about salvation.
How many there are still who need to be taught daily in a simple
way about God and Christ, and prayer and duty ! We should be
always learning from God ourselves, so as to be able to teach others.
48. And could not find what they might do: for all the
people were very attentive to liear him.
Let me in reading God's Word be very attentive. I desire to miss no
profitable lesson, for here is Jesus Christ speaking to me. The
Scriptures are His Word, ministers are His representatives,
opportunities of grace are sent by Him. Woe be to me if I read
the Bible or listen to sermons out of mere curiosity 1 Such studies
need a fixed attention and earnest reverence.

Ver. 6.] Christ asks about John's Baptism. 457

CHAPTER XX.
I. Christ avoucheth his authority by a question of John's baptism, g. The
parable of the vineyard, ig. Of giving tribute to Ccesar. 27. He
convinceth the Sadducees that denied the resurrection. 41. How
Christ is the son of David. 45. He warneth his disciples to beware
of the scribes.
AND it came to pass, that on one of those days, as he taught
Xi. the people in the temple, and preached the gospel, the chief
priests and the scribes came upon him with the elders,
Here is the Lord suddenly come to His temple (as prophecy had
foretold). Here is the King of Israel enthroned among His
obedient people and opening to them the kingdom of truth. Here
is the Gospel which had so long been desired, at last flowing forth
to refresh thirsty souls. Let us attend on this great Teacher with
simplicity of heart, desirous to learn, not to cavil.
2. And spake unto him, saying, Tell us, by what authority
doest thou these things? or who is he that gave thee this authority?
Our Lord had proved His authority, yet they heeded not. But the
question is one which we ought to put to ourselves. By what
authority do I rule this house or this business, do I control these
servants or teach these children ? is it God Who has given me this
to do ? and if so, I have to represent Him. My character and
behaviour must speak of my Master. If I have any true authority
it must be from God, let me use it as under Him.
3. And he answered and said unto them, I will also ask you
one thing ; and answer me : 4. The baptism of John, was it
from heaven, or of men ?
The mission of John the Baptist was certainly from heaven, not a
mere scheme or trick of men's wisdom, for under it great numbers
were converted from sin and led to live a new life ; and he it was
who bore witness to Christ and declared His authority to be from
God. Let us consider when new interests and plans claim our
attention, Is this thing the fruit of God's Spirit, or merely of this
earth, and so one day to turn to dust with it ?
5. And they reasoned with themselves, saying, If we shall
say, From heaven ; he will say, Why then believed ye him not ?
6. But and if we say, Of men ; all the people will stone us :
for they be persuaded that John was a prophet.
Let us make up our minds to speak the plain truth as we believe it.
If we laugh at or deny our real convictions to win favour with men,

458 God requires the Fruit of the Vineyard. [S. Luke XX.
we shall only be despised by God and man alike. The only safe
rule is to speak the plain truth and follow where it leads us. The
fear of men is little regarded by one who fears God.
7. And they answered, that they could not tell whence it was.
Here is a strange confession from the heads of God's own people,
they cannot tell whether John's baptism was a Divine work or an
imposture. They carelessly put aside the call to repentance, so God
left them in darkness. Lord, open our eyes to discern the workings
of Thy hand now, that we may be able to tell where Thou art
present and obey Thy gracious call.
8. And Jesus said unto them, Neither tell I you by what
authority I do these things.
This is a heavy judgment, when God refuses to speak to us. He had
given them enough instruction for those who were sincere, and He
would offer no further light to the rest. His words and acts told
them sufficiently where He came from. If they did not profit by
their opportunities of learning, He would leave them and offer
Himself elsewhere. O Lord, still bear with our dulness and teach
us more.
9. Then began he to speak to the people this parable ; A
certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husband
men, and went into a far country for a long time.
Christian souls are vines planted by God, which belong to Him, and
of which He will require fruits. He is indeed far away as to His
visible presence, but yet perhaps not for long. He has already
waited for fruit and found none. Let us live as God would have
us, so as to fulfil His gracious purposes in putting us here.
10. And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen,
that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard : but the
husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty.
He sends by His ministers ; they come and bid us turn to God and
bring forth fruits meet for repentance, but we disregard them.
Even if we do not harshly reject their words, but praise or applaud
the speakers, yet we take no heed to the message which they bring
from their Master.
11. And again he sent another servant: and they beat him
also, and entreated him shamefully, and sent him away empty.
He sends by His Scriptures ; but we use God's Word profanely, or
read it as a mere form, or lay it on the shelf uncared for ; then its
warnings and promises are all despised, and this messenger also
sent empty away.
12. And again he sent a third: and they wounded him also,
and .cast him out.
He sends by gracious visitations. Sickness comes, or an accident, or

Ver. i 7.] The Evil Husbandmen are punished. 459
the loss of money or of dear friends ; but we only complain and
lose our temper, instead of recognising in the affliction a heavenly
visitor sent by God to bring us to a right mind.
13. Then said the lord of the vineyard, What shcill I do? I
will send my beloved son : it may be they will reverence him
when they see him.
We do not see Jesus now. He is not literally sent again, yet we
see the signs of His spiritual presence among us in the Holy Com
munion. We ought to approach Him there with all love and
reverence, and take His teaching into our hearts. How great is
God's mercy in giving Him once for all as our redemption and
daily as our spiritual food !
14. But when the husbandmen saw him, they reasoned among
themselves, saying, This is the heir : come, let us kill him, that
the inheritance may be our's.
Surely we cannot do this, it is out of our power now to commit such
a crime ! No, our profaneness would go as far as to kill God's Son
afresh if we could. Often we kill Him in the souls of others and
seize on them for Satan, often we outrage Him in His poor by our
neglect, or in His sacrament by a profane Communion.
15. So they cast him out of the vineyard, and killed him.
What therefore shall the lord of the vineyard do unto them ?
This was the lot of God's Son when He came on earth Himself. His
followers should not marvel if they are treated as outcasts ; our
position cannot be made worse than His was. Yet how terrible
will be the condemnation of those who have by their sins outraged
Him and His servants ! What a store of wrath to come sinners lay
up for themselves !
1 6. He sliall come and destroy these husbandmen, and sliall
give the vineyard to others. And when they heard it, they said,
God forbid.
Our opportunities soon pass if we neglect them. God will take them
away and others will enjoy them. Now is the time for us to render
fruit to God, to welcome His Word, to love His salvation. God
forbid that a soul that has once been His should become a prey to
sin and lose all its spiritual life ; yet this has happened, and may
happen again.
1 7. And he beheld them, and said, What is this then that is
written, The stone which the builders rejeded, the same is become
the head of the corner ?
The great Corner-stone was rejected by the builders in those days,
yet He became the Glory and Strength of the True Temple. So it
is with His followers ; for a while they are despised or unknown,
but one day they will appear full of beauty in the heavenly
building.

460 A Snare prepared for Christ. [S. Luke XX.
18. Whosoever shall fall upon that stone shall be broken;
but on whomsoever it shall fall, it will grind him to powder.
To have despised Christ in the days of His humility brought rain on
the Jews. What should those Christians expect who disregard Him
now ? will not they bring wrath upon their heads in the day when
He appears in glory ? Let us be joined to that great Corner-stone
by a living faith, and then we need never fear its falling on us.
19. IT And the chief priests and the scribes the same hour
sought to lay hands on him ; and they feared the people : for
they perceived that he had spoken this parable against them,
How mad it was of these Jews to take Jesus for their enemy because
He warned them sharply of their sins! rather they should have
thanked Him for His rebuke. Our true enemies are those who
flatter us and lead us into sin, not those who speak sharply and
show us our faults.
20. And they watched him, and sent forth spies, which should
feign themselves just men, that they might take hold of his
words, that so they might deliver him unto the power and
authority of the governor.
They expected to find something in our Lord's words which they
might take hold of and give it such a turn as to ruin Him, and yet
His words were infinitely wise and good. How careful we ought to
be in what we say I It is easy to give occasion for scandal by our
words, easy also to offend God and vex others by careless speaking.
Christ's words were unjustly blamed, but ours show many defects.
21. And they asked him, saying, Master, we know that thou
sayest and teachest rightly, neither acceptest thou the person of
any, but teachest the way of God truly :
Do not trust those who begin with flattering you, who praise your
ability, or character, or winning ways. No doubt this is very pleasant
to hear, but such friends mean no good. What these men said of
our Saviour was true, but they only said it to persuade Him to His
harm.
22. Is it lawful for us to give tribute unto Ccesar, or no ?
Could God's people, whom He had made free and of whom He was
the invisible King, be subject with good conscience to a heathen
sovereign? Ought we in temporal things to submit to the power
which Providence has placed over us? Such was the question, Ought
we to acknowledge a heathen master or call ourselves subjects of
God only ?
23. But he perceived their craftiness, and said unto them,
Why tempt ye me?
It was a dangerous question to answer either way, for if He said it
was lawful, they would say that He had given up God's royalty,

Ver. 28.] The Sadducees question Him. 461
and so could not be the promised King of Israel ; if He said it was
unlawful, they would accuse Him as teaching rebellion against
Caesar. Jesus knew well their object, and defeated it. Let us,
when sinners would persuade us to our ruin, keep our eyes open
to discern and drive away the temptation.
24. Shew me a penny. Whose image and superscription hath
it ? They answered and said, Ccesar's.
The penny had the emperor's name and image. My heart has that of
God engraved on it, perhaps much defaced, but still legible. I
belong to Him, and have only the value that He pleases. May it
be His will to renew and brighten up His likeness in me.
25. And he said unto them, Render therefore unto Ccesar the
things which be Ccesar's, and unto God the things which be
God's. God and the king haye each their own claims. We can be good
citizens, and do our duty to those around us, and yet all the more
look up to God as our true Sovereign, and obey His will. Give
to the government taxes, and obedience, and all kinds of service ;
but give God your heart, your body, your hopes here and hereafter.
I am a faithful subject, yet my true King and Lord is out of sight.
I see Him partly in His visible representatives, but He claims
more from me than they can.
26. And they could not take hold of his words before the
people : and they marvelled at his answer, and held thdr peace.
Let us speak always in sincerity and keep to the simple truth, thus
we shall avoid difficulties. Words spoken by one who has God in
sight sink into the hearer's heart, while all the wisdom and
cleverness of worldly conversation is soon forgotten.
27. U Then came to him certain of the Sadducees, which deny
that there is any resurrection; and they asked him,
Nowadays there are some who follow the Sadducees and deny that
there is a life to come. They cast away all the best hope and
deepest fear we have, and narrow down all our prospects within the
few years of this sad world. How terrible must death appear to
such persons ! God in His mercy keep alive in our hearts a sure
faith in everlasting life.
28. Saying, Master, Moses wrote unto us, If any man's
brother die, having a wife, and he die without children, that Ms
brother should take his wife, and raise up seed unto his brother.
Under the law it was a disgrace for a man to leave his brother's wife
childless ; he was bound to marry her himself, and the first offspring
of her marriage was reckoned to his dead brother and took his
name and property. Whether God gives or withholds dear ones to
bear our name and inherit our place, we may at least leave behind
us some souls brought up as God's children through our means.

462 Christ speaks of Life Immortal. [S. Luke XX.
29. There were therefore seven brethren : and the first took a
wife, and died without children. 30. And the second took her
to wife, and he died childless. 31. And the third took her ;
and in like manner the seven also : and they left no children,
and died. 3 2. Last of all the woman died also.
Death is sure to come, whatever else may have preceded. The
last act of life always ends with a funeral. Let us not forget
the house appointed for all living. It would be foolish to have
provided for uncertainties, but neglected to prepare for the surest
event of all.
33. Therefore in the resurrection whose wife of tliem is she?
for seven had her to wife.
This is their difficulty, whose wife shall she be, if all are alive again
together? No_ doubt scoffing questions may be asked concerning
all the mysteries of religion, but our wisdom rather is to accept
God's promise of immortality to come and leave the manner of it
wholly in His hands, for He is able to order all things rightly there
as here. We must trust Him for what is to come.
34. And Jesus answering said unto them, Tlie children of
this world marry, and are given in marriage :
It is a narrow view to look only at this world. Its joys and sorrows
are soon over, and its affairs soon lose their importance. We must
not be wholly taken up even with our home affections, there is an
eternity to come. How soon the brightest hours are over ! what
lasts is not here.
35. But they which shall be accounted worthy to obtain tliat
world, and the resurrection from the dead, neither marry, nor
are given in marriage :
How can any be accounted worthy of that heavenly life where purity
and peace shall reign in all hearts? None through their own
deservings, but many by the exceeding mercy of God, which prepares
them for it here and gives it to them hereafter. Let our thoughts
dwell sometimes on the heavenly country and the preparation
needful for it.
36. Neither can they die any more : for they are equal unto
the angels; and are the children of God, being the children of
tlie resurrection.
No death will be there and therefore no marriage nor birth No
temptations nor differences enter there, no losses cause grief there
nothing obscures God's face there, all is peace, joy, an! security!
This life is a time of trial amidst many storms, but one day there
will come rest. '
37. Now that the dead are raised, even Moses shewed at the

Ver. 44.] The Question about David's Son. 463
bush, when he calleth the Lord the God of Abraham, and tlie
God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob.
If nothing was left of the three patriarchs but a little dust, how
could God still say, " I am their God, they trusted in Me, and I am
theirs as they are Mine " ? No, the words mean that they are
God's always, and preserve elsewhere the faith and hope and
obedience which they showed here. If I give myself to God I
have a share in His eternity.
38. For he is not a God of the dead, but of the living : for
all live unto him.
They are dead and gone, men say, but God knows the place of each
and whence to raise him up at the last day. Only let me remember
that my soul must be living now by faith and prayer, if I would
enter on the new life then. A cold, selfish, corrupt heart is not
living but dead.
39. 1T Then certain of the scribes answering said, Master,
thou hast well said. 40. And after that they durst not ask him
any question at all.
Sometimes men praise the Holy Scriptures or the beauty of religion,
yet do not submit themselves to God. It is of no profit to feel the
sweetness or admire the mysteries of God's Word unless we resolve
to take it for our rule and lay aside our own pride. These scribes
felt the point of Christ's answer, but there it ended.
41. And he said unto them, How say they that Christ is
David's son ?
David had obtained from God the promise to a descendant of his of
an everlasting royalty, and though David's kingdom had long
passed away, yet the promise remained and was fulfilled in Jesus ;
but He was not a warlike prince, fiery and bold and full of
adventures, like David had been. His kingdom is pure and peace
able, and to be discerned by faith rather than sight.
42. And David himself saith in the book of Psalms, Tlie
Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, 43. till I
make thine enemies thy footstool.
In these verses are foretold the Divine power, the heavenly glory,
the coming victory of Christ. We lift up our hearts now to adore
Him as He is, seated on the throne of heaven, and we look for His
return one day to crush all evil, and bring in everlasting righteous
ness. O Lord, remember and have mercy on me when Thou comest
at that day. Let me be of the number of Thy friends here and
hereafter.
44. David therefore calleth him Lord, how is he then his son ?
That is indeed the great problem, how to hold at once our Saviour's
Godhead and His Manhood. He is indeed a Divine Spirit,

464 Our Lord commends the Widow's Mite. [S. Luke XXI
almighty and everlasting, and the Creator of all things ; yet also our
Brother, the Son of Mary, born at a certain time and place, sharing
in human weakness. Give me, O Lord, a sure faith in this great
mystery, on which hangs all my hope of salvation.
45. IT Then in the audience of all the people he said unto his
disdples, 46. Beware of the scribes, which desire to walk in long
robes, and love greetings in the markets, and the highest seats in
the synagogues, and the chief rooms at feasts ;
How bold was Christ thus to rebuke the chief teachers ! He never
flinched from duty for fear of offending men ; and how miserable
is the state of those who turn religion into a means for serving their
pride and self-indulgence ! If our devotion has become altogether
worldly, what have we left by which our -souls can live ?
47. Which devour widows' houses, and for a shew make long
prayers : the same shall receive greater damnation.
We are shocked at the thought of making prayers for show, yet let
us consider our own Sunday behaviour and think if our heart goes
with our voice or with our gestures. Is not very much of our
devotion more for appearance' sake than as expressing the love,
and praise, and needs of our heart? Keep me,. O Lord, from draw
ing down judgment on myself by my thoughtless and empty prayers.

CHAPTER XXI.
1. Christ commendeth the poor widow. 5. He foretelleth the destruction
of the temple, and of the city Jerusalem: 23. the signs also which
shall be before the last day. 34. He exhorteth them to be watchful.
AND he looked up, and saw tlie rich men casting their gifts
Xi into the treasury.
When we make our offerings Christ beholds them, and, what is more,
He sees with what heart we make them. Rich people must remem
ber that God has committed to their care the support of His cause
throughout the world. They can only be blessed by giving liberally
as God has given to them.
2. And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither
two mites.
But the poor can give also, and this is a more precious gift in God's
sight. He notices things like this widows offering, which the
world despises. Nothing of self-sacrifice but will find its reward
with God. The charity, and alms, and self-denial of the poor are
not forgotten by Him.
3. And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor
widow hath cast in more than they all :

Ver. 8.] God's Temple to fall. 465
He judges of the gift by the giver's heart. That was large, and
loving, and generous. Some costly gifts fail to please Him because
there is vanity mixed up with them. Seek God's praise for your
alms, not that of men.
4. For all these have of thdr abundance cast in unto the
offerings of God : but she of her penury hath cast in all the
living that she had.
Amidst so many hypocrites Jesus discerned one loving heart. Many
give of their abundance, and it is well they should. But some give
what they can ill spare, and give themselves with it. Join me, O
Lord, to such givers as these.
5. IT And as some spake of the temple, how it was adorned
with goodly stones and gifts, he said,
The Jewish temple was grand and beautiful and full of costly offerings,
but weary souls could not find there truth or peace. All was merely
outward splendour, and it was soon to be utterly destroyed and
make way for Christ's Church to arise in its place. The true
adornment of a church is the reverence and love of those who
worship there.
6. As for these things which ye behold, the days will come,
in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that
shall not be thrown down.
God's holy and beautiful house was to become a desolation, where
scarcely a stone should rest in place. It had been His chosen
habitation and yet now was to be forsaken. Let us fear lest a
like rain happen to our souls, which are the temple of Christ ;
and yet He has been despised there and His shrine defiled by many
sins.
7. And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these
things be ? and what sign will there be wlien these things shall
come to pass ?
Let us inquire of Christ concerning the end of all things earthly and
the approach of His judgment. It is well to bear in mind that this
world's splendour is very soon over, and that an eternal state will
follow it. What we see will pass away, what faith shows us will
come to pass and remain.
8. And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many
shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time
draweth near : go ye not therefore after them.
If our Lord's disciples needed such a warning to prevent them from
following false prophets pretending to His Name and authority,
how much more do we need to be on our guard against such !
Give us, O Lord, faithful teachers who will lead us safely to Thy
presence. 2 G

466 Terrors and Griefs to come. [S. Luke XXI.
9. But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not
terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end
is not by and by.
A Christian views God's terrible judgments with a quiet mind, know
ing that all is ordered by Him, and that these sad events are for
the punishment of. the wicked and the purifying of the good. War
is frightful to nature, and yet God disposes it to His own ends.
The land of peace is not here.
10. Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation,
and kingdom against kingdom :
Our Lord looked on through time to come and saw the scourges of
war that would affect the world. We cannot look far forward, but
we can commit ourselves to His wise Providence. Whatever
comes, if we are His, no harm can destroy us.
11. And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and
famines, and pedilences ; and fearful sights and great signs
shall there be from heaven.
Yet all these are troublesome only to an uneasy conscience. We should
fear sin only and love God, and then no convulsions of nature, no
sufferings of mankind, can altogether upset our stedfastness. Fear
God above all, and you will not need to be frightened at other
terrors.
1 2. But before all these they shall lay their hands on you,
and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and
into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my
name's sake.
What brave souls these first Christians were ! how they resisted, for
God's sake, all the violence of the world ! All that we have now of
true religion we owe to their courage. If they had been timid the
Gospel would have been swept from the world. Let us be brave
in our turn and hand on what we have received without minding
what scoffers say. God has trusted us in our day with that treasure
which is to save generations to come.
13. And it shall turn to you for a testimony.
We will be witnesses for Jesus in our doings and sayings. If we are
ashamed of Him He will one day be ashamed of us. It is often
hard to bear our testimony amidst the profane and unbelieving;
but Christ's faithful soldiers have an inward peace in declaring
boldly that they are His.
14. Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before
what ye sliall answer :
If we are ignorant and simple, still we must speak up for God when
, there is occasion. Let us be in the habit of prayer, and the right
words will come into our mouth. Not human learning but Divine
grace has power to persuade and convince gainsayers.

Ver. 2i.] God 's Love and Men 's Hate. 467
15. For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your
advei'saries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.
Thanks be to Thee, O Lord, for this gracious promise ; I will abide
peacefully on it when I have to speak of heavenly things. I must
indeed study, pray, and use all means, but yet rest wholly for
success on Thy gift, not on myself. Grant me power to speak to
hearts.
16. And ye sliall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren,
and kinsfolks, and friends ; and some of you shall they cause
to be put to death.
This is hardest of all, to have to resist friends and relations when they
would lead us away from Jesus Christ, sometimes by bad example,
sometimes by unkind words or threats, and yet we must do it for
Christ's sake. Only let us differ from them very humbly and with
love and patience, so that they may see it is not self-will but God's
Spirit that is our guide.
17. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake.
What matter, if God love us, how bitterly the world may hate and
oppress us ! Men and their hate soon pass away, but God's love
remains for ever. What we have suffered for Him will bring us an
endless reward.
18. But there shall not an hair of your head perish.
God's Providence watches over us. He will give back what we lose
for Him. We can in confidence intrust body and soul into His
hands, knowing that we shall one day find again all that we part
with for His sake now.
19. In your patience possess ye your souls.
Do not complain of suffering, it is God's appointed way for us to gain
the mastery over our own souls. Christ would teach us this lesson
of patience. Weary nights and laborious days, and a frail body,
and disappointments and losses, and the contempt of others, all
serve to print deep in our minds this sovereign lesson.
20. And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies,
tlien know that tlie desolation thereof is nigh.
Our Lord warns the Jewish Christians of the signs which should precede
the destruction of Jerusalem, so that they might escape from it.
When the time came they remembered His words and escaped.
Let us be ready to believe and obey His words concerning a still
greater judgment.
21. Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains ;
and let them which are in the midst of it depart out ; and let
not them that are in the countries enter thereinto.
There should be no safety in the guilty Jerusalem when God's wrath

468 Jerusalem to be trodden down. [S. Luke XXI.
came upon it. Those were happy who had fled in time. Just so
worldly power, and prosperity, and honour avail little when troubles
come to us. We should fly to God in prayer, and take refuge with
Him as an inaccessible rock where no enemy can reach us.
22. For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which
are written may be fulfilled.
God's Word will come true, He will punish as He has said. Those
who have not by repentance found Him a Friend, and made peace
with Him now, will find Him a severe Judge Who will try their
works by His holy law.
23. But woe unto them that are with child, and to them tliat
give suck, in those days / for there shall be great distress in the
land, and wrath upon this people.
They should be all ready to fly when the enemy approached the holy
city. So we ought to be ready to quit this world when God calls.
Woe to those who are so tied with earthly cares that they cannot
give themselves to God !
24. And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall
be led away captive into all nations : and Jerusalem shall be
trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of tlie Gentiles be
fulfilled. Thus perished God's holy city and His chosen people. All their
privileges turned only to their ruin. Remember, O Christian soul,
that God's presence with Thee, His gifts and mercies, His holy
calling and means of grace, may only turn to thine utter and hope
less ruin. God's gifts despised become matter for His wrath. Now
are the times of the Gentiles in which we may be converted and
live.
25. H And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon,
and in the stars ; and upon the earth distress of nations, with
perplexity ; the sea and the waves roaring;
The great portents in nature which sometimes amaze us now will
increase then. Men's hearts will be full of distress, all things will
show signs of change ; yet in the midst of all that is sad and terrible
God will still be the stay of those who have trusted in Him.
26. Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after
tliose things which are coming on the earth : for the powers of
heaven shall be shaken.
Let us fear now so as to have confidence then. One who looks for
eternity and fears God only will not be confounded in that day,
while those whose heart and treasure are wholly on earth will
tremble to see all earthly glory vanishing away. Grant me, O Lord,
a holy fear of Thy judgments now while it may profit me.

Ver. 34.] Signs of the Eternal Spring. 469
27. And tlien shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud
with power and great glory.
Once He came in weakness and humbleness, a second time He will
come in power and glory ; yet it will be the same Saviour Whom we
have known. We shall welcome His appearing. He endured
suffering, and so was glorified. Our path is the same.
28. And when these things begin to come to pass, then look
up, and lift up your heads ; for your redemption draweth nigh.
That great day will bring shame to some and joy to others. The plea
sure of some will change into sudden ruin, and the tears of others
into peace and everlasting joy. When will God roll away the veil
which hangs between us and eternity ? when will He make things
clear, and stand up for His servants ?
29. And he spake to them a parable ; Behold the fig tree,
and all the trees ; 30. when they now shoot forth, ye see and
know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand. 31.
So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye
that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.
This life is winter-time for God's faithful servants, full of rough
storms and darkness, and yet they bear about the signs of a joyful
spring-time to come. In winter we see many promises of the return
of flowers and fruit, so a faithful soul sees many tokens of the reign
of righteousness even in the tumult of the present world. What a
summer that will be ! it will never end, and knows no decay. All
beautiful things will flourish there, and all characters bring forth
fruits of righteousness.
32. Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass
away, till all be fulfilled. 33. Heaven and earth shall pass
away : but my words shall not pass away.
Within the lifetime of those to whom Christ spoke came the
destruction of Jerusalem. His words about that were all fulfilled.
As surely, then, His words about the end of the world will come
true. Many things change, yet He abides faithful. Nothing that
He has said will be in vain. Let us rest our faith firmly on His
Divine Word, knowing that He will not deceive us.
34. 1T And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your
hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and
cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.
Death and judgment lie before us; then a luxurious self-indulgent
life, or much dissipation, or overwhelming worldly business are
alike unsuitable. Our minds must be awake to pray, we must have
leisure to attend to our salvation. Let us beware of entangling
ourselves in a constant round of pleasure or a press of work, lest
we forget our last end.

470 Closing Days of Christ's Ministry. [S. Luke XXII.
35. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on
the face of the whole earth.
Grant that I may survey death often before it comes, and may so
prepare myself that I may regard it not as a treacherous enemy
standing over me to deal a sudden blow, but as a kind friend that
releases me from this weary world and admits me to a better.
36. Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be
accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to
pass, and to stand before the Son of man.
Jesus has warned us of the judgment to come that we may be ready.
He bids us be on our guard, and yet trust only on His help. We
cannot pass through what awaits us in our own strength, but He is
our Saviour as well as our Judge, and will never forsake those who
trust in Him. I believe, O Lord, that all Thy warnings are true,
and that one day I shall behold Thee in Thy glorious majesty.
37. And in the day time he was teaching in the temple;
and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called
the mount of Olives. 38. And all the people came early in tlie
morning to him in the temple, for to hear him.
Such were the employments of our Lord during the last few days of
His ministry. In the day He taught God's Word, at night He held
communion with His Father. Happy are those Christians who
learn something from Him every day, and return thanks for it to
God in secret and fervent prayer. He is indeed the Teacher come
from God. Let us come before Him early every day to meditate on
His Divine words.

CHAPTER XXII.
t. The Jews conspire against Christ. 3. Satan prepareth Judas to betray
him. 7. The apostles prepare the passover. ig. Christ instituteth
his holy supper, 21. covertly foretelleth of the traitor, 24. dehorteth
the rest of his apostles from ambition, 31. assureth Peter his faith
should not fail : 34. and yet he should deny him thrice. 3g He
prayeth in the mount, and sweateth blood, 47. is betrayed with a
kiss : 50. he healeth Malchus' ear, 54. he is thrice denied of Peter
63. shamefully abused, 66. and confesseth himself to be the Son of
God.
"VTOW the feast of unleavened bread drew nigh, which is
J_i called the Passover.
A Christian ought always to be making ready to keep the Christian
passover at the Lord's Table, and also to meet his Master when
He comes to call him to the everlasting joy of heaven. The Tewish
feast was only a shadow, but we have in the Church a spiritual

Ver. 8.] Judas Iscariot. 47 1
feast prepared for us full of grace and blessing, and we look
forward to the full enjoyment of Christ's mercies in the world to
come.
2. And the chief priests and scribes sought how they might
kill him ; for they feared the people.
They sought how they might kill Jesus, He only sought how He
might give them life ; yet both their plans and His were
accomplished, and His death became the source of our life. All
that kept them for a while from this great sin was their fear of the
people, but that does not restrain evil passions very long. When
we hate and wish evil to any one opportunities of harm soon
come.
3. 11 Then entered Satan into Judas sumamed Iscariot,
being of the number of the twelve.
Here is one of the Lord's own chosen friends, at such a holy time, in
the midst of such wonderful words and actions, and yet Satan holds
possession of his heart Let clergy and communicants beware lest
Satan enter into the holiest place and the most religious actions.
Lord, I am of the number of Thy disciples, guard me that I fall not
under sudden temptations.
4. And he went his way, and communed with the chief priests
and captains, how he might betray him unto them. 5. And
tliey were glad, and covenanted to give him money.
How easily Judas arranged the betrayal of his Master ! so it is easy
for us in a few short moments to destroy our peace, our purity, our
honesty. We lose such friends as these never to regain them again.
It is a bad bargain to gain a great sum of money and lose a good
conscience and Christ's saving presence.
6. And he promised, and sought opportunity to betray him
unto them in the absence of the multitude.
I also should commit deadly sin and give up my Saviour and my
hopes of heaven but for His restraining grace. Opportunity of sin
is sure to come before long to those who watch for it. All my
help is in God. He alone can enable me to resist when the hour
of trial comes. I desire not to betray His cause, but I am weak,
and can only say, " Lord, help me."
7. IT Then came the day of unleavened bread, wlien the pass-
over must be killed.
The time drew near when Christ our Passover was to be sacrificed
for us. The law offered only types and shadows, but He is the
living Bread and the Lamb that really takes away sin. He had long
foreseen and prepared for this hour, so that it found Him ready.
He went forth to offer Himself.
8. And he sent Peter and John, saying, Go and prepare us

472 Getting ready for the Feast. [S. Luke XXII.
the passover, that we may eat. 9. And they said unto him,
Where wilt tliou that we prepare ?
The Jews needed to make preparation for the literal passover.
Christians should prepare when they come to observe the memorial
of a greater deliverance than that from Egypt. The Jews put
away some things from their houses, others they had to provide.
So should communicants put away sin and folly and bring to the
altar a clean heart. The Christian's heart is the place to be got
ready for Christ's coming.
10. And he said unto them, Behold, when ye are entered into
the dty, there shall a man meet you, bearing a pitcher of water ;
follow him into the house where he entereth in.
All down to the circumstance of the man meeting them with the
pitcher of water was known to Jesus and ordered by His Divine
Providence. What seems like chance in our daily life is of His
appointment. I recognise His gracious hand in all that has
happened to me, and I will endeavour to follow the guides which
He has set before me. I will follow those who are sure guides,
because they walk at His bidding, and no others.
11. And ye shall say unto the goodman of the house, The
Master saith unto thee, Where is the guestcliamber, where I
sliall eat the passover with my disdples ?
So Christ says to each of us, " Give Me room that I may come with
holy thoughts and pure desires, and abide in thy heart, and there
keep the feast of My love." This man was a disciple of our Lord's,
yet perhaps a secret one, but he had now to show his loyalty by
preparing a room for the Lord. We must show our loyalty by
setting apart some time, some prayers, some alms wherewith to
welcome Jesus Christ.
12. And he shall shew you a large upper room furnished :
there make ready.
O Lord, I have no room in my heart for Thee ; it is all blocked up
with cares and follies. To Thy grace only it belongs to enlarge
and cleanse my heart that Thou mayest enter in. Christ requires
an upper room, above the stir of the world, and it must be large
not narrow or confined, and must be furnished with all that is
needful. Such accommodation I would bring and would be.
13. And they went, and found as he had said unto them:
and they made ready the passover.
Those who obey God find that His words come true. His service is
perfect freedom. To make ready any souls for His coming is
a noble work. I trust all my life through, and in the world to
come, to find things turn out just as He has said they will One
day it will be the greatest glory to have done His bidding

Ver. 19.] Jesus desiring to keep the Feast. 473
14. And when the hour was come, he sat down, and tlie
twelve apostles with him.
He allows us in His mercy to be present by faith at that Holy
Supper, to listen to His gracious words, and behold His adorable
acts. Before His agony and the hour of darkness came He sat
down with His friends and fortified them with loving words and
gifts of grace against what was to come.
15. And he said unto them, With desire I have desired to eat
this passover with you before I suffer :
Jesus earnestly desires to keep His Holy Supper with us, and we
should feel on our part some desire to meet Him there. Once He
appointed it before He suffered, but now it brings before us His
past suffering. Stir up my heart, O Lord, that I may feel the
sweetness of Thy presence and desire earnestly to have Thee with
me.
16. For I say unto you, I will not any more eat thereof,
¦until it be fulfilled in the kingdom of God.
The old Jewish Passover would be kept no more. Its time was
over. But the reality of it was to continue in Christ's Church
in the observance of the Holy Sacrament. Still all feasts and
sacraments alike point onward to a future of joy and glory to come,
of which they are only types. There is something better which
Heaven has for us, and which will fill up all earthly shadows of
joy.
17. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, Take
this, and divide it among yourselves: 18. for I say unto you,
I will not drink of the fruit of the vine, until the kingdom of
God shall come.
The Jews began their Passover with a cup of wine mixed with water,
which was blessed with the words, " Praised be God for the fruit of
the vine. " Our Lord gave thanks accordingly and blessed this cup,
but He pointed His disciples onward towards heaven, which will
bring full refreshment and perfect joy. So a Christian coming to
Communion now should thank God for past mercies, and yet long
for God's kingdom to be entirely revealed.
19. 1T And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it,
and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for
you : this do in remembrance of me.
These words order us to keep the new offering in remembrance of the
deliverance which Christ wrought. The Paschal lamb is now
done away, but Christians offer, and" bless, and partake of the
Sacramental bread, and find Christ Himself there. If the old
Israelites had to observe the mere figure with thankful hearts, with
what feelings should not we approach the reality !

474 At the Lord's Table. [S. Luke XXII.
20. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is
the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you.
The old covenant was ratified with the blood of animals, but the new
with that of Jesus Himself. When we offer and receive the cup
of blessing we renew our covenant with God and appeal to His
promised mercy. His Blood was shed for me, and it has still power
to wash away all my sins and make me pure again.
21. IT But, behold, tlie hand of him that betray eth me is with
me on the table.
So it is still in the holiest times and places, there are some present
who think only of betraying Christ. They are with His people in
appearance, but they leave His presence without a blessing, and
at once cast Him off. and choose the side of sin.
22. And truly the Son of man goeth, as it was determined:
but woe unto that man by whom he is betrayed/
All things are disposed by God's wise Providence, and yet sinners
deliberately choose evil and bring down wrath upon themselves.
Oh wonderful mystery, how sinners perish by their own fault, and
yet only carry out God's will, though they know it not !
23. And they began to enquire among themselves, which of
tliem it was that should do this thing.
Let us fear for ourselves, knowing our own weakness and the strength
of temptation. We are capable at any moment of falling away
from God. It is only His outstretched hand and wonderful mercy
that has so far kept us within the pale of salvation.
24. IT And there was also a strife among them, which of
them shotdd be accounted the greatest.
If ambition crept into this holy company, where shall we be free from
it ? The desire of being first, of being looked up to and praised by
others, is a very subtle disease of the human heart and hard to cure.
In different ways almost all of us seek to lord it over others.
25. And he said unto them, The kings of the Gentiles exerdse
lordship over them ; and they that exerdse authority upon them
are called benefactors.
In the world men desire to be obeyed and to be rewarded for their
authority with great titles of honour. Power and glory are their
idols. If God has set me in authority, let me use it with gentleness,
remembering the account I have to give to my Master ; if I have to
obey, let me do so gladly and willingly.
26. But ye shall not be so: but he that is greatest among
you, let him be as the younger; and he that is chief, as he that
doth serve.
This is the Christian plan ; each one should strive to excel in

Ver. 31.] Christ's Servants will be exalted. 475
humility, in patience with the weak, in readiness to further any
one's good. Those who are highly placed in the world or in the
Church should take especial care that their position does not make
them arrogant or selfish ; they should rejoice to be of service to
their dependents or the poor. Every one can be great on this
method by thinking of others more than of himself.
27. For whether is greater, lie that ritteth at meat, or he that
serveth ? is not he that sitteth at meat ? but I am among you as
he that serveth.
Jesus took the place of the working man, not that of the wealthy or
powerful, during His sojourn here. His life is like that of the toil
ing many, not that of tie cultivated few, but all alike can practise
its spirit. A life of repose and pleasure is dangerous, because it is
unlike Christ's life ; but if you work for others' good and feel for
their troubles, you follow His pattern in whatever condition you
are.
28. Ye are they which have continued with me in my
temptations. He had been persecuted, yet they had remained faithful. He had
not a place wherein to lay His head, and yet they had remained
with Him. Such faithfulness came indeed of His own gift, but He
praised and rewarded it. In these days He approves of those who
do not forsake His suffering members, or who stand up for His
truth when it is denied. O Lord, continue with me and let me
not leave Thy side.
29. And I appoint unto you a kingdom, as my Father hath
appointed unto me ;
That is the kingdom to be sought, one like Christ's, a sway over
hearts, won by suffering, given by God, manifested hereafter.
Christ's followers enter on it here in a measure, they rule over hearts
and overcome the world, sharing their Lord's glory as well as His
sufferings. Ambition can be fully gratified by this great promise,
for God Who makes it is infinite, His store of honours can never be
exhausted.
30. That ye may eat and drink al my table in my kingdom,
and dt on thrones judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
What we give up now for His sake shall be one day far more than
repaid. This world's pleasure, however sweet, and its honours how
ever lofty, are nothing compared with God's promises to His faithful
servants. He only can offer us a lasting home full of peace. Bring
me, O Lord, with Thy saints to those joys which eye has not seen,
nor ear heard, nor heart conceived, but which will one day be
manifested.
31. IT And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan liath
desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat :

476 Peter is forewarned. [S. Luke XXII.
We should not be secure with such an enemy at our side, who is
never weary of tempting us ; but yet we must not lose heart, know
ing that God is stronger and more able to guard us than Satan to
ruin us. Without God for our strength we are but as chaff which
the wind of temptation blows away.
32. But I have prayed for thee, tliat thy faith fail not: and
when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren.
There is our strength. If we do not fall, or if we rise again and begin
a new life after our fall, it is only by the saving power of Christ's
offering which He once made for us on earth, and now continually
pleads in heaven. When we have found out our own great weakness
we are better able to help others to persevere. O Lord, Who art
infinitely wise, powerful, and tender, let me have a share in this
saving prayer of Thine, and some spark of true conversion in my
cold heart
33. And lie said unto him, Lord, I am ready to go with
thee, both into prison, and to death.
How little we know ourselves ! We feel full of faith and courage for
the moment, and then a word of ridicule or a slight temptation
overthrows all our noble resolutions. It is easy when on our knees
to indulge in pious feelings, but how to act upon them, against the
world, passes our strength.
34. And he said, I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow
this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me.
It may be God foresees I shall deny Him in time to come ; it may
be I shall fall away utterly. He alone knows my eternal state, it
is hidden with Him. Yet I cast myself on His Fatherly mercy,
at least so far I have not been utterly forsaken, I still have" hope.
Even though I have denied Him, yet He abides faithful. His
mercy is sure.
35. And he said unto them, When I sent you witliout purse,
and scrip, and shoes, lacked ye any thing? And they said,
Nothing. God had been with them. His promises had been made good. We
too can see, looking back on our lives, how His Providence has been
with us and has supplied our wants. And thus we learn to trust
Him for the future.
36. Then said he unto them, But now, lie tliat hath a purse,
let him take it, and likewise his scrip: and he that hath no
sword, let him sell his garment, and buy one.
The time of trial was now approaching, they would have no friends
and would need all their strength to struggle against adversity'
An earthly purse or sword is of little avail to keep off trouble He
would have them feel the insufficiency of such means and seek for
God's help instead.

Ver. 43.] Jesus is strengthened in Prayer. 477
37. For I say unto you, that this that is written must yet be
accomplished in me, And he was reckoned among the trans
gressors : for the things concerning me have an end.
If Christ our Lord was reckoned among the transgressors, it is not
strange that His followers also should be spoken against. Let this
be your comfort when you are despised and hated without cause, to
be like your Master.
38. And they said, Lord, behold, here are two swords. And
he said unto them, It is enough.
They could not understand His meaning at the time. They thought
that their earthly swords would be of use if they were attacked,
so He let them learn by the event that they were of little profit.
When His Church has relied on earthly swords to maintain her,
more has been lost than gained. After this scene in the Holy
Supper-room was ended how the disciples must have looked back
to it and pondered over all their Lord's gracious words !
39. IT And he came out, and went, as he was wont, to the
mount of Olives ; and his disdples also followed him.
Let us also, though unworthy, follow Him to the holy mount and
enter into the quiet garden, and behold the Son of God overcome
with pain and sorrow for our sins. If we wish to share His glory
we must expect to share His afflictions too.
40. And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray
that ye enter not into temptation.
Temptation is strong and I am weak. I need to pray that I may
escape it, yet if the trial comes, that I may persevere through it.
Let me in my quiet moments make ready against my trial-time, and
so drive away the enemy when he comes.
41. And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast,
and kneeled down, and prayed, 42. saying, Father, if thou be
willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will,
but thine, be done.
Here is my Master alone on His knees praying earnestly to His
Father to remove the cup of pain, yet still seeking above all His
Father's will and our salvation. He feels all the bitterness of His
approaching death and of our sins which caused it, yet He patiently
accepts and obeys. I desire to feel thus and pray thus in my hour
of need.
43. And tliere appeared an angel unto him from heaven,
strengthening him.
What ! The Son of God receives help from an angel, who is but His
creature ? Yes. And we learn thereby to expect help and comfort
from simple persons and common things, when God pleases. All
strength and comfort comes from God, but He makes creatures His
ministers to bring it. We should thank both them and Him.

478 The Agony and Bloody Sweat. [S. Luke XXII.
44. And. being in an agony he prayed more earnestly : and
his sweat was as it were great drops of blood falling down to
the ground.
Jesus felt agony for me. Shall I by my sins throw contempt on all
He suffered ? I have chosen ease and honour, but He chose pain
and sorrow, and shame and death for my sake. The sin that seems
so trifling to me seemed so terrible in His eyes that it caused
Him intense anguish of body and mind. I desire henceforth to
remember better what He suffered, so that His Blood which was
shed for me may not be wasted.
45. And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his
disdples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,
They could not watch with Him, yet He remembered them. They
were not only weary, but grieved and apprehensive of evil, seeing
their Master's condition and being anxious for Him. They shared
His sorrow, and so afterwards partook of His joy and glory. His
goodness to them shows how good He is to us.
46. And said unto them, Why sleep ye ? rise and pray, led
ye enter into temptation.
Our Lord rose up from His prayer refreshed and strengthened, able
now to help His friends and to bear all that might come upon Him.
Such is the virtue of communion with God. In it lies our strength
and help against the day's temptations. Our early morning prayer
is a help and safeguard through the day.
47. IT And while lie yet spake, behold a multitude, and he
that was called Judas, one of the twelve, went before them, and
drew near unto Jesus to kiss him.
The rest of the twelve had shared their Master's watch and prayer ;
Judas alone was with His enemies, and now drew near to ac
complish his act of treachery. It is possible to be a disciple, and
to enjoy special privileges and opportunities of grace, and yet to
turn all to ruin as Judas did.
48. But Jesus said unto him, Judas, betrayest tliou the Son
of man with a kiss ?
He turned the sign of peace and love into a means of death. So do
impenitent sinners when they come to the Holy Table profanely.
They go through the outward form of love, and praise, and union
with Christ, and yet they only approach Him to betray Him.
49. When they which were about him saw what would follow,
tliey said unto him, Lord, shall we smite with the sword ?
50. IT And one of them smote the servant of the high priest,
and cut off his right ear.
They asked leave to strike, but did so without waiting for an answer.
Human passion is apt to come in instead of simple submission to

Ver. 56.] Our Lord heals the Servant's Ear. 479
God's will. Let us in all our troubles discern God's hand, not
merely man's violence, and then we shall take the blow as from Him
without impatience or vain resistance.
51. And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And
he touched his ear, and healed him.
Christ heals the wounds which His disciple rashly made. He does
not lose in this extremity His pitifulness or His wonder-working
power, though He used it for others only, never for Himself.
Christians who forward the Church's cause by violence go against
their Master's plan ; let them rather help on the Church in the true
way by healing and doing good everywhere.
52. Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of
the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come
out, as against a thief, with swords and staves ?
Our Lord is treated as an evil-doer and publicly arrested, that His
followers might set less value on the opinion of the world. Some
times virtue is praised, at other times reviled and insulted ; but to a
true disciple of Jesus it matters little. So long as God approves of
our conduct, men can cast us out with contempt if they will.
53. Wlien I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched
forth no hands against me : but this is your hour, and tlie power
of darkness.
It was the hour of our Lord's enemies and of Satan, when they seemed
to have their will, and yet also it was His own hour, long appointed
and foretold. Evil spirits and men can do no more than God
permits. When uncleanness, and bad language, and every kind of
sin reign around you unchecked, it is indeed the hour of darkness,
yet remember, O believer, that the true light is shining still.
54. IT Then took tliey him, and led him, and brought him
into the high priests house. And Peter followed afar off.
When Peter beheld his Master bound and led away helpless, his
faith began to give way ; he followed indeed, yet at a distance. He
began to forget the mighty works and gracious words of Jesus
in the helplessness of His present position. Help me, O Lord, that
I may follow Thee with a firm faith, in spite of all that men can say
or do.
55. And when they had kindled a fire in the midst of the
hall, and were set down together, Pder sat down among them.
It is dangerous for us to rush into temptation as Peter did, far better
for him to have pondered over the warnings he had received, and
sought strength from God in prayer; but he forgot all the warnings
in his wonder at Christ's condition.
56. But a certain maid beheld him as he sat by tlie fire, and
earnestly looked upon him, and said, This man was also inth

480 Christ looks on Peter. [S. Luke XXII.
him. 57. And he denied him, saying, Woman, I know him
not. Here is the chief apostle overthrown by the remarks of a maid-servant,
here is one who has received countless benefits from Jesus saying
that he does not know Him. What a spectacle of human frailty! Let
us who read it beware lest our stedfastness be overthrown as easily.
How different we are when in the world, from what we were shortly
before when in prayer and good company 1
58. And after a little while another saw him, and said, Thou
art also of them. And Peter said, Man, I am not.
We must pray God for courage to stand up for His side, never to con
demn the innocent, never to give up our Christian profession out
of fear. It is very hard in the face of ridicule to stand up boldly
and say, " I also believe as Christians do, I cannot leave the Lord's
side or join in sin." Give us, O Lord, when we are tempted, Thy
Holy Spirit to strengthen our weak will.
59. And about the space of one hour after another confidently
affirmed, saying, Of a truth this fellow also was with him : for
he is a Galilcean.
He had an hour in which he might have acknowledged his fault and
asked for pardon, but he took no heed nor even withdrew from the
scene of temptation. We are sometimes in company where we are
in danger of denying our religion again and again, and yet we are
rash enough to stay, presuming in our own strength.
60. And Peter said, Man, I know not what thou sayest.
And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew.
These three denials are as three witnesses of human frailty, they
show us how easy it is to be cowardly, to be ungrateful, to forget
God. If one so favoured as S. Peter thus fell away, we ought
not to trust our own warm feelings or good resolutions. Many
persons who once loved God have since denied and forsaken Him,
and how can we reckon on standing ? Such thoughts make us fear.
61. And tlie Lord turned, and looked upon Peter. And
Peter remembered the word of tlie Lord, how he liad said unto
him, Before tlie cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.
Oh look of pity and love ! Our Saviour forgot His own troubles and
turned to His erring friend. That look dissolved the spell of sin
and brought back faith and love to Peter's heart. O Lord, when
I fall into sin do Thou turn on me the eye of Thy mercy, that I may
repent and be forgiven.
62. And Peter went out, and wept bitterly.
He felt shame for his cowardice and ingratitude ; he had offended
God and forsaken the kindest of friends in His hour of need ; he
felt how vain his own confidence had been ; yet these bitter tears
were salutary and turned to joy in the end. When I think of my

Ver. 68.] Christ mocked by the Jews. 481
own sins I am grieved that I cannot grieve. I know and acknow
ledge how grave they are, and yet I cannot shed tears over them
as I ought Give me, O Lord, some true sorrow, that I may feel,
once at least, how vile I am and how good Thou art.
63. IT And the men that held Jesus mocked him, and smote
him. What a comfort for Christ's servants, when they are mocked or
abused, to remember that their Master suffered the same ! What a
lesson for those who are sharp-tempered and inclined to be angry
at any slight, to see what insults God's Son had to bear, and that
He did so without complaining !
64. And when they had blindfolded him, they struck him on
the face, and asked him, saying, Prophesy, who is it tliat smote
thee? Many defy God as boldly as if His eyes were blinded and He could
not see their doings, yet to Him all hearts are open and all desires
known. The time will come one day for God to be revealed. Now
He hides Himself, and men outrage Him without fear ; yet His
secret judgment overtakes the sinner now, and His open judgment
will crush him in the end.
65. And many other things blasphemously spake they against
him. Christ our Lord was spoken against When I am slandered I will
remember that perfect innocence did not escape calumny. I may
take the unjust report patiently as being less than He endured,
and I will not myself speak hastily against others, lest I find
myself in the company of Christ's enemies, and speaking as they
do.
66. 1T And as soon as it was day, the elders of the people
and the chief priests and the scribes came together, and led him
into their council, saying,
The leaders of God's people were in darkness. Those who should have
known and loved righteousness best were most eager to destroy the
Just One. It is not a high position in the Church nor great
learning that can keep us near to God. Often the worst enemies
of the Gospel have been evil priests.
67. Art thou the Christ? tell us. And he said unto them,
If I tell you, ye will not believe : 68. and if I also ask you,
ye will not answer me, nor let me go.
Our Saviour's own words and arguments when He was visibly on
earth had no effect on hardened hearts, nor can eloquent sermons
or religious books do us any good now unless we are in a mind to
profit by them. He tells us His truth, He asks of our spiritual
state, yet we neither believe nor answer. Let not this indifference
last, lest it be without remedy.
2 H

482 Our Lord led before Pilate. [S. Luke XXIII.
69. -Hereafter shall the Son of man sit on the right hand of
the power of God.
There is a change foretold. The outcast and despised Criminal
Whom they were about to condemn would soon be sitting at God's
right hand, far above all cruelty, enjoying peace and glory for ever.
Such is the change waiting God's faithful servants too. They have
followed their Master in bearing His reproach, and shall enjoy a
share of His glory hereafter.
70. Then said they all, Art thou then the Son of God ? And
lie said unto tliem, Ye say that I am.
This is the foundation of our religion, that Jesus is the Son of God.
He Himself declared this truth and died for it as its first Martyr.
And there have been countless others who have laid down their
lives for it since. Great is the glory of truth, it demands our very
life. It bids us give up all we have sooner than agree to a lie.
71. And they said, What need we any further witness? for
we ourselves have heard of his own mouth.
This truth which is life to the believer's soul was deadly to those
who were unfit to hear it. What opportunity can be more
precious than to learn from our Lord's own lips Who He is? And
yet they misused this knowledge to their own ruin. Grant that I
may have grace to turn to profit all the heavenly truth which Thy
wisdom offers me. Without Thy grace I can neither believe or
profit.

CHAPTER XXIII.
1. Jesus is accused before Pilate, and sent to Herod. 8. Herod mocketh
him. 12. Herod and Pilate are made friends. 13. Barabbas is
desired of the people, and is loosed by Pilate, and Jesus is given to
be crucified. 27. He telleth the women, that lament him, thf>
destruction of Jerusalem : 34. prayeth for his enemies. 39. Two
evildoers are crucified with him. 46. His death. 50. His burial.
AND the whole multitude of them arose, and led him unto
Xi Pilate.
The Jews in their envy and hatred desired to put Jesus to death,
and this they could not do without the authority of the Roman
governor. Yet both the Jews and Pilate were overruled by the
secret wisdom of God, Who thus wrought redemption for the world.
We should adore His wise Providence that brings about good ends
out of the follies and crimes of men.
2. And they began to accuse him, saying, We found this
fellow perverting the nation, and forbidding to give tribute to
Ccesar, saying that he himself is Christ a King.

Ver. 8.] Herod sees Jesus. 483
What a lying charge was this ! for our Lord had never led the people
astray nor interfered with Caesar's tribute. He had indeed called
Himself the Christ, and spoken of His kingdom, yet this was not
. in a sense to harm earthly kings. It is not to be wondered at that
the best and wisest words should be accounted blameworthy if
those of Christ were. We should not be impatient if we too are
found fault with.
3. And Pilate asked him, saying, Art thou the King of the
Jews ? And he answered him and said, Thou sayest it.
O Lord, Thou sayest it ; Thou art indeed the King not only of the
Jews, but of all the earth. Thou givest laws, Thou rulest hearts
now from Thy throne, and wilt one day reveal Thy Royal Majesty.
Let me only be an obedient subject, zealous for Thy honour and
trusting in Thy mercy.
4. Then said Pilate to the chief priests and to the people, I
find no fault in this man.
Pilate knew after he had questioned Jesus (John xviii. 37) that the
kingdom He claimed had nothing rebellious about it, but was a
spiritual Royalty founded on the Truth, and so he at once declared
Him innocent of the charge of sedition, yet he had not courage to
release Him against the people's will.
5. And they were the more fierce, saying, He stirreth up tlie
people, teaching throughout all Jewry, beginning from Galilee
to this place.
This was what His enemies said of our Lord's teaching. His Divine
sermons, His parables of love and mercy, His instructions about
prayer and heaven and duty, all the gracious words that had
proceeded from His mouth, were merely proofs in their eyes that
He was a sower of strife and had dangerous influence over men.
Religious opportunities, unless we act upon them, turn to our harm.
Holy words are like poison if they have not worked the cure of
our souls.
6. When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked whether the man
were a Galilcean. 7. And as soon as he knew that he belonged
unto Herod's jurisdidion, he sent him to Herod, who himself
also was at Jerusalem at that time.
Our Lord appeared once only at a prince's court, and that was as a
prisoner, bound, and in danger of life. Such places are seldom fit
for Divine truth. All there is human, full of splendour and pleasure
and caprice. Those souls who live in holiness there have indeed a
special grace.
8. 1T And when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceeding glad:
for he was desirous to see him of a long season, because he had
heard many things of him ; and he hoped to have seen some
miracle done by him.

484 Jesus sent back by Herod. [S. Luke XXIII.
Worldly people approach religion merely to gratify their own curi
osity. They find a preacher or a religious book interest them,
but they have no wish to live themselves by the message. Herod
merely saw in our Saviour a Wonder-worker of great renown, and
he thought that some miracle like those he had heard of would be
an entertainment for himself and his court.
9. Then he questioned with him in many words; but he
answered him nothing.
Let us not be inquirers into religion after Herod's fashion. He spoke
of it merely to amuse himself, so he got no answer or satisfaction.
God will not enlighten any who do not approach Him earnestly
and with reverence. If we are in the company of scoffers it is best
to keep silence on religious subjects, rather than expose them to
be dealt lightly with.
10. And the chief priests and scribes stood and vehemently
accused him.
Princes are especially liable to hear false reports. Their ear is possessed
by flatterers ; they cannot go out among the people and gather
the truth. How many would have vehemently defended Jesus, and
told of all His goodness to them 1 But such were humble persons,
who had no access to the palace.
11. And Herod with his men of war set him at nought, and
mocked him, and arrayed him in a gorgeous robe, and sent him
again to Pilate.
Finding that our Lord would not gratify his expectation or answer
his questions, Herod treated Him as a madman or an impostor
who was now found out. His attendants in like manner assailed
Him with ridicule. They dressed Him up in royal raiment. They
sent Him back to Pilate's house,' whence He came. How wonderful
is this when we consider Who Christ is !
12. IT And the same day Pilate and Herod were made friends
together : for before they were at enmity between themselves.
Two bad men joined together against Christ. Thus those who agree
m nothing else agree together to revile God's Word. His Church
finds them united to injure her. They hate God, and so combine
against Him. But in such friendships there is nothing durable
Christ's death, indeed, brought about a true reconciliation for all
men. But that is a peace in God, and cemented by His Spirit,
not a mere worldly truce.
13. IT And Pilate, when he had called together the chief
priests and the rulers and the people, 14. said unto them, Ye
have brought this man unto me, as one that perverteth the
people : and, behold, I, having examined him before you, have
found no fault in this man touching those things whereof ye

Ver. 23.] The Jews demand His Death. 485
accuse him: 15. no, nor yd Herod: for I sent you to him ;
and, lo, nothing worthy of death is done unto him.
Tlie innocence of Christ bur Lord was declared before many witnesses.
Pilate and Herod joined together to proclaim it. Yet He was none
the less condemned to die. When I come to stand before the
judgment-seat in the dreadful reckoning, day, my guilt will be
clear ; I shall have no defence, and yet I hope for pardon. I am
worthy only of condemnation, and yet I trust that He will pronounce
me forgiven.
16. I will therefore chastise him, and release him. 17. (For
of necesrity he must release one unto them at the feast.)
Jesus must be scourged, even if proclaimed innocent and released.
Pilate, who was afraid to do justice, thought thus to satisfy the
people, afterwards he condemned Him to death for the same reason.
Here is a warning to us not to forsake our plain duty for the sake
of others' threats or to gain their applause, lest we too be led on
step by step into utter ruin. The Passover, with its memory of
deliverance from Egypt, brought round the release of a prisoner, and
so was a fitting time to free all mankind from Satan's bondage.
18. And tliey cried out all at once, saying, Away with this
man, and release unto us Barabbas: 19. (who for a certain
sedition made in the dty, and for murder, was cast into prison.)
Barabbas was preferred to Jesus, a murderer to the Prince of Life.
His people resolved to seek for freedom by revolt and violence,
rather than pursue the inward reformation to which our Lord's holy
words invited them. Jesus taught that the truth would make us
free, Barabbas stirred up violent passions and made no account of
human life. What sort of freedom do we seek ? that of God's
service which Jesus taught, or freedom to follow our own passions,
which ends in hopeless slavery at last?
20. Pilate therefore, willing to release Jesus, spake again to
them. 2 1. But they cried, saying, Crudfy him, crudfy him.
The voice of sin which calls for Christ's death as our atoning Sacrifice
is more powerful than the wavering voice of Pilate offering to
release Him. How strange is the world's friendship ! but a few
days back Jesus was welcomed with royal honours, now the people
desire His life. It was then " Hosanna," and "Blessed is He that
cometh," but now, "Crucify Him." Our dependence must be
placed in God only, if we would have a sure Friend.
22. And he said unto them the third time, Why, what evil
hath lie done ? I have found no cause of death in him : I will
therefore chastise him, and let him go. 23. And they were
instant with loud voices, requiring that he might be crudfied.
And the voices of them and of the chief priests prevailed.
I have done evil. I deserve death. Jesus bears my sins; He stands
in my stead ; and therefore He must empty the cup of suffering,

486 Women lamenting for Jesus. [S. Luke XXIII.
which I have deserved. He must not be content with any shame
and pain short of the greatest. He cannot be let go unless through
the gate of death. The intended mercy of the judge, and his
inability to carry it out, the people's cruelty, the Sufferer's calm
ness, all combine to work out our salvation. Mankind needed such
an offering and such an example.
24. And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required.
25. And he released unto them him that for sedition and murder
was cast into prison, whom they had desired; but he delivered
Jesus to their will.
The Lord's enemies gained their wish and obtained His death. First
He was scourged and reviled, next He was condemned to die, lastly
led away to the place of punishment. Yet He was full of love and
entirely innocent, and had devoted Himself to heal the souls and
' bodies of men. Such is this world's recompense; but there is
another life, where God's justice will have its way. If this world
were all, who could bear to live ?
26. And as tliey led him away, they laid hold upon one
Simon, a Cyrenian, coming out of the country, and on him they
laid the cross, that he might bear it after Jesus.
Christ our Saviour first takes up His Cross, afterwards a share of it
is laid on us also, and we bear it along with Him. The weight
would have been too great for us unless He had borne it too. It
means a share in shame and pain and distress, and rejection by the
world, and yet there is in it healing and life. Let us bravely
embrace it and learn its lessons.
27. II And there followed him a great company of people,
and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.
These loving souls felt for our Lord's innocence and for His
sufferings. They represent to us those Christians who study the
history of His death and try to feel His sorrows. We were not
literally there, but we may in spirit accompany Him along the way
of tears. Though many despise us, yet we shall find a blessing
on our meditations. Great and rich and wise persons were
amongst our Lord's enemies, but these women did not forsake
Him.
28. But Jesus turning unto them said, Daughters of Jeru
salem, weep not for me, but weep for yourselves, and for your
children. It is useless to be sorry for Christ's sufferings unless we grieve for
ourselves too. Our meditation on Christ crucified should lead us
to understand our own crosses and the sins which brought them on
us, and the judgments of God still hanging over our heads. Do
not weep vain tears, but let them turn to a faithful repentance and
a new life.

Ver. 34.] Calvary. 487
29. For, beliold, the days are coming, in the which they shall
say, Blessed are the barren, and the wombs that never bare, and
tlie paps which never gave suck.
Jesus saw before Him the destruction of Jerusalem and all its
miseries, and yet His words extend also to the last great day and
the terrors which shall then overwhelm the impenitent. Days of
sorrow are approaching in which the succour of human love will
not be enough to sustain us.
30. Then shall tliey begin to say to the mountains, Fall on
us ; and to the hills, Cover us.
If Christ's words are true, what will be the state in the judgment day
of one who has never repented ? What shelter will there be from
God's wrath ? what covering for our sins ? Dear reader, seek
before it is too late a secure refuge within the wounds of Christ.
He alone can in that day be our hiding-place and protection.
31. For if they do these things in a green tree, what shall be
done in the dry ?
If innocent persons suffer as they do in this present world, what will
be the condition of the guilty when God's wrath at length breaks
forth ? Without Thy grace I am but a dry and withered branch,
all my life must be drawn by constant supplies from Thee. Thou
alone art full of spiritual life, and able to quicken even the dead in
,-sin.
32. And there were also two other, malefadors, led with him
to be put to death.
In what company the Son of God is now found ! He is led out of
the city with two criminals to be put to a shameful death as though
unworthy to live with men. His true members have sometimes
been treated as outcasts, or imprisoned in the company of murder
ers, and yet they have been upheld by the remembrance of His
sorrows.
33. And when they were come to the place, which is called
Calvary, there they crudfied him, and the malefadors, one on
the right hand, and the oilier on the left.
Thus our Lord embraces the extremity of shame and pain. He is
raised in agony, naked and bleeding, on the accursed Cross, and
hangs there as a spectacle to the world. We too in our sufferings
are called on after our measure to share His Cross. We are set
beside Him to bear up against our own pain by turning our eyes
to His. God make our cross to turn to our good, keep us from
sullen despair, and give us patience, faith, and hope.
34. 1T Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know
not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
Which of us, on receiving some cruel wrong, makes such a prayer

488 The Penitent Thief. [S. Luke XXIII.
from his heart? Which of us excuses his enemies and prays to
God for them? Yet Jesus did this not in words only, but in all
that He went through ; for this was the object of His death, to
obtain pardon for sinners. He pleads for them powerfully with
God.
35. And the people stood beholding. And the rulers also
with them derided him, saying, He saved others ; let him save
himself, if he be Christ, the chosen of God.
There are many now, as there were then, who mock at His salvation,
who despise His Word and His Sacraments, and ridicule those
who frequent them. Yet, O Lord, I believe in Thy power to save.
Thou hast saved many, Thy Blood is still mighty to purify souls.
Those who trust in Thee will not be confounded in the end.
36. And tlie soldiers also mocked him, coming to him, and
offering him vinegar, 37. and saying, If thou be the king of the
Jews, save thyself.
Jesus had no protection against mockery, His hands were nailed to
the Cross and His friends powerless to help Him. While this life
lasts the world's malice can reach us, but before long we shall be
beyond its power, safe with our Father. Let us bear it quietly till
the day of our release come.
38. And a superscription also was written over him in letters
of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF
THE JEWS.
Though the Jews refused Him, yet He was their true King Whom
God had appointed. And the spiritual Israel throughout all lands
•obey His voice, acknowledge His laws, regard Him as the Pattern
to follow. I also would be a faithful subject of this kingdom, I
would obey all that He orders for me, and offer Him my love and
service.
39. IT And one of the malefadors which were hanged railed
on him, saying, If thou be Christ, save thyself and us.
Such is the effect of suffering on some hearts. They curse God, they
despise religion, they harden themselves against any good. Some
deathbeds are like the cross of this thief, full only of pain and
discontent, without a spark of love.
40. But the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not
thou fear God, seeing thou art in tlie same condemnation ? 41.
and we indeed justly ; for we receive the due reward of our
deeds : but this man hath done nothing amiss.
Here is a preacher of righteousness from the cross itself. He preaches
fear of God, and repentance for sin, and the holiness of Jesus ; he
tries to bring his companion to God; he humbly acknowledges his

Ver. 46.] The Promise of Paradise. 489
own sins and submits to his sufferings. Here is the spirit in which
we should approach death, viewing it as the last trial of our submis
sion and the opportunity for a searching repentance.
42. And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when thou
oomest into thy kingdom.
Oh wonderful faith ! Who else could find a King in the despised Out
cast Who hung beside him? Let this prayer of the penitent thief be
mine also, "Lord, remember me." I do not seek for reward, or
boast of service; all I ask is that Thou wouldst remember Thy
poor creature whom Thou hast made and redeemed. In the awful
judgment day do not lose me. I desire with all my heart to be
Thine.
43. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To
day shalt thou be with me in paradise.
What a sweet and blessed change, from the cross to Paradise ! One
moment he felt the extremity of agony, and the next he was with
Jesus in a happy place of rest and light. May such be my end.
May I also, when I die, pass from the cross of pain and death into
a new life of peace. The way indeed is often hard and narrow, but
the joy when I get there will make me forget all tears.
44. And it was about the sixth hour, and there was a dark
ness over all the earth until the ninth hour.
During the time of Christ's greatest agony the sun was darkened ; all
nature seemed to feel for its Master's sufferings. There is now over
much of the earth a spiritual darkness which has never been lifted.
It needs the True Light to shine there and enlighten hearts. We
are in the light, let us thank God, and live as children of light.
45. And the sun was darkened, and the veil of the temple was
rent in the midst.
The veil was rent which covered the most holy place where God's
presence dwelt. By the death of Jesus man is able to enter in there
and appear before God. The law of Moses was like a veil hiding
the great truths of religion under many figures, now the veil and
its figures are gone.
46. IT And wlien Jesus had cried with a loud voice, he said,
Father, into thy liands I commend my spirit : and liaving said
thus, he gave up the ghost.
We too in our last hours should commit our souls into God's hands,
knowing that He will not forsake us. Death is but a journey, and
we have a Friend and a home waiting for us at its end. We know
nothing of the other world except this, that our Father has power
there as here, and that we shall be at home with Him, and this is
enough to give us peace in thinking of it. We can willingly depart
when His good pleasure calls us.

49° Joseph asks for Christ's Body. [S. Luke XXIV.
47. Now when the centurion saw what was done, he glorified
God, saying, Certainly this was a righteous man.
This is the firstfruits of our Saviour's death. His patience and power,
and the accompanying wonders, so wrought on this Roman soldier
that he declared Him to have been a righteous man, no impostor
or rebel. We, studying all that was done, can rise still further and
behold in Jesus God's Own Son making others righteous. In read
ing all the history of the Passion we shall see ample material to
glorify God.
48. And all the people that came togdher to that sight,
beholding the things which were done, smote tlieir breasts, and
returned. They were amazed and grieved, for they felt now how great a crime
had been committed. The sight of Christ's death wrought in them
a deep repentance. Good Friday and its lessons should have the
same effect on us. Before returning to our ordinary duties we
should pray God to pardon our sins for which Jesus came to suffer.
49. And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed
him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding tliese things.
These holy persons had loved and served Jesus during His life, and
they did not forsake Him in His dying hours. They came not out
of idle curiosity, but in love as faithful friends. They bid us also
follow Him through all His sacred actions, applying our minds to
them and considering why they were done.
50. U And, behold, there was a man named Joseph, a coun
sellor ; and he was a good man, and a just: 51. (tlie same
had not consented to the counsel and deed of them ;) he was of
Arimathcea, a dty of the Jews : who also himself waited for
the kingdom of God.
This man, though rich and of high rank, was devout and upright. He
would not join in oppressing the innocent, he longed to see God's
kingdom set up in the world, he had secretly honoured and loved
Jesus. Such was a fit person to be chosen for the great honour of
receiving the Lord's Body, and giving it burial.
52. This man went unto Pilate, and begged the body of

He was not ashamed to ask for the Body of a Criminal, nor afraid of
drawing suspicions of sedition upon himself. He confessed him
self on the side of the Crucified. He teaches us not to be afraid of
standing up for the right, though it be ill spoken of and all the
world are against it. God will reward one day those who defend
the truth when it is outraged or overborne here.
53. And he took it down, and wrapped it in linen, and laid

Ver. i.] Our Lord's Friends at the Sepulchre. 491
it in a sepulchre tliat was hewn in stone, wherein never man
before was laid.
How great an honour to receive the sacred Body by which the world's
salvation was wrought ! Joseph treated it with reverence, wrapped
it in pure linen, laid it in a new tomb. We also have to lodge
Christ in our hearts. Let no profane or evil thoughts defile that
place if we would have Him abide there. A true Christian has
the thought of Christ deep in his heart, even though unperceived
by the world in which he moves.
54. And that day was tlie preparation, and the sabbath
drew on.
All this busy world is only the preparation for the Sabbath of eternity
which is soon to begin. Those are happy who use their life here
as a preparation. The other world draws on swiftly. Soon we
shall find ourselves there, where time will be no more. The day of
work and of suffering will be over, that of peace will remain.
55. And the women also, which came with him from Galilee,
followed after, aud beheld the sepulchre, and how his body was
laid. Galilee was a despised place and our Lord's followers little regarded
in Jerusalem ; yet it was among them that He had taught and
worked marvels. Great, and learned, and famous persons may yet
miss utterly what the poor and simple have attained to. If in our
lives we have been humble followers of Christ crucified, that is
sufficient. It matters not what the world may have thought of us.
56. And they returned, and prepared spices and ointments ;
and rested the sabbath day according to the commandment.
God approves of our reverent care for the burial of the dead and the
neatness of their graves. These poor lifeless bodies of Christ's
members shall one day rise again in glory pure and incorruptible.
Their souls are at rest with their Master, but we treat their remains
reverently, thinking of what has been and what shall be again.

CHAPTER XXIV.
I. Christ's resurrection is declared by two angels to the women that come
to the sepulchre. 9. These report it to others. 13. Christ himself
appeareth to the two disciples that went to Emmaus : 36. afterwards
he appeareth to the apostles, and reproveth their unbelief : 47. giveth
them a charge : 49. promiseth the Holy Ghost : 51. and so ascendeth
into heaven.
"VTOW upon the first day of the week, very early in the morn-
JJll ing, they came unto the sepulchre, bringing the spices which
they had prepared, and certain others with them.

492 The Angels' Message. [S. Luke XXIV.
Devout souls shake off sloth and rise early to find Christ. They
prepare holy dispositions and good works, and love to come and
bring others with them into God's presence. Easter-time as it
comes round finds them glad at the remembrance of Christ's rising
again. The holy women in the text were still sorrowful on Easter
morning, but how soon God turned all their tears into joy 1
2. And they found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre.
God's power can make a way where man can find none. Let us do
our part with faith and love, and He will enable us to fulfil our work
though at first it seems beyond our strength. Even if hearts are
weighed down by sin and closed to the access of friends or of good
impressions, there is a power that can roll the weight away.
3. And they entered in, and found not the body of the Lord

Christ was gone, and the cave was empty. That Body which had
suffered so much, and in which our salvation had been wrought, was
now raised and glorified. And as it is with His Body so it will be
with ours.
4. And it came to pass, as tliey were much perplexed there
about, behold, two men stood by them in shining garments :
These are messengers to tell of the heavenly glory into which Jesus
has entered. When the troubles of this world weigh on us and
perplex us, how sweet it is to lift up our hearts to a world of light
and peace where the happy spirits serve God without hindrance !
God at times sends us tidings from our home above. There all is
order, all is joy.
5. And as they were afraid, and bowed down their faces to
the earth, they said unto them, Why seek ye the living among
the dead?
Christ our Lord is not a mere man who lived and died like others,
but the living Saviour, full of power and glory. In reading His
Word or meditating on His sufferings, we should never forget that He
is by. The grave could not hold Him. Palestine cannot claim
Him. But He is to be sought and found in every place.
6. He is not here, but is risen : remember how he spake unto
you when he was yet in Galilee,
His visible presence is here no longer, but the words which He
uttered on earth are our consolation, and bid us lift up our hearts
to that better place where He is. Our faith rests principally on
the words of Christ in which He declared God's will to man.
. 7. Saying, The Son of man must be delivered into the hands
of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.
Jesus Himself was subject to the law of suffering. It was needfulm
God's counsels, and needful for our comfort, that He should undergo

Ver. 14.] Peter at the Sepulchre. 493
such a death and triumph over it. If the Sinless One must suffer,
shall sinners complain that they too come under the same law ?
Rather let them bear patiently, and look forward to the same joyful
end that He found.
8. And they remembered his words,
A Christian should call to mind his Master's words. There is' a
peculiar virtue in them. None ever spake like He did. We under
stand their full meaning by degrees. They are so deep, yet
simple. Any one can apprehend them, and yet they are too deep
for the wisest to fathom.
9. And returned from tlie sepulchre, and told all these things
unto the eleven, and to all the rest. 1 o. It was Mary Magdalene,
and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women
that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.
These holy souls had followed Christ in His life, had offered Him
their means, had grieved over His sufferings, had stood near when
all forsook Him, and so they were made the first preachers of His
resurrection. Let us also tell these things to our friends. The
story of Christ's love and glory is not to be kept back, but spread
abroad in the world.
11. And thdr words seemed to them as idle tales, and they
believed them not.
They were hard of belief, so that their faith in the resurrection, when
at last they accepted it, is the stronger evidence to us. Out of their
unbelief our faith is confirmed. They had forgotten all that Jesus
had foretold about His resurrection, so much had the shame and
horror of the Passion thrown their minds into confusion.
1 2. Then arose Peter, and ran unto the sepulchre ; and stoop
ing down, he beheld the linen clothes laid by themselves, and
departed, wondering in himself at that which was come to pass.
Peter was full of zeal, and the remembrance of his great sin still weighed
on him, so that he ran at once to ascertain the truth. He found
the tomb empty, and the grave-clothes laid in order, and the sacred
body gone, yet he could only wonder, not yet believe. Faith
comes of God's gift, and needs to be sought with earnest prayer.
13. IT And, behold, two of them went that same day to a
village called Emmaus, which was from Jerusalem about three
score furlongs. 14. And they talked together of all these tilings
which had happened.
Their hearts were full of our Lord's death, and of the women's
message about His empty grave, so they conversed of this, not of
trifles or worldly business. If we care for matters of religion we
shall find a way to speak of them . How strange it is that Christians
should be intimate friends for a long while, and yet never speak to
each other of their Master !

494 The Two Disciples. [S. Luke XXIV.
15. And it came to pass, that, while they communed together
and reasoned, Jesus himself drew near, and went with them.
O Lord, in onr journeys and our employments, be pleased, though
invisibly, to be with us ; bless us in the way by which we go, and
turn evil aside from us. If Thou art not with us our way will end
, in harm. What unwearied kindness the Good Shepherd showed!
As soon as He was risen He began to gather in again His little
flock, which had been dispersed and confounded.
16. But their eyes vjere holden that they should not know him.
He may be with us, though we discern Him not This is a comfort for
perplexed souls who are frightened at their own coldness and dul-
ness in religion. Our Friend may be guiding us all the while,
though as yet invisible. All through this life our eyes are holden
and only death can open them.
17. And he said unto them, What manner of communications
are these that ye have one to another, as ye walk, and are sad ?
Christ our Lord feels for our sorrows. It was the very weakness and
imperfection of these two disciples that gained for them this
Divine Companion with His spirit-stirring words. When we are
burdened with sadness in our journey He is not far away or
indifferent.
18. And the one of them, whose name was Cleopas, answering
said unto him, Art thou only a stranger in Jerusalem, and hast
not known the things which are come to pass there in these days ?
There are many nominal Christians nowadays who are strangers in
the heavenly Jerusalem, know nothing of its teaching and do not
rejoice or grieve with its success or disasters. We should live as
true children of the Church, not as strangers, taking a deep interest
in all that passes therein. Does Easter bring you no joy, Good
Friday no sorrow, the Holy Sacrament no love ? then you too are
a stranger in our Jerusalem.
19. And he said unto them, What things? And they said
unto him, Concerning Jesus of Nazareth, which was a prophet
mighty in deed and word before God and all tlie people :
Jesus was mighty in deed as well as word, and before God as well as
man. It profits little to have the power of.speaking with acceptance
unless God bless the preacher's efforts and a good life confirm them.
May God raise up for us such preachers who shall take His Son as
their pattern.
20. And how the chief priests and our rulers delivered him
to be condemned to death, and have crudfied him. »
This was the reward which Jesus got for His works of love. If we try
to do good and yet meet only with reproaches, we share the same
lot as our Master. We must not go to the rich and mighty ones
on earth for a sound judgment on matters of religion, they it was
who treated Christ as an outcast.

Ver. 27.] The Unknown Friend. 495
21. But we trusted that it had been he which should have
redeemed Israel : and beside all this, to day is the third day
dnce these things were done.
They trusted, but when the Cross came they could trust no longer ;
they hoped, but their hope was over now. They were like short
sighted Christians who profess great faith in God's Providence, but
when trouble comes they lose heart utterly, and are full of nothing
but complaints.
22. Yea, and certain women also of our company made us
astonished, which were early at the sepulchre; 23. and when
they found not his body, they came, saying, that they had also
seen a vision of angels, which said that he was alive.
The sepulchre was open, angels had declared the resurrection, the
sacred Body was gone. Jesus Himself had often foretold that He
should rise on the third day, yet still their hearts are cold and their
faith weak, and they look on the message as a marvellous tale, fit
only to astonish the hearers. How difficult it is without God's
special grace to rise to a true faith in Jesus Christ !
24. And certain of them which were with us went to the
sepulchre, and found it even so as the women had said : but
him they saw not.
We were not by when Jesus rose, we have to trust His saints for the
news. We have not seen Him with our bodily eyes, but we listen to
the Church's teaching and acknowledge it for truth. Quicken, O
Lord, our hearts with Divine faith, that we may perfectly and with
out doubt believe in Thy dear Son, Who died and rose again for us.
We cannot see Him yet, but one day we hope to see Him.
25. Then he said unto them, 0 fools, and slow of heart to
believe all that the prophets have spoken:
Dull and cold are our minds when it comes to accepting a message
from God. His prophets and apostles tell us of a living Saviour,
an eternal judgment, a heavenly home; they warn us of evil spirits
and deadly sins ; they encourage us by telling of the power of grace ;
yet we apprehend their words with difficulty, and feel them little.
26. Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to
enter into his glory ?
This was the way for Him, and it must be our way too. Scripture, and
our needs, and His own words all required a Christ Who should
suffer, one who should come in a poor and lowly way and meet the
scorn and outrage of the world. Such a Saviour is mine ; in my
sufferings He feels for me, and He will make them a way for me
into glory.
2 7. And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, he expounded
unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.

496 Emmaus. [S. Luke XXIV.
What a lesson and what a Teacher ! No wonder that the disciples'
hearts burned as their Master drew out the meaning of types and
prophecies, and showed them His sufferings foretold in this place
or that. He must help us also if we would read and use our Bibles
rightly. It is a study full of delight, time spent on it -is full of
profit
28. And they drew nigh unto the village, whither they went:
and he made as though he would have gone further.
If they had not pressed Him to stay He would have gone on and left
them still ignorant Who He was. We must be in earnest to win a
blessing from God, must love to learn, must be ready to show
kindness. God's gifts require us to take all the pains we can to use
them, and not carelessly let them go. The disciples were not tired
of this Scripture lesson, indeed they longed to learn more.
29. But they constrained him, saying, Abide with us : for it
is toward evening, and the day is far spent. And he went in
to tarry with them.
Abide with us, O Lord, for the Church decays, and faith grows dim,
and our own life is drawing to its close. In the gathering darkness
Thou art our Light, in growing weakness our strength. All else may
pass away if only Thy saving presence remains with us to the end.
30. And it came^ to pass, as he sat at meat with them, he took
bread, and blessed it, and brake, and gave to them.
How often I have been ashamed to ask a blessing on my meals when
among strangers, or in worldly company ! yet my Master always
blessed what He ate or gave to others. A Christian's table should
be so ordered that Jesus would be 'welcome there, and His poorer
members find entertainment.
31. And their eyes were opened, and they knew him; and
he vanished out of their sight.
There are times when we feel that Christ is with us ; we experience
His power and goodness, and devote ourselves to serve Him ; our
eyes are opened ; only, alas ! this happy feeling does not last long.
He vanishes, and we have to turn to this dull world-again. What
a happy place will that be where believers will find Him and never
lose Him again !
32. And they said one to another, Did not our heart bum
within us, while he talked with us by the way, and while he
opened to us the scriptures ? .
When we heard God's Word, when we read of Him, our hearts have
sometimes burned ; we have been full of wonder, of delight of
discontent with our own faults. God has seemed our Friend and
heaven our home. Lord, light again in us this holy fire which so
soon went out, and extinguish the fire of sinful desires which so
often takes its place.

Ver. 39.] Proofs of the Risen Saviour. 497
33. And they rose up the same hour, and returned to Jeru
salem, and found the deven gathered together, and them that
were with them, 34. saying, The Lord is risen indeed, and hath
appeared to Simon.
On their return they found good news like what they themselves
brought, they heard that the Lord had been seen at Jerusalem, as
they had seen Him on their way. He still retained His kindness
for penitent sinners, and so appeared without delay to Peter in order
to forgive and comfort him after his great fall.
35. And they told what things were done in the way, and
how he was known of them in breaking of bread.
If we ever get safe to the city of God we shall recall God's mercies
to us in the way, how He has been with us, and has spoken to our
hearts, and brought us through the journey. Bring us, O Lord,
to that happy place where with all Thy saints we shall tell of Thy
mercies for ever.
36. IT And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the
midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
Christ is so near. He is with us when we are gathered together in His
Name, He offers us His blessing of peace. A Christian should
behave as in his Master's presence, especially during Divine
service, remembering that Christ is there observing our conduct
and looking into our hearts.
37. But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that
they had seen a spirit.
They could not believe that their dead Friend could really be alive
again. They were afraid, thinking that they saw a ghostly visitor
from the world of spirits. How their doubt confirms our faith !
They were incredulous, and so Jesus took all the more pains to
satisfy them and us.
38. And lie said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why
do thoughts arise in your hearts ?
The Gospel is a message of peace. Jesus has died for you, and so has
overcome death. Put away, then, a perplexed and anxious mind,
and live in the sunshine of His mercy, relying on His promised
grace, and casting all your care on Him. We do not comprehend
fully, but we see enough to drive away doubt and fear.
39. Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself:
handle me, and see ; for a spirit liath not fiesh and bones, as
ye see me have.
We also look for the resurrection of the body. We ought to keep our
bodies in temperance and purity, remembering that God intends
them as well as our souls to share in that new life to come. They
turn indeed to dust and are forgotten, but God knows how to raise
them up again. 2 I

498 Scripture explained. [S. Luke XXIV.
40. And when he liad thus spoken, he shewed them his liands
and his feet.
The scars of His sacred wounds remained on hands and feet, so that
the saints might know how it was that Christ had purchased glory,
and be encouraged to fly to Him in their own sufferings. The
sacred wounds inspire confidence in us, and plead our cause with
God.
41. And while they yet believed not for foy, and wondered,
he said unto them, Have ye here any meat ?
That Easter-time was so full to them of wonder and joy that they
scarcely believed their senses. What shall we feel after death is
over, when we awake to a new world of glory, to the presence of
God and joy for ever? How marvellous are the prospects which
lie before us I Let us sometimes reverently think on them.
42. And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an
honeycomb. 43. And he took it, and did eat before them.
Even in the ordinary actions of life Jesus instructed His disciples.
When He took food it was to the glory of God. His risen body
did not need nourishment, yet, as He can do all things, He was able
to partake of it that His friends might be sure He was among them
in very truth. As they saw Him eat, their minds became more
persuaded of His real presence with them.
44. And lie said unto them, These are tlie words which I
spake unto you, while I was yet with you, that all things must
be fulfilled, which were written in the law of Moses, and in the
prophets, and in the psalms, concerning me.
All the mystery of His suffering and of His glory was foreordained
by God. All was foretold in the Holy Scriptures. The purpose of
all that had been written was to point Him out and prepare His
way. Such is the wonderful wisdom of God. Let us observe with
reverence how all things work out this fulfilment of His purposes,
and dispose ourselves also in our measure to fulfil the same. Glory
and praise be to God for His revelations both in Old Testament
and New Testament, which have given light to the world.
45. Then opened he their understanding, that they might
understand the scriptures,
Christ has the key to unlock Scripture to us so that we may under
stand its holy lessons, and He has also the key to our souls so that
He can enter the most dull and ignorant heart, and bring to it
salvation. When we find a heart that we cannot touch, or a mind
that will not understand, let us turn in prayer to Him Who has this
spiritual key.
46. And said unto them, Thus it is written, and thus it
behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day:

Ver. 51.]  The Last Blessing. 499
Itwas^the fitting way. Only thus could prophecy be fulfilled, and
God's justice be declared, and His mercy find a way to forgive sin.
The suffering and rising again of Jesus Christ was the remedy that
this fallen world needed to bring to it light and comfort and
strength again. Where else can the heart find peace except in
these tidings?
47. And that repentance and remission of dns should be
preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.
This saving remedy was not to be limited to the Jews, but to be spread
abroad to all nations for the salvation of many. Yet notice that
remission of sins requires repentance first If you would have the
benefit of a full pardon, you must feel a true sorrow for your faults,
and resolve not to offend again.
48. And ye are witnesses of these things.
This is a Christian's business, to witness of his Master's death and
resurrection, and of the life-giving power of this doctrine. He
should witness of it in his words and by his life, and try all means
to bring it home to others' hearts. There is a noble work set before
us to be witnesses of a crucified Master and His love.
49. IT And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon
you : but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued
with power from on high.
The work must be done in His strength, not in ours. How can we
go out to meet the world's temptations unless we have first obtained
power from on high? Listen to this verse,- young Christian, who
art hoping to bear witness of Jesus in the world, and seek by prayer,
and study, and confirmation, and communion some gifts of grace
to strengthen your soul. It must be power from on high, not
mere talents or impulses, that can make you a true witness for
Christ.
50. IT And he led them out as far as to Bethany, and he
lifted up his hands, and blessed them.
Those very hands that had been nailed on the Cross of shame were
now lifted up as a sign of blessing. That very place which had
seen Jesus in His hours of weakness was now the starting-point for
His glorious return to heaven. This was His last interview with
His disciples. They had learned now to wait in faith for the next
sight of Him in a better place and a greater glory. We are waiting
for that also.
51. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted
from them, and carried up into heaven.
What a parting with their Friend ! and yet there was more joy than
sorrow in it ; for they knew that He was happy and victorious,
and that they should see Him one day, and meanwhile they should
often find Him near. Our hearts should ascend with Him to the
glorious place where He is gone.

500 Joy and Praise. [S. Luke XXIV
52. And they worshipped him, and returned to Jerusalem
with great joy :
Now they could adore Him as God's Son Whom they had loved as a
human teacher. Faith in His Godhead was their stay amidst trials.
They could rejoice because a Divine Person had redeemed them
from death. Let our joy not be altogether of this world, but resting
on a true faith in the mysteries of God.
53. And were continually in the temple, praising and bless
ing God. Amen.
The shepherds returned from His cradle glorifying and praising God
for what they had heard and seen. The apostles, in like manner,
were continually praising and blessing God after they returned from
the Mount of Ascension. We, dear fellow-traveller, have now taken
a journey with Jesus. We have seen Him in His cradle and in
His works of mercy and power, and engaged in heavenly teachings,
and on His Cross of shame, and last of all in His risen life of glory.
Have not we also cause to bless God for the lessons He has taught
us out of this Gospel?

I

5. JOHN.

CHAPTER I.
x. The divinity, humanity, and office of Jesus Christ. 15. The testimony
of John. 39. The calling of Andrew, Peter, etc.
N the beginning was the Word, and tlie Word was with God,
and the Word was God.
John takes our thoughts back to all eternity, and shows us there God
speaking. He is not alone, but has with Him His Divine Word.
We know what is meant by God's Word speaking to our hearts,
but here it means more than that. God's Word is not merely a
figure or a phrase, but a living Friend, One Who is Divine, and so
knows our inmost substance. The beginning of this Gospel differs
much from that of the others. Here' we find ourselves wrapped in
mystery, hearing of Divine things, learning about eternity. Let us
approach and study it with humble reverence.
2. The same was in the beginning with God.
Where was this Divine Word then, and what was He doing before
He came on earth ? He was with God, that is enough. Our minds
cannot comprehend the life of God. There is an unutterable Divine
communion, full of joy and peace, between Father, Son, and Holy
Spirit, and has been so from everlasting. Our short life passes, but
God's glory remains the same. As it was in the beginning, it is now.
3. All things were made by him ; and without him was not
any thing made that was made.
All creatures tell us of their Maker. Their beauty, and order, and
fitness speak of His wisdom. They cry out, "It is He that made us,
not we ourselves." What was it that moved God's Son to step
forth from His eternal glory and create the world? nothing but
love. He desired to have happy creatures around Him, each in its
appointed place enjoying His mercy, guided by His power.
4. In him was life ; and the life was the light of men.
This is God's best creature, he can understand, and love, and learn about
his Maker. All the other creatures are indeed cunningly made, but
they know nothing of Him Whose glory they declare. Man was
made to receive light from God. Lord, I pray Thee when my
heart is dull and cold quicken it with new life, when it grows dark
enlighten it ; all my true happiness comes of Thee.

502 The True Light. [S. John I.
5. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness
comprehended it not.
Sin plunged men into darkness. They could not see their duty, or
their Maker, or their true home ; they could not discern the glory
of Jesus when He came. I who live under the Gospel must still
beware of sin, lest I become dark, and stumble, and miss the glorious
light that Christ gives. If I allow evil to fill my heart it will shut
out all Christ's beauty. He came to give light, let me enjoy that
light and walk by it.
6. 1T There was a man sent from God, whose name was John.
God sent John Baptist in mercy to prepare the hearts of His people
for their Saviour's coming. He still sends us messengers and warn
ings. We should be on the look-out, and ponder what they tell us.
Christian ministers, when they stir up souls to repent, should speak
as men sent by God, they bear His commission.
7. The same came for a witness, to bear witness of the Light,
that all men through him might believe.
We owe our faith to the saints and martyrs of old time, who accepted
God's salvation, spoke of it, wrote of it, died for it, left it as a
precious legacy to us. If it is a great blessing to believe in Christ
the true Light, ought we not to thank those whose words or writings
have planted this faith in our hearts ? Faith is a gift of God, and
yet He makes use of human testimony to convey it. What if by my
poor means some soul should come to have faith in its Saviour ?
8. He was not that Light, but was sent to bear witness of that
Light. 9. That was the true Light, which lighteth every man
that cometh into the world.
What a difference between the servants and the Master ! All they
have to say that is good leads the believer to One beyond them.
They point the way for us to an unfailing Friend, a clear, steady
Light, a Teacher of perfect wisdom. We must not cling to any
mere man, however wise or good he may be, our darkened hearts
need a more sure guide. Lord, while I wander through the
wilderness of this world, enlighten my steps and chase away the
clouds.
10. He was in the world, and the world was made by him,
and the world knew him not.
The signs of their Creator's goodness were on every side. He had put
His law in their hearts, He gave them yearnings for a better life,
and yet they did not acknowledge Him. This verse reminds us
how mankind, before the Gospel came, lost the knowledge of God
and fell into idolatry. Let us who have received the message of
salvation remember that the presence of a wise and merciful God
is ever with us. We should cherish and hand on this faith.
11. He came unto his own, and his own received him not.

Ver. 15.] The Word made Flesh. 503
How great had been God's mercies to Israel 1 They had been chosen
out of the whole world to be God's people, to worship Him, to
preserve His Word, to prepare for that day when true religion
should spread everywhere, yet when the Divine Prophet came
they passed Him by. He came to fulfil all the glorious prophecies
of old, but they gave no heed. How many hearts now belong to
Jesus by outward rites, but inwardly will have none of Him ! They
close the door against their loving Saviour.
12. But as many as received him, to them gave he power to
become tlie sons of God, even to tliem that believe on his name :
We who believe are God's children. Christ has shared His Sonship
with us. We belong to God's family, and are dear to Him. Lord,
grant us to live suitably to this dignity ; keep us from dishonouring
our Father and our Brother by wilful sin ; let us behave as dutiful
sons.
13. Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the
flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.
High birth, good looks, natural gifts, are of no importance in God's
sight. He takes no account of royal titles. The beggar and the
prince are equally dear to Him. His Holy Spirit chooses out
humble hearts in every station, in every country, and fills them
with this faith which makes them God's children. Let me try to
follow God's plan, and seek out for my friends, not those who have
most worldly advantages, but those who believe and love.
14. And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and
we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the
Father,) full of grace and, truth.
Here is the secret of the Gospel, here is the power that has moved
the world. The Lord of glory has stooped to share our burdens ;
instead of heavenly joy He chose our poor human condition, and
was made flesh and dwelt amongst us. Thus He became able to
suffer, and knew by experience all our troubles. And while He
thus dwelt here He showed through the veil some rays of Divine-
grace and truth. What should I feel when I reflect that the Lord of
all has taken a body like mine and made it His for ever ? He has
been tempted, He has died ; what comfort there is for me in all
this!
15. 1T John bare witness of him, and cried, saying, This was
he of whom I spake, He that cometh after me is preferred before
me : for he was before me.
Let us, like John Baptist, be ready to praise and honour others,
gladly see them preferred before us, recognise that they come
nearer to God than we do. He knew Jesus was his Master, and
set himself to bring souls to Him.

504 God's only-begotten Son. [S. John I.
1 6. And of his fulness have all we received, and grace for
grace. Here is a fountain of mercy ever open. Countless souls have drawn
from it, and still may go on drawing. Jesus is not weary of pardon
ing and helping us. Who can reckon the blessings which believers
receive from Him ? Each gift shows us more of His love, and makes
us bold to ask again.
17. For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth
came by Jesus Christ.
Moses had to give men outward laws and dark figures, but Jesus
comes to us full of love and light, offering a full pardon for sin, and
clear knowledge of God, and a living power to do right. We have
greater advantages than the Jews. Let us take care that we live up to
our heavenly calling. I might have been a heathen in darkness,
or a Jew under shadows and types, but God has set me in the full
light of His Gospel.
18. No man hath seen God at any time ; the only begotten
Son, which is in the bosom of tlie Father, he hath declared him.
No one can reveal God to us except God's Son. We cannot compre
hend the majesty of the eternal Father of all ; it is too great for
us. And yet it is our best happiness to know Him. Therefore it
was that His dear Son, Who is always with Him, laid aside His
glory and came on earth to tell us about our Father. We should
look on Jesus earnestly, and learn from Him readily, and so find
out what God is.
19. IT And this is the record of John, when the Jews sent
priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, Who art thou ?
Who art thou, reader? A Christian? a ransomed soul? a child of
God ? Is your life suitable to such a calling ? Consider whether
God sees in you any signs of your profession. Do not answer
proudly or with self-complacency, but think what you are in the
sight of God and His angels.
20. And he confessed, and denied not; but confessed, I am
not the Christ.
He was a great man, and able to win souls. He lived and died for
the truth. Yet what a difference between him and our Lord ! No
one else but Jesus Christ claims our entire obedience. John Baptist
or Paul, or any other saint, may deserve to be honoured, yet they
are but fellow-servants with us. Christ is our Master.
21. And they asked him, What then? Art thou Elias? And
he saith, I am not. Art thou tliat prophet ? And he answered,
No. Was he great Elijah come back to earth to work wonders, or the
prophet foretold by Moses, who should be like him and clearly

Ver. 28.] The Witness of John. 505
reveal God? No. He was none of these. He put aside titles of
honour and was only anxious to do his work. He did not care
what was said of him, so long as he could tell people of God's wrath,
and God's love, and their duty.
22. Then said they unto him, Who art thou? that we may
give an answer to them that sent us. What sayed thou of thy
self? 23. He said, I am the voice of one crying in the wilder
ness, Make straight the way of tlie Lord, as said the prophet
Esaias. Here is a model for preachers. They should be like a voice in the
wilderness, without any thought of self, without any flattery of
persons, wholly occupied in declaring the nearness of God and the
need of preparation to meet Him. Our hearts are like a wilderness.
Much has to be done there before the judgment day approaches.
When the voice speaks let us give heed.
24. And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. 25.
And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptized thou
then, if thou be not that Christ, nor Elias, ndther tliat prophd ?
They would more wisely have listened to his preaching instead of
questioning and finding fault. He bade them repent and believe,
but they had other business to do. Let us, when we read or hear
God's Word, behave not as judges, but as disciples. It should not
be, Why is this or that written or done? but, What lesson has it for
me?
26. John answered them, saying, I baptize with water: but
there standeth one among you, whom ye know not ;
The mighty Lord was among them, though they knew it not. The
times of the Messiah had come. John's baptism was the preparation
for the great King's appearing. This was strange news to the Jews.
Yet there are many now in Christian lands to whom the Lord is
equally unknown. He is near, nay, among them, but they perceive
Him not. He is a stranger to them.
27. He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me,
whose shoe's latehet I am not worthy to unloose.
With what reverence should we treat the Lord Jesus ! Holy John was
not worthy to be His servant. We are not worthy to use His Name,
to read His Word, to receive His Body spiritually at the Holy Table ;
but His mercy is pleased to welcome us. It is a great honour to be
able to do any service for God. We and all we have belong to Him.
28. These things were done in Bethabara beyond Jordan,
where John was baptizing.
The evangelist tells us this to mark the place where the Baptist bore
such solemn testimony to Christ, and perhaps where he himself first
learned to believe that Christ had truly come. When God has

506 The Lamb of God. [S. John I.
spoken to our heart at such an hour or in such a place, let us not
forget it, but cherish the remembrance. God did this for me, I
remember the time, I remember the words of the preacher, or the
page of the book. How great was His goodness !
29. IT The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and
saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of
the world.
Here is good tidings for those who feel the burden of sin ! The
Passover lamb had delivered Israel from the destroying angel in
Egypt ; but this Man's offering delivers from a greater bondage.
The patience, and purity, and love of Jesus marked Him out as the
fit Person to repair our faults. God was well pleased with Him,
and therefore with us if we are Christ's. Lord, let us feel the
weight of sin, and so .come to seek for pardon.
30. This is he of whom I said, After me cometh a man which
is preferred before me : for he was before me.
This great Deliverer is a Man like us able to feel for our pains, and
yet a Being from above, having eternal power and glory. He is a
Man Whom all can love, and yet God Whom we adore. Let us put
Him first of all, and give no one else His place in our hearts.
31. And I knew him not : but that he should be made mani
fest to Israel, therefore am I come baptizing with water.
John lived many years in the desert, left all worldly comforts, stirred
the souls of sinners to repent, bravely rebuked sin and suffered for
it, yet he was only allowed one passing interview with Jesus. He
spoke of Him and prepared the way for Him, yet got so little
enjoyment from His presence. He was content to serve Him with
out reward. All he sought was to bring the souls of believers to
their Lord.
32. And John bare record, saying, I saw the Spirit descend
ing from heaven like a dove, and it abode upon him.
We pray for God's Spirit to descend and abide in us. Our hearts
need to be renewed. Jesus had all the fulness of the heavenly gift
bestowed on His human nature, yet it was for our sakes. He shares
it with us. Without His Spirit we are unable to do any good.
33. And I knew him not: but he that sent me to baptize with
water, the same said unto me, Upon whom thou shalt see the
Spirit descending, and remaining on him, the same is he which
baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.
O Spirit of grace, come down upon us and remain. Thou didst onGe
move on the waters in the dark times before the creation. Thou
didst visibly single out our Master when He was baptized in Jordan.
The apostles felt Thy tongues of fire. Words cannot say how poor,
how vile, how cold we are, how darkened is the eye of our soul.
Yet Thy Divine power can heal and sanctify us. John saw Thee
descending. We only ask to feel the effects of Thy presence.

Ver. 41.] The Earliest Disciples. 507
34. And I saw, and bare record that this is the Son of God.
This is our duty too. We should observe the Lord's words and acts,
should taste of His goodness, and then tell our friends that we have
found a Saviour, the Son of God. Other helpers and guides are
but men, here is some One greater Who is able to raise up fallen
mankind. We ourselves must have seen and believed before we can
persuade other men.
35. 1T Again the next day after John stood, and two of his
disdples; 36. and looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith,
Behold the Lamb of God!
This was a happy day for those two disciples. Let us acknowledge
Jesus under this title of the Lamb of God. He alone can deliver us
from sin and give us peace. When we come to the altar, or read
the Gospel, we too can say, "Behold the Lamb of God." He is
revealed to us now as mighty, and merciful, and pure as ever.
37. And the two disdples heard him speak, and they followed
Jesus. How many thousand souls have followed Jesus ! These were the first
of all. They did so, not knowing whither they went nor what suffer
ings awaited them. They had a rough road to traverse, but at last
reached the glory where their Master had gone. The Baptist's
words were fruitful though short. Sometimes long sermons are
preached with less profit to souls.
38. Then Jesus turned, and saw them following, and saith
unto them, What seek ye ? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which
is to say, bdng interpreted, Master,) where dwellest thou ?
We cannot follow Him unless He turns His gracious countenance to
us, looks on us in mercy, and speaks to our heart. We seek in Him
a Master to teach us the right way. He must instruct us, not once
only, but continually all our life through ; in fact, to get any good
by this Teacher, He must be in our house, or we in His, daily
learning and teaching.
39. He saith unto them, Come and see. They came and saw
where he dwelt, and abode with him that day : for it was about
the tenth hour.
We are not told how they spent that evening, nor what the subject
was of their conversation, but the two disciples never forgot it. We
may imagine how kindly Jesus received them, how He showed that
He knew their hearts, how He spoke of God and led them to pray.
May we not also accept this gracious invitation ? The Lord desires
us to prove Him. Let us see whether His presence is not delightful
and His words satisfying. Let us draw near to Him and remain
there.
40. One of the two which heard John speak, and followed
him, was Andrew, Simon Pder's brother. 41. He first findeth

508 Simon and Philip called. [S. John I.
his own brother Sifhion, and saith unto him, We have found the
Messias, which is, being interpreted, the Christ.
Let us share the knowledge which we have got. Our brothers and
friends must be taught how gracious the Lord is. We have found
Christ, let it then be our chief desire to bring all men to find Him
too. In Him we find strength, and healing, and light ; why are we
so slow to declare how great a treasure He is ?
42. And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld
him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona : thou shalt be
called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone.
Christ's look pierced to Simon's heart. His past life and future
work lay open before the all-seeing Eye. He was to be the founda
tion-stone on which the walls of the Church should rise. Christ
saw in him strength and earnestness fit for such a position. What
does the Lord's eye behold in me? Nothing, I fear, save folly and
selfishness. I need more strength from above to make me a stedfast
disciple.
43. IT The day following Jesus would go forth into Galilee,
and findeth Philip, and saith unto him, Follow me. 44. Now
Philip was of Betlisaida, the dty of Andrew and Peter.
Our Lord begins now to gather disciples round Him. They were
persons of small account in the world's judgment, but yet their
faith, and love, and obedience made them fit instruments in
His hands. I am rebuked by Philip's readiness. How often has
Christ spoken to me, and I have delayed and made excuses ! When
His gracious call next comes to me let me rise and follow it at
once.
45. Philip findeth Nathanael, and saith unto him, We have
found him, of whom Moses in the law, and the prophets, did
write, Jesus of Nazareth, the son of Joseph.
Philip and his friends loved to study the Scriptures, and trace out
there all the character of the expected Saviour, and now they had
found Him. What joy they must have felt in comparing together
the types and predictions of some great, and holy, and wise, and
patient one to come, with their fulfilment in the Lord Jesus !
46. And Natlianael said unto him, Can there any good thing
come out of Nazareth ? Philip saith unto him, Come and see.
This is what we say also, Come and see in the Bible what Jesus has
said, and in the world's history what He has done, and in the
Holy Communion what His goodness is. Perplexities may still
beset your way, you may have prejudices to get over or worldly
friends to resist, yet you will not repent of making trial of Him
Come and see what He is to believers, no friends can compare with
Him.

Ver. 5i.] Nathanael discovered. 509
47. Jesus saw Nathanael coming to him, and saith of him,
Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no guile I
What high praise from the Searcher of all hearts ! How God approves
a simple, straightforward, honest character 1 Jacob of old had been
called Israel after he had wrestled with the angel. He laid aside in
his hour of trial his former crooked ways and became God's faith
ful soldier, and such true souls are called Israelites after Him. If
I am still double-minded, let Thy light, O Lord, pierce my heart
and show me my own deformity.
48. Nathanael saith unto him, Whence knowest thou me ?
Jesus answered and said unto him, Before that Philip called
tliee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee.
When thou wast alone in thy tears, thy sorrows, thy hour of tempta
tion, even when thou wast most forgetful of My presence, yet I saw
thee, I knew thy heart. Lord, let me take this word to myself; let
me feel Thine eye upon me for my comfort and restraint. Thou
hast been with me all through. When I next kneel down and pray,
let me draw fervour from the remembrance of Thy presence.
49. Nathanael answered and saith unto him, Rabbi, thou
art the Son of God; thou art the King of Israel.
Thou art our Teacher bringing home to us heavenly truth. Thou art
God's Son, one with Him and full of more than human glory.
Thou art the Lord of all redeemed souls, they recognise the honour
due to Thee. Such is the soul's voice when it finds out Who Jesus
is. How great a thing it is when God speaks to us, and shows
that He knows our hearts, and we look up to Him and believe !
50. Jesus answered and said unto him, Because I said unto
thee, I saw tliee under the fig tree, believed thou ? thou shalt see
greater things than these.
Ii we open our minds to believe, God confirms our faith more and
more. Not only do we see reasons and proofs of it, but our experi
ence of God's goodness is an ever-growing testimony. A believer
will find all his life thickly strewn with proofs of God's love. He
will see the effects of Christ's Cross and the Spirit's power wherever
he turns his eyes.
51. And he saith unto him, Verily, verily, I say unto you,
Hereafter ye sliall see heaven open, and the angels of God
ascending and descending upon the Son of man.
Heaven had long been shut. Man could not enter there. But now Jesus,
Who is the Son of God, and Son of Man, has found out how to join
earth and heaven. Angels take up our prayers and bring us down
God's blessings if we are members of His dear Son. One day we
ourselves shall ascend thither. What are we to say of the great love
of God's Son in coming down here so as to take us up to Himself?

5io The Marriage Feast. [S. John II.

CHAPTER II.
». Christ turneth water into wine, 12. departeth into Capernaum, and to
Jerusalem, 14. where he purgeth the temple of buyers and sellers.
ig. He foretelleth his death and resurrection. 23. Many believed
because of his miracles, but he would not trust himself with them.
AND tlie third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee ;
Xi and tlie mother of Jesus was there :
The Gospel has to do with our joys as well as with our graver hours.
The visit of friends, or a holiday, or any of the comforts which God
bestows on us, tell us of His mercy in refreshing us amidst our cares.
The Lord's holy mother came to this marriage and helped in the
festivity. No doubt she was always ready to take interest in her
friends' welfare, and give a helping hand and a word of advice.
2. And both Jesus was called, and his disdples, to the
marriage. Let our rejoicings be such that Jesus and His disciples could be there
and join with us. Let no evil words, no greediness or indulgence,
no strife enter there and drive our Saviour away. At this marriage
all must have been holy, the married couple pure and loving, the
friends full of prayer for their happiness, the Lord Himself address
ing them in wise words of blessing. That marriage will indeed
turn out well that has begun with prayer for Christ to come and
bless it.
3. And when they wanted wine, tlie mother of Jesus saith
unto him, They have no wine.
Mary felt some distress for her friends' poverty. She knew her Son's
goodness, she believed in His power, she was encouraged to hope
for some special display of it at this time. How otherwise should
Christians bring their dear ones' needs before God, in humble sub
mission, yet looking to His power and mercy. We do not prescribe
a law to Him, yet He is ready to hear of our wants and to relieve
them in His good time.
4. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, wliat have I to do with tliee?
mine liour is not yet come.
Jesus did not blame His holy mother, yet He bade her and us learn
that God's work must not be done from human motives. He had
obeyed her in all things, for thirty years, but His Divine power
must be manifested in His own time and way. He was a loving
and dutiful Son, but yet as Messiah He belonged to God and to all
men, not to her. Grant us, Lord, to join together a tender love for
our relations with a steady resolution to put Thee first of all ana
suffer nothing to usurp Thy place.

Ver. io.] Water is made Wine. 511
5. His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith
unto you, do it.
Mary is a good adviser. Let us take her injunction to heart. If
Jesus Christ is God's Son come down from heaven to save us, what
can we do better than obey Him in all things? His command
ments are certainly for our good. We shall never repent of having
been obedient servants to so dear and wise a Master. Whatsoever
He saith — it may seem hard or strange at first, yet it is the utter
ance of Divine Wisdom — our business is to obey.
6. And there were set there six walerpots of stone, after the
manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three
firkins apiece. 7. Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots
with water. And they filled them up to the brim.
Jesus is almighty, and yet employs human instruments to work out
His purposes. He bade the servants fill the great jars with water
before He could fill them with wine. Let us readily and gladly
contribute our obedience. If we give what we can of teaching or
help to our brethren He will bless it. If all I can do is but to
bring a little water, yet I will do it with a good heart, knowing that
my Master will reward me.
8. And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto
the governor of the feast. And they bare it.
The miracle had been wrought silently by Divine power. What had
been water was now good wine, able to make glad the heart of man,
and Jesus bade men draw this and taste it. He has spread around
us many good gifts which yet turn to our harm if we indulge in
them too much. Those who, knowing their own weakness and that
of their brethren, use only the Creator's gift of water, not that of
wine, may do so in no proud or unthankful spirit ; they trust His
blessing rests on the water too, and are content with that.
9. When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was
made wine, and knew not whence it was : (but the servants whim
drew the water knew ;) the governor of the feast called the bride
groom, So it is with all God's marvels, we know not whence they are. We see
a changed life, a changed character, we see so much done for good
in a particular place, but who can explain to us the method of it.
God's power works in secret and unknown. All nature and grace
alike tell us of a heavenly Father, but we cannot trace the steps by
which He created and nourished life in our bodies or souls.
10. And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth
set forth good wine ; and when men have well drunk, then that
which is worse : but thou hast kept the good wine until now.
Teach us, Lord, to keep our best till last. If we start in life resolving
to seek our own pleasure, comfort, and credit first, we shall have

5 1 2 Christ manifests His Glory. [S. John II.
troubles later on. But Jesus and His friends take first what is
plain and common ; they take for their portion hard work, and duty
patiently done, and humble obedience, and afterwards enter on
great joy. The world says, " Let us eat and drink, for to-morrow
we die." Jesus says, "Watch and pray, give alms, deny your own
lusts ; " and if we trust His Word He will give us heaven in the
end.
n. This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee,
and manifested forth his glory ; and his disciples believed on
him. I adore my Master and acknowledge His glory here displayed. His
great power, His tender kindness, His sympathy with my joys and
sorrows, His blessing given to my home life, all these are rays of
light streaming from the first miracle. I believe in Jesus not as a
mere Wonder-worker, but as the Divine Friend of man in Whom
power and love both join.
12. IT After this he went down to Capernaum, he, and his
mother, and his brethren, and his disdples : and they continued
there not many days.
Here we see the end of our Saviour's domestic life and the beginning
of His ministry. After this He left His mother and His kindred, and
gave Himself wholly to His Father's work. When God calls any one
to leave home and friends, or to give up good prospects, or others'
good opinion for His sake, let the sacrifice be made with all
tenderness and love. The Christian soldier must feel the parting,
yet still he will obey his Commander, and fall into his place in the
great army without delay.
13. IT And the Jews' passover was at hand, and Jesus went
up to Jerusalem,
We should keep Christian feast days with devotion, and enter into the
spirit with which our holy mother the Church observes them.
.. Every church is our Jerusalem for us to go up to. If we are sick,
our bed becomes God's temple and altar where we can offer
sacrifices of praise. What will Jesus say to those who let Sunday
and holy-day pass without caring to go up to God's house to
praise Him ?
14. And found in the temple those that sold oxen and slieep
and doves, and the changers of money sitting :
Christ found in the Jewish temple a cattle-market and money-chang
ing, but He finds in the Christian Church many worse things. His
eye rests on those who buy and sell the cure of souls, who bargain
their sermons or their singing for men's applause, who attend
service to gratify their own vanity or employ an idle hour. He
sees the worshipper's heart often choked with worldly cares or
sinful lusts. Who will not tremble before that dread Eye ?

Ver. 20.] Zeal for God 's House. 513
15. And when he had made a scourge of small cords, he drove
them all out of the temple, and the sheep, and the oxen ; and
poured out tlie changers' money, and overthrew the tables ;
If all unworthy worshippers were driven out of our churches now,
how empty they would be ! We observe that Christ our Lord can
show wrath as well as love. Ungodly men tremble before Him,
though He is full of mercy to those who trust in Him. Let me
by timely repentance turn away His anger, which I have justly
deserved.
16. And said unto them that sold doves, Take these things
hence; make not my Father's house an house of merchandise.
I should look on a church as my Father's house. I go there to speak
with my Father, to listen to His bidding, to partake at His Table ;
I cannot behave carelessly or stop away coldly if I remember that
my dear and heavenly Father, full of all goodness, awaits me there.
He sees not only my outward behaviour but my heart. He bids me
take hence all unkind, or sinful, or impatient thoughts.
1 7. And his disciples remembered that it was written, The
zeal of thine house hath eaten me up.
Where shall we find this zeal now ? The old prophets were full of
indignation at what they saw around them, they drove out false
worshippers, and cleansed the temple from pollution. Jesus had
this same hatred of irreverence ; He could not endure to see this
world intruding upon God's house. We are too patient in putting
up with the devil's ways. We suffer souls to be lost, and evil to
reign triumphant, and dare not open our lips.
18. IT Then answered the Jews and said unto him, What
sign shewed thou unto us, seeing that thou doest these things ?
They turned away from the lessons which His great act taught them
to cavil over His right to perform it. It was not, " How have we
displeased God, how profaned His temple?" but, " Who are You to
call us to account? we do not see Your warrant for speaking to our
conscience." Let us admire the mighty acts of Christ, and we
shall see Who He is that has done them.
19. Jesus answered and said unto them, Destroy this temple,
and in three days I will raise it up.
God's temple, though so holy and beautiful, was about to pass away.
The sins of His people called for judgment. Yet God would raise
up a better temple, where spiritual sacrifices should be offered, and
God's glory more clearly revealed. Whatever store they set on
their old temple, Christ's Divine power was able to provide a better.
20. Then said the Jews, Forty and dx years was this temple
in building, and wilt thou rear it up in three days ?
Herod's magnificent works in restoring the temple had occupied
2 K

514 The True Temple. [S. John III.
forty-six years, but God would frame in three days His Son's glorified
Body, which had been once a Body of suffering and death. What
is the grandeur of the temple all restored and blazing with gold to
that of our heart, which Jesus has restored from sin, and filled with
love, and made His dwelling-place again ?
21. But he spake of the temple of his body.
Our Saviour's humanity is a temple in which God is manifested.
When cruelly assailed, He overcame His enemies and rose up more
glorious. As the old Jews thought of and loved their temple and
desired to see it when they were far away, so Christians should
turn to the Lord Jesus and seek His presence ; in Him alone we
can worship God acceptably.
22. When therefore he was risen from the dead, his disdples
remembered that he had said this unto them ; and they believed
the scripture, and the word which Jesus had said.
Now that Jesus is risen from the dead and ascended into heaven, we
can read His words with understanding and see how they have
been fulfilled. Holy Scripture has depths of meaning, and we enter
into them by degrees. Let us be zealous in studying it, and notice
how one part illustrates another.
23-11 Now when he was in Jerusalem at the passover, in tlie
feast day, many believed in his name, when they saw the mirades
which he did.
This was the beginning of faith. They did not yet know His true
nature, nor give themselves up to be His ; only they saw His mighty
works and felt that He was some great One. They believed in His
power. Lord, grant me a better faith than this. I desire to believe
in Thee, and to know by experience what Thou art to Thy chosen.
Give me a stedfast faith that will not let go of Thy hand.
24. But Jesus did not commit himself unto them, because he
knew all men, 25. and needed not that any should testify of
man : for he knew what was in man.
We cannot discern hearts, but our Master sees through all disguises.
Our trust is often deceived. We think that we have found a true
friend, and have to repent our confidence ; but there is One Who will
not deceive us He knows our weakness arid yet He can love us.
He chose us before we knew of Him. Let us often bear in mind
that no human heart can offer a sure resting-place. Our earthly love
must 1 est on the strong foundation of an eternal love. We can be
at peace if we have found a Friend in our Master.

Ver. 4.] Christ and Nicodemus. 515

CHAPTER III.
x. Christ teacheth Nicodemus the necessity of regeneration. 14. Of faith
in his death. 16. The great love of God towards the world. 18. Con
demnation for unbelief. 23. The baptism, witness, and doctrine of
John concerning Christ.
THERE was a man of the Pharisees, named Nicodemus, a
ruler of the Jews :
Here we find a man of learning and position seeking Christ, but he
had yet to learn the first rudiments of the Gospel. We shall see how
Jesus humbles him, and shows him heavenly mysteries, and leads
him on from one truth to another. In Christ's school wise and
simple are on a level, great men have no advantages.
2. The same came to Jesus by night, and said unto him,
Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God : for no
man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with
him. We also know this, but we know much more ; for no man can do and
say what Jesus did, so fulfil prophecies, so satisfy yearning hearts,
so change the face of the world, except he be himself Divine and
sent from God to renew our nature. Nicodemus made a good
beginning of faith, but there was much more to add to it. Let us
advance daily in the lessons of this Divine Teacher. We can come
to Him day and night alike.
3. Jesus answered and said unto him, Verily, verily, I say
unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the king
dom of God.
We want a new life, and this God alone can give us. These are the
elements of the Gospel — first, that we are fallen creatures, and need
to be renewed before we can be holy or happy ; and next, that the
Son of God offers us in His Church this great gift of a new nature.
How can vile and foolish creatures such as we are enjoy God's eternal
glory, unless He gives us a heavenly birth and washes away our
sins?
4. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when
he is old ? can he enter the second time into his mother's womb,
and be born ?
He took the kingdom of God for an earthly glory, and the new birth
as a literal beginning life anew. How narrow his ideas are ! he
forgets eternity and the new life of the soul that would prepare for
it. Let us walk by faith, and not seek to limit God's words by our
own short experience. What is there that He cannot do for His
chosen, here and hereafter ?

516 The New Birth. [S. John III.
5. Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a
man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the
kingdom of God.
We do not judge those who have not received Holy Baptism.
Often it was not by their own fault that they missed it. We leave
their case in a merciful Father's hands, but, for ourselves, we see
that this was the way by which we entered on the covenant,
became God's children, gained a seed of new life. Let us live a life
suitable to our estate. It is grievous when God's new-born children
leave His kingdom and fall back into the ways of darkness.
6. That which is born of the flesh is flesh ; and that which
is bom of the Spirit is spirit.
Alas ! my fleshly nature often lords it over the spirit. I forget heavenly
love, and purity, and peace, for which God has chosen me, and I
indulge my lower appetites, following the old nature, which ought
to have been done away. I desire that the Holy Spirit of grace
would quicken my heart and perfect His work there. Those are
unworthy Christians who live to please their own lusts and forget
the new life of grace.
7. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be bom again.
It is not at all strange, if we recall our fallen state, if we reflect on
the power of sin and death, and our own weakness in resisting.
When we feel how weak the best of men are, we see that a
heavenly life sent down from above is what we want. Glory be to
Thee, O Lord, for making me Thy child. What should I have been
without this gift ?
8. The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the
sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, aud whither
it goeth : so is every one that is born of the Spirit.
The eye has seen nothing, the ear heard nothing, yet the soul is
changed. Now the man believes, he loves, he prays, he hopes
for heaven. What has caused this great change ? Nothing can
account for it but the Holy Spirit's power. He is able, when we
least perceive it, to awaken the dead soul to new life. We do not
comprehend His ways, but we adore and believe.
9. Nicodemus answered and said unto him, How can tliese
things be ?
O thou of little faith ! is not the world full of mysteries ? Is not life
and death, and your own body, and the course of the world all full
of things too deep for you ? Why cavil at God's revelation because
you do not understand how it comes to pass ? God is greater than
we are, and His designs too vast for us to understand. How can
our weak minds contain all His truth ?
10. Jesus answered and said unto him, Art thou a master of
Israel, and knowest not these things ?

Ver. 1 4.] Earthly and Heavenly Things. 517
Some persons who know a good deal about the Bible have not yet
felt their own nothingness, their need of God's grace to renew them,
the power of His Spirit. These are the practical truths which all
must learn. In the study of religion simple souls often excel
learned doctors. They know themselves, and God, and how to
live. This is the best knowledge.
11. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, We speak that we do
know, and testify that we have seen; and ye recdve not our
witness. In the Gospel we have God's own Son to tell us of heavenly things,
and the Searcher of all hearts telling us what is in man. Who has
ever understood spiritual truths as deeply as Jesus did? He
speaks with authority, His words go straight to the conscience.
Let us, when we speak upon religion, take pains to be honest. We
should not use fine words, but tell of God's love, and sin's dangers,
and the power of the Cross, as we have felt them.
12. If I have told you earthly things, and ye believe not, how
shall ye believe, if I tell you of heavenly things ?
Jesus has spoken of our siriful nature and the need of » new birth,
but this only lies at the threshold of truth. He is going to proceed
further and speak of the plan of Redemption, of His Divinity, His
atoning Death, and the life of His Church. Lord, let me be a
willing learner in Thy school. Earthly things and heavenly things
both will become clear to me under Thy teaching. I desire, all
my life long, to be learning about God and His ways, and to
believe more and more firmly in His promises.
13. And no man hath ascended up to heaven, but he that
name down from heaven, even the Son of man which is in heaven.
Christ the Lord led two lives. He was in heaven while on earth.
He saw Divine things as we do earthly ones. He enjoyed perfect
communion with His Father, while yet He was sharing in all our
sufferings. The believer must, after a fashion, imitate his Master.
He must rise up by prayer unto heavenly places, must come down
again readily to help his brethren, while yet not ceasing in spirit to
abide there peacefully in God's presence. Now that the Son of
God has stooped to man, man is lifted up and made partaker of a
heavenly life while still on earth.
14. IT And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness,
even so must the Son of man be lifted up :
The accursed tree with Jesus hanging on it in agony should become
the very tree of life, and undo the tempter's work. This was the
exaltation which Jesus sought. He would be no glorious King,
enthroned in majesty, but the first in shame, in pain, in grief, so
as to help those who suffer. In our pilgrimage, when we have
sinned and suffered, let us seek healing by looking to the Cross.

Si8 God's Love in our Salvation. [S. John III.
15. That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but
have eternal life.
Here we find deliverance from eternal death. We are wounded by
our sins, we have to suffer and die, we cannot see our road, what
can help us but Christ's Cross ? It alone reveals to us God s love,
and our own misery, and the true way. By meditating on it we
obtain power to love God and fly from deadly sin. Lord, Who
hast brought me so far on my way, heal me, lest I perish. Let
me look upon Thee Who wast crucified, and so find new strength.
16. IT For God so loved the world, that he gave his only
begotten Son, that whosoever bdieveth in him should not perish,
but have everlasting life.
The first cause of redemption is deep in the heart of God Himself.
He loved us even amidst all our sins. He gave us the most
precious gift He had to bestow. He desired thereby to raise us up
from death to a heavenly life. What had we done to deserve so
great a gift ? Why do so many cast it away and refuse to live ? I
notice the great extent of the message. It is for the whole world,
and to whosoever believeth. Let me proclaim it abroad to the
many who know it not.
1 7. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the
world ; but that the world through him might be saved.
Why did Jesus come among us and give us His new law ? Was it
only in order that we might have a strict rule, and that our faults
might be seen ? No, it was to quicken our hearts and give us
something better to live for. It was to supply us with a good hope
while we live and when we die. If our sins condemn us, yet His
love is greater. He is more powerful to save than our past sins to
destroy us. Only let us repent now.
18. IT He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he
that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not
believed in the name of tlie only begotten Son of God.
Why is the unbeliever condemned ? Because love, and goodness, and
mercy are offered to him in the person of Jesus, and he turns his
back on all this. Those are unbelievers and will find condemna
tion who wilfully refuse God's love and despise the gracious words
of Jesus. Many who seem to be Christians are unbelievers at
heart. Some who have not lieard of Christ are yet on His side.
19. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the
world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because tlieir
deeds were evil.
Lord, keep me from deeds of darkness, lest I utterly fall away from
Thee. I know my own danger, but also Thy love. I am not yet
given over utterly to the devil's tyranny. Help me to love Thy
light and try to walk by it. Let it shine on me more and more,
and blot out the dark spots in my heart

Ver. 26.] Christ's Disciples baptize. 519
20. For every one that doeth evil liateth the light, neither
cometh to the light, lest his deeds should be reproved.
A hidden sin stands between us and God. It keeps us from prayer,
it shames us in good men's presence. Grant us, Lord, before it is
too late, the spirit of true repentance, that we may confess our sins
and take shame to ourselves. Let us come to the light, arid bear
reproof, and give up our evil ways.
21. But he that doeth truth cometh to the light, that his deeds
may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.
Christ attracts souls that are striving to do right. Their good
intentions are given and cherished by His mercy. They find a
Friend in Him. All that there is of good in them is stirred up to
love Him. Have we any regard for this great sight ? Our hearts
must be in darkness if we do not find any pleasure in His Word, or
comfort in prayer, or grace at His Table. Why do not we come
near every day to the light, and open our hearts and ways before
Him?
22. U After these things came Jesus and his disdples into
the land of Judcea; and there he tarried with them, and baptized.
When Christ's ministers baptize, faith beholds their Master appearing
there. It is He, though unseen, Who welcomes the newly-baptized
child, Who cleanses him with water and blood, Who addresses him
kind words of encouragement. He tarries with us invisibly and
baptizes. The grace of the sacrament depends on His presence.
When I see a child baptized, I should turn my mind to discern my
Saviour present there and praise His pardoning love.
23. IT And John also was baptizing in AUnon near to Salim,
because there was much water there : and they came, and were
baptized. 24. For John was not yet cast into prison.
John's ministry was now coming to an end, yet he worked on while
he was allowed. All that awaited him in this world was a close
prison and violent death, but he looked beyond all this and set
his heart on a heavenly reward. We inherit the labours of the
saints. How many have preached, and prayed, and suffered that
we might have the knowledge of God ! They were overthrown or
silenced, but God's Word could not be bound.
25. IT Then there arose a question between some of John's
disdples and the Jews about purifying.
We are much more ready to dispute about the sermons we hear, and
the books we read, than to apply ourselves to purifying our con
science in earnest. Let us not dispute, but pray and fight against
sin, and use God's appointed means. Only Christ's Blood can
really purify us. How much evil has stained our soul 1 There is
much to be done before we can be fit for heaven.
26. And they came unto John, and said unto him, Rabbi, he

520 The Bridegroom's Friend. [S. John III.
that was with thee beyond Jordan, to whom thou barest witness,
behold, the same baptizeth,' and all men come to him.
They were jealous for their master. They thought he was put aside
by the growing fame of Jesus. They were ignorant of our Lord's
true dignity. Grant, O Saviour, that I may put Thee always first,
and rejoice to see souls becoming Thine. A good man's object
should be to induce men to come to Christ. He welcomes all, He
has a word for all, He is the truest and best Friend.
27. John answered and said, A man can receive nothing,
except it be given him from heaven.
All glory be to God. Whatever in man is wise, or holy, or attractive
comes from above. God gives to each whatever gifts they enjoy.
If I am well off, and have a great place in the world, that is His
appointment for me. I must use it as being responsible to Him.
If I have a humble place, that also is His choice. He thinks me
safest there. Let me only suit myself to my work and trust to
Him to guide me.
28. Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I am not the
Christ, but that I am sent before him.
This is a Christian's business, not to claim for himself all the love and
devotion of any other soul, but lo prepare a way for Christ to enter
there. John often repeated this. He considered himself as the
Lord's servant. He would not steal what belonged to his Master.
Lord, if I have sought to be all in all to any one else, to centre all
the love and duty of any soul on myself, forgive me the theft. Let
me render it back to Thee to Whom it belongs.
29. He that liath the bride is the bridegroom: but the friend
of the bridegroom, which stdndeth and heareth him, rejoiceth
greatly because of the bridegroom's voice: this my joy therefore
is fulfilled. I must look out for the Bridegroom's voice. He speaks to the hearts
of believers in many ways. In sorrow He draws near and in joy
also. In sacraments He is present. He speaks by the lips of
children. He comes to the dying. He only has for each heart
that love which it needs. Who am I that I should usurp His
place? If I can lead my friends to be His friends too, that will be
joy enough for me.
30. He must increase, but I must decrease.
Perish my own glory so that Christ be magnified. Let me (if it be
His will) lose means, or health, or influence, let me be content
with obscurity and failure, so long as my Lord is known and His
Name honoured. Let me cheerfully give up all if I can thereby
help to make a road for Him into men's hearts. His glory erows
from age to age. I pass away and am forgotten. Lord, so let it
be.

Ver. 35-1 John's Last Testimony. 521
31. He that cometh from above is above all : he that is of the
earth is earthly, and speaketh of the earth: he that cometh from
heaven is above all.
To which do we listen most eagerly, to earthly friends who bring us
gossip and news of the day, or to that heavenly Friend Who tells
us of grace, and joy, and glory to come? Heavenly attractions strive
in us with earthly ones. Sometimes we lean to the one, sometimes
to the other. Let us take more care to set apart time for prayer
and reading of Scripture, where the heavenly message may have a
chance to sink into our hearts.
32. And what he hath seen and heard, that he testifieth; and
no man receiveth his testimony.
When any one tells us what he has seen in foreign countries we listen
with wonder and interest. Here is a great Explorer Who has been
in new worlds. God and heaven, and the soul of man, and the
world to come are familiar subjects with Him. He speaks of
what He knows, yet how few guide themselves according to His
words. When Jesus speaks to me of my heavenly Father's love,
or of true blessedness, or of wrath to come, I know that He speaks
truth.
33. He that hath received his testimony hath set to his seal
4liat God is true.
The believer takes God's message and signs and seals it. He
accepts it as truth and will defend it before all men. His Master's
words are to Him unalterable. Times may change, but the words
of Jesus remain sure. They are the words of God speaking to us.
They reveal the depths of our heart. What a blessed document
that is which contains the dispositions of God in our favour 1 We
shall rejoice to attest it and make it known.
34. For he whom God hath sent speaketh the words of God:
for God giveth not the Spirit by measure unto him.
God spake by the prophets through sudden Divine inspirations, but
He always speaks in His Son. They represented God for a
particular object at a certain time and place. God gave them gifts
and spoke by them. Then their work was done. But our Master
always sets forth God, and enjoys the fulness of grace, and can
impart it to us. We know how to approach God. He accepts us
if His Son brings us near.
35. The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into
his hand.
God has loved His faithful servants in every age, but here _ is One
greater than a servant, One Who is Lord and King of all in earth
and heaven. I too and my eternal condition have been given into
the hands of Jesus. I am content that it should be so. He has
a right over me. He will one day settle all things aright and be
declared as Lord of all.

522 Our Lord goes through Samaria. [S. John IV.
36. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and .
he that believeth not the Son shall not see life ; but the wrath of
God abiddh on him.
Everlasting life consists in the love of God. All other things pass
away, but God alone remains and makes those happy who trust in
Him. Without God there is only misery and darkness, and a fearful
looking forward to of death. Those who put Him away lose then-
own happiness too. Glory be to Thee, O Jesus Christ, for having
revealed God so plainly. I choose Thy side, and with it light, and
peace, and joy. I lay hold on Thy Cross, and so turn away God's
wrath for my many sins.

CHAPTER IV.
I. Christ talketh with a woman of Samaria, and revealeth himself unto
her. 27. His disciples marvel. 31. He dedareth to them his zeal to
God's glory. 3g. Many Samaritans believe on him. 43. He departeth
into Galilee, and healeth the ruler's son that lay sick at Capernaum.
WHEN therefore the Lord knew how the Pharisees had heard
that Jesus made and baptized more disdples than John,
2. (though Jesus himself baptized not, but his disdples,) 3. he
left Judcea, and departed again into Galilee.
Jesus did not wish yet to encounter the Pharisees. The time would
come when He would tell them plainly of their sins, meet their
revilings, and suffer death at their hands ; but He had much to do
for His Father first. Therefore, as soon as He saw their growing
jealousy, He retired into Galilee, where many souls were waiting for
Him. Let us, whether we are silent or speak, whether we give
way or stand forward, order all our conduct wisely and with prayer,
so as to do as God would have us.
4. And he must needs go through Samaria.
He must needs go because it was the most direct road, but there was
another reason too. He had to minister to an erring soul, to bring
a lost sheep back to^Jod. What seemed a mere chance was all
ordered by His mercy. How often has God turned a chance word
or accidental circumstance to our everlasting profit !
5. Then cometh he to a city of Samaria, which is called
Sycliar, near to the parcel of ground that Jacob gave to his son
Joseph. This was the ground which Jacob bought when he came from the
east (Genesis xxxiii. 19), and near to the city which his sons
conquered. Joseph's bones were buried there. Now at last, after
so many hundred years, the promises to which those old patriarchs

Ver. io.] The Woman at Jacob's Well. 523
looked were coming true. Here was 'the salvation for which they
had waited in faith. Their Descendant had come to give a more
lasting inheritance which death cannot \ake away.
6. Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being
wearied with his journey, sat thus on the well : and it was
about the rixth hour.
When hard-working people sit down at mid-day for their few minutes
of rest and refreshment let them recall their Master's noonday rest
at the well. He was tired like we are, yet His rest was short and
His work scarcely broken. He was tired with seeking for us.
Our stubborn hearts brought Him all this way from heaven. He
has long sought for our love, and hardly finds it. Think on this
verse. With whom did Jesus find His portion in this life ? Not
with the great and luxurious, but with the common people, sharing
their toils.
7. There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water : Jesus
saith unto her, Give me to drink. 8. (For his disciples were
gone away unto the dty to buy meat.)
We must give if we would have God give to us. He will give peace
and everlasting joy. But we must be ready to give what we can,
even if it is but little, for His service. How wonderful it was that
this chance Wayfarer, thirsty and tired, should be the Lord of Glory,
rich in every blessing ! If we are ready to help our neighbours in
their need, we too may meet Jesus there and be able to serve Him.
9. Then saith the woman of Samaria unto him, How is it
that thou, being a Jew, askest drink of me, which am a woman
of Samaria ? for the Jews have no dealings with the Samaritans.
Jesus came not to observe, but to break down this ill-feeling between
the two nations. God's people were once confined to a single
country, and looked on all strangers as outside His covenant; but
now He has taught them that all are brethren, and have one Father,
and should help one another towards heaven. When shall we see
hatred, and strife, and jealousy done away among those.who profess
the same faith ? Lord, incline our hearts to peace and goodwill.
10. Jesus answered and said unto her, If thou knewest the
gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give me to drink ;
thou wouldest have asked of him, and he would have given thee
living water.
Jesus has for us a treasure of refreshment, something that can fill our
minds better than pleasure, or vanity, or money. Something that
will always comfort and gladden us. Oh, if we only knew this, how
we should run to Him and seek for it I This world's gifts soon dry
up, their enjoyment passes, but God's grace is never exhausted.
Let us recognise Who it is that speaks in the Gospels, and is present

524 The Living Water.  [S. John IV.
in the Sacraments, and asks for help in the poor, and then we
shall not be afraid to come to Him with our prayers, and He will
hear us.
n. The woman saith unto him, Sir, tliou hast nothing to
draw with, and the well is deep : from whence then hast thou
that living water ?
Jacob's well is deep, and Christ had no bucket to draw water, so
she could not understand what was the water that He meant to give
her. Ah ! she soon had to enlarge her views, and see Christ's
Divine power and the needs of her soul. She was in great need of
this spiritual spring, though there was plenty of earthly water within
her reach. He can refresh our souls, because He is God Who made
us and knows what we want.
1 2. Art thou greater than our father Jacob, which gave us
the well, and drank thereof himself, and his children, and his
cattle ?
Jacob during his wanderings dug this well in the rock and drank from
it, and it still remains useful after three thousand years. But Christ's
well is in the depths of Divine power and love, and countless souls
in every age have been refreshed by it. He can give us greater gifts
than all the richest and wisest men on earth can bestow. He can
bring us to an unfading home. Our days on earth, like Jacob's, may
seem few and evil, but we look for rest elsewhere.
13. Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh
of this water shall third again :
Our earthly wants are satisfied, and to-morrow we need to satisfy
them afresh. Those are happy whose wants are few and simple.
There are many who thirst for wealth, or pleasure, or the praise of
men, and are never satisfied. They drink great draughts of this
world's muddy stream and yet long and long for more. The more
they get the keener they are to increase their store.
14. But whosoever drinketh of the water' that I shall give
him shall never thirst ; but the water that I sliall give him shall
be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.
Jesus has a spring of pure refreshment which never fails. He can
plant this in believers' hearts. His spirit quenches evil desires and
supplies a treasure of pure love, and peace, and comfort, which
nothing can take away, and which is a pledge of heavenly joy.
Lord, cause this pure spring to rise in my heart, that I may be
refreshed, and impart the same blessing to my brethren.
15. The woman saith unto him, Sir, give me this water, that
I thirst not, ndther come hither to draw.
She asked in simplicity, not understanding all that Christ meant.
Yet she did so in obedience to His words, and desiring to receive
from Him this good gift, whatever it was. How like this is to our

Ver. 21.] Whereto Worship. 525
prayers ! For our unworthiness we dare not ask at all, and for our
blindness we cannot ask properly ; yet our merciful Lord helps us
to pray, and gives us more than we desire or deserve.
16. Jesus saith unto her, Go, call thy husband, and come
hither. Why did the Lord send for her husband ? No doubt He wished to
awaken them both and make them feel their sinfulness. How
often does He now speak to a wife's heart, and invite her to bring
her husband and children before Him in prayer, to seek God's
blessing for them ! We are not saved or lost alone. Other souls
are concerned in our acceptance or rejection of Christ's message.
17. The woman answered and said, I have no husband.
Jesus said unto her, Thou hast well said, I have no husband :
18. for thou hast had five husbands ; and he whom thou now
had is not thy husband: in that saidst thou truly.
We may try to conceal our true character from men's eyes, but it is
all open before God. What a great mercy it is when He brings
us to see our past life and feel what we have done ! Glory be to
Thee, O Lord, Who dost awake our hearts to repent and to fear Thy
awful judgments. Grant us to confess our sins truly and fully, and
so obtain full pardon.
19. The woman saith unto him, Sir, I percdve that thou art
a prophet. Lord, I acknowledge Thy Divine power. Thy Word pierces through
all disguises, and shows me what I am. Thine eyes look me
through. Thou art able to guide me in life and in death. Let me,
after the example of this woman, recognise Thy Word to be true
and seek to be further enlightened. She did not reply boldly or
excuse herself, but confessed that Christ knew her as she really was.
20. Our fathers worshipped in this mountain; and ye say,
that in Jerusalem is the place where men ought to worship.
She went on to ask which was the right place in which to offer God
service, was it on Gerizim like the Samaritans, or on Mount Zion
as the Jews did ? Thanks be to God, we have now no need of holy
mountains. His Church is set up in every place to offer an
acceptable sacrifice. Let us only be zealous to come to church
and join in the worship that is offered. How many neglect God's
house and His day, and forget the duty of worship !
21. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, believe me, the hour cometh,
when ye shall neither in this mountain, nor yet at Jerusalem,
worship the Father.
Lord, we believe Thee. We know that the ancient barriers are
done away by Thy Gospel, and one faith in a loving and holy
Father is spread throughout the world. Each nation used to have

526 How to Worship. [S. John IV.
its own God and its own religion. Now the wall is broken down,
and there is one family of believers gathered before one common
Lord Who loves them all.
22. Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we wor
ship : for salvation is of the Jews.
God revealed Himself to the Jews, His prophets taught there, His
priests offered sacrifice there. Amidst a dark world the true
religion was kept alive at Jerusalem till the day of its full mani
festation should come. God's ancient people did not have so much
light as we have, yet knew what they worshipped. They believed
in a God of power, of love, and of wisdom, Who required men's
true service. We have had Jesus and His saints to teach us this.
They fill up and explain the Old Testament lessons about God.
23. But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true wor
shippers shall worship the Fatlier in spirit and in truth : for
the Father seeketh such to worship him.
We live in Gospel times when God is clearly revealed, and we are
taught how to worship Him acceptably. Our inmost soul and
hearty obedience should be His. We should give up ourselves
into His hands as to a dear father. We must not think that out
ward worship, or coming to church, or giving of alms, can supply
the place of love. These outward duties are indeed helps and
means that we must not neglect, but God looks within and requires
an altar there.
24. God is a Spirit : and tliey that worship him mud wor
ship him in spirit and in truth
How great a truth is this ! What a Master, and what a service ! How
can we bring any offerings worthy of Him Whom we worship !
Jesus Himself as man worshipped His Father acceptably by love,
by sacrificing Himself for others, by fervent prayer, by ready
obedience, by patience. Through Him only we can be accepted.
If we would rise up to God we must do it through the help of our
Brother. He will show us how to worship and will make up our
shortcomings.
25. The woman saith unto him, I know that Messias cometh,
which is called Christ: when he is come, he will tell us all
things. • He is now come, and tells us all things that we need to know. He
enlightens the faithful heart by His Word and by His grace. He
does not disappoint those who wait for Him. We have on our
part to believe that He is near, and to listen to His inward voice.
We hope one day to learn the full truth from Him in His glorious
kingdom.
26. Jesus saith unto her, I that speak unto tliee am he.
It is thy Saviour. Let the doubting heart ponder on this verse. It

Ver. 33.] The Samaritans approach Christ. 527
is He Who knows thy trials and thy fears, Who can give thee a fresh
spring of peace, Who can show thee how to approach God. He
speaks to thy heart and bids thee trust in Him. Lord, I believe.
I take Thee for my Guide, and desire to know Thee better and trust
Thee more.
27. 11 And upon this came his disdples, and marvelled that
he talked with the woman : yet no man said, What seekest thou ?
or, Why talkest thou with her ?
They did not yet understand His great patience and tender care for
single souls. This dialogue with the Samaritan woman seemed to
them beneath His dignity. Yet they did not dare to question what
He did. Give me, Lord, a deep respect for all Thy dealings. Often
I marvel at them, but yet I know Thou wilt be justified in the end.
28. The woman then left her waterpot, and went her way into
the dty, and saith to the men, 29. Come, see a man, which told
me all things that ever I did : is not this the Christ ?
What soul is there now that leaves earthly cares, and despises shame,
and thinks only of proclaiming the Redeemer's power, and bringing
in many to share in the pardon which she herself has known ? The
searching words of Christ had penetrated this woman's heart, He
knew her life, her needs, her hopes. He was a Saviour for her.
She longed to have sharers in this faith. Herein lies the power of
the Gospel, not so much in its promises, or visions, or mysteries,
as in its plain words which show us what we are. We cry, ' ' Whence
knowest Thou me?"
30. Then they went out of the city, and came unto him.
How ready these people were to listen to a message of life ! They
willingly forsook their rest, or their mid-day meal, to wait on the
great Prophet Who knew their lives and hearts. Lord, grant me
such a readiness of mind that I may put aside all else at Thy call.
31. IT In the mean while his disdples prayed him, saying,
Master, eat. 32. But he said unto them, I have meat to eat
that ye know not of.
His thoughts followed the woman. He prayed for the success of her
message. He commended to His Father those who should listen
to it. He discerned them already coming towards Him. This was
His nourishment He was refreshed and strengthened at the
prospect of these many souls returning to God. Where shall we
find strength except in Him ? This world's food sustains the body,
but the spirit needs to be fed with good thoughts and hopes of
Divine mercy.
33. Therefore said tlie disdples one to another, Hath any
man brought him ought to eat ?
The ravens had not brought Him food, nor the stones become bread.
He worked no miracle for His own needs. No man had supplied

528 The Approaching Harvest. [S. John IV.
Him. The work of converting a human heart had been so precious
to Him that He felt in need of nothing else. Let us learn from
this that there are high and heavenly pleasures far above those of
the body. They are satisfying and full of comfort, though the world
does not know them.
34. Jesus saith unto them, My meat is to do the will of him
that sent me, and to finish his work.
God's will, God's sending, God's work. Here are three weighty
words. We should be anxious, like our Master, to submit ourselves
absolutely to the Divine will, rest entirely on the Divine commission,
zealously carry out the Divine work. This should be our greatest
joy. All the world's delights and honours should be nothing in
comparison.
35. Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh
harvest ? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look
on the fields ; for they are white already to harvest.
It was still four months to harvest in the corn-fields around, but in
the spiritual world He saw that all was ripe. Sinners seeking for
pardon, heathens desiring faith, a multitude of souls needing to be
guided towards heaven. Here is a great harvest, who will go forth
and reap it ? Let us pray God to send forth labourers into this
great field who will bring home rich sheaves for their Master.
36. And he that reapeth receiveth wages, and gathereth fruit
unto life eternal : that both lie that soweth and he that reapeth
may rejoice together.
In the natural year many months separate sowing- time from reaping.
It is long from winter to harvest-home. But in God's field sowing
and reaping go on together. A good man is always sowing some
good word, or upright example, or prayer, and always reaping the
fruits of it in peace and hope. He is always bringing Christ to
other souls, and finding Him more in his own. Here is true joy
which nothing can take away.
37. And herein is that saying true, One soweth, and another
reapeth. Indeed it is God Who sows, not we. And as far as it is of men's
doings, it is the prayers and good work of those who went before us,
not our own. And the seed does not appear at once, we must
learn to wait the appointed time. Yet how great an honour it is
to have any share in God's harvest- work !
38. / sent you to reap that whereon ye bestowed no labour :
other men laboured, and ye are entered into their labours.
The prophets and saints of old, Jesus our Lord Himself, and faithful
Christians in all the ages have worked for us. They preached and
wrote, and suffered. They handed down to us the memory of their
love. What are our trials compared to theirs ? Let us go forth
boldly into the field and continue their work.

Ver. 45.] Many Samaritans believe. 529
39. IT And many of tlie Samaritans of that dty believed on
him for tlie saying of the woman, which testified, He told me
all that ever I did.
God chose this poor woman to be the instrument to lead many souls to
Christ. She had felt her own sins and her Saviour's mercy. So
now she was able to direct her countrymen to the same Divine
Guide. What designs of mercy God may have for souls I However
simple or weak we are, yet it may be His pleasure to work by us.
If we have first known our own heart and its frailty, we shall be
able to tell of the Healer.
40. So when the Samaritans were come unto him, they
besought him tliat he would tarry with them : and he abode there
two days.
Jesus was welcomed by the Samaritans, and found them more ready
to listen to Him than the Jews were. He passed two days among
them, and told them Who He was. Yet it was not His will to remain
there, they must wait for more instruction till the apostles came
after His Ascension. Such are God's ways. He gives privileges
to some which He denies to others. Let us only take what He offers
and profit by it while it lasts.
41. And many more believed because of his own word; 42.
and said unto the woman, Now we believe, not because of thy
saying : for we have heard him ourselves, and know that this is
indeed the Christ, the Saviour of the world.
What effect Christ's own words had as He spoke them ! Yes, but we
can read them still. A living faith can supply the want of His
bodily presence. We can experience His blessing and be sure that
He is the true King of men and Light of souls. Those are indeed
happy who can speak as these Samaritans did.
43. IT Now after two days he departed thence, and went into
Galilee. 44. For Jesus himself testified, that a prophet hath
no honour in his own country.
Jesus stopped two days only where He was so welcome, and then
went on into Galilee where He was less thought of. To Him
honour or contempt were all one as long as He was doing His
Father's will. Often we have not the courage to speak God's
Word to our relations or friends. We fear to be laughed at. Jesus
was of different stuff from this.
45. Then when he was come into Galilee, the Galilceans
received him, having seen all the things that lie did at Jerusalem
at the feast : for they also went unto the feast.
What were those mighty works which they had seen at Jerusalem ?
We are not told. No doubt they were full of power and love, like
the miracles which are related for us ; and the Galiheans had enjoyed
the sight of them through their visiting Jerusalem to keep the feast.
2 L

530 The Nobleman's Son. [S. John IV.
Let us, if we want to see all God's mighty works, attend devoutly
at His house and keep His festivals. He will show us much when
we come there.
46. So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made
the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son
was sick at Capernaum.
That first miracle had prepared the way for Jesus and inclined men's
hearts to listen to Him. They still spoke of His bounty on that
occasion, and He came among them again to confirm their faith and
lead them on farther. He does not forget any that believe in Him.
He has a message of comfort alike for noblemen's houses or for
poor cottages.
47. When he heard that Jesus was come out of Judcea into
Galilee, lie went unto him, and besought him that he would
come down, and heal his son : for he was at tlie point of death.
Sorrow drives us to Christ In the presence of sickness and danger
we feel how helpless we are, and have to look to One above us for
help. Our prayers indeed are very selfish and imperfect, yet
Jesus hears them, and either grants us the deliverance for which we
ask, or else disposes our hearts to patience and gives us grace to
bear the blow. What can we do in times of distress except what
this man did, go to the Saviour and beseech Him to help us ?
48. Then said Jesus unto him, Except ye see signs and
wonders, ye will not believe.
Do not say, "If I seeamiracle worked I will believe." Your Saviour
wants a different kind of faith from that. He requires love, and trust,
and a longing for holiness, and a hatred of self, and a passionate
wish to come nearer to God. These are elements of a sound faith,
not the mere gazing on marvels. Lord, plant in my heart such a
faith as Thou wilt accept. I am content to live in an age when no
miracles are wrought, so long as I can feel Thy goodness and prove
Thee as a Friend.
49. The nobleman saith unto him, Sir, come down ere my
child die.
We do not need the bodily presence of Jesus. He is just as mighty
to save from His throne in heaven as though He were teaching in
our streets. The poor anxious father could not feel safe unless
the Lord Jesus was actually within his house. He felt that death
could not carry off his prey while Jesus was by. But we know that
He can help us in one place as in another, and will not desert us
whether we live or die.
50. Jesus saith unto him, Go thy way; thy son liveth. And
the man believed the word that Jesus had spoken unto him, and
he went his way.

Ver. 54-] The Second Miracle in Galilee. 531
The word of Christ worked a double miracle, one on the body of the
sick boy at a distance. At once he recovered. And a second on
the soul of the distressed father who was there present. He
became calm. He believed. He obeyed and trusted that all
would be well. This last is the miracle that I need. For my
wayward unbelief I desire, Lord, a true faith and entire trust in Thy
Divine goodness. Let me believe Thy Word and go on my way
with hope.
51. And as he was now going down, his servants met him,
and told him, saying, Thy son liveth.
This was joyful news. Praise be to God for raising up our dear ones
from sickness, and granting them a new life to use for His glory.
Praise be to Him also when He takes them to begin a new and
better life elsewhere. We are still sure that they live to Him and
that it is well with them.
52. Then enquired he of them the hour when he began to
amend. And they said unto him, Yesterday at the seventh hour
the fever left him.
The power of Christ's word to heal at a distance teaches us that He
is just as able to keep us now, though His bodily presence is with
drawn. He can still the storms and fevers of our heart. What
seems most sad, and grievous, and hard to bear He can relieve. Let
me bring before Him the disorders of my soul, sure that He is able
and willing to help me.
53. So the father knew that it was at the same hour, in the
which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself
believed, and his whole house.
This was henceforth a pattern of a Christian household in which the
faith of the father and the mercy shown to the child were shared
among all. The father had believed before, but his faith was now
deeper and stronger. And he taught all his family about the Lord
Jesus, spoke of His power and love, told them of this wonderful
and sudden recovery. Lord, renew this grace now where a family
is mourning for an ungodly son, bring him back from deadly sin,
let the afflicted parents feel that their son is alive to God again.
54. This is again the second miracle that Jesus did, when he
was come out of Judcea into Galilee.
At His first visit to Cana He turned water into wine, at His second
He cured the sick boy's fever. Afterwards He performed a great
number of mighty works. To-day He visits us by the order of His
daily Providence, and by the means which His Church offers.
Whether He afflicts or relieves us, we still know that He is near
and trust in His mercy. The wonders in old time and the mercies
now alike strengthen our faith.

532 The Pool of Bethesda. [S. John V.

CHAPTER V.
x. Jesus on the sabbath day cureth him that was diseased eight and thirty
years. 10. The Jews therefore cavil, and persecute him for it. 17.
He answereth for himself, and reproveth them, shewing by the
testimony of his Father, 32. of John, 36. of his works, 39. and of the
scriptures, who he is.
AFTER this tliere was a feast of the Jews ; and Jesus went
Xi up to Jerusalem.
Our Lord left Galilee, where He had now many disciples and was
generally well received, and went up to Jerusalem. He did so to
worship at His Father's house, to observe the rules of the law, to
bear witness even before those who despised Him. His plan
always was, " Not what I like, not what makes Me popular and
famous, but My heavenly Father's will, as the motive for My
doing this or that." When shall I come to put away self as He
did?
2. Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool,
which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bdhesda, having five
por dies. 3. In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of
blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water.
This sad company represents the state of fallen man, full of weakness,
laden with sin, bowed down by misery. Who can bring them
help? None but the Son of God. He alone has power to
enlighten, and strengthen, and give peace. He can raise us up,
however grievous be our condition. Glory be to Thee, O Lord, for
Thy saving power. What should I be if Thou hadst not come
down to save me ? I pray Thee to complete the gracious cure Thou
hast begun in me.
4. For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool,
and troubled the water : whosoever then first after the troubling
of tlie water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease lie
had. What trouble should we not take to obtain bodily healing from such
a spring as this? How we should watch for it to bubble up!
Yet Jesus offers us a more healing spring for our souls, one which
is flowing at all seasons and never loses its power. Our diseases
are so manifold that we need earnestly to wait on His healing
mercy and entreat for pure hearts and uprightness again. The
Lord of angels can take away all our infirmities and fit us to dwell
with Him for ever.
5. And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity
thirty and eight years.

Ver. io.] Jesus cures the Impotent Man. 533
What a long hopeless illness, and yet the sufferer still continued to
expect a cure ! He had not lost faith in God's power to heal him.
His sad case touched the compassionate heart of Jesus, and so he
was healed. We must not despair of any soul, however long
standing be its disorders. Grace is able to reach them. Let us
only present them to our Master in prayer.
6. When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now
a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made
whole ?
Give me, O Lord, a resolute will. Let me desire earnestly to over
come my sins and serve Thee as I ought. Let this be the deepest
purpose of my life. I cannot be made whole until I have this will.
I am sick of my own folly. Let me no longer waste my time and
thoughts as I have done, but set my heart on leading a new life.
This shall be all my desire henceforth that I may live to God.
7. The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man,
when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool : but while I
am coming, anotlier steppeth down before me.
We need not speak thus. We have a Friend Who is God as well as
Man, Who can lead us to the healing spring and apply it to our
souls. Let us be zealous to draw our brethren's attention to Him.
He is always ready. He can remove all their sins and cares.
His heart has room for all. No fear of His mercy wearing out.
8. Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk.
Christ's word gives power. He can give strength to work for Him,
a heart to love, feet to walk in His way. Oh that our weak faith
could take in this truth, and that we could come ourselves and
direct others to this healing Lord ! How many there are who still
grovel in deadly sin and see no way out of it ! They need to hear
this message. It is still sounding and still gives life.'
9. And immediately the man was made whole, and took up
his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.
What, at once, after thirty-eight years of helplessness ! This is
indeed a power beyond the reach of man. Lord, in these days
of unbelief stretch out Thine hand upon us and make us whole.
Help us, whatever outward business weighs upon us, yet in our
hearts to keep a Sabbath with Thee. There are some souls who
are busy and full of care, and yet have a Sabbath day of peace
within.
10. IT Tlie Jews therefore said unto him that was cured, It
is the sabbath day : it is not lawful for thee to carry thy bed.
Look deeper. Do not be so ready to blame other men's actions till
you have considered their motive. This man was carrying the
mattress on which he had lain not in any spirit of profane

534 The Jews' Enmity, [S. John V.
disobedience, but as the great Healer had told him to do, and with
a mind full of thanks, and praise, and wonder. Now his pain was
gone, it was indeed a Sabbath day of rest and joy to him.
1 1. He answered them, He that made me whole,- the same
said unto me, Take up thy bed, and walk.
This was the best answer, My Lord has told me to do this. He has
converted my heart, has given me pardon, and a new life, and a hope
of heaven. Must I not obey His words? Not only He died to
save me, but He has given me instructions how to live. I must
follow those.
1 2. Then asked they him, What man is that which said unto
thee, Take up thy bed, and walk ? 13. And he that was healed
wist not who it was : for Jesus had conveyed himself away, a
multitude being in that place.
Jesus had retired after working the miracle. He did not seek for
praise or wish to make any stir. He passed unnoticed through the
crowd. Let our work be after His pattern. We should feel for
others' troubles, and help them according to our power, but be
glad for our good deeds to escape notice. It is a great and
undeserved honour if we are able to do anything for God's glory
and man's good. Let us be content with that and not spoil it
by vanity.
14. Afterward Jesus findeth him in the temple, and said
unto him, Behold, thou art made whole : sin no more, lest a
worse thing come unto thee.
That was the right place for him to be found, in God's temple. No
doubt He had gone there to offer his thanks for the great mercy he
had received. Here his merciful Friend found him again and gave
him a piece of weighty advice. Let us lay it up in our hearts.
God's judgments are awful, let us beware lest we fall under them
by despising His mercies.
15. The man departed, and told the Jews that it was Jesus,
which had made him whole.
He did not do this in malice, but as wishing to glorify the Saviour
Still he had better have said nothing to them. It did them no
good, and only provoked them against Jesus. It requires much
care to speak with any profit of what God has done for our souls
Often it is best to keep such things between Himself and us.
16. And therefore did the Jews persecute Jesus, and sought
to slay him, because he had done these things on the sabbath day.
They forgot the power and mercy of Christ's work, and only noticed
that it contradicted their tradition of the way to keep the Sabbath
day. The Sabbath was meant in mercy to man and to give him
time to look up to God. The Lord's healing work was in full

Ver. 2i.J The Son of God giving Life. 535
agreement with this. But all they looked for was something to
blame, and they soon found it. Let us beware of finding fault, and
rather rejoice to find something to approve in what others do.
1 7. IT But Jesus answered them, My Father worketh hitherto,
and I work.
This was the law for Jesus. He must constantly be doing good,
because that was His Father's plan. God's works of goodness
never cease. Earthly Sabbaths and hours of repose give men rest,
but Almighty God never ceases to pour out His bounties on His
creatures. A Christian should after his condition imitate God and
be always employed in doing some good, yet with a peaceful mind.
18. Tlierefore the Jews sought tlie more to kill him, because
lie not only had broken the sabbath, but said also that God was
his Father, making himself equal with God.
Jesus is a martyr for charity and truth. Wherever He went He
would do good, He would speak the truth, and this made Him
enemies, who at last put Him to death. Let those who are spoken
against without cause encourage themselves by His example.
Better do good and be hated for it than dream away life in in
dolence without having borne any witness for our heavenly Fatlier.
1 9. Then answered Jesus and said unto them, Verily, verily,
I say unto you, The Son can do nothing of himself, but what
he seeth the Father do : for what things soever he doeth, these
also doeth the Son likewise.
The relation of the Son of God to His Father is a deep mystery. Yet
it is meant to be expressed after a fashion in ourselves. We too
should be constantly looking up to our Father in heaven and
making His will the rule of all our actions. Jesus is intimately one
with God and all His work is Divine, but we also are children of
God and should represent Him in our lives.
20. For the Father loveth the Son, and sheweth him all things
that himself doeth : and he will shew him greater works than
these, that ye may marvel.
Let the believer, though at an infinite distance behind his Master, yet,
like Him, look up to God and study His marvels. He will find
them grow deeper and higher day by day. What is past will seem
nothing in comparison with the mercies of the time to come.
What tilings eternity will disclose to us ! No sights in the world
are worth naming when we think of what we shall see there !
2 1. For as the Father raisdh up the dead, and quickeneth
them ; even so the Son quickeneth whom he will.
Lord, I adore Thee as quickening the dead during Thy life on earth,
and putting the new life of grace in dead souls now, and as one

536 Jesus raises the Soul now. [S. John V.
day about to call all men from their graves to a new life. All life
is from Thee. I pray Thee that the new life which I have received
may not die away and wither in my heart.
22. For the Father judgeth no man, but hath committed all
judgment unto the Son :
O Lord and Friend, my lot is in Thy hands. Thou knowest my heart.
I have not to do only with an infinite Being, but with One Who is
Man like I am. All my frailties are open to Thine eye. Help me
that I may prevent Thy judgment by true repentance. Let me be
merciful to others, knowing how much I shall need mercy at that
day.
23. That all men should honour the Son, even as they honour
the Father. He that honoureth not the Son honoureth not the
Father which hath sent him.
Jesus is worthy to receive all honour. He is our God, our Saviour,
and our King. Let us rejoice to multiply His worshippers and
give up ourselves to do His will. When we come to His altar,
what reverence we should bring there! The Lord of Glory is
coming to us. What feeling should be ours in such a presence !
Lord, if Thy worshippers are few and cold, let me all the more
earnestly bring what worship I can.
24. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He tliat heareth my word,
and believeth on him that sent, me, hath everlasting life, and
shall not come into condemnation ; but is passed from death
unto life.
What a change is this from death to life by virtue of a living faith in
Christ the Son of God ! If in my heart I have heard His voice and
believed His message, then I too have experienced this. The new
life of grace has begun in me. If I believe, death and judgment
have no terrors, deadly sin no power, earthly troubles no burden.
Heaven has begun for me here. Lord, help my weak faith and
quicken in me the seeds of this new life.
25. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The hour is coming, and
now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God:
and they tliat hear shall live.
Dead souls heard Christ's voice and lived. The bodies of the dead
whom He raised to life again were but figures of the worse and
more hopeless death of the soul. Yet even this can be done
away by His life-giving voice. He came into a world where all
around Him were lifeless hearts with no faith, no purity, no love
and He called them forth and bade them live to God. Glory be
to Jesus for His saving message.
26. For as the Father liath life in himself; so hath he given
to the Son to have life in himself •

Ver. 3i.] He will raise the Body hereafter. 537
That power which gives life through all creation, and love to all souls
that truly live, was specially manifested in Christ Jesus. In Him
we are face to face with God. No one else has presented God to
us in such a manner as He does, because He is God's own Son. I
could not gaze on the glory of God the Father, but I can delight in
the rays which beam from the Son of Man.
27. And hath given him authority to execute judgment also,
because he is the Son of man.
He is a Man, as we are, and knows our weakness. Our sins are open
before Him and He gives their sentence. The world beyond the
grave is His. Those who have oppressed His children and despised
Him here will meet Him when they awake from the slumber of
death. I cannot escape from my Judge, but I can make Him my
Advocate by a timely repentance.
28. Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in the which
all that are in the graves shall hear his voice,
Lord, I believe that as surely as certain dead persons heard Thy voice
and awoke when Thou wast on earth before, so at the last day
dust and ashes shall hear Thy voice, the sea shall give up her dead,
all men shall live again. When I think of that dreadful day my
mind and reason are confounded, but I know Thy almighty power
extends over death and life, and that all live to Thee even if they
have utterly perished from among men. In Thy voice may I then
acknowledge the voice of a Friend.
29. And shall come forth; they that have done good, unto
the resurredion of life ; and they that have done evil, unto tlie
¦'•esurredion of damnation.
Who shall stand in that day? Whose works are good enough to
stand the fire of God's judgment? No one, unless all his actions
be sprinkled with Christ's Blood. And if the righteous scarcely
can be saved, where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?
What will become of those who lived for their own pleasure, and
did nothing all their life long to glorify God ! Lord, set me then
in the happy company of Thy servants, not in the hopeless com
pany of those who have found out the truth too late.
30. / can of mine own self da nothing : as I hear, I judge :
and my judgment is just ; because I seek not mine own will,
but the will of the Father which hath sent me.
He is our Master and Judge, for this reason above all that He in all
things obeyed His Father and submitted His own will and judg
ment to His. Lord, in Thy obedience I read a lesson for myself.
When I seek my own will, and judge hastily according to my fancy,
I go wrong. Let me be careful to hearken to God's voice, as His
dear Son did.
31. If I bear witness of myself , my witness is not true.

538 John is a Witness of Christ. [S. John V.
The Jews refused to hear Jesus in His own cause and said that He
could not bear witness of Himself. How much less able are we
to recommend ourselves ! It is a good rule not to talk about one
self either for praise or blame, except duty obliges us to speak.
Most words that we say about our own conduct are needless and
spring from pride. Anyhow let us not talk of ourselves without
prayer and consideration, and then very briefly.
32. IT There is another that bear eth witness of me ; and I
know that the witness which he witnesseth of me is true.
When the Lord Jesus came into the world His heavenly Father pro
vided witnesses for Him in many ways. Earnest souls, who looked
for a Redeemer and felt their burden and longed for light, were
drawn to Him by what they saw, or heard, or read. The witness
was God's, but it came in many ways and by degrees, and at last
wrought full conviction in them. So it is now. Let us receive
the witness and become ourselves witnesses in turn.
33. Ye sent unto John, and he bare witness unto the truth.
34. But I receive not testimony from man : but these things I
say, that ye might be saved.
They could not see that God was speaking. His voice did not reach
them. So our Saviour bade them remember what John the Baptist
had said. Tliere was a witness who told the Jews Who Jesus was.
John the Baptist's whole business was to bear witness to the truth.
He did not care for flattery or favour, but told kings, and Pharisees,
and soldiers, and men of the world what was the message for each
of them.
35. He was a burning and a shining light: and ye were
willing for a season to rejoice in his light.
It is easy to rejoice in religious privileges and the teaching and friend
ship of God's servants. His Word is full of light and comfort.
But more is wanted than that. The light is sent for us to guide
our steps and finish our work by. While we have opportunities
let us profit by them. Perhaps the time of darkness may be com
ing when these means will fail us. Do not merely rejoice in holy
words, but follow their bidding.
36. IT But I have greater witness than that of John : for the
works which tlie Father hath given me to finish, the same works
that I do, bear witness of me, tliat tlie Father hath sent me.
In Thy works, O Lord, I recognise a Divine power, a tender mercy,
a wisdom and fitness which reveal Thy true character. They
declare to us God caring for men, our infirmities and weakness felt
for and removed by His hand. They were done in Jud:ea and
long ago, but when I read of them I recognise the same Saviour
Whose goodness I too have experienced. He heals my soul and
gives me life, as He did to sufferers and sinners long ago.

Ver. 43.] Scripture zcntnesses of Christ. 539
37. And the Fatlier himself, which hath sent me, hath borne
witness of me. Ye have ndther heard his voice at any time, nor
seen his shape.
God does not speak in an actual voice or appear in a visible shape.
Faith alone can hear and see Him. Faith looks out for com
munications from Him. Let me set aside a quiet time for my
prayers, when God can speak to my heart and I can listen to His
voice. The world does not see or hear Him, as it is taken up with
its own busy ways.
38. And ye have not his word abiding in you : for whom he
hath sent, him ye believe not.
What profit is the Word preached or written unless it abides within
and finds a resting-place there ? This is what we need, not a pass
ing impression or apprehension, but God's Spirit enthroned within
to teach us. I want not only a Bible in my house, but God's com
mandments written in my heart.
39. 11 Search the scriptures ; for in them ye think ye have
eternal life : and they are they which testify of me.
The Scripture is like a mine whence we can dig gold and jewels.
Yet labour and prayer on our part is required. Some there are
who get nothing thence but rubbish. They dispute about Scripture,
and boast that they know it, but it does not make them disciples of
the lowly Jesus. Lord, let my Scripture studies be diligent and
fruitful, and draw me nearer to Thee.
40. And ye will not come to me, that ye might have life.
Will not the burdened heart accept this tender invitation? Jesus
regrets that any should stand aloof from Him. He offers them life
for their souls if they will have it. This is the purpose of His
coming, to raise them from death to life. But they will not hear.
He does not seek to bind us with heavy chains, but to give us true
freedom, peace, and joy.
41. I receive not honour from men. 42. But I know you,
that ye have not the love of God in you.
The Son of God earnestly desired men to believe on Him. But this
is not for His honour. He is seeking only our salvation. His
glory does not depend on us, but we on Him. Again, the Jews
spoke of God, observed His ceremonies, made their boast in Him ;
but this was not out of true love, they sought only their own
credit. It flattered them to feel that they were the chosen people.
Let us follow Him and take warning by them. Not men's praise
but God's love is the lasting possession.
43. I am come in my Father's name, and ye receive me not:
if another shall come in his own name, him ye will receive.
God keep us from being misled by false guides who come in their own
name, trusting to their ready speech or powers of mind, and lead

540 Moses wrote of Christ. [S. John VI.
souls away from the old path in which the Church walks. Let us
receive into our hearts the Son of God, and so have no room there
for the false teachers of modern days. If we are friends with Him
we shall give no heed to them.
44. How can ye believe, which receive honour one of another,
and, seek not the honour tliat cometh from God only ?
This word pierces to our hearts and shows us ourselves. We cannot
be true believers if we live for men's praise, if we flatter and seek
for flattery. That disposition which leads us in religious matters
to lavish praise on our own party and rejoice in their praises of us
will never lead us to the feet of Jesus. He bids us be content to
be nothing. He emptied Himself of His glory.
45. Do not think that I will accuse you to the Father : there
is one that accuseth you, even Moses, in whom ye trust.
They made their boast of the Bible, numbered its letters, treated it
with superstitious reverence ; yet the saints who wrote it con
demned their hypocrisy. Scripture was turned into an idol and so
its lessons of love went unheeded. Is not this our case ? We trust «
in it, but refuse to follow its teaching. Some professors of religion
will find at the last day that all their privileges have turned to so
many charges against them.
46. For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed me :
for he wrote of me.
A true Jew should become a true Christian. The spirit of the two
covenants is the same. A sense of sin, a law of love, a holy God,
a spiritual brotherhood, purity carefully guarded or mercifully
bestowed, such were lessons taught in the Old Testament, and
they led him who learned them aright into the full catholic faith.
The Old Testament is full of Christ, not always in the outward
letter, but in the yearnings of spirit and revelations of holiness
which it records. We see there God preparing the way for His
Son's message.
47. But if ye believe not his writings, how sliall ye believe
my words ?
The spirit which rejects the two covenants is also the same. In
Moses' law God gave His people a revelation of duty, of purity,
of prayer, of brotherly love. What a light was Moses' law amidst
a darkened world ! and those who despise it or regard only its
outward observances will never go on to find in the Lord Jesus the
satisfaction of all that their soul needs. In Christ's words all comes
true that Moses sought after, and prayed for, and wrote down.
He rescues us from a worse Egypt and conducts us to a better
Canaan.

Ver. 5.] A Passover draws nigh. 541

CHAPTER VI.
x. Christ feedeth five thousand men with five loaves and two fishes. 15.
Thereupon the people would have made him king. 16. But with
drawing himself, he walked on the sea to his disciples : 26. reproveth
the people flocking after him, and all the fleshly hearers of his word :
32. dedareth himself to be the bread of life to believers. 66. Many
disciples depart from him. 68. Peter confesseth him. 70. Judas is
a devil.
AFTER these things Jesus went over tlie sea of Galilee, which
Xi. is the sea of Tiberias. 2. And a great multitude followed
him, because they saw his miracles which he did on them that
were diseased.
Jesus was hindered by His enemies from going to Jerusalem, but
He found in Galilee ample opportunity to do good and teach.
Wherever He was He was always about His Father's business,
in one place as much as in another. We cannot now see Him with
our bodily eyes, yet we can follow His footsteps by faith, adoring
the power and mercy which marked them. He has done wonders
for bodies and for souls. Are not our infirmities too within the
reach of His merciful hand ?
3. And Jesus went up into a mountain, and there he sal with
his disdples.
The holy company had gone up there for a little quiet, but it was
soon broken in upon by crowds of people full of their own troubles.
Jesus and His friends had to give up their own ease to minister to
the distressed. How the disciples must have looked back long
afterwards to their conversations with their Master ! How soon
they went, those precious moments 1 how sweet was the recollec
tion of them ! Lord, grant me some quiet moments with Thee
even amidst the world's bustle.
4. And the passover, a feast of the Jews, was nigh
Our Lord could not keep that Passover in Jerusalem, but He made
a feast in the desert for faithful souls. The Jewish Passover
was soon now to disappear, and to make way for the Holy
Communion, which brings to mind a greater deliverance than that
from Egypt. Not once a year only, but frequently we are invited
to keep with prepared heart that Holy Feast, which is the Christian
Passover.
5. 11 When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great
company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we
buy bread, that these may eat ?
We must not distrust His mercy. He can provide for the needy.

542 The Boy with the Five Loaves. [S. John VI.
Yet our brethren's needs should be a subject of compassioii for us.
God has intrusted us with means for them. How many there are
who are sore in need both of earthly comforts and of heavenly
food ! May God open our hearts to supply them as we are able.
6. And this he said to prove him : for he'himself knew what
he would do.
God tries us so that we may feel our own nothingness and the
greatness of His power. Whence shall I obtain wisdom to teach,
grace to comfort or be comforted, strength to resist evil?
Lord, I cast myself on Thy mercy, Thou knowest me, and how to
help me.
7. Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread
is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a
little. Human means are lacking, but God's power does not depend on
them. When a task is set before us we should consider not
merely our own capacity, but the infinite power and goodness of
our Master. In ourselves we are nothing, and can do nothing to
satisfy hungry souls, yet there is One with us Who can suffice for all
needs. The feeling of our own heart drives us to rely on Him.
8. One of his disdples, Andrew, Simon Peter's brother, saith
unto him, 9. There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves,
and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
This boy's basket was chosen by our Lord and made the material of
so great a miracle. God does not despise the humblest soul or
the least offering. Let us bring our dear boys and girls now to
God, and pray Him to accept their imperfect prayers and kindle
some true devotion in their hearts. God Who is praised by choirs
of angels, yet listens to a child's prayer and accepts his alms or
self-denial.
10. And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there
was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number
about five thousand.
There was no supper prepared, and no means of providing any as far
as human reason could judge ; yet the disciples obeyed their
Master, and trusted to His power, and arranged the guests in order.
No one doubted or questioned. All waited upon His bounty,
believing that He would provide for them. I desire such a faith
as this, that will obey God's disposition of me readily, and wait
silently in peace and full hope for His blessing to come.
11. And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given
thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disdples to them
that were set down ; and likewise of the fishes as much as they
would.

Ver. 15.] Fragments gathered. 543
If the Son of God gave thanks to His Father for these and all His
mercies, shall we lightly omit the same good practice ? All our
meals should be occasions of thanksgiving. It is good to be
reminded of God's mercies and reverently thank Him for them.
The guests had as much as they would, the heavenly supply was
determined by what appetite they brought. So it is with us when
we come to the Holy Table ; some receive much blessing there,
others but little, according to the greater or less desire and prepara
tion with which they draw near.
1 2. When they were filled, he said unto his disdples, Gather
up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.
There must be no waste. We are but God's servants trusted with the
care of His gifts. Those who live luxuriously, and throw away
their money and tlieir time, and indulge their appetite, have a
grave account to give. Here are so many needy souls round us
waiting for what we can spare. Let us thank God for supplying
our needs, and take care to bear theirs in mind. And the same
advice holds in spiritual things. After a book read or a sermon
heard there are wholesome fragments we must gather up and not
lose.
13. Therefore they gatlier ed them together, and filled twelve
baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which
remained over and above unto them that had eaten.
This is a figure of true charity, which reaps a reward for all its
sacrifices. The Lord and His little company had given away all
the food they had, and behold now they have more left than there
was to begin with. Let us thank Him when He calls us to supply
the bodily or spiritual needs of our brethren. Our resources are
small, yet He is all-merciful and almighty.
14. Then tlwse men, when they had seen the miracle that
Jesus did, said, This is of a truth tliat prophet that should come
into the world.
He must be a messenger from God. He has supplied our needs.
He has told us our hearts' secrets. 1 too can speak thus. I have
so often been fed at Christ's Table, taught by His Word,
recognised the signs and prophecies that meet in Him. Why is it
that the great Prophet finds me so slow a hearer, so lukewarm a
disciple ?
15. IT When Jesus therefore perceived that they would come
and take him by force, to make him a king, he departed again
into a mountain himself alone.
Jesus refused such a kingdom as this. He would not win souls by
earthly arms or earthly gifts. He did not interfere with the powers
established in this world. He took refuge in silence and prayer
when such invitations were brought before Him. Yet He is indeed
a King and we His subjects. When we are alone and quiet, as He

544 Jesus is recognised. [S. John VI.

was that night, we see His true majesty and our duty as His
subjects. Earthly crowns are soon gone, but the kingdom of Jesus
lasts on.
1 6. And wlien even was now come, his disdples went down
unto the sea, 1 7. and entered into a ship, and went over the sea
toward Capernaum. And it was now dark, and Jesus was not
come to them.
They were alone and in darkness, their Master seemed to have for
gotten them, the voyage was long and difficult. Here we find a
picture of ourselves. In seasons of temptation dark and lonely hours
come. Our way is hard to find. Our faith is overcast. Let us
at such times keep on patiently, and never give up prayer. In His
own good time Jesus will appear, and bring daylight and peace with
Him.
1 8. And tlie sea arose by reason of a great wind that blew.
Deadly temptations assail us. It is hard to hold to our faith amidst the
scoffs of unbelievers, or to purity when the flesh and the devil
entice us. What great storms arise around a young Christian when
he starts in life ! How hard it is for him to keep a straight course!
No strength except from above can enable him to persevere.
19. So when they had rowed about five and twenty or thirty
furlongs, they see Jesus walking on the sea, and drawing nigh
unto the ship ; and they were afraid.
This is the trial of faith. Jesus appears, full of power and mercy, but
we scarcely dare to trust Him. We suspect some delusion in His
words. He comes to bring joy and victory, but we cannot make up
our minds to believe. Lord, help such souls; make them see Thy
presence, take Thy side, lose all their doubts in the light of Thy "
mercy.
20. But he saith unto them, It is I ; be not afraid.
What is man ? only weakness in temptation, and darkness under trial ;
but there is One Who is mighty to save. This word is one of
power, it removes all doubts and calms all fear. It tells us of One
Who is our Friend, and can bring us safe through all. Speak thus,
Lord, to my heart when the world seems strong ; teach me that
Thou art still victorious.
21. Then they willingly recdved him into tlie ship: and
immediately the ship was at the land whither tliey went.
Here is a change, from loneliness to the society of their heavenly
Friend, from the rough sea to the quiet harbour, from toil to rest.
We too desire earnestly to arrive at that good land. Christ can
prepare us for it ; even though there seems much to be done, yet
heavenly Power can accomplish much in a short time. Let us
only be wiUing to receive Him and do His bidding, and He will
bring us into the haven where we would be.

Ver. 27.] The Meat which perishes. 545
22. U The day following, when the people which stood on the
other dde of the sea saw that there was none other boat there,
save that one whereinto his disdples were entered, and that Jesus
went not with his disdples into the boat, but that his disdples
were gone away alone ;
No other boat had come, and yet He was gone. They desired to see
more of Him, and feel the effects of His bounty again. Who else
could supply their wants so easily ? So they searched in vain for
some traces of Him. Let us be as watchful, but for a higher
motive. His presence should be dear to us, as that of a Saviour
and Guide.
23. (Howbdt there came other boats from Tiberias nigh unto
the place where they did eat bread, after that the Lord had
given thanks :) 24. when the people therefore saw that Jesus
was not there, ndther his disdples, they also took shipping, and
came to Capernaum, seeking for Jesus.
They entered the boats and crossed over to find Jesus. What pains
people take for a little worldly profit ! how cold they are when
spiritual riches are in question ! How hard for them to rise early and
come to the Lord's Table or study His Divine Word ! How little
interest matters of religion are to them compared with the market
and the shop ! Let the children of light take a lesson from the
worldly minded. They need to seek God's gifts as diligently as
some do the world's.
25. And when they had found him on the other side of the
sea, they said unto him, Rabbi, when earnest thou hither ?
Our Lord does not answer this unprofitable question, He does not tell
them of His marvellous journey across the waves of the sea. They
were amazed to find that He had got to shore before them by some
means they knew not. But He is silent about His own doings, and
begins at once to teach them what they really needed to learn.
26. Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto
you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye
did eat of the loaves, and were filled.
They cared not for the signs of a heavenly Messenger, but for the
liberal doings of a bountiful Friend. That was all they noticed in
Jesus Christ Those whose religion is merely a means of getting
rewards, or pleasing earthly friends, or keeping well with the
world, are like these people. They do not hunger and thirst after
righteousness, they have no foretaste of heaven. Their hearts
grovel on the ground. We must learn to rise above such motives,
and seek Christ for Himself, and ask Him to give us heavenly gifts.
27. Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that
meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man
shall give unto you : for him hath God, the Father sealed.
2 M

546 Manna in the Desert. [S. John VI.
We must work for earthly food. Our life needs to be sustained from
day to day. Yes. But is there not in us the need of something
better ? Who will fill our souls with peace and love and purity,
and our inquiring minds with truth, and supply our losses with an
unfailing friendship ? This life is soon over, and then no more need
of literal food and drink; but the undying soul lives on, and needs
nourishment suited to it all through eternity.
28. Then said they unto him, What shall we do, that we
might work the works of God ?
They asked what they should do to earn this heavenly food. Alas!
this is beyond human power. We cannot earn heaven by our own
deservings. Our highest sacrifices, our best works, our most devout
prayers are poor and worthless. It needs Divine mercy to pardon
and accept them. Do Thou, O Lord, work in us what is pleasing
to Thee.
29. Jesus answered and said unto them, This is the work of
God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.
This is the one only means of life. All our own works are worthless
without this. God has set forth His Son as the Saviour of the
world, and it is for us to give up ourselves to believe in this Divine
Gift, and obey this Divine Master. Yet only God can accomplish
this in us. When will this work in me be fully done, and my
whole heart brought into obedience to my Lord and Saviour?
30. They said therefore' unto him, What sign shewest thou
then, that we may see, and believe thee ? what dost thou work ?
Yet - He had done so many marvels for them already. How blind
and how foolish of them to ask for yet more ! What is this but a
figure of the conduct of unbelievers ? They see before them Christ's
work, they enjoy His gifts, they see that He has changed the
world, brought life out of death, supported countless souls, yet
they turn aside and refuse to take Him for their Saviour.
31. Our fathers did eat manna in the desert ; as it is written,
He gave them bread from heaven to eat ?
Their minds still ran on earthly food. Moses, they said, fed so many
thousands daily during the desert journey. What sign could Jesus
work that could equal that? They forgot what Moses had done to
reveal God, and declare the law, and establish a spiritual worship,
and lead men towards a Redeemer to come. All they thought of
was the bodily food. In reading Moses' law and the Old Testa-
rhent generally, we must look below the surface and see how God
manifested Himself.
32. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto
you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father
giveth you the true bread from heaven.
It was not Moses but God Who gave the bread of old. It was not

Ver. 37.] The Bread of Life. 547
 —— —  <
the heavenly Bread, but perishing earthly substance that was given.
Look to your Father's infinite goodness and power, and you will
see that He must have some gift suited to the needs of man's soul.
We are wanderers in the desert, we need light and strength day by
day. Shall we not day by day go to our Father and ask Him for
this gift ?
33. For the bread of God is he which cometh down from
heaven, and giveth life unto the world.
This is the food of life for soul here and body hereafter. It is not for
some only, but for all. Every character, every age, every nation
can find here what they need. Lord, guide hither those souls that
wander in darkness and faint for want of the true light. Grant
that we who have found it may enjoy and profit by it more and
more.
34. Then said they unto him, Lord, evermore give us this
bread. This prayer must be ours in a good sense. Not in the sense of those
who expected the manna to be literally renewed to meet their
bodily wants. Lord, day by day give us this strength, this comfort,
this hope which Thou alone hast to give. We have the world's
trials to go through, how shall we do except we are sustained by
Thee?
35. And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he
that cometh to me shall never hunger ; and he that believeth on
me shall never thirst.
The soul is no more powerless or despairing, for it has found a
Friend. The time is gone when the weak will sought in vain for
power to lead a new life, and the afflicted heart for some true
comfort when oppressed by shame and loss. Here is One Who has
all gifts. No one is disappointed who makes trial of Him. All
these many years He has been the Friend of suffering mankind, and
His heart is still wide enough for all.
36. But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and
believe not.
Not His preaching, nor His miracles, nor His bodily presence could
make people believe. They had all this, and yet got no good by it.
He must«peak to the inward ear, work marvels in the heart, come
there by His grace before we can be His true disciples. We do
not see Him now with bodily eyes, but faith can see and adore
Him. It is no loss to us that we did not meet Him in His earthly
life.
37. All tliat the Father givdh me shall come to me; and
him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.
What a great gift, to be drawn by God to love His Son I And what
a great promise, to be welcomed and cherished by the Lord Jesus !

548 God's Will for our Salvation. [S. John VI.
His charity is wider than ours. Many whom we do not acknow
ledge find a welcome from Him. He is most ready to receive and
willing to pardon all who turn to Him. In time of doubt I will
take my stand on this comfortable verse and strengthen my weak
faith by it.
38. For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will,
but the will of him that sent me.
This is a noble rule for us. It applies to all our life. Let us say in
everything, God put me here not to please myself but to do His
will. I have not to please my vanity or my appetite, or to have
all things just as I wish, but to follow my Master's plain orders.
Talents, and money, and time are intrusted to me to use only as He
bids me.
39. And this is the Father's will which hath sent me, that of
all which he hath given me I should lose nothing, but should
raise it up again at the last day.
Our Saviour is stronger than all that are against us, He gives us
life here and eternal life hereafter. What shall we fear? His
almighty hand holds us up against all temptations, and will one
day set us in everlasting joy. We are encouraged by this verse to
trust God with our dear ones when they leave us and go out into
the world, or when they die. They still belong to Jesus either in
life or death.
40. And this is tlie will of him that sent me, that every one
which seeth the Son, and believeth on him, may have everlasting
life : and I will raise him up at the last day.
This is a brief account of Gospel history. God's Son presenting
Himself to men, and those who saw and heard Him with faith
finding a great spiritual change in themselves, a share of heavenly
life, and this being but a pledge of something better to come. I
cannot see Him with bodily eyes, but I behold Him by faith. I
too claim this promise here and hereafter. My will is frail, but
God's holy will for my salvation stands sure.
41. The Jews then murmured at him, because he said, I am
the bread which came down from heaven.
The best preachers cannot please all. Indeed God's Word, if it is
truly preached, is sure to find some gainsayers. Let this be a
comfort to those who are reviled or suspected for preaching God's
truth. The Lord Jesus was never restrained by fear of men. He
gave them His heavenly Father's message without fear or favour.
42. And they said, Is not this Jesus, the son of Joseph, whose
father and mother we know ? how is it then that he saith, I came
down from heaven ?
His humble birth, His kindred, His living a common life amongst
men, all these were hindrances to these doubters' faith. We are

Ver. 47.] God's Invisible Teaching. 549
enabled to see that all these were the very glory of His Incarnation.
He came and lived here as the carpenter's Son, He had a mother
and friends, He shed tears and rejoiced with us. This is God's
own way of winning our hearts.
43. Jesus therefore answered and said unto them, Murmur
not among yourselves. 44. No man can come to me, except the
Fatlier which hath sent me draw him : and I will raise him up
at the last day.
None could accept Christ unless God had spoken to their hearts, had
put there a love for truth, a sense of sin, a hatred of self and wish
to be better, unless He had guided them to the Scriptures and
made them see the figure of Jesus there. Those who had not
these thoughts listened with careless and deaf ears to the great
Teacher. But those who had ever so little of that guidance came
to Jesus and found that He had the key to all they had pondered
over before. Lord, draw me with Thy love, that I may rejoice to
find in Thee better pleasures than the world can give, life here and
immortal life hereafter.
45. It is written in the prophets, And they shall be all taught
of God. Every man therefore that hath heard, and hath learned
of the Father, cometh unto me.
God keeps a school. All true believers have been His pupils. He
has taught them about themselves, and the world, and death, and
immortality. He has made them see what to live for, and how to
die. And these deep lessons have made them throw in their lot
with Jesus Christ. What a wise Teacher? what happy pupils !
God grant that I too may be of their number, and come every day
to learn from my heavenly Father. In this school the simple and
childlike get on the fastest.
46. Not that any man hath seen the Father, save he which is
of God, he hath seen the Father.
God's teaching goes on in secret. Our senses cannot detect Him.
His light shines ou the soul, not on the bodily eyes. We cannot
certainly tell who are God's obedient children. His ways are
beyond our comprehension. But God's Son knows all things. He
sees God and man, He has the key to all mysteries. Lord Jesus, I
acknowledge Thy Divine glory. Thou canst tell me of deeper and
higher things than earthly teachers know of. God has led me to
Thee to find an answer to all my questionings.
47. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believdh on me
hath everlasting life.
Everlasting life has begun. Faith and love enjoy it now. They
have here the firstfraits of what will one day be gloriously revealed.
If Jesus dwells in our hearts we have heaven already ; mixed
indeed with temptation and sorrow, often overcast for a while, but
still deeply cherished. We will never let this faith go, while we
have it our souls live. What would become of us if we lost it?

SSo Christ's Flesh and Blood. [S. John VI.
48. / am that bread of life.
Hungry souls can take it and be satisfied. Dying souls can take
it and not fear death. Whence is that mighty power which the
Lord Jesus has had in every age to strengthen and refresh
mankind ? Men and angels wait upon Him, and He gives them
life.
49. Your fathers did eat manna in the wilderness, and are
dead. 50. This is the bread which cometh down from heaven,
that a man may eat thereof, and not die.
The Israelites had a daily supply of manna to sustain them through
their desert journey ; but that is long ago passed away. Christians
have something better, a food which does not spoil, or waste, or
come to an end, or weary the partaker ; a food which helps us to
overcome our enemies, and bear up against trials, and pass through
Jordan safely. When this wilderness is passed we shall still
delight in it in our home.
51. I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if
any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever : and the bread
that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the
world. Christ's death is our life. He gave Himself once for all on the
Cross, and we remember and profit by this one saving death when
we come to the Lord's Table. His death gives us a share in a new
life that is better than our mere earthly life. Let us eat this life-
giving Bread by remembrance of Christ's Passion, and love of His
Word, and communion at His Table.
52. The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How
can this man give us his flesh to eat ?
This question has often been asked since. Let our choice be to believe
rather than dispute. His power and goodness have no limit He
can join us to Himself in many ways. Yet all .this must be taken
spiritually. It is not only our bodies but our souls that He feeds ;
they must be ready for and in need of this meal.
53. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto
you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his
blood, ye have no life in you.
The Jews were delivered from the destroyer when they ate the flesh
and sprinkled the blood of the Passover lamb. Christians find a
greater deliverance in that Body that was given and that Blood
that was shed on the Cross. Apart from that Sacrifice what can we
find of peace, or hope, or pardon ? Glory be to Jesus for having
died to give us life !
54. Wlioso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath
eternal life ; and I will raise him up at the last day.

Ver. 59.] Spiritual Partaking. 551
Here is a gift. Life now and for ever. The heart quickened now
and the body one day to be glorified. And all this by eating
Christ's Flesh and drinking His Blood. My Saviour offers Him
self to me, and bids me eat. When I remember thus with faith
His gracious Passion I take this heavenly food.
55. For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink
indeed. What can strengthen me like the words of Jesus, what comfort me
like His sufferings ? Earthly meat and drink sustain my body for
a few hours, but faith in Christ crucified builds up my soul to live
for ever. Alas for those poor souls who have never been drawn
near to Christ ! they miss the best help and truest joy.
56. He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth
in me, and I in him.
When I come to the Holy Table I will bear in mind this promise.
My wish is, on coming there, to lose myself and find my Saviour.
I want to lay aside my own vanity and folly and weakness, and to
find instead the peace and holiness which Christ has. I seek Him
and abhor myself. If He will grant me His presence I shall
return a different person, carrying within me a gift of strength.
57. As the living Father hath sent me, and I live by the
Father : so he that eateth me, even lie shall live by me.
What high designs God has for believers ! Even on earth He gives
them a share of heavenly life, and what will He not do for them
in eternity ! Bodily life is a wonderful thing, and hard to be under
stood, but the life of the spirit which God feeds and. quickens is
more mysterious still. God has revealed Himself in one Man only,
but it was that all men might believe on that One and find God in
Him.
58. This is that bread which came down from heaven: not
as your fathers did eat manna, and are dead : he that eateth
of this bread shall live for ever.
Let us take this Bread and live by it. He that refuses it chooses
death. God has given it to us for our pardon and comfort and
strength here, and for a joyful resurrection of soul and body here
after. Faith is the hand that we stretch out to take it. The
Gospel and the Sacraments present it to us. God's Spirit enables
us to digest it. Praise be to God for His mercy in helping us in
our pilgrimage and promising us a home at the end of it.
59. These things said he in the synagogue, as he taught in
Capernaum. Was not this the synagogue which the faithful centurion built in order
to show his love for God's people ? What wonderful mysteries
must have been revealed within its walls ! No preacher can speak
of God, and heaven, and love, as Jesus Christ did. And yet some

552 Hard Sayings, yet full of Life. [S. John VI.
hearers did not profit by it. Such great words as His fell to no
purpose on unprepared hearts. But the simple can come to Him
now as of old, and learn the lessons of salvation.
60. Many therefore of his disdples, when they had heard
this, said, This is an hard saying ; who can hear it ?
All Christ's words are not plain, nor all His commands easy. The
Christian must make up his mind to submit to what is too high for
him. My Master has spoken thus. I do not yet fully understand
it ; I cannot yet thoroughly perform it ; but I trust Him entirely,
and will do my best to obey. When His words seem hard to me
I pray for more light to see their true meaning.
61. When Jesus knew in himself that his disciples murmured
at it, he said unto them, Doth this offend you ?
Shall we complain of being misunderstood ? Here are Christ's own
friends murmuring at Him, and offended at what He has been saying.
9o long as this world lasts there will be disputes and difficulties,
even the Church has her troubles that perplex her. But they are
cleared up in the end for loving hearts. With so much that is
plain we can wait patiently for God to draw up the veil completely.
62. What and if ye shall see the Son of man ascend up where
he was before ?
The Lord's Ascension shows us that His Body was a heavenly one.
It could not in a material sense be eaten by us. But from its seat
in heaven it is spiritually imparted by grace and efficacy to our
souls here below. He ascended to finish His work, take His glory
again, and be the Giver of life to all men. If His humiliation
offends us, let us lift up our thoughts to His majesty.
63. It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profitdh
nothing : the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and
tliey are life.
Lord, how can Thy Flesh profit nothing when Thou hast said whoso
eateth it hath eternal life? It profits us nothing unless the Holy
Spirit quickens our hearts. Then we can feed'on Christ with profit,
then our souls are nourished by His life and death. We must
come with faith, considering not only His human nature, or the
humble elements which are signs of His presence, but His Divine
power. His promise stands sure to give us healing and life.
64. But there are some of you that believe not. For Jesus
knew from the beginning who they were that believed not, and
who should betray him.
O great Searcher of hearts, Thou seest now among professing believers
some who will make shipwreck of true faith, and others who will
betray Thee by deadly sin. Such may be my own case for aught
I know. Lord, I know my own weakness, I cannot keep myself

Ver. 69.] Many Disciples go back. 553
from falling away. I cast myself wholly on Thy Divine mercy,
beseeching Thee to keep me from ruin. Thou didst bear patiently
these false disciples, and leave no means untried to win them.
65. And he said, Therefore said I unto you, that no man
can come unto me, except it were given unto him of my Father.
Here is a great mystery. Faith is a gift of God, and given in answer
to prayer. There are some to whom God does not give this gift
Those who have it should rejoice with trembling ; those who
have it not should pray God earnestly for it. It is a Divine light,
a guidance from on high, a sense of the power and sweetness of
religion, that only God can give. What can we do without this
gift?
66. IT From that time many of his disdples went back, and
walked no more with him.
False disciples went away. They found Christ's words too deep and
His requirements too hard. They went back to their old callings,
and forgot what they had seen and heard with Him. He bade
them accept heavenly mysteries, but their faith was not strong
enough. True disciples stopped on. They could not wholly
understand the words, but they believed in, loved, and obeyed the
Speaker, and followed wherever He led. On which side are we?
67. Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away?
Christ addresses these words to us. He reminds us of all the mercies
we have enjoyed, all the marvels we have learned, while in His
company. He asks whether we mean to be His disciples or go
back to the world again. We have the terrible power of leaving
Him, if we will. We can choose vanity, and sin, and despair in
His place. Lord, do not let us go. We desire earnestly to remain
Thine for ever.
68. Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall
we go ? thou hast tlie words of eternal life.
This is a good reason for being a believer. No one else can teach us
like Jesus does how to live here, and also give us the promise of
living for ever hereafter. His words throw a light even on the
grave, and enable us to die without fear. All wise words, and clever
books, and amusing tales are profitless study compared with the life-
giving words of the Lord Jesus.
69. And we believe and are sure that thou art tliat Christ,
the Son of the living, God.
Others may desert Him, but we will remain stedfast Long ago He
spoke to our hearts, and we acknowledged Him to be the Saviour.
Henceforward no difficulties, no scoffs, no temptations, shall be
strong enough to make us deny Him. Glory be to God for this
great gift of faith ! We entreat Him Who has of His mercy given
us this saving faith to preserve us in it till the end.

"554 The Feast of Tabernacles. [S. John VII.
70. Jesus answered them, Have not I chosen you twelve, and
one of you is a devil?
What a call, and yet what a fall ! He who was the chosen friend and
minister of the Lord Jesus turned out a hypocrite and a thief, and
last of all betrayed his Master. We cannot trust in a holy calling,
or in opportunities of grace, or the good opinion of men. Judas
had all these. We can only distrust ourselves and lean on a Divine
Hand that is stretched out to help us when danger is near.
71. He spake of Judas Iscariot the son of Simon : for he it
was that should bdray him, being one of the twelve.
These words must have pierced to Judas' heart ; and yet he shook
off the impression and went on as before. No one, save his Master
only, knew what was wrong with him. He had many warnings,
and perhaps at times meant to do right; but still he could not
give up his cherished sin of covetousness. Lord, I am Thy
disciple now. If I am on the downward road and yet know it not,
speak to my conscience, awaken me to repent and believe before I
fall into utter ruin.

CHAPTER VII.
1. Jesus reproveth the ambition and boldness of his kinsmen : 10. goeth up
from Galilee to the feast of tabernacles : 14. teacheth in the temple.
40. Divers opinions of him among the people. 45. The Pharisees
are angry that their officers took him not, and chide with Nicodemus
for taking his part.
A FTER these things Jesus walked in Galilee : for he would
Xi not walk in Jewry, because the Jews sought to kill him.
The Lord Jesus found means of doing good in one place when He
could not in another. He spent His mercy and grace on the
people of Galilee, as Jerusalem was closed against Him. How
strange that such a person should be hated, and suspected of
blasphemy, and thought worthy to die ! What insane folly of the
Jews 1 Yet we are as ready to find fault as they were, and often
with as little reason. Nothing is easier than to suspect others of
evil.
2. Now the Jews' feast of tabernacles was at hand.
The Feast of Tabernacles reminded the Jews how their fathers had
dwelt in tents during the desert journey. They put up huts to
represent the tents, they poured out water to be like that from the
smitten rock, and lighted great lamps in remembrance of the pillar
of fire. How can we thank God enough for His constant protec
tion through life's journey, for the refreshment and the light which

Ver. 9.] Christ's Brethren advise Him. 555
He gives us, and for His promise of a land of rest at the end ! Our
pilgrimage is full of proofs of His mercy. What will not the land
be when we come to it ?
3. His brdhren therefore said unto him, Depart hence, and
go into Judcea, that thy disdples also may see the works that
tlvou doest. 4. For there is no man that doeth any thing in
secret, and he himself seeketh to be known openly. If thou do
these things, shew thyself to the world.
This advice of Jesus' kinsfolk is often repeated in our ears by self-
conceit and foolish friends. They say, " Your talents find no sphere
here. You are riot enough thought of or considered. You ought
to be more known, get more money, be more in society. Here
you are almost buried, and quite thrown away." Lord, when such
thoughts come before us give us grace to reply that an honest and
quiet life and one's plain duty done are sufficient We are content
to remain where Thou hast placed us till Thy will is clear for our
making a change. Anyhow let not vanity be our motive, or we
shall have reason to repent.
5. For neither did his brethren believe in him.
This was the reason of their advice. They lacked faith. They saw
the Lord's great power, and desired that He should be glorified, but
they had no notion of His true plan. God's Word finding out
hearts, His grace strengthening our weakness, His love, His Divine
promises, these are the real strength of the Church, not this world's
wealth and honour.
6. Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come : but
your time is alway ready.
The true liberty is to follow God's will. To follow one's own inclin
ation is only slavery. If we look out for His orders we shall hear
them, and find our true happiness in obeying them. Lord, my
times are in Thy hand. I am ready to go or stay, succeed or fail,
live or die, as Thou appointest for me. This was Thy Son's plan,
and it is the best.
7. The world cannot hate you ; but me it hateth, because I
testify of it, that the works thereof are evil.
What a rebuke to many clergy, and other Christians too ! They are
on good terms with every one because they never blariie what is
wicked. They let every one go their own road and never wake
them from their dangerous peace. Lord, give Thy servants strength
to testify against sin. Waken those who are careless to see whither
they are going. It is impossible for us to warn sinners and yet
not offend them. Even Jesus Christ could not do this.
8. Go ye up unto this feast: I go not up yd unto this feast ;
for my time is not yet full come. 9. When he had said these
words unto them, he abode still in Galilee.

556 Christ hidden for a while. [S. John VII.
His turn to appear as the King of Israel did not come yet, nor the
Passover, which was the season for it. When Palm Sunday should
come He would be ready to enter His own city as its heavenly
King. How Jesus Christ joins together perfect peace with fervent,
untiring love ! He is always ready to save souls. He wearies
Himself with labour in doing good, yet He never loses His calm
ness. How can we learn this secret, to join together zealous labour
and patient waiting ? He Himself must teach us.
10. IT But when his brethren were gone up, then went he also
up unto the feast, not openly, but as it were in secret.
How different from those other occasions when He had been sur
rounded by admiring crowds ! Yet it mattered not to Him. He
was the same alone and in retirement as when the disciples pressed
round to hang on His words, full of grace, and truth, and peace.
The world might rage against Him, but He did not change.
n. Then' the Jews sought him at the feast, and said, Where
is he ?
In a Christian Church, at a Christian altar, there are still many who
seek Jesus and have not found Him. Some with a good intention,
desiring to find in Him a Friend, others only coming in mockery.
They doubt of His presence, and laugh at us for believing that His
eye is upon us. True seekers will surely find Him. Careless
ones pass Him by.
12. And there was much murmuring among the people con
cerning him : for some said, He is a good man : otliers said,
Nay ; but he deceiveth the people.
Some praised His acts of mercy, others were jealous of His power.
They could not understand what the spell was by which He spoke
to men's hearts. It would be a pity to depend wholly on the
changeable judgments of men. We should look to a surer Guide.
They may praise or blame, but we look to God's judgment.
13. Howbeit no man spake openly of him for fear of the
Jews. How strong is human respect ! It prevents our speaking out when
God's cause is in danger. We dare not stand up for truth or speak
openly of our God and His message. Lord, teach us to fear Thee
above all, and so we shall not be afraid of this world's threatenings.
Fear has ruined many. We need to pray for courage fftm above.
14. IT Now about the midst of the feast Jesus went up into
tlie temple, and taught.
In due time Christ appears in His Father's house, unfolding the new
law of love and the mysteries of the Old Testament. It was
indeed keeping the feast to listen to such a Teacher. Some
preachers merely please or amaze, but Jesus taught. His
sermons left men understanding better about God and themselves.
Let such a Teacher find good learners in us.

Ver. 20.] His Doctrine not His own. 557
15. And the Jews marvelled, saying, How knoweth this man
letters, having never learned ?
His command of the Scriptures, His power to unfold their depth, His
knowledge of man, whence came all this ? Who was the Prophet
of Nazareth, that He should speak to all humanity as He has done ?
We know the answer. We adore Him as the Searcher of our
hearts and Giver of all truth. Dead letters could do nothing until
Jesus came and gave them life.
16. Jesus answered them, and said, My dodrine is not mine,
but his that sent me.
A preacher who should foreake God's .instructions and follow his own
fancies would be like an ambassador who should invent a message
himself instead of giving what the king had intrusted to him. Our
Saviour was not thus. He gloried in being a faithful Messenger.
He delivered His Father's word faithfully, neither adding to it nor
taking away.
1 7. If any man will do his will, he shall know of the dodrine,
whether it be of God, or whether I speak of myself.
Here is God's own rule for finding out the truth. Do His will as far
as you know it, and He will lead you on farther. Follow the law
of right, that law which bids you be truthful and pure and
obedient, and God's Spirit will show you all the power of Jesus'
death. His hand is guiding you though you cannot see it yet. Be
faithful to obey that guidance and all will become clear. This is
a famous rule. Obey first, understand afterwards.
18. He that speaketh of himself seeketh his own glory: but
he that seeketh his glory that sent him, the same is true, and no
unrighteousness is in him.
That is the Scripture plan. All through the Book man is humbled
and God exalted. All true prophets have acted thus, and most of
all the Son of God Himself. Their motto has been, " God's glory,
not mine. " Let contempt, and shame, and obscurity be mine so long
as my Master is honoured. I seek His praise only and do not
care what men say of me.
19. Did not Moses give you the law, and yet none of you
keepeth the law ? Why go ye about to kill me ?
These Jews blamed our Saviour because He had broken the
ceremonial law by healing a man on the Sabbath day. And yet
they broke this same law on many occasions themselves. They
were so angry they even desired His death. Here is folly to set up
the shadow and leave the substance, to pretend a zeal for Moses'
law and forget Moses' spirit. It is easier to keep outward rales
than to obey the law of love from the heart.
20. The people answered and said, Thou hast a devil : wlio
goeth about to kill thee ?

558 Questions about Christ. [S. John VII.
If the Son of God was reviled shall we think it altogether strange
when hard things are said of us? Jesus met such reproaches
calmly. The harsh words of men mattered not to Him. We
should, after His pattern, accept angry words with patience, and not
lose our own temper. Our justification will come one day.
21. Jesus answered and said unto them, I have done one
work, and ye all marvel.
This was the healing of the sick man at the pool (which we read of
in chapter v.). Instead of adoring the power and mercy shown in
such a work the bystanders cried out with horror at the Sabbath
day being so employed. Let us take care lest our Sabbath become
a mere form like that of the Jews did. Those keep it best who are
most full of kindness, and peace, and goodwill, not those who
profess most strictness. It is God's day, and He sees with what
hearts we keep it.
22. Moses therefore gave unto you circumcision; (not because
it is of Moses, but of the fathers ¦) and ye on the sabbath day
drcumdse a man. 23. If a man on the sabbath day recdve
drcumcision, that the law of Moses should not be broken ; are
ye angry at me, because I have made a man every whit whole
on the sabbath day ?
The law of love lies deepest of all. Ordinances change and pass
away, but the inward law remains. The works of the Lord Jesus
and His saints must be tried by that rule, and they will be found to
stand the trial. We should, after His pattern, make our brethren
whole in soul and body, strengthening the soul with good counsel
and the body by merciful care. That is a Divine work, to show
mercy, one fit for Jesus' disciples.
24. Judge not according to the appearance, but judge right
eous judgment.
Our judgments are often rash, for we dc not see our brother's
heart or know his temptations. We pronounce hastily as the
matter first appears. God sees deeper than we do. He weighs
the intention. He knows all the circumstances. Let us not pass
judgment unless we are obliged to do so, and even then with
modesty and reserve.
25. Then said some of them of Jerusalem, Is not this he,
whom they seek to kill? 26. But, lo, he speakdh boldly, and
they say nothing unto him. Do the riders know indeed that
this is the very Christ ?
Christ spoke boldly, without fear of men. He knew that evil tongues
and unkind purposes are all overruled by God, and He bids His
servants do their duty without fear. Not what the world may say,
but what God says, should be our rule. If we have His message to
declare, we may be bold.

Ver. 32.] Humble Friends and Mighty Foes. 559
27. Howbdt we know this man whence he is : but when Christ
cometh, no man knowdh whence he is.
They thought there would be a great mystery about Christ when He
came. And behold here He was, known as the carpenter's Son,
brought up at Nazareth, living like other men. And so they
failed to see His Divine glory. Lord, open our eyes to under
stand Thy words rightly. Show us how to join together rightly
the passages which speak of Thy Son's glory and of His humility.
28. Then cried Jesus in the temple as he taught, saying, Ye
both know me, and ye know whence I am : and I am not come
of myself, but he that sent me is true, whom ye know not.
If they had really known Who and what He was they would have
discerned God speaking by Him. He came as a Messenger from
on high sent to speak to men from God. But hard hearts could
not feel and covetous eyes could not see. They professed to
worship God, but yet knew not His voice when He spoke.
29. But I know him : for I am from him, and he hath sent
me. Glory be to God for giving us such a Teacher ! He is no mere sage
or prophet, but God's own Son, born in eternity, and sent forth in
due time. Other teachers may go wrong, but this One cannot
deceive us. He speaks of God as One Who knows Him. No
one else can ever take the place of Jesus as the Divine Guide of
men.
30. Then they sought to take him : but no man laid hands
on him, because his hour was not yet come.
We are in God's hands. Nothing can come to us save by His
appointment. Our Master at one time overawed His enemies,
at another time He allowed Himself to be seized by them ; but
in either case He fulfilled His Father's will. Let us so do our
own appointed work here, that when our hour comes we may be
able to meet it.
3 1. And many of the people believed on him, and said, When
Christ cometh, will he do more miracles than these which this
man hath done ?
God chooses the poor and simple to make them rich in faith and
heirs of His kingdom. The humble heart is open to receive God's
message and adore the mighty works which are signs of it. These
persons said, "Is not this Christ our Lord? Look at His power
and His love. Who else can do for body and soul what He
does ? " Let our reasoning be of this same kind.
32. IT The Pharisees heard that the people murmured such
things concerning him; and the Pharisees and the chief priests
sent officers to take him.

560 The Last Day of the Feast. [S. John VII.
It is a great temptation for pious souls when persons in authority set
themselves against true religion. These Jews were the chief persons
in God's visible Church as it then was, and yet they had nothing
but railing and hatred for God's own Son when He came. If any
thing like this happens in our day let us persevere all the more
firmly in keeping to God's side. No outward authority should
make us disobey His voice in our heart.
33. Then said Jesus unto them, Yet a little while am I with
you, and then I go unto him that sent me.
All our life here is but a little while. Soon there comes a time to
return to our heavenly Father again. Sorrow and trials, tempta
tions, opportunities of grace, chances of doing good, all are soon
over, and God calls us away to require an account of our work.
Jesus can be found now. Let us make haste to believe on Him.
34. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me : and where I
am, thither ye cannot come.
There will be a time when it is too late to return to God. Faith and
love will be no longer possible for those who have despised them too
long. Glory be to Thee, O Lord Jesus, Who hast given us power
and a will to seek Thee now ! Let this faith which Thou hast put
into our hearts be always seeking Thee and finding Thee, and at
last bring us to that blessed place where Thou art to be worshipped
for ever.
35. Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he
go, that we shall not find him ? will he go unto the dispersed
among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles ? 36. What manner
of saying is this that he said, Ye shall seek me, and shall not
find me : and where I am, thither ye cannot come ?
This supposition was made in mockery. Since the Jews would not
believe in Him, He would have to go among the Gentiles and see
what they would say to Him. And yet it was full of Divine truth,
for that was His purpose. He came to bring light to the Gentiles.
To unbelievers the sweet promises and awful warnings of the Gospel
have little meaning. They do not care to understand. They find
there only matter for idle curiosity. Let us beware of scoffers'
company, lest we too become like them.
37. In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood
and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me,
and drink.
Nothing in this world can satisfy our thirst. Endless honour, riches,
amusements, would only make us seek passionately for more. Our
hearts long for something which only Jesus can give. He has
peace, and comfort, and light sufficient for the present time. If
our hearts open to Him, He will fill them now. And one day He
will bring us where the pure river of the water of life shall refresh
us for eternity.

Ver. 44.] Refreshing Streams promised. 561
38. He tliat believeth on me, as the scripture liath said, out
of his belly shall flow rivers of living water.
Moses brought out of the rock fresh flowing water for the thirsty
Israelites. The Lord Jesus does better. He plants springs in our
hearts, springs not only enough for our own needs, but able to
refresh all around us. Lord, grant Thy Church men of faith, full
of Thy Spirit, who can refresh and purify their brethren, and lead
them to the heavenly streams at which they themselves drink.
39. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe
on him should recdve : for the Holy Ghost was not yet given ;
because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)
The fulness of the Spirit was to be given by Christ only, and as the
fruit of His death, and to bring Him home spiritually to us after
His visible departure. He is now glorified, He has made us His
friends, He offers us His gifts. What hinders our receiving
them ? Only our narrow hearts. They are so full of the world, so
confined, so fast closed, that this blessed fulness of love scarcely
reaches them.
40. IT Many of the people therefore, when they heard this
saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet. 41. Others said,
This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of
Galilee ?
If the excellent words and bountiful promises of Jesus could draw
such confessions of faith from His hearers then, what should we say
now, who have seen His promises fulfilled, seen the power of His
words and His Nariie glorified among all nations? Should not
our faith be bold and trustful ?
42. Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the
seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David
was? There are difficulties which meet any one who studies the Holy
Scriptures. It is hard at times to reconcile one passage with
another, or to trace the fulfilment of such and such prophecies.
These should send us to God for guidance, and should humble us.
Often God does not clear up all that seems contradictory while we
are in this life. Yet all this should not keep us from believing in
the great truths which He has revealed clearly.
43. So there was a division among the people because of him.
44. And some of them would have taken him ; but no man laid
hands on him.
What, all this strife and stir caused by the words of the lowly Jesus !
Yes, truth must be spoken when God's time comes, even at the
risk of causing offence. Those who speak it need not fear man's
violence. All is in God's hands, and He knows how to protect
2 N

562 A Debate in the Coundl. [S. John VIII.
His witnesses or to glorify His Name in them. Alike when they
escape, or when they have to suffer, it is their heavenly Father Who
wills it.
45. II Then came the officers to the chief priests and
Pharisees ; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought
him? 46. The officers answered, Never man spake like this
man. How many simple persons who have felt the power of Jesus' words
will rise up in judgment against clever, and learned, and noble
unbelievers ! When God opens the heart, even though the under
standing be narrow and learning small, yet we are able to see the
beauty of His word, we can taste its sweetness, we can feel its
power. Worldly eyes and ears see nothing there, but God's
voice is understood by His chosen.
47. Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?
48. Have any of the rulers or of the Pharisees believed on him ?
Christians must take their own line. They must resolve not to
follow the multitude to do evil. They must be content to go by
a different road from that of many who are rich and honourable.
God grant His servants courage that they may stand up for His
side when those who are highly placed in State or Church desert it
Let my rule be God's will, and that only, not the practice or opinion
of men.
49. But this people who knoweth not the law are cursed.
Jesus Christ felt for the common people. They were His friends.
He knew their cares and sorrows. They may be despised by great
ones, but the Gospel finds its surest hold among them. They are
not learned or able to dispute, but they feel that this religion is one
which comes from God and meets their case. They have a more
sure evidence than learning can give or take away.
50. Nicodemus saith unto them, (he that came to Jesus by
night, being one of tliem,)
His conversation with Jesus had given him courage. If he did not
dare to profess his faith openly, yet he stood up for truth and justice
in spite of angry looks. He hoped that by hearing Jesus speak they
might be led on as he had been to feel His Divine power.
51. Doth our law judge any man, before it hear him, and
know what he doeth ?
This is a rule which we often neglect. Courts of justice require the
accused to be present, and offer to hear his defence ; but Christians
in speaking of one another's conduct, judge and condemn hastily
without trying to understand motives or make allowance How
often we outrun the law both of God and man, and condemn those
whom God excuses !

Ver. 4.] The Woman taken in Adultery. 563
52. They answered and said unto him, Art thou also of
Galilee? Search, and look: for out of Galilee ariseth no
prophet. 53. And every man went unto his own house.
Their prejudice against Galilee prevented them from listening to the
voice of conscience within, or to the requirements of the law.
They would give no hearing to the claims of Jesus. God keep us
frorri being ensnared thus ; God give us teachable hearts ready to
learn from any one who has a message from above. It is His
Spirit and not this world's applause that makes any one a true
teacher.

CHAPTER VIII.
X. Christ delivereth the woman taken in adultery. 12. He preacheth him
self the light of the world, and justifieth his doctrine: 33. answereth
the Jews that boasted of Abraham, 59. and conveyeth himself from
their cruelty.

J

ESUS went unto the mount of Olives.
Christ found refreshment there. After the strife of men He sought
peace and comfort and new strength in communion with His
heavenly Father. What though the Mount of Olives was a mount
of agony as well as of glory, still it was dearer to Him than applaud
ing crowds. Let our own room, or God's house, be to us a
sacred place for retirement where we may gain new strength.
2. And early in the morning he came again into the temple,
and all the people came unto him ; and he sat down, and taught
tliem. How attractive God's Word was then ! How little charm it seems
to have now ! Those who deliver it are often to blame. They
have not sought God's blessing on it in prayer, and therefore they
do not utter it as simply and powerfully as the Holy Jesus did. Nor
do those who receive it come as reverently and earnestly as learners
did in old time.
3. And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman
taken in adultery ; and when they had set her in the midst, 4.
tliey say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery,
in the very act.
Alas ! we are all sinners. Some in committing actual deadly sins,
others by taking pleasure in evil or foolish thoughts. God, Who
sees the hearts, knows that often open offenders are less blame
worthy than those who stand high in the opinion of men. Let us
judge with mercy, remembering our own vileness.

564 Christ 's Sentence. [S. John VIII.
5. Now Moses in the law commanded us, tliat such should be
stoned : but what sayest thou ?
Here is a snare. They reasoned thus : "Either He will bid us execute ,
her, and so give us reason for accusing Him to the Roman
magistrate, who is jealous of any interference with his power ; or
He will bid us release her, aud so contradict Moses' law, which the
true Christ should maintain. " But heavenly Wisdom is not to be
surprised by the devices of men. Nay, all such devices are over
ruled to justify God's wisdom the more.
6. This they said, tempting him, that they might have to
accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote
on the ground, as though he heard them not.
What did He write ? We know not. Yet those who followed His
finger as it traced letters on the dusty floor must have found some
word that came home to them. It was some warning or rebuke
that made them cease their clamour and look into themselves.
All our hasty words are written in God's book. He seems as
though He heard them not, but they will be disclosed one day.
7. So when they continued asking him, lie lifted up himself,
and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him
first cast a stone at her.
Let those whom God has set to judge and punish offenders take home
this saying. Let them temper justice with mercy, and with a deep
sense of their own frailty. Often they are more to blame in God's
sight than the poor criminal is in the judgment of men. Who but
the Lord Jesus could speak thus ? His words go straight to the
conscience, and make us stop our rash judgments on others' faults.
8. And again he stooped down, and wrote on tlie ground.
Let my sins be written in the dust and blotted out by prayer and
repentance. If God's face seems turned away from me for a while,
let me profit by this opportunity to examine myself and beg Him to
blot out those faults which have brought this season of trouble upon
me. Let me see again in His good time His face shining on me in
mercy.
9. And they which heard it, being convicted by their own
conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even
unto the lad : and Jesus was left alone, and the woman stand
ing in the midst.
The accusers could not bear the Lord's words. They were covered
with shame and retired, leaving the accused alone with her true
Judge and Saviour. How shall we fare when earthly praise and
blame are alike silent, and we stand alone before the judgment-seat
to meet with our true reward ? Let our own conscience convict us
now, so that God may acquit us then.
10. When Jesus had lifted up himself and saw none but the

Ver. 14.] The Light of the World. 565
woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine
accusers ? hath no man condemned thee ?
Nothing can cure us more effectually of our inclination to condemn
others than the practice of examining ourselves and seeing how
much we owe to God's justice.' Our own sins, our failures to fulfil
God's law, our bad example, our neglect of others, here is an
infinite subject for blame, and quite enough to take us off from
accusing our brethren.
11. She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her,
Ndther do I condemn tliee : go, and dn no more.
This story is not an encouragement to sin. It is recorded that we
may turn to the thought of our own frailty when we are inclined to
blame or punish, and may have a picture of mercy and holiness
-joined together in the character of Christ. No sinners need fear
Him when they forsake sin. All should fear to come before His
judgment without repentance.
1 2. 1T Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the
light of the world : he that followeth me shall not walk in dark
ness, but shall have the light of life.
The Israelites in the wilderness were guided by the pillar of fire.
Believers in their pilgrimage find a light to guide them in the words
and actions of Jesus. Without Him this world is darkness, full of
evil, and confounding to the mind. With Him we know where to
place our steps, and how to guide others, and how to wait patiently
for the full daylight to come. How unhappy are those who forsake
light and choose darkness !
13. The Pliarisees therefore said unto him, Thou bearest
record of thyself ; thy record is not true.
Unbelief asks, ' ' How can we be sure that the Lord Jesus speaks the
truth, that He is really the Saviour and Lord of men ? Who can
convince us of His heavenly nature so as to leave no doubt ? " Dear
friends, we must make some venture. Faith steps out into the dark
ness and lays hold of Christ's hand. If He is not the heavenly Guide,
where can we find one ?
14. Jesus answered and said unto them, Though I bear
record of myself, yet my record is true : for I know whence I
came, and whitlier I go ; but ye cannot tell whence I come, and
whither I go.
Our Master is from above, a Messenger from God Himself, God
visible in human nature amongst men. If He is this we can trust
Him. We cannot yet take in His full meaning, but He has done
so much for us that we can take His word for the rest. Glory be
to Thee, O Lord, for this gift of faith which has opened our eyes to
see something of Thy Divine power and majesty!

566 Jesus teaching in the Treasury. [S. John VIII.
15. Ye judge after the flesh ; I judge no man. 16. And
yet if I judge, my. judgment is true : for I am not alone, but I
and the Father that sent me.
Unbelievers look only at the difficulties of religion and the im
perfections of its professors '; but faith takes notice of its hidden
power, of its sweetness, of the lives which saints have led by means
of it. Let our judgment both of things and persons be after God's
standard, not men's. He does not desert those who pray to Him
for light.
17. It is also written in your law, that the testimony of two
men is true. 18. I am one that bear witness of myself, and
the Father that sent me bear eth witness of me.
Many testimonies meet in Jesus. His words were heard, His miracles
seen, prophecies referring to Him read, His power felt, God, Whose
Son and Servant He was, gave Him many keys to open our hearts.
He has proved Himself to be the Friend we need. If any one asks
for the reason of our hope we can reply that we have made trial of
Christ and found that He is true.
19. Then said they unto him, Where is thy Father? Jesus
answered, Ye neither know me, nor my Father: if ye had
known me, ye should have known my Father also.
Scripture says, ' ' Ask, and ye shall have. " And yet the answer depends
on the spirit in which we ask. God, Who is almighty, yet cannot
give us the knowledge of Divine things unless we ask for it humbly
and sincerely. Let us study the merciful condescension of Christ,
His patience, love, and holiness, and so rise up to a fuller under
standing of all these qualities as parts of God's character. Christ
came to teach us Who God is.
20. These words spake Jesus in the treasury, as he taught in
the temple : and no man laid hands on him; for his hour was
not yet come.
Though in the midst of His enemies He yet spoke with entire freedom.
This is the source of true courage, to be mindful of God's Providence.
All things are in His hand, our hours are numbered by Him, no
thing can hurt us unless it be by His permission, and even then
nothing can hurt our souls or tear us away from His mercy.
21. Then said Jesus again unto tliem, I go my way, and ye
shall seek me, and shall die in your sins: whither 1 go, ye
cannot come.
Opportunities of grace pass by, and if neglected leave the heart only
harder. It is possible to reject all God's offers and to find too
late that faith and peace are out of our reach. It is possible to
lose all hope and die thus, with no prospect for eternity save
misery. God grant that our seeking may be faithful, our repentance
true, our conversion timely. Let us seek Christ now, lest a time
come when we care no more for Him nor He for us.

Ver. 28.] Words brought from above. 567
22. Then said the Jews, Will lie kill himself? because lie
saith, Whither I go, ye cannot come.
What ! would He go into the grave and preach there, so as to be
out of their reach ? Yes indeed, but in a way beyond their thoughts.
After they had done their worst on His body His holy soul went
into the place of the departed to carry the message of life there also.
23. And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath ; I am from
above : ye are of this world; I am not of this world.
Christians, like their Master, are from above ; their new nature, their
inward life, their hopes, are all from on high. They have indeed
mortal bodies, cares and temptations of this earth, but yet they
lean on something unseen. Which is my life? Wholly of this
world, or with a spark of heaven lighting it up ? Can men see
that I belong to the heavenly country ?
24. I said therefore unto you, that ye shall die in your sins:
for if ye believe not that I am he, ye shall die in your sins.
These grave warnings must not be put aside. Who can deliver us
from our sins but the Son of God ? What faith can help us in the
hour of trial but a faith in God's mercy through Christ ? Lord,
thunder in our ears this call, that we may consider how terrible a
thing it is to die in unforgiven sin, and how necessary is faith in Thy
saving Blood, which alone can blot out all our transgressions.
25. Then said they unto him, Who art thou ? And Jesus
saith unto them, Even the same that I said unto you from the
beginning. Study His words, and therein you will find Himself. He has always
said the same. Human teachers may change, but Christ'^ testimony
remains. All other words must be tried by His as their rule. One
who enters into the depth of Christ's sermons, His parables, His
promises, who loves humbly to study them and put them into
practice, will have a sure witness of His Divine nature. No man
ever said what He has said.
26. / have many things to say and to judge of you : but he
that sent me is true; and I speak to the world those things
which I have heard of him. 27. They understood not that he
spake to them of the Father.
He had many dark spots in their hearts to bring to light, many
sharp sentences of warning and blame to utter ; and all this in
sober truth as from God, and for tlieir salvation, if they would
heed. Lord, speak to my conscience, and tell me truly what I am.
Let me understand Thy voice and obey it.
28. Then said Jesus unto them, When ye have lifted up tlie
Son of man, then shall ye know that I am he, and that I do

568 True Freedom. [S. John VIII.
nothing of myself; but as my Father liath taught me, I speak
these things.
This is the school of Christ crucified, and these are three chief lessons
to be learned in it : Who Jesus is, what He does, and what He says.
Let us come there reverently and learn about our Master, that He
is truly God and Man in one Person, that His actions are life-giving *
and the cause of our salvation, that His words are heavenly truth,
the rule for our faith and practice. What is the world's knowledge
in comparison with this. God give us eyes to behold Jesus crucified
and glorified, and profit by the sight. Even if we feel shame for
our sins which helped to crucify Him, yet we find healing too.
29. And he that sent me is with me: the Father hath not
left me alone ; for I do always those things that please him.
Let us obey God's voice, and thus find the comfort of His constant
help. What a blessed experience is that of a life always led in
God's fear, always from childhood upwards rejoicing in God's
presence and choosing His will ! We must bring up our children
to prefer such a life to one of self-will. What friendship can be
salutary to us unless God is our Friend too ?
30. As he spake these words, many believed on him. 31.
Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye
continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed ;
It is not enough to feel the power of God's Word once. We must
continue in it, and go on learning from it. What a.sure abiding-
place is God's Word ! It will never fail us, never dry up, never
give way. No enemies can drive us from it, no robbers steal it.
The believer makes it his home, and remains there enjoying sweet
communion with his God.
32. And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make
you free.
Who will deliver us from superstition, and the fear of death, and the
power of sin ? Only the truth as it is in Jesus can do this. This
is true freedom to have the Lord Jesus for our Master. If we love
Him no earthly pleasures can altogether enslave us, for we know of
something better. Lord, break our chains and set us free now
from sin, and one day from death and sorrow too.
33. IT They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were
never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be
made free ?
We are slaves, and know it not. We.are at the mercy of vanity and
evil passions, and yet we do not feel the weight of the chain or turn
to the Friend Who offers to set us free. Let us put away our pride
and humble ourselves before the true Deliverer. Many who have
boasted of their freedom have fallen into miserable slavery, and
found out their bonds too late.

Ver. 39.] Sons and Servants. 569
34. Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you,
Whosoever committeth rin is the servant of sin.
Here is the secret of our bondage. Sin has come in and stolen us
from our true home. Or indeed we have sold ourselves and chosen
slavery with our eyes open. This is a hard yoke, and there is no
flying from it, only the Son of God can strike it off. Take
notice of this. The hardened sinner may boast that he is free and
afraid of nothing, but it is a- false boast. Bid him pray, deny
himself, live purely, seek for heaven. He cannot, for he has a hard
master who forbids him.
35. And tlie servant abideth not in the house for ever: but
the Son abideth ever.
Are we slaves or freemen ? Only outward members of God's Church,
attending its services, bearing its name, but having no real interest
in it ? Or is it our home, in which we hope to be for all eternity,
full of our Father's love and our brethren's cares, and with its
welfare dear to us? Either God's house is a mere formal place
of business, whither our position or others' society calls us at
times, or it is our dear home which we love, a figure of our home
in heaven.
36. If tlie Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free
indeed. Jesus is God's Son and Heir. He can turn us from slaves into
children. He can give us a right to God's blessings here and here
after. How vain is any other kind of freedom but that which He
gives ! If we are left to ourselves we only get deeper and deeper
into bondage.
37. I know tliat ye are Abraham's seed; but ye seek to kill
me, because my word hath no place in you.
They were members of God's ancient Church, and yet did not profit
by their calling. Christ's Word found no room in their hearts, and
so they hated Him and desired only to get rid of His reproofs. If
our hearts are full of evil passions, of worldly cares and vanities,
how can God's Word get in ? We shall be first indifferent to it,
and at last despise and abhor it.
38. I speak that which I have seen with my Father: and ye
do that which ye have seen with your father.
Which family are we of? That of God or that of Satan ? In God's
household His children learn purity and love and obedience, they
are fed with daily mercies, they try to imitate their heavenly
Father's goodness. But the devil's house is full of hatred and
uncleanness. Those who are brought up under his guidance ruin
themselves and others too.
39. They answered and said unto him, Abraham is our

570 Satan's Deeds and Words. [S. John VIII.
father. Jesus saith unto them, If ye were Abraham's children,
ye would do the works of Abraham.
It is useless to talk of Christian privileges unless we live as
Christians should. Sometimes ungodly people make a great stir
about religious doctrines or practices. What use is it ? God looks
at their life and sees the proof there that they are not His children.
We have the names of saints on our lips more than their examples
in our practice.
40. But now ye seek to kill me, a man that hath told you the
truth, which I have heard of God: this did not Abraham.
Abraham received God's messengers -reverently, and obeyed His
word carefully. He believed what God said even when it seemed
hard to flesh and blood. How foolish it is when we refuse to hear
God's Word ! It will heal our infirmities, give us strength and
peace. But we turn away and choose our own follies instead. A
hard heart, a profane word, a contempt for wholesome warnings,
these are the opposite to Abraham's ways.
41. Ye do the deeds of your father. Then said they to him,
We be not born of fornication ; we have one Father, even God.
Why do I boast of my privileges or contrast myself with others to
their disadvantage ? Let me rather acknowledge my own vileness,
and humbly seek for pardon. God is my Father, but I have lived
so unworthily of Him that I scarcely dare to call myself His child.
This is the first step towards heaven, for me to confess that I am
a sinner. God will heal me if I feel my infirmity. I have
mingled the devil's own ways with my profession of the Gospel.
42. Jesus said unto them, If God were your Father, ye would
love me: for I proceeded forth and came from God; neither
came I of myself, but lie sent me.
Here is a Messenger from heaven full of love, able to tell of Divine
things, showing forth God's goodness in His life ; shall we not
worship Him ? Those hearts are very cold who do not feel any love
towards the' blessed Jesus. Surely He is no mere Prophet of
Nazareth. It was not there but in heaven that He learned all the
wonders that He reveals.
43. Why do ye not understand my speech ? even because ye
cannot hear my word.
God speaks in an unknown tongue to worldly ears. Worldly minds
cannot understand heavenly things. Such joys, such hopes, such
sorrows, such prayers, seem without meaning to them. Lord, give
us eyes to see and ears to hear Thy Word. Let us become
acquainted with the language of our heavenly country, and ready to
take up our abode there.
44. Ye are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your
fatlier ye will do. He was a murderer from the beginning,

Ver. 48.] How these differ from God's. 571
and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him.
When he speaketh a lie, he speaketh of his own : for he is a liar,
and the father of it.
In this verse the Lord Jesus gives us solemn warning about the evil
one, and points out what his works are. Wherever hatred and
deceit come in there is Satan working. Those tempers come from
him. We ought to be on our guard if we have such an enemy.
How can we escape his snares save through the Blood of Jesus
Christ, Who is his Conqueror ? Let us listen to the Lord Jesus, Who
is love and truth, and bids us live after this pattern ; and let us close
our ears to the tempter's persuasions. Many are led captive by
him and know it not.
45. And because I tell you the truth, ye believe me not.
Sometimes when God's Word or His minister speaks plainly to the
conscience about righteousness and judgment and the need of con
version we refuse to hear because we know it to be true. The
message finds us out, and so we turn away angrily, and put off
obeying. Many Christians hear the truth, and know well that it
is true, and yet put it aside.
46. Which of you convinceth me of sin ? And if 1 say the
truth, why do ye not believe me ?
The first part of this verse applies to no other preacher save the Lord
Jesus Himself. All others are frail men, and liable to sin. They
ought indeed to strive earnestly after holiness. Unless they hate
sin and are themselves in earnest, who will give heed to their
words ? But they need to recur constantly to the Fountain of mercy
to wash away the many faults which they fall into both in preach
ing and life. Lord, my own conscience convinces me of many sins,
nor have I always preached Thy truth in simplicity. Who can
make amends for my folly but Thou ?
47. He that is of God heareth God's words : ye therefore hear
them not, because ye are not of God.
We like to hear a friend's words. What shall we say of those
Christians who are quite indifferent to God when He speaks in the
Holy Scripture, or in Divine service, or in seasons of prayer ? They
cannot be His friends unless they take pleasure in hearing Him.
If His concerns are only a weariness to us let us fear lest we are
becoming a weariness to Him.
48. Then answered the Jews, and said unto him, Say we not
well that thou art a Samaritan, and hast a devil ?
Is it surprising that trae believers should be reviled or be even
thought blasphemers when their Master met with such judgments
as these ? The power of error is very great, and men's eyes are
often blinded. Let us distrust our own judgment, and be especially
careful not to condemn any one hastily. God alone can help us to
a right understanding of other men and our own selves and His
Word.

572 Abraham is dead. [S. John VIII.
49. Jesus answered, I have not a devil ; but I honour my
Father, and ye do dishonour me.
He was anxious for His Father's honour, but indifferent about His
own. He met taunts and abuse with a simple denial. We need
to learn after His pattern how to join together gentleness and
patience with a firm stand for truth. We must not upbraid or
revile in turn, but yet we have to take God's side and fear no man.
50. And I seek not mine own glory: there is one that seeketh
and judgeth.
Let vanity be silent. What does it matter to me if I am thought
a fool, as indeed I am? My Master had no fault in Him, yet He
was content to justify Himself briefly and then leave all in His
Father's hands. Shall I, who am a worm of this earth, be angry
if my shortcomings are taken up and spread abroad? Let me
think of the judgment to come and prepare to meet that. The
day of man's judgment matters little.
51. Verily, verily, I say unto you, If a man keep my saying,
he shall never see death.
Everlasting life to body and soul is promised to us by Christ. Is
it not worth while persevering on His side here, bearing much,
overcoming sin, overcoming unbelief, so as to keep hold on His
Word and obtain an everlasting reward ? One day we shall see
how glorious heaven is and how small were all our trials here.
God is very gracious to'give so much for little.
52. Then said the Jews unto him, Now we know that thou
hast a devil. Abraliam is dead, and the prophets ; and thou
sayest, If a man keep my saying, he shall never taste of death.
The saints died long ago and were buried, and their bodies are dust.
True, and so must the believer die now. But he will live though
he die, for he knows that he is going to be with a merciful God in
a better world, and that for this poor decaying body he will one
day have a new one without pain or defect. Surely this is not
altogether death. It is the shadow of death, not the substance.
53. Art thou greater than our fatlier Abraham, which is
dead? and tlie prophets are dead: whom makest thou thyself?
Yes. They are dead in spite of all their greatness. And yet those
who love God and live by His Spirit have in them something that
does not die. The saints of old time looked forward to One Who
should bring on earth the fulness of truth and righteousness. All
that was good in them came, they felt, from Him.
54. Jesus answered, If I honour myself, my honour is nothing:
it is my Fatlier that honoureth me ; of whom ye say, that he is
your God:
He did not make Himself great, or seek His own honour. God His

Ver. 59.] He rejoiced to see Christ's Day. 573
Father had sent Him to save men, and had given Him the witness
of mighty words and works. Let our glory be like that of the
Lord Jesus, resting on God's judgment, not man's ; let it be not a
mere passing favour of this world, but the honour of standing at the
Judge's right hand and hearing Him say, " Well done, good and
faithful servant."
55. Yet ye have not known him ; but I know him : and if I
should say, I know him not, I shall be a liar like unto you :
but I know him, and keep his saying.
Here were God's people who had His Word and His temple, and
the reputation of knowing Him, and yet kept only the empty shell.
All the power of their religion was gone. Christians should
examine themselves on this verse; they must not only be God's
servants in name, but must have some true knowledge of Him,
confess Him boldly, obey His Word in their life. Our Saviour
alone knows God perfectly, but He imparts to His brethren some
share in this Divine science.
56. Your father Abraham rejoiced to see my day : and he
saw it, and was glad.
How cold and dull Christians are ! They have known the Lord
Jesus, have been washed in His Blood, fed with His Body, taught
His wonderful works, yet they are indifferent to Him Whose
coming was so longed for by the saints in old time. Abraham
prayed for the full blessing, and prevailing sacrifice, and promises
come trae. He thought over those things and lived in tiis hope
of them. Must he not in the world of spirits have known when
Jesus really came, and rejoiced over it?
57. Then said the Jews unto him, Thou art not yd fifty
years old, and hast thou seen Abraham ? 58. Jesus said unto
them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
This is a great revelation. God's truth has no times nor limits. He
existed in glory and spoke to the saints thousands of years ago,
then He came on earth as Man to teach us here, now again He is
invisibly present with us, one day we shall behold His majesty.
Men pass away, but the eternal Son of God remains the same. We
can put our trust in Him though all else fails us. All that is
wonderful in nature and good in men tells us of Him. We are
happy to have such an undying Friend.
59. Then took they up stones to cast at him: but Jesus hid
himself, and went out of the temple, going through the midst of
them, and so passed by.
They were ready to kill Him, and He was prepared to meet death,
yet His hour was not come. ' A few months more and their jealousy
and His patience should have their full work. Not in the temple,
but on Calvary, in sight of all the world, and on the shameful Cross,

574 The Man who was born Blind. [S. John IX.
was Christ's sacrifice to be offered. Let us learn from Him to
speak up boldly for the truth when we are questioned, and at other
times avoid strife and await our Father's will and good pleasure in
all things.

CHAPTER IX.
The man that was born blind restored to sight. 8. He is brought to
the Pharisees. 13. They are offended at it, and excommunicate him :
35. but he is received of Jesus, and confesseth him. 39. Who they
are whom Christ enlighteneth.

K

ND as Jesus passed by, he saw a man which was blind from
his birth.
Praise be to Thee, 0 Lord, for passing along the road of our mortal
life with all its sufferings, and for looking on me in mercy when I
could not provide for myself ! Thy saving grace delivered me from
darkness and wrath, and made me a child of light. What was I
by nature ? How helpless and wretched ! What am I now ? A
child of God and heir of heaven.
2. And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin,
this man, or his parents, tliat he was born blind ?
The disciples were right so far that they saw that suffering is caused
by sin. Sorrow, and pain, and blindness are all fruits of the Fall.
But we cannot trace men's particular sufferings to sins which they
have themselves committed. Still in our own sufferings we can
remember our faults and acknowledge that we have sinned. We
must not judge others, but bring home God's dealings to ourselves.
3. Jesus answered, Neither hath this man sinned, nor his
parents : but that the works of God should be made manifest in
him. Here is another reason for suffering. It exists to call forth God's
power and mercy in removing it. What is the cause of so much
ignorance, so much vileness, so much misery? Indeed I know
not. But it is meant to stir up Christians to pray, and teach, and
comfort, and restore souls. I leave the hidden cause of evil to Qod's
wisdom, but I see its purpose in calling out God's grace and
men's compassion.
4. J must work tlie works of him that sent me, while it is
day : the night cometh, when no man can work.
How soon the night comes, and then the chance of our doing any good
will be over ! Now is the time to work out our salvation, to do
some good, make some earnest prayers, take our stand against sin.
Alas ! the night begins to close round, and we have done nothing

Ver. io.] Siloam. 575
for God. Let Christians see the folly of putting off their conversion.
The time is all too short now to turn to God. Our Master will
soon call us and ask how His work has prospered in our hands.
5. As long as I am in tlie world, I am the light of tlie world.
The bright sun is only a figure of our Master. He is the true Light.
He brightens dark and gloomy ways, and cheers the sinking heart,
and shows the right path to the wanderer. His earthly life is still the
pattern for us to walk by. His words cast light on life, and death,
and eternity. Glory be to Thee, O Sun of Righteousness, for rising
on this dark world, and shedding peace and hope where Thy rays
fall !
6. When he had thus spoken, he spat on the ground, and
made day of tlie spittle, and he anointed the eyes of the blind
man with the day,
What was our Lord's meaning in this? Perhaps the blind man's
faith was helped, and he was encouraged to believe thereby that
this good Physician was really undertaking to heal him. A few
drops of spittle and some dust wrought wonders in the hand of
Jesus. His Divine power breathed life into clay at the creation of
the world, and in like manner He now gave it power to bring back
sight.
7. And said unto him, Go, wash in the pool of Siloam, (which
is by interpretation, Sent.) He went his way therefore, and
washed, and came sedng.
The Jews reverenced the water of Siloam as sent forth by God from
beneath His temple, at the foot of which it rose. It figured to
them God's blessings and mercies daily flowing forth. We see in
it a figure of the Lord Jesus, Whom God sent forth to give us life
and light. Let us not be of those who forget their own blindness.
Without Christ we walk in darkness, sin and death cover our eyes
and prevent our seeing God's way. One true Light has been sent
into the world. We must seek that out and walk by it.
8. II The neighbours therefore, and they which before had
seen him that he was blind, said, Is not this he that sat and
begged? 9. Some said, This is he: others said, He is like
him : but he said, I am he.
We see a great change in one who is truly converted to God. He is
the same in outward appearance, and has still the remembrance of
his old sins and their consequences ; but now he believes, he has
hope, he fights against evil, he finds delight in religion. Is not
this he? Yes, but by God's grace he is a different man now. He
has experienced God's saving mercy, light has come upon his
darkness.
10. Therefore said they unto him, How were thine eyes
opened ?

576 How Christ wrought this Cure. [S. John IX.
How was it, dear friend, that your eyes were opened, that you found
out the vanity of the world, the nearness of judgment, the vileness
of sin ? How was it that you came to care for God's Word and to
deny yourself ? What made you take delight in prayer? I cannot
altogether tell. God's ways are wonderful. He has brought me
out of bondage by His Divine power.
11. He answered and said, A man that is called Jesus made
clay, and anointed mine eyes, and said unto me, Go to tlie pool
of Siloam, and wash : and I went and washed, and I received
sight. If we take care to avoid vanity and to speak little of ourselves, it may
be profitable to tell our friends how we have been converted. It
is a greater work to change a heart than to open blind eyes. Both
works are worthy of God's power, both tell us of His mercy. As
the blind man could relate all the steps of his cure, so some happy
souls that have found Christ can relate how Divine truth was first
brought home to them, how they found peace, and light, and truth
in believing.
1 2. Then said they unto him, Where is he ? He said, I know
not. Christ was gone. He sought no glory for His miracles. How
different from us, who are so inclined to delight in men's praise !
When did any good work proceed from us without some desire to
be praised for it ? A secret vanity comes in and spoils our best
actions. Better to bury them in silence and leave them to the
judgment of God.
13. IT Tliey brought to the Pharisees him that aforetime was
blind. 14. And it was tlie sabbath day when Jesus made the
clay, and opened his eyes.
Our Saviour chose the Sabbath day for His marvellous works, though
He knew that His enemies would hate Him the more for it. He
wished to show them that the true spirit of Sabbath keeping is one
of love and mercy. He bids us prefer doing good to our own ease.
How much work there is still to do for Him ! Shall we sit at
home idly while He calls us to bring home His mercy to the suffer
ing and tempted ?
15. Then again the Pharisees also asked him how he had
received his sight. He said unto them, He put clay upon mine
eyes, and I washed, and do see.
This is a simple answer. " He gave the means, I obeyed Him, I am
rewarded by having sight. " This man gives us a pattern of a simple
obedient heart which knows its own needs, seeks God's guidance,
obeys without question, and finds blessing in so doing. He did
not make difficulties about the operation of the clay or the journey
to the pool, but did without a word what he was bidden.

Ver. 22.] The Blind Marts Parents. 577
16. Therefore said some of the Pharisees, This man is not of
God, because he keepeth not the sabbath day. Others said, How
can a man that is a rinner do such miracles ? And there was
a division among them.
What divided the Pharisees ? Some put their own custom and opinion
first, and thought whoever went against that must be a bad man ;
others put this work of mercy first, and thought whoever had done
that had shown great power and love, and therefore must be on God's
side. Which is our rule, to seek reasons for blaming others or for
praising them ? Should we not look - out for signs of God's good
ness, and thankfully acknowledge it in many who differ from us ?
17. They say unto the blind man again, What sayest tliou
of him, that he hath opened thine eyes ? He said, He is a
prophet. This man was not ashamed to speak boldly about the Lord Jesus.
He was grateful for His mercy, he felt His Divine mission, he saw
in Him some One Whom God had sent into the world to heal it
This example rebukes those who forget mercies which they have
received or who dare not stand up for truth. Lord, give our
shallow hearts a lasting remembrance of Thy gifts and grace to
acknowledge them.
18. But the Jews did not believe concerning him, that he had
been blind, and recdved his dght, until they called the parents
of him that had recdved his sight. 19. And they asked them,
saying, Is this your son, who ye say was born blind ? how then
doth he now see ?
These poor aged parents were sent for by our Lord's enemies in order
to throw some doubt on the miracle. But their witness only con
firmed it the more. They must have rejoiced at finding that their
son could see, and yet afraid when they found he had offended the
rulers by his straightforward answers.
20. His parents answered them and said, We know that this
is our son, and that he was bom blind : 21. but by what means
he now seeth, we know not ; or who hath opened his eyes, we
know not : he is of age ; ask him : he shall speak for himself.
How God establishes His truth ! We see here proved that it was the
same man, and that he was born blind and could now see, even
though the parents are afraid to declare the saving power of Jesus.
We must not blame them too sharply for their timidity. Let us
consider how faltering is our witness when it is a question of stand
ing up for religion against the world. How often have we held our
cowardly tongues and let the truth be scoffed at ?
22. These words spake his parents, because they feared the
Jews : for the Jews had agreed already, that if any man did
2 o

578 Eyes open to see. [S. John IX
confess that he was Christ, he should be put out of the synagogue.
23. Therefore said his parents, He is of age ; ask him.
It is a terrible thing to be thought a blasphemer and refused religious
ordinances, or thought a hypocrite for joining in them; terrible
when good men go against us and we are cut off from sympathy.
Yet if we are truly on God's side no outward voice can cut us off
from the Church. If we love, and pray, and hold inward com
munion with the Lord Jesus, no lack of outward means can separate
us from grace. There have been some who have been knit all the
more closely to God by such a trial.
24. Then again called they the man that was blind, and said
unto him, Give God the praise : we know that this man is a
sinner. They wished him to turn against his Healer and deny that he had
been really healed, or that it was Jesus Who had done it. He had
only just become able to see, and they hoped easily to persuade him.
Who was he to stand up against them ?
25. He answered and said, Whether he be a sinner or no, I
know not : one thing I know, that, whereas I was blind, now I
see. He clung to this truth, and would not give it up. Light had shone
upon his darkness, a new world had opened upon him, nothing
could alter that Lord, let these words be mine also. Let me
acknowledge that I have been walking in darkness and Thy mercy
has opened mine eyes. I see now my danger, and my duty, and
my path towards heaven. Glory be to Thee for shining on my
dark soul !
26. Then said they to him again, What did he to thee? how
opened he thine eyes ? 27. He answered them, I have told you
already, and ye did not hear: wlierefore would ye hear it
again ? will ye also be his disdples ?
What profit is it to hear of God's works unless we do so with the hearts
of disciples ? The study of God's marvels in nature and in grace is
full of interest, and discloses God to us, and makes us admire His
wisdom, that is, if we come to Him in a fit spirit. Some there are
who only make a mockery of God's great works.
28. Then they reviled him, and said, Thou art his disdple;
but we are Moses' disdples. 29. We know that God spake unto
Moses: as for this fellow, we know not from whence he is.
They chose Moses instead of Christ But this was to forget that
Moses' law was not complete in itself. It looked on to something
better to come. God's messages through Moses and through Christ
did not disagree. Both spoke of God and lifted up man towards

Ver. 35.] A Heart open to believe. 579
a life of righteousness, both gave liberty, both taught truth. Those
who were true disciples of Moses, and entered into the spirit of his
holy law, would become true disciples of the Lord Jesus.
30. The man answered and said unto them, Why herein is a
marvellous thing, that ye know not from whence he is, and yet
he hath opened mine eyes.
This man's eyes have only just been opened on the outer world and
he has become so bold. He dares to argue against his masters.
, He forgets how lately he had been a helpless blind beggar. It was
his gratitude. He had found some One to care for and relieve his
misery. He would not suffer this heavenly Friend to be despised.
31. Now we know that God heareth not sinners: but if any
man be a worshipper of God, and doeth his will, him he heareth.
But if God does not hear sinners what will become of my prayers ?
It means God will not hear obstinate and profane sinners.
Wonders cannot be wrought in His Name unless by those who
truly serve Him. Besides, a repentant sinner, one who hates sin,
who confesses it, who fights against it, who strives for righteous
ness, such a one is not a sinner in God's sight. I am indeed a
sinner, but yet I dare to approach and cover myself with Christ's
righteousness.
32. Since the world began was it not heard tliat any man
opened the eyes of one that was born blind. 33. If this man
were not of God, he could do nothing.
How often he had thought over his own condition and felt its hope
lessness, and now suddenly it had been removed ! All God's
glorious creation was clear before him. He could see the faces of
other men. What a gift this was ! Who but God could bestow it ?
Let us follow this man's generous conduct, and be as brave and
true as he was. God had given him light within and without at
once.
34. They answered and said unto him, Thou wast altogether
born in dns, and dod thou teach us ? And they cast him out.
Lord, keep me from pride. Let me always be ready to learn from
any of Thy children, even the humblest. Let me avoid the
grievous folly of thinking myself better and wiser than others. Let
me treat with patience and kindness all with whom I have to do.
God can teach me through many whom I am inclined to look down
upon.
35. Jesus heard that they had cast him out ; and when he
had, found him, he said unto him, Dost thou believe on the Son
of God?
Men have cast him out, but Jesus Christ comforts and enlightens him.
His friendship is worth more than all the world's flatteries. He
leads on those who serve Him to the fulness of His truth. He
reveals greater mvsteries to those who are willing to believe.

580 The Wilfully Blind. [S. John X.
36. He answered and said, Who is he, Lord, that I might
believe on him ?
Faith is with this man a privilege, not a burden. He is earnestly
desirous to believe whatever truths God might reveal to him. We
also may take Christ's Word as His Church delivers it, and keep this
faith as a precious treasure. What better thing can God do for a
soul than give it faith ?
37. And Jesus said unto him, Thou hast both seen him, and
it is he that talketh with thee.
This man, who had been a blind beggar, and the Samaritan woman,
who had gone far astray, were the only two persons (so far as we
read) to whom the Lord Jesus plainly revealed Himself during His
ministry. What condescension on His part, what ground for
confidence on ours ! I am not worthy, but still He has enlightened
me, and spoken with me, and made me feel Who He is. How can
I thank Him for this knowledge ?
38. And he said, Lord, I believe. And he worshipped him.
Can we believe unless we worship too ? Surely outward reverence of
the body as well as inward of the soul is befitting us in our Maker's
presence. We ought reverently to kneel when we pray. We
ought at Holy Communion to behave with reverence and attention ;
yet our faith must not be only the outward profession of the lips,
but the deepest feeling of the heart.
39. H And Jesus said, For judgment I am come into this
world, that they which see not might see ; and that they which
see might be made blind.
Jesus came to give light to the simple and to confound the wise. To
some He showed their own misery, their darkness, their need of
salvation. These found light in Him. Others who had some
knowledge thought that they were in need of nothing further, and
so despised His gracious message. His mercy enlightened the
one, His awful judgment left the others in darkness.
40. And some of the Pharisees which were with him heard
these words, and said unto him, Are we blind also ? 41. Jesus
said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin : but
now ye say, We see ; therefore your sin remaineth.
Could they be blind, they who were masters in Israel and guides to
the blind? Yes, and the more blind because they had so much
light. They had many opportunities, they thought that they knew
all about God and His law, and all this kept them entirely from
feeling their own condition. Keep me, O Lord, from boasting of
my own spiritual state. Let me know my own folly, and wholly
depend for guidance on Thy merciful hand.

Ver. 5.] The True Shepherd. 581

CHAPTER X.
x. Christ is the door, and the good shepherd, ig. Divers opinions of him,
24. He proveth by his works that he is Christ the Son of God : 39.
escapeth the Jews, 40. and went again beyond Jordan, where many
believed on him.
TTERLLY, verily, I say unto you, He that entereth not by the
V door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way,
the same is a thief and a robber.
Our Lord takes the familiar Bible image of the shepherd and the
flock, and applies it in various points. He meant the Pharisees to
take it to themselves and think if they were behaving like true
shepherds over God's people, and also that those among the
people who were waiting for God's salvation should recognise it
in Him. He goes with the sheep, sharing with their cares and
feeling for them.
2. But he that enter eth in by the door is the shepherd of the
sheep. He came in by the door. His Father had called Him and prepared
His way. The Old Testament with its types and prophecies
marked out the manner of His coming. The door means here a
true calling, as when God's voice inwardly and His Church out
wardly unite in bringing a Christian to undertake the pastoral
office after Christ's pattern.
3. To him the porter openeth ; and the sheep hear his voice:
and he calleth his own sheep by name, and leadeth them out.
Those who had truth in their hearts listened to Jesus and obeyed
Him. He led them forth from the Jewish fold into the green
pastures of the Gospel. He loved them tenderly, and they felt the
power of this great love.
4. And when lie putteth forth his own sheep, he goeth before
them, and the slieep follow him : for they know his voice.
Now they are His, and know Him well. It was His goodness only
that first sought them out and found them, but now they know by
experience what it is to serve and love Him. Grant to us, Lord,
this gracious experience of Thy goodness, that we may recognise
Thy voice amidst all the storms of life, and follow where Thou
wouldst have us go.
5. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from
him : for they know not the voice of strangers.
The sheep will not obey a strange voice. They are familiar with
their shepherd's call, but will follow no other. Let us learn the

582 The Door. [S. John X.
difference between true and false teachers, so as to follow those only
who are true friends and would lead us towards heaven, while we
turn a deaf ear to the rest.
6. This parable spake Jesus unto them : but they understood
not what things they were which he spake unto them.
Yet the Old Testament was full of this figure of the shepherd, in
which God's loving care was set forth and a pattern offered to
those who had to rule His people. The Pharisees despised our
Lord's simple parables drawn from men's everyday doings, and so
missed the deep truths which are hidden in them.
7. Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say
unto you, I am the door of the slieep.
It is my comfort to know that Jesus is the door by which I can enter
into peace, and which guards me from hell and misery ; without
Him I can find no good thing, by Him only I enjoy light and
strength and grace. Christ's sheep, wherever they are, own that
He alone is the door. All good comes through Him.
8. All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but
the sheep did not hear them.
Others have tried to steal men's hearts and promise them pardon and
life. They have relied on their own wisdom, persuaded by their
eloquent speech, boasted of their great power ; but all their
influence has melted away, while that of Jesus stands secure for
ever.
9. I am the door : by me if any man enter in, he shall be
saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.
I go in when I retire from the world unto my Saviour's presence, and
there recover .my purity and peace of mind. I go out when I seek
for instruction, do my work, busy myself for others. Yet, whether
in or out, He is with me and His grace is my stay. What can
supply to a Christian the place which Christ fills in His heart ?
1 o. The thief cometh not, but for to deal, and to kill, and to
destroy : I am come that they might have life, and that tliey
might have it more abundantly.
Which is our pattern? Do we live here only to please ourselves and
trample on others, merely taking our selfish pleasure ? Or do we
follow the Good Shepherd in bringing comfort wherever we go,
and leading weary souls to the knowledge of salvation ? Let us
seek the heavenly life and prove it well, then tell others of its
blessedness. -
11. / am the good shepherd : the good shepherd giveth his
life for the sheep.
This is a precious offering, the costliest of all, when a man gives his
life for others' sake. Jesus did this, and there are some besides

Ver. 1 8.] The Sheep ransomed. 583
who have done it. Only let us remember that no one can get to
this without being used to make smaller sacrifices first If we wish
some day to die for love's sake let us practise giving up our own
will in little things, and thus learn by degrees this great lesson.
12. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose
own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the
sheep, and fieeth : and the wolf catcheth them, and scatterdh
the sheep.
When the devil tempts your friends into sin, have you the courage
to warn them ? When you see drunkenness and ungodliness all
round, do you lift up your voice and say a word for God, and
point out the nearness of hell? Our shortcomings are great on this
point, we so easily let the tempter ruin those dear souls for whom
Christ died.
13. The hireling fieeth, because he is an hireling, and car eth
not for the sheep.
What is the spirit of our life ? Is it unselfish love, or merely a regard
to our own profit ? Those are only hirelings who do good for the
hope of a reward. We ought to love God, and His people, and
holiness, for their own sake, and care for all that touches our
brethren. God keep me from a selfish heart that provides well for
itself and ends there.
14. / am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am
known of mine. 15. As the Father knoweth me, even so know
I the Father : and I lay down my life for the sheep.
Our Saviour knows and chooses us, and has a deep feeling for all our
needs. We in our poor way turn to Him and feel that He is our
best Friend, and this very union between Him and us is after the
pattern of that between His Father and Himself. These are great
mysteries, but we can follow Him in studying His will and obey
ing Him in all things, as He Himself behaved to His Father.
16. And oilier sheep I have, which are not of this fold : them
also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice ; and there
shall be one fold, and one shepherd.
How many sheep are still wandering in this dark world and have
not found the true Shepherd of souls ! Let us do all we can to
hasten the day when those lost ones shall be brought in. What
a great honour and blessing it would be to bring but one soul to
Jesus ! His death broke down the barrier between Jews and
Gentiles, and made all men brethren. His Church is the one
spiritual home where they can all meet as one body.
1 7. Therefore doth my Father love me, because I lay down
my life, that I might take it again. 18. No man taketh it
from me, but I lay it down of myself. I have power to lay it

584 The Feast of Dedication. [S. John X,
down, and I have power to take it again. This command
ment have I received of my Father.
This is the " Saving Victim, opening wide
The gates of heaven to man below."
His offering is entirely free. He took on Himself humanity with
all its troubles and the burden of death out of love for us. He
left heavenly joy and returned thither again to take us with Him.
There is in Christ Jesus a wonderful union of weakness and power.
He is a helpless Sufferer, and yet a mighty Lord. He goes along
the way of the Cross, yet looks steadily at the blessed end of all.
Let me thus meet death with patience, and still boldly look for
eternal life. What can I do better than obey, whether in life or
death, as my Master did ?
19. IT There was a division therefore again among the Jews
for these sayings.
Even our Saviour's teaching caused divisions, and many failed to
profit by it. We must not be surprised if the same thing happens
now when His Word is faithfully preached. Let us follow those
hearers who took His words into their heart and lived by them,
not these who disputed over them.
20. And many of them said, He hath a devil, and is mad ;
why hear ye him? 21. Others said, These are not the words
of him that hath a devil. Can a devil open tlie eyes off he
blind ?
Some treated Him with contempt, and thought His words strange and
extravagant ; others felt that there was wisdom in what He said,
and mercy joined with power in what He did. On which side are
we? for this division still continues, some taking the Holy
Scripture as an idle tale not to be heeded now, others finding theii
light and help in its teaching.
22. IT And it was at Jerusalem the feast of the dedication,
and it was winter. 23. And Jesus walked in the temple in
Solomon's porch.
This festival reminded the Jews how Judas Maccabeus (1 Mace.
iv. ) had cleansed the temple from heathen pollutions and restored
God's true worship there. They had observed the day for nearly
two hundred years, thanking God for His mercy in preserving
His house and service through such troubles. When our churches
are restored, or new ones built, we also can thank God, and present
to Him our hearts as a better temple for Him to dwell in. No
ornaments of the outward temple are so dear to Him as the purity
of our hearts.
_ 24. Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto
him, How long dost thou make us to doubt ? If tliou be the
Christ, tell us plainly.

Ver. 30.] The Divine Gift. 585
Such is God's dealing with us. He does not tell us all things plainly,
but gives us hints only, and keeps our hearts wavering between
darkness and light, between joy and fear. I am content, O Lord,
since it is Thy will, to have some doubts left, but I know that I
have a sure Friend in Thee.
25. Jesus answered them, I told you, and ye believed not:
the works that I do in my Father's name, tliey bear witness of
me. Jesus claimed to be the Christ by His life and actions rather than in
words. He did not assert it publicly, but He wrought the wonders
and unfolded the mysteries which befitted such a character. Chris-
. tians, too, should profess their religion not so much by tlieir lips as
in their lives, though there is a time when both are needed.
26. But ye believe not, because ye are not of my sheep, as I
said unto you.
True children of God have their hearts ever ready to learn from Him.
They follow His guidance willingly. Let us not shut our ears
against the Divine voice. God has much to teach us, much yet for
us to go through. We will follow Him obediently, and trust in His
loving care.
27. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they
follow me :
Christ's Word comes home to me, I enter into communion with Him,
I try to follow His life by living rightly. Then I may feel con
fident that I am His. I do not know His eternal counsels. They
are too deep for me, but I have found Him by experience to be the
Good Shepherd, and have lived in His fold. Keep me, O Lord, in
this state of salvation.
28. And I give unto them eternal life ; and they shall never
perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand.
O almighty Love and Power, let these words come true of me ! Let
all the snares of Satan fail, and Thy grace guard me that I fall not
away. I tremble when I read this verse and feel how strong is the
power of evil men and evil thoughts, and yet I know that my Master
is able to overcome them all.
29. My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all ;
and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand.
God is pledged to us. Other powers seem to rule for a while, but
they will pass away ere long and His majesty alone will remain.
What are human threats or scoffs to one who feels he is safely
upheld by infinite power ?
30. / and my Father are one.
This is the foundation of all. Jesus our Master, Who is One with us
in all things, is also One with God. He came to be man like we

586 Jews seek to stone Jesus. [S. John X.
are, sharing in our life and death, and yet He is the Divine Lord
of all. If this is true, then I see that God cares for me and that I
may trust in His love.
31. Then the Jews took up stones again to done him.
Much less opposition than this makes us conceal God's Word or alter
it to avoid offence. We lack the courage that Jesus had. Several
times already He had roused this fierce prejudice amongst His
hearers, and He knew that they would kill Him at last, yet He
went on bravely and patiently.
32. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed
you from my Father ; for which of those works do ye done me?
Here is a model for our life. Let us show forth many good works,
not of ourselves, but by God's inspiration and in His strength.
Whatever our enemies may say, let us do all the good we can
during our short span of life. If man is not pleased with us, yet
God may be.
33. Tlie Jews answered him, saying, For a good work we
stone thee not ; but for blasphemy ; and because that thou, bring
a man, maked thyself God.
They could not rise above the human nature of Jesus, or understand
the deep things which He said about Himself. They had their
own notions about the Christ, and He did not fulfil them. Therefore
they reviled Him and paid no heed to His words. Far better if
they had rejoiced in the good works and wise sayings, and asked
God to teach them further about Him Who did and spoke thus.
34. Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I
said, Ye are gods ?
Psalm lxxxii. speaks of magistrates and judges as being Divine, for
they are called by God and have a portion of His power. They
represent His justice. There are many who are exalted by God
to high station in the nation or the Church, who are thus gods to
their brethren. Let them beware that they do their duty in truth
and love, after their heavenly Father's pattern.
35. If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came,
and the scripture cannot be broken; 36. say ye of him, whom
the Father hath sanctified, and sent into the world, Thou blas-
phemest ; because I said, I am the Son of God ?
If they were gods, as standing in God's place among men, how much
more Divine is Jesus my Saviour, Who had such a calling and dis
charged such a work ! He came from heaven, and in a new way,
and to give fresh light to men. Shall we not recognise in Him a
more than human glory, and offer Him our prayer and praise ?
37. If I do not the works of my Father, believe me not.
Jesus Himself is willing to be disbelieved unless He is found to be

Ver. 42.] Jesus retires beyond Jordan. 587
doing God's works of power and love. And can we expect to be
thought God's children unless our life answers to our profession ?
A Christian should do everything to God's glory and for others'
good. He enjoys such graces now and looks forward to such a
wealth of glory hereafter. Let him think what character is suitable
to such a prospect.
38. But if I do, though ye believe not me, believe the works:
that ye may know, and believe, that the Father is in me, and I
in him.
This is the object of the Gospel history, to teach us that Jesus is One
with God, and that His life reveals to us not a mere human
character, but the infinite compassion and love of our Maker.
Grant, O Lord, that our present studies on this holy Gospel may
plant this faith deep in our minds.
39. Therefore they sought again to take him: but he escaped
out of their hand, 40. and went away again beyond Jordan
into the place where John at first baptized ; and there he abode.
He retired from Jerusalem once more, not to go up thither again till
the time of His death drew near. His sojourn beyond Jordan must
have brought back to the disciples their first conversion, their first
coming to Christ, all the hopes and faith with which their religious
life began. They must have looked back over the three years and
searched their hearts. God sometimes leads us back to the past
and makes us try our present life by comparison with our first
fervour.
41. And many resorted unto him, and said, John did no
miracle: but all things that John spake of this man were true.
Let such a word be said of us after we are gone. It may not be given to
us to show forth any display of power or wisdom, we may be humbly
placed and little regarded, but let our words be simple truth, and
this especially when we speak on religious matters. What John
said about Jesus was spoken in such a manner, so reverently, ear
nestly, faithfully, that it sank into the hearts of many and led them
to their Saviour.
42. And many bdieved on him tliere.
So it is still. Amidst unbelief, and open sin, and the world's scoffs
the number of true believers goes on silently increasing. The Name
of Jesus is scorned in great Jerusalem, but He finds many to love
Him among simple folk.

588 Lazarus is sick. [S. John XI.

CHAPTER XI.
i. Christ raiseth Lazarus, four days buried. 4s. Many Jews believe. 47.
The high priests and Pharisees gather a council against Christ. 49.
Caiaphas prophesieth. 54. Jesus hid himself. 55. At the passover
they enquire after him, and lay wait for him.
"VTOW a certain man was sick, named Lazarus, of Bethany,
_Li the town of Mary and her sister Martha.
We come now to our Lord's greatest miracle, which, more than any
other, displayed His power, provoked His enemies, comforted His
friends, represented His spiritual authority to quicken souls. He
raised Lazarus with tears and prayers, but our souls could not be
quickened till He had shed His own Blood. Lazarus died again
when his hour came, but we must begin a new life that can never
die. This history requires of us a reverent attention. As
unbelievers mock at it, so should believing souls delight in it.
2. (It was that Mary which anointed the Lord with ointment,
and wiped his feet with her hair, whose brother Lazarus was
sick.) Mary's good deed was well known in the Church, though John has not
yet told it himself (xii. 3). Our Lord's promise had come true that
it should be spoken of wherever the Gospel was preached. J esus
will not forget any sacrifice that we make for Him. Let us cheer
fully give up some luxury or pleasure to do Him service. Love
will not have to look far to find an offering.
3. Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold,
he whom thou lovest is sick.
What else can we do but represent our friends' needs to their Saviour?
Here is a dear soul whichThou hast bought so dearly and loved so
tenderly, behold what its need is, how sinful it is, how sad, how
surrounded by temptations ! We can plead the soul's misery and
Jesus' great love. Grant us grace to bring all these anxieties
straight to Thee.
4. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto
death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be
glorified thereby.
Lazarus was so soon to rise that it was scarcely like death. Our dear
ones are sick, and die, and we see them no more ; yet even their
sufferings are for God's glory and the completion of their Saviour's
work. All that happens to God's children, however sad it may be,
is ordered by our Father's wisdom and love. He gave us His only
Son to die that we might see the mighty power that suffering has.

Ver. 13.] Christ delays His Journey. 589
5. Now Jesus loved Martlia, and her sister, and Lazarus.
He loved them, and yet they had to suffer and to die like others. Yes,
Jesus does not spare His friends, but gives them a share of His
Cross. Do not distrust His love for you if you have much trouble.
It may be sent to prepare you for everlasting joy.
6. Wlien he had heard therefore that he was dck, he abode
two days still in the same place where he was.
Meanwhile Lazarus had died and the sisters were grieving for him.
How strange are the delays of God ! He seems for a long while to
hide Himself and let things all go to ruin. But have patience. In
due time He will appear and restore all. Let us not get weary of
waiting His time. There is all eternity to come.
7. Then after that saith he to his disdples, Let us go into
Judcea again. 8. His disdples say unto him, Master, the
Jews of late sought to stone thee ; and goest thou thither again ?
Our Saviour did not fear danger when His friends needed comfort,
and Lazarus was to be raised to life. What is the prospect of
shame and suffering when we have work to do for God ? His hand
is able to guide us safely. What harm can men do to us if God is
on our side ?
9. Jesus answered, Are there not twelve hours in the day ?
If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth
the light of this world. 10. But if a man walk in the night,
he stumbleth, because there is no light in him.
While my life lasts let me go straight forward in the path of duty and
have no fear. God's will is my light. His Word is my guide. I
may have rough roads to pass, but His hand will uphold me. I can
only find ruin if I follow my own passions. They make it all dark
for me by interposing between God and my soul. Lord, when the
darkness threatens to gather round, do Thou shine upon my soul
and show me where to tread. Those who are setting out on life's
journey must seek the light of God's face daily if they would keep
from falling.
1 1. These things said he : and after that he saith unto them,
Our friend Lazarus sleepeth ; but I go, that I may awake him
out of sleep.
When the friends of Jesus die they are but sleeping. Their rest is
sweet. They have happy dreams still. Their wakening -will soon
come. Their Almighty Friend has not forgotten them. Soon He
will appear to rouse them to everlasting life.
12. Then said his disdples, Lord, if he sleep, he shall do
well. 13. Howbeit Jesus spake of his death : but they thought
that lie had spoken of taking of rest in sleep.

590 Bethany. [S. John XL
They wished to prevent our Lord from returning to a scene of so
much danger, so they said that if Lazarus was sleeping he would no
doubt recover of himself. They asked, ' ' Why should Jesus expose
Himself to His enemies?" His Divine words were not always
understood at once by His hearers. Let us take pains to enter into
their right meaning. Holy Scripture requires prayer and patience
to understand it.
14. Then said Jesus unto them plainly, Lazarus is dead.
15. And I am glad for your sakes that I was not there, to the
intent ye may believe ; nevertheless let us go unto him.
All things work together for the good of God's children. Even pain
and death are overruled by God to His wise purposes. The seem
ing absence of God, the approach of trouble or temptation, the
awfulness of death, are all meant to make us believe more firmly.
It is thus we are thrown into God's arms and feel His love. What
a great thing faith 'must be ! Let us ask God to plant it and daily
increase it in us.
16. Then said Thomas, which is called Didymus, unto his
fellow-disciples, Let us also go, that we may die with him.
His love was great though his faith was weak. He did not think that
Jesus could save Himself from His enemies, but he was willing to
share all the dangers with Him. We should be ready to go where
our Master leads us, even though we apprehend trouble or danger
is near. If we have Him with us no perils can utterly destroy us.
17. Then when Jesus came, he found that he had lain in the
grave four days already.
This is the sad lot of mankind. Sickness comes, and decay, and then
the grave closes on our dear ones. How terrible would death be,
how hopeless, but that we believe in the coming of Jesus our
Saviour! Reader, your body will be one day in the grave. It is
well to bear in mind the house which is appointed for all living.
18. Now Bethany was nigh unto Jerusalem, about fifteen
urlongs off : 1 9. and many of the Jews came to Martha and
Mary, to comfort them concerning their brother.
These comforters from Jerusalem may have come in kindness or
merely to keep up a formal custom. But human comfort cannot
do much. When we feel the bitterness of separation there is but
one Comforter, and that a Divine one, Who can soften our pain. It
is right to try and comfort sufferers, but best of all to lead them to
seek a friend in their Saviour.
20. Then Martha, as soon as she heard that Jesus was com
ing, went and met him : but Mary sat still in the house.
She went readily to meet her Divine Friend and speak of her grief to
Him, while Mary remained within. These two sisters differed in

Ver. 26.] Christ the Resurredion and the Life. 591
character, one was more busy, eager, outspoken, the other more
reserved and thoughtful, yet both alike were friends of Christ, and
believed in Him.
21. Then said Martha unto Jesus, Lord, if thou hadst been
here, my brother had not died.
His goodness was so great, He so felt for His friend's needs, He had
done such marvels, that if He had only found Lazarus dying He
would surely have made him well. The presence of the Lord of
life would have scared away death. Lord, Thou art still here.
Thy sacred Presence is mighty. What may I not hope from it in
my hour of trial?
22. But I know, that even now, whatsoever thou wilt ask of
God, God will give it thee.
I know not the plans of God's Providence, but I believe that all
things are in the hand of my Master and Saviour. He is my
Mediator with God, and what He thinks fit to ask is done. Keep
me, O Lord, in this faith, that I may pray to Thee and trust in Thee
as God and Man. I know that even now all things, however bitter
and grievous they may appear, are guided by Thee.
23. Jesus saith unto her, Thy brother shall rise again.
It is not an eternal farewell. The soul that we have loved will
resume its life again. Though the earthly body turns to dust, yet
we look forward to an awakening. Let me in the presence of the
dead fix this verse deeply in my heart and wait in patience for the
marvels to come.
24. Martha saith unto him, I know that he shall rise again
in the resurredion at the last day.
It is something to believe this and look forward to that great day,
but we need to trust in a living Saviour and rise now to a heavenly
life if we are to profit by the general resurrection to come. We
must be risen creatures in heart, and not lie in the sepulchre of old
sins.
25. Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life:
he that believdh in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live :
We have a Friend Who gives life and can restore it again. His
power can quicken the dead soul and revive the decaying body.
Nothing is impossible with Him. Lord, grant me this faith which
looks beyond death and despises the devouring grave.
26. And whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.
Believest thou this ?
What a great promise ! And yet I believe it, for the only real death
is sin and hell. If I trust in the living Lord Who has overcome the
grave, death of the body matters little, and I shall escape the
worse death. Yes, even on a' dying-bed I can be sure of never
dying if I belong to Jesus.

592 Jesus troubled in Spirit. [S. John XI.
27. She saith unto him, Yea, Lord: I believe that thou art
the Christ, the Son of God, which should come into the world.
These mysteries are more than I can understand as yet, but I trust
the Speaker's word. He is the promised Deliverer and Friend of
mankind. Plis words reach my heart. I can venture life and
death on the faith of His promises.
28. And when she had so said, she went her way, and called
Mary her sister secretly, saying, The Master is come, and calleth
for thee. 29. As soon as she heard that, she arose quickly, and
came unto him.
This was our Lord's title in that holy household, The Master. They
obeyed His orders, learned from Him, looked up to Him in all
things. Their delight was to be His servants and His scholars.
When He called for them they came instantly.
30. Now Jesus was not yd come into the town, but was in
that place where Martha md him. 31. The Jews then which
were with her in the house, and comforted her, when they saw
Mary, that she rose up hastily and went out, followed her, say
ing, She goeth unto the grave to weep there.
These Jewish mourners who had come to visit Mary, and now followed
her to the grave of Lazarus, became witnesses of this great miracle.
They had only thought to make a call of condolence, and behold
they come face to face with the Son of God in His great tenderness
and majesty ! It was the means of salvation to some, perhaps of
ruin to others. Calls of God and temptations to unbelief come at
one moment or another before we look for them. Any day we
may have to choose our side.
32. Then when Mary was come where Jesus was, and saw
him, she fell down at his feet, saying unto him, Lord, if thou
hadst been here, my brother had not died.
This thought had filled the hearts of both sisters. They regarded
Christ's presence as life-giving, and believed that death would fly
before it. Let our thoughts be now, Jesus is here, I am in His
presence, I partake of His sacred Body, I cannot commit deadly
sin or fall into hopeless despair while my Lord is so near.
33. Wlien Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews
also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and
was troubled,
Our merciful Redeemer felt the ravages which sin had wrought. He
groaned to see God's fair creation full of misery and tears and
death. Shall we think to lead always an untroubled easy life
whei ^the Son of God was so moved? No, let us rather bear
others' burden and share in their tears.

Ver. 39.] The Closed Grave. 593
34. And said, Where have ye laid him ? They said unto him,
Lord, come and see.
There are many souls now, dead to God, hidden in the sepulchre of
sin. We entreat their Saviour to visit them and raise them up to
life again. Lord, come and see this soul which once was Thine and
is now the slave of Satan. Thy gracious look and voice can give it
a new life.
35. Jesus wept.
My Lord shed tears. I must not be ashamed to grieve with the
sorrowful. I feel that He sympathizes with my sorrows. In other
verses of Scripture I see His power better, but in this little verse I
find His great love. If I am sorry in this world for all my faults,
and for others' pains, yet Jesus will wipe away my tears in everlast
ing joy.
36. Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him I
How kind a Friend, how tender a Physician, is the Lord Jesus ! He
felt for the very sorrow which He was going to relieve. When I
look at His Cross, I can indeed say, Behold how He loved us, what
He went through for us! His love was not a mere show, but
proved itself true.
37. And some of them said, Could not this man, which
opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man
should not have died ?
Could He not have spared us such a loss or such a pain? Yes, but
we must not judge His sovereign wisdom. He could have stayed
the destroyer's hand, but His will was so, and we submit, knowing
in the end that He will be justified.
38. Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the
grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it.
Here is the Lord of life face to face with the grave. Our hearts sink
when we come to the tomb of any dear one, and see the impassable
barrier which is between us ; yet we believe an Almighty Power
will one day roll away the stone and call the departed back from
the unseen world. Even in the presence of death we remember
One Who conquered death.
39. Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister
of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time lie
stinketh : for he hath been dead four days.
He had been four days in the grave, and she thought that the work
of corruption must be already begun. It is a wholesome thing to
remember that the bodies which we are so proud of, and indulge so
tenderly, must before long decay and become loathsome. Lord,
keep in my mind this thought, that the grave is my appointed
resting-place. Let me thus check evil desires.
2 P

594 Lazarus returns to Life. fS. John XI.
40. Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto tliee, tliat, if thou
wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God ?
If we had faith we too, even in these days, should see God's glory mani
fested. Though dead bodies remain in the grave and turn to dust,
yet there are dead souls waiting to be raised. If we cried to God
for them with persevering prayer, His glory would be seen in their
conversion. What is harder than to convert an abandoned sinner ?
yet God's power and Christ's Blood are able to do this.
41. Then they took away the stone from the place where the
dead was laid. A nd Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father,
I thank thee tliat thou hast heard me.
Jesus, when He performs His greatest miracles, returns thanks to His
heavenly Father. All the power which He had to do good came
to Him from above. We are infinitely below Him, but yet the
same holds true of us in our degree. We must return constant
thanks to God if we would have Him tear us and help us to do
good.
42. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because
of tlie people which stand by I said it, that they may believe
that thou hast sent me.
We are here admitted to witness the communion between our Lord
and His Father. Jesus as Man continually prayed, and was heard,
and returned thanks. Yet all this went on secretly, except on such
an occasion as this. He is always powerful with God, and I also
may hope to be heard if I am united to Him. He gives me access
to God.
43. And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice,
Lazarus, come forth.
This mighty voice was heard even in the world of spirits. It reached
the soul of Lazarus and bade him return. One day it will sound
again to waken all the dead. One day I shall hear it. God grant
that it may be to me the voice of a friend.
44. And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot
with graveclothes : and his face was bound about with a napkin.
Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.
Who does not tremble to read of this scene? What did the
bystanders feel when they saw the corpse stir, and rise, and come
out? How awful is this union of life and death ! Grant me to
think often of my end and of my sojourn in the grave, where my
body will await patiently the voice of my Judge. Lazarus was
called back to earth for a while because God had some work for
him to do. He died a second time, and entered into rest, and
remains there till the judgment day.
45. Then many of the Jews which came to Mary, and had
seen the things which Jesus did, believed on him.

Ver. 52.] Caiaphas' Counsel. 595
What a profitable visit they had made ! They came only to comfort
the afflicted sisters and encourage them to faith in God, and they
found a Saviour for themselves, saw death overcome, and learned
to believe in One Who could help them in life, and not let them go
even in the grave. They went home full of this great wonder.
46. But some of them went their ways to the Pharisees, and
told tliem what things Jesus had done.
Some had come there only out of formality or curiosity. They came
to the house of mourning without any sorrow for the dead or feel
ing for the bereaved sisters. It did not bring home to them the
thought of their own end. So they ran off to our Lord's powerful
enemies in order to get some reward for the latest news of His
doings. What can God do to touch our hearts if we remain
insensible to the" presence of death and the works of Jesus ?
47. IT Then gathered tlie chief priests and the Pharisees a
counril, and said, What do we ? for this man doeth many
miracles. 48. If we let him thus alone, all men will believe on
him : and the Romans shall come and take away both our place
and nation.
Here is a worldly view of religion based on human policy and fearing
only this world's enemies. Let us rather resolve to give up peace,
and wealth, and honour, so long as we can be found on God's side
and trusting in Him. Though God were to remove all the outward
splendour and dignity which religion enjoys, yet we shall be well
off if we have His grace to supply our needs.
49. And one of tliem, named Caiaphas, being the high priest
that same year, said unto them, Ye know nothing at all, 50.
nor consider that it is expedient for us, that one man should die
for the people, and that the whole nation perish not.
The high priest had no scruples of conscience, nor feared to slay the
innocent, so he said boldly that it was better to put Jesus to death
at once and so save the whole people from any danger. He bade
them kill Him for the sake of the rest. He was God's high
priest charged to offer sacrifice for His people and teach them
justice and mercy. Yet this was all that he had to advise.
5 1. And this spake he not of himself: but being high priest
that year, he prophesied that Jesus should die for that nation ;
The words of Caiaphas only meant as he said them, that the death of
Jesus would save His people from any trouble with their Roman
masters ; but God, Who overrules all things, so ordered the words that
they expressed the power of Jesus' death to save souls from eternal
loss. Whatever wicked men do or say, yet God is over all. They
can only carry out what He orders or allows.
52. And not for tliat nation only, but tliat also he should

596 Jesus at Ephraim. [S. John XII.
gather together in one the children of God that were scattered
abroad. God has many children scattered abroad in the world, yet only
waiting to hear their true Father's voice to come to Him and be
at home. The death of Jesus opened wide the doors of God's
household and brought in multitudes of His children. Cannot we
find some children of God still wandering astray from Him, and
show them the way back to their heavenly Father ?
53. Then from that day forth they took counsel together for
to put him to death.
Their hearts were set upon Christ's death. That alone could free
them from their fear and jealousy. Let our hearts too be employed,
though in a different spirit, on that sacred death. It alone can
bring us peace. In it is displayed true wisdom and love. The
Church constantly holds it up before us as our only hope.
54. Jesus tlierefore walked no more openly among the Jews;
but went thence unto a country near to the wilderness, into a
dty called Ephraim, and there continued with his disciples.
Happy are those disciples who, when all the world is against them,
can retire into Christ's society and find compensation there for
others' neglect. It must have been delightful, indeed, for the twelve
to have their Master for a few days so free from other cares and
able to teach and comfort them. What mysteries they must have
learned ! What heartfelt prayers they must have offered 1
55. IT And the Jews' passover was nigh at hand : and many
went out of the country up to Jerusalem be, ore the passover, to '
purify themselves.
The Jews purified themselves before the legal Passover, and ought
not Christians to prepare reverently before they offer up a better
sacrifice ? Not only should we prepare ourselves before we come
to the Lord's Table, but every Saturday evening should be a
preparation for Sunday. It is not a light thing to appear in God's
presence. We should bring there bodies undented and minds
sanctified.
56. Then sought they for Jesus, and spake among themselves,
as tliey stood in the temple, What think ye, that he will not come
to the feast? 57. Now both tlie chief priests and the Pliarisees
had given a commandment, that, if any man knew where he
were, he should shew it, that they might take him.
Some sought for Jesus to their own comfort, others to their con
demnation. Some regarded Him with love and honour, others
with hatred. So in Christian churches, among the crowd that fills
them, some are God's true servants come there to praise Him from
their hearts, others are indifferent or profane. Yet the eye of

Ver. 5.] Lazarus at Table. 597
man cannot always discern the difference. It is known to God
only. On which side are we ? among those who expected Christ
to come as a welcome Friend or as a dreaded Foe?

CHAPTER XII.
1. Jesus excuseth Mary anointing his feet. g. The people flock to see
Lazarus. 10. The high priests consult to kill him. 12. Christ rideth
into Jerusalem. 20. Greeks desire to see Jesus. 23. He foretelleth
his death. 37. The Jews are generally blinded : 42. yet many chief
rulers believe, but do not confess him : 44. therefore Jesus calleth
earnestly for confession of faith.
THEN Jesus dx days before the passover came to Bethany,
where Lazarus was which had been dead, whom he raised
from the dead.
Christians ought to know of souls that have been dead in sin and
raised up to a new life again by God's mercy. They should visit
such persons and rejoice over their changed state. Let us pray
God to pour out His Spirit upon dead souls that they may live, and
that we and they may rejoice together.
2. There they made him a supper ; and Martha served: but
Lazarus was one of them that sat at the table with him.
Our Lord was welcome there. All were His friends and rejoiced in
their various ways to show Him honour. Jesus, while hastening to
His Passion, and Lazarus, newly returned from the grave, could share
in the family meal. Home life and friendly intercourse went on
round them. The thought of Christ's Cross and of our own death
to come does not break off human fellowship, but only sanctifies it.
3. Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very
costly, and anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped his feet with
her hair: and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment.
Mary wished to show her adoration for her Master. No gift could
be too costly, no service too humble, to express what her heart
felt. Love cannot be content with ordinary service, but longs to
spend its best lavishly. If we loved our Saviour we should rejoice
to make great sacrifices for Him. Cannot we make Him some
offering to show our gratitude for all His goodness ?
4. Then saith one of his disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's
son, which should bdray him, 5. Why was not this ointment
sold for three hundred pence, and given to the poor ?
This is what some persons say nowadays. When they object to a
beautiful church, or a carefully prepared service, or to any trouble
or cost spent upon religious duties, they say that we ought not to

598 Jesus rebukes the Faultfinder. [S. John XII.
spend so much money or care on such things. But the loving soul
will not offer God anything mean or trifling. It will give the best
it has without heeding the world's objection.
6. This he said, not that he cared for the poor ; but because
he was a thief, and had the bag, and bare what was put therein.
One of our Lord's chosen companions was dishonest. Who on read
ing this will not fear and pray God to keep him from ever taking
the smallest thing that is not his ? Many who started well, like
Judas, have been wrecked on this rock of coveting what was not
theirs. They are led on from coveting to taking, and at last plunge
into some great sin whence they never recover. Many lives have
been disgraced and ruined thus.
7. Then said Jesus, Let her alone : against the day of my
burying hath she kept this.
Our Lord's hasty burial a week later lacked this mark of honour.
But Mary had paid it Him beforehand, while He yet moved amongst
men. Indeed she could not know He was going to die so soon,
but she knew He was in danger and that His enemies were
strong, and her fears for His safety quickened her love for Himself.
There was more in her action than she herself knew, because God's
Spirit guided her.
8. For the poor always ye have with you ; but me ye have not
always. But, dear Lord, Thou hast promised to be with us always. How can
we live here without Thee? how can we face death if we have not
Thee ? The words refer to Christ's bodily presence. That would
soon be withdrawn and not given back till the end of the world.
We can find Him near us now when we need Him ; in His Word
to teach us, in His Sacrament to strengthen us, in His poor members
to be cared for by us, and we must be content for this life with
such means of approach.
9. Much people of the Jews therefore knew that he was there :
and they came not for Jesus' sake only, but that they might see
Lazarus also, whom he had raised from the dead.
We also will gatlier together in God's house to offer praise to Jesus for
all His marvels. We will keep His festivals and honour His redeem
ing acts. While on earth He generally avoided praise and escaped
from those who would do Him honour, but now that He is in glory
again, we can reckon up all His mighty works and praise Him for
them. Some Jews came out of mere curiosity, others out of faith
in this mighty Prophet. Let us join the latter, and with them go on
to believe more fully still.
10. IT But the chief priests consulted that they might put
Lazarus also to death ; 1 1. because that by reason of him many
of the Jews went away, and believed on Jesus.

Ver. i 8.] Palm Sunday. 599
How foolish this seems when we know that Christ Who raised him
to life once could have done so a second time in spite of them ! No,
it is not more silly than the world often is. They fancy that their
threats, and sneers, and contempt can overcome God's almighty
power, quench His Spirit, tear souls from His grasp. Let believers
remember that our Master is much more powerful to help than
worldly men lo hinder.
12. IT On the next day much people that were come to the
feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13.
took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and
cried, Hosanna : Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in
the name of the Lord.
While the rulers plotted to kill Him the common people recognised
Him as their King sent by God to save and guide them. They
delighted to welcome Him with every sign of joy. They felt there
was about Him a royal majesty and yet a heavenly tenderness
which endeared Him to all hearts. Grant me the gift of stedfast-
ness. I am too apt to have these feelings for a while and then
become utterly indifferent again. Let me always worship my Lord
with joy.
14. And Jesus, when he had found a young ass, sat thereon ;
as it is written, 15. Fear not, daughter of Zion: behold, thy
King comdh, dtting on an ass's colt.
Earthly kings have splendid carriages and dazzling attendants. Jesus
rides on an ass, accompanied with a humble company. His
splendour is wholly from within, and has nothing in common with
the world's glory. People would fear and fly from one of this
world's conquerors. But our King drives away no one from His
presence. He is full of gentleness to all, His word to us is still,
"Fear not ye."
16. These things understood not his disdples at the first : but
when Jesus was glorified, then remembered they that these things
were written of him, and that they had done these things unto
him. Our Lord's rising again enlightened the apostles' eyes. The Holy
Spirit taught them many things. They discerned by degrees Who
Christ is and what He had done. Teach us, O Lord, to read Thy
Holy Word in the same manner. Let us try to understand it and
see how one part throws light upon another. Many truths of
religion are not understood at first, but God will show them to
us in days to come.
1 7. The people therefore tliat was with him when he called
Lazarus out of his grave, and raised him from the dead, bare
record. 18. For this cause the people also met him, for that
they heard that he had done this miracle.

600 Greeks desire to see Jesus. [S. John XII.
Some had seen, some had learned, but both alike joined in praising
Christ. Meanwhile He received their praises with the constant
thought before Him of the shame and reviling to come, just as He
took His sufferings with the thought of the coming glory. This
is the secret of a quiet mind, not to be carried away with the
moment's joy or sorrow, but to look on to the end.
19. Tlie Pharisees therefore said among themselves, Percdve
ye liow ye prevail nothing ? behold, the world is gone after him.
Let us not imitate this selfishness and cowardice, but rejoice in others
receiving glory rather than ourselves. If God is honoured and
souls enlightened, what should we do but rejoice ? Put away self
and be content with an obscure place so long as good is being done
to souls. It is better that they should not hang on us.
20. IT And there were certain Greeks among them that came
up to worship at the feast :
The hour was now approaching when the true religion should be
spread amongst all nations. Many earnest seekers from among the
heathen were attracted by the God of Israel, by the depth of His
Word and the sanctity of His worship. What a difference from the
false gods whom heathens worshipped ! How glad these seekers
were to learn of something better ! They did not grudge trouble or
cost in journeying up to Jerusalem to keep the festivals there.
2 1. The same came therefore to Philip, which was of Beth-
saida of Galilee, and desired him, saying, Sir, we would see
Jesus. Were they struck by the manner of His entry ? or had they heard
His Divine words, or seen Him cleanse the ternple ? No doubt
they wished for more than merely a sight of Him. They wished
to pour out their hearts before Him, and ask Him how they might
live to God. They wanted Him to come into their own countries
and teach the heathen.
22. Philip cometh and telleth Andrew : and again Andrew
and Philip tell Jesus.
Our Lord had told His disciples to preach only to the Jews. He
had expressly confined His own mission during His earthly life to
the chosen people. Yet here were Gentiles longing to learn from
Him. The disciples felt that He would not refuse any one who
came in earnest, and so they willingly* offered the request of these
suppliants.
23. IT And Jesus answered them, saying, The hour is come,
tliat the Son of man should be glorified.
In these Greeks who desired to see Him our Saviour saw a figure of
all who should hereafter believe in Him out of the Gentile world.
He saw the power of His Cross, and the breaking down of the

Ver. 28.] The Grain of Corn buried, and yet fruitful. 601
barriers which separated all nations. O Lord, give power now to
those who declare Thy Name among the heathen, that Thou mayest
be more and more glorified in drawing many souls to Thee.
24. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat
fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone : but if it die, it
bringeth forth much fruit.
Jesus was like this grain, first dead and buried, and afterwards rising
again to bring countless souls to God. This is the rule also for
His saints. First must come the winter season, obscurity, and
pain, and opposition, suffering to bear, and death to meet. After
wards will come the summer of everlasting joy for redeemed souls.
God will gather in His harvest and store His grain.
25. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth
his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal.
This is the law of sacrifice which Jesus obeyed Himself and taught to
others. He bids us overcome the love of this present life, of its
honours, blessings, and comforts, lest we lose our true happiness.
We should despise and abhor all this world's enticements, and
choose rather to be on God's side, looking for a reward from Him.
Lord, I beseech Thee, write this law of sacrifice in my heart. Let
me count things temporal as nothing when Thou callest me.
26. If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I
am, there shall also my servant be : if any man serve me, him
will my Father honour.
It is a great honour to be the servant of the Prince of Glory, and to
follow His steps. If we work and suffer for His sake He will not
forget us. He has now passed from trouble into everlasting peace.
Soon it will be His servants' turn to follow Him thither. We
have a good Master in Whom we can trust.
27. Now is my soul troubled; and what shall I say? Father,
save me from this hour : but for this cause came I unto this
hour. Here we see the struggle which our Saviour felt between the natural
fear of agony and death, and the desire to carry out the work of
our redemption. It is not wrong to feel a dread of pain. It
troubled even this most pure and holy soul of Christ. Yet He
subdued all His anguish into a humble resolute patience. When
our soul is troubled we also must fly to prayer and cast our cares
upon our Father.
28. Father, glorify thy name. Then came there a voice from
heaven, saying, I have both glorified it, and will glorify it
again. This is the choice to make. Let trouble or death come, I will not
fear it. I may be sick, or lose all, or see my end approaching, I

602 The Attraction of the Cross. [S. John XII.
may be in pain of mind or body, but I will not think of myself
any more. All I desire is that my Father should be glorified and
His gracious purposes carried out. I will devote myself, as Jesus
did, to making known God's infinite goodness. So long as God is
glorified I want no honour.
29. The people therefore, that stood by, and heard it, said
that it thundered: others said, An angel spake to him.
It is hard to discern God's voice unless we take heed. Sometimes a
sudden disaster comes and many people see in it only a grievous
accident ; to others it is a heavenly warning in which God speaks
to their heart. Let us go apart from the world's stir and listen in
prayer to what God may say to us.
30. Jesus answered and said, This voice came not because of
me, but for your sakes.
Jesus did not need a voice from heaven to remind Him of His
Father. His conflict and victory were within. Pie communed
inwardly with God. Yet signs of the struggle and of the comfort
appeared outwardly for our encouragement. Whatever becomes
of us yet God's Name will be glorified. Let us be bold, trusting in
His wise Providence.
3 1 . Now is the judgment of this world : now shall the prince
of this world be cast out.
How strange 1 Human eyes would see Jesus Himself judged, and the
Prince of Righteousness cast out and condemned ; yet faith
beholds there the world reduced to its true value and Satan
rendered powerless. God grant us eyes of faith that we may see
in Christ's Cross and the sufferings of His saints not the outward
shame alone, but the hidden power.
32. And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all
men unto me.
Let me, O Lord, feel this attraction, let me not remain indifferent to
the power of Thy sufferings. Countless hearts in all the ages have
been drawn to Thy pierced feet. They have felt the weight of their
own sins and the tenderness of Thy great love. The Cross is God's
most powerful magnet. If the sinner is indifferent to that how can
Almighty God win him back ?
33. This he said, signifying what death he should die.
A death of shame, yet of glory, where the very depth of degradation,
which God's Son endured, becomes the charm which gains loving
hearts to endure shame for Him. Jesus knew what death He
should die and all the circumstances of it. I know not the manner
of my end, but I desire to unite it with His and meet it with the
same spirit as He did.
34. The people answered him, We have heard out of tlie law

Ver. 40.] The Light is hidden. 603
that Christ abideth for ever : and how sayest thou, The Son of
man must be lifted up ? who is this Son of man ?
The Old Testament spoke of Christ's reign in glory. They could not
reconcile those passages with our Saviour's words about the Cross.
Scripture has many lofty promises, many words again about sorrow,
and death, and sin. We must not dwell on the glory only and
forget the path that leads thither.
35. Then Jesus said unto them, Yet a little while is the light
with you. Walk while ye have the light, lest darkness come
upon you : for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither
lie goeth.
God defend us from this darkness in which the soul cannot see truth,
or duty, or heaven, or peace, but wanders about at the call of any
fancy or becomes enslaved to deadly passions. Let us pray
earnestly that the true light may shine on us. What can we do in
this dark world without God's Word for a lantern ?
36. While ye have light, believe in the light, that ye may be
the children of light. These things spake Jesus, and departed,
and did hide himself from them.
Suppose, dear reader, that it is to you that our Lord makes this appeal.
While you have light, while God speaks to your heart, and you have
good examples and opportunities, make an act of faith in Christ and
give yourself up to do His will. Heaven will be only for children
of light. All works of darkness and those who do them will be
shut out from thence.
3 7. IT But though he liad done so many miracles before them,
yet they believed not on him :
The signs of our Saviour's love and goodness were all about them.
They felt His power, and yet they merely gazed and learned nothing.
They were none the better for the presence of this mighty Visitor.
It is the same now ; when God sends mercies and judgments, yet
we take little notice.
38. That the saying of Esaias the prophet might be fulfilled,
which he spake, Lord, who hath believed our report ? and to
whom hath the arm of the Lord been revealed?
The prophet when about to tell the tale of Christ's sufferings (Isaiah
liii. ) remarks first that it will be distasteful to many. They will
not understand nor believe it. They will refuse to see God's mighty
power and wisdom in the Man of sorrows. Many will pass it by
as an idle tale. Do not marvel at the contempt of unbelievers for
the truth. It is all known to God and foretold by Him.
39. Therefore they could not believe, because that Esaias said
again, 40. He hath blinded their eyes, and hardened their heart;

604 Men's Praise preferred to God's Praise. [S. John XII.
tliat they should not see with their eyes, nor understand with
their heart, and be converted, and I should heal them.
They could not believe. Their hearts were hardened. God had
blinded their eyes. What a terrible judgment this is ! They so
provoked God that He left them to their own darkness, and all His
manifestations of love only made them more determined in evil.
Take care, O Christian soul, that your opportunities of grace do not
turn to the same sad result. Rather pray God that in spite of
your many faults you may still know where to look for pardon.
41. These things said Esaias, when he saw his glory, and
spake of him.
Isaiah saw God in His glorious majesty, attended by His angel
hosts, a sight full of awe. The disciples under the Gospel saw Him
revealed in the Son of Man, full of lowliness, sharing in men's
sorrows and cares. Yet it was the same God Who spoke one while
in glory, one while in humility. Give me grace, Lord, to discern
Thy presence under whatever form it be granted. Others may
disbelieve, but I will adore and love.
42. IT Nevertheless among the chief rulers also many believed
on him; but because of the Pharisees they did not confess him,
lest they should be put out of the synagogue :
These persons of rank believed in the lowly Jesus amidst such great
difficulties, such was the power of God's grace on their hearts.
Yet they dared not profess their faith or stand up boldly for His
side, such was the strength of human cowardice and pride. They
had overcome unbelief, but could not overcome false shame.
43. For they loved the praise of men more than tlie praise of
God. I have often done this. I have chosen deliberately the smiles, and
applause, and high esteem of society instead of the testimony of my
own conscience. God has despised me for my cowardice, and I put
up with the empty husks of man's praise instead. It is monstrous
folly to go by the foolish judgment of weak mortals and forget the
unerring Judge Who is close by though unseen.
44. II Jesus cried and said, He that believeth on me, believeth
not on me, but on him that sent me.
The object of our faith is no rrfcre human teacher, however wise or
good, but Almighty God revealed amongst men. In giving your
heart to Christ you do not take it away from God, for God is set
forth in Him.
45. And he tliat seeth me seeth him that sent me.
Behold Jesus with the eyes of faith and you will see in Him no mere
man of that age and country, but a living exhibition of God. His
character and life impress on us the eternal goodness, the love and
truth of an unseen Father. God Whom no eye can see has become
visible to mankind in His dear and only Son.

Ver. 50.] Christ ends His Preaching to the Jews. 605
46. I am come a light into tlie world, that whosoever believeth
on me should not abide in darkness.
It is madness to prefer the darkness rather than the light, and yet
how many do ! They turn away from the true light and follow
their own evil passions, which lead them into deeper and deeper
darkness. Lord, I have believed in Thee and taken Thy side, let
me not fall back into the gloom again. I have made up my mind
to follow Thy path and live by the light so as not to be ashamed.
47- And if any man hear my words, and believe not, I judge
him not : for I came not to judge the world, but to save the
world. Jesus came to save the world. His mission was one of mercy, His
whole appearance in humility. Any one might despise Him with
impunity. So it is still. We hear unbelieving words said and
see sinful acts done, and the Lord makes no sign. It is not yet the
time of judgment, let us not be hasty but leave vengeance to God.
Now is the time of mercy, and as we need it ourselves so we should
show it to our brethren.
48. He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath
one tliat judgeth him : the word that I have spoken, the same
shall judge him in the last day.
One day judgment will come. Our lives will be tried by God's Word,
which He has given us for a rule. That will be our condemnation
if we have rejected it. Lord, I know too well what Thy true and
Holy Word is and what my own heart is, and I tremble to think of
the amazing contrast between the one and the other.
49. For I have not spoken of myself; but the Father which
sent me, he gave me a commandment, what I should say, and
what I should speak.
Here is a faithful Preacher. Too often we speak of ourselves, of our
own vanity, our own self-will, our fancies. But the Lord Jesus
declared only God's will without any mixture of human error.
Should we not read with reverence our Lord's teaching? though
its form is very simple, yet it is God's voice speaking to His creatures
and recalling them to their duty.
50. And I know that his commandment is life everlasting :
wliatsoever I speak therefore, even as the Father said unto me,
so I speak.
The happy soul thatreceives this Word as God's and lives byit is already
beginning everlasting life. Death may come, but this Word will
enable us to meet it cheerfully, knowing our Father's goodness and
that he has prepared for us an abiding home. Glory be to Thee,
O Jesus my Saviour, for the .precious gift of the Holy Gospel, in it
I find God's message to my soul.

606 Washing the Disciples' Feet. [S. John XIII.

CHAPTER XIII.
I. Jesus washeth the disciples' feet: exhorteth them to humility and
charity. 18. He foretelleth, and discovereth to John by a token, that
Judas should betray him : 31. commandeth them to love one another,
36. and forewarneth Peter of his denial.
"VTOW before the feast of tlie passover, when Jesus knew that
J_\ his hour was come that he should depart out of this world
unto the Father, having loved his own which were in the world,
he loved them unto the end.
We have come now to the solemn time of Christ's Passion. He was
about to tread the road of death and leave His friends here to meet
the world's unkindness without Him, and therefore He brought
forth at this last supper His deepest mysteries, sweetest comforts,
most glorious promises. Let us dispose our hearts to follow with
reverence all that He did and said at such a time.
2. And supper being ended, the devil having now put into the
heart of Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, to betray him ;
True love made Jesus give up all things for us. Selfishness made
Judas give up his best Friend to die in order to get a trifling reward.
Yet it is no profit to condemn loudly the false disciple's conduct
until we have reflected on our own ingratitude. How cold our
love is ! how lightly we offend loving hearts ! How much power
the prospect of a little pleasure or advantage has to gain our
consent !
3. Jesus knowing that the Father had given all things into
his hands, and that lie was come from God, and went to God;
4. he riseth from supper, and laid aside his garments ; and
took a towel, and girded himself.
Here is a surprising contrast. The Son of God, Whose glory is
infinite, and Who is just about to leave the world and resume His
throne in heaven, is here found doing a servant's work. What will
rich and refined people say to such an example ? Are they bound
to wait on the poor, to lay aside their rank, to put up with annoy
ances, to take a lowly place ? What a hard lesson ! can our Master
mean this ?
5. After that he pour eth water into a bason, and began to
ivasli the disdples' feet, and to wipe tliem with the towel where
with lie was girded.
This was a figure of Christ's whole redeeming work. He came down
from heaven and spent Himself on our salvation, going round from
one soul to another and helping each to put away sin and become

Ver. io.] We need a Heavenly Washing. 607
pure. A true Christian will not be ashamed to follow Him.
Each soul is of infinite value. Jesus died for it. Shall we not take
pains to cleanse it ? *
6. Then cometh he to Simon Peter : and Peter saith unto
him, Lord, dost thou wash my fed ?
Once before Peter had knelt at our Lord's feet and said, "Depart
from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord," and now he sees our Lord
at his feet ready to wash them. It is not easy to comprehend the
greatness of Christ's love and the need that we have of Him. If
left to ourselves we can do nothing ; but it takes a long while to
understand this. We would sooner become good of ourselves.
7. Jesus answered and said unto him, What I do thou
knowest not now ; but thou shalt know hereafter.
Often in this world good people are abased for a while and very
imperfect ones raised on high, and we know not why God orders it
so ; but one day all will be clear. We must submit ourselves to
His wise Providence, knowing that what seems hard and strange
now will be justified in the end.
8. Pder saith unto him, Thou shalt never wash my feet.
Jesus answered him, If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with
me. What worse could befall us than to have no part with Jesus ? Let us
then acknowledge our need of His cleansing grace and come boldly
to ask for it. He can and will cleanse us. Let us seek His
blessing in the ways that He appoints for us.
9. Simon Pder saith unto him, Lord, not my feet only, but
also my hands and my head.
Peter saw that it was better to obey, and in his usual eagerness he
went beyond what Christ desired and sought that he might be
wholly washed, not merely his feet. Sometimes we choose our
own way even in good works, and are disappointed when God does
not allow us to carry them out as we wished. Let us rather cherish
an exact obedience that says, "Not my will, but Thine."
10. Jesus saith to him, He that is washed needeth not save to
wash his feet, but is dean every whit : and ye are clean, but not
all. Once we have been wholly cleansed in baptism, once we have been
made God's children, have professed a true faith, and found a full
pardon. There is no need for those who have once believed to
seek over again to enter into covenant with God. He has not
forsaken us ; but still, though we are His, we need a constant
washing of the feet. This means, we need a daily cleansing from
sinful desires and worldliness. We cannot go along the world's
dusty roads without some specks of evil adhering to us. Lord,
wash them away, be they few or many.

608 Christ the Lord as a Servant. [S. John XIII.
n. For he knew who should betray him ; therefore said lie,
Ye are not all clean.
Here was a sad exception to the , purity of this holy company. The
rest had failings from which they needed to be cleansed, but still
they were on Christ's side and had His love in their hearts. His
mercy had given them full pardon. But here was one who had
thrown all this away and sold himself to work evil.
1 2. #0 after he had washed their fed, and had taken his
garments, and was set down again, he said unto them, Know ye
what I have done to you ?
Christ's actions are our patterns. We should consider what He did
for us, for it is all full of instruction, and set to work to follow it in
our own life. We cannot altogether understand what He has done,
it is too great ; and yet we can see in it a spirit of unselfish love, a
patience and tenderness which is the secret of doing any good for
souls.
13. Ye call me Master and Lord: and ye say well ; for so
I am.We are then His scholars to learn from Him, and His servants to
obey Him. No one else has the rights over our soul which the
Lord Jesus has. We should be rebels if we did not serve and
honour Him.
14. If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your
feet ; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. 15. For I have
given you an example, that ye should do as I have done lo you.
How can we wash others' feet? The meaning is that we should
be ready to serve them in any way, to take trouble for them or
wait on their needs. A Christian ought never to be too proud to
do any humble service for his brethren. Nay, he ought to rejoice
when such an opportunity comes in his way. And this holds of
souls as well as bodies, of helping by love and prayer some sinful
soul to wash away her stains, as much as of literally washing the
feet.
16. Verily, verily, I say unto you, The servant is not greater
than his lord ; neitlier he tliat is sent greater than lie that sent
him. We should not think ourselves too good to follow Jesus and do as
He did. If He obeyed authority, and was tender to children and
the poor, and waited on His disciples, and strove patiently with
gainsayers, and accomplished all His Father's will, such a career
is the highest one for us. How dreadfully this verse has been
forgotten by many ministers of religion ! They have loved power,
and wealth, and honour, and despised their Master's example.
17. If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.

Ver. 22.] The Traitor disclosed. 609
How easy it is to admire holy maxims or speak warmly of religion !
but the difficulty is to order our life accordingly. Keep me, O
Lord, from a mere head-knowledge of Scripture, which will only
condemn me. Those are blessed who do God's commandments,
not merely talk of them.
18. IT 7 speak not of you all : I know whom I have chosen :
but that the scripture may be fulfilled, He that eateth bread with
me hath lifted up his heel against me.
There was one who despised Christ's words about the blessings of
humility. The others listened attentively, and resolved to follow
their Master in doing humble service, and so find true honour;
but Judas sat by with scom in his mind. All the Lord's mercies
had turned to bitterness with him. He had forgotten the kind
acts and wise words of Jesus, and sat by discontented and
impatient.
19. Now I tell you before it come, that, when it is come to
pass, ye may believe that I am lie.
Even the treachery of Judas served to confirm the faith of believers.
Even the many evils which abound, the coldness of love, and
terrible consequences of sin, and loss of many souls, were known to
our Master and foretold by Him. Our faith is strengthened by
observing that He knew what was to come, evil as well as good.
20. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that receiveth whom
soever I send receivdh me ; and he that receiveth me receiveth
him that sent me.
Alas ! we ought to be more like our Master to claim this promise for
ourselves. How can men recognise in us the meekness, holiness,
wisdom, of our persecuted Lord? If they find us altogether
worldly they will not believe that we are sent by God.
21. When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and
tedified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of
you shall bdray me.
How few are troubled at a deadly sin as Jesus was ! He did not
feel injured Himself, but grieved at His disciple's ruin. The peace
of His holy soul was troubled when He thought of high hopes and
gifts and good dispositions all gone, and the choice of the wrong side
made for ever. What a frightful thing it would be to encourage a
redeemed soul to betray Christ by deadly sin !
22. Then the disdples looked one on another, doubting of
whom he spake.
What, did they doubt of themselves ? Had they not a sure promise
and His love to trust to? They felt their own weakness, they
knew that we can only escape by God's special grace. All their
life they feared and walked humbly with God, not distrusting His
power, but their own hearts.
2Q

610 The Beloved Disciple. [S. John XIII.
23. Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his dis
ciples, whom Jesus loved.
What purity of heart John must have had to be a partaker of our
Saviour's confidence ! We should tremble at the thought of the
all-knowing Lord coming so close to us. Jesus has blessed human
friendship by having a dear friend Himself. Yet indeed He loves
us all, and wishes us to open our inmost affections to Him.
24. Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that lie should
ask who it should be of whom he spake.
Peter, who was first of the apostles, applied to John for information
as to the meaning of Christ's words. This was because John was
the most beloved of all. There are souls, like John's, full of love
and purity, and intimate with their Lord, who can learn His message
best and interpret it to us.
25. He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord,
who is it ?
John seems to have leaned forward and whispered this to his Master.
Can we not sometimes open our hearts to Him, tell Him our needs,
feel that He is our Friend as well as our God ? Grant us, O Lord,
some seasons of communion with Thee, that we may shut out all
the world and plead our cause to Thee alone.
26. Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop,.
when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he
gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.
Only John knew what our Lord meant by this. The others would
see in it merely a kind attention which Jesus showed to His
disciple after the custom of that country ; but this very pledge of
friendship made Judas- impatient, and stirred him up to finish his
treacherous work. He could not bear Jesus to show him courtesy.
How sad a state, when even God's mercies only lead us to oui
ruin!
27. And after tlie sop Satan entered into him. Then said
Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly. ¦
When once we have given our hearts up to sin the opportunity of
evil comes terribly quick, and we fall, perhaps never to rise again.
I am close to the edge of a precipice, and always on the point of
falling, I am only upheld by the outstretched hand of God's mercy.
I should quickly ruin my own soul, and my brethren too, but for
that restraining grace which so far has not failed me.
28. Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake
this unto him. 29. For some of them thought, because Judas
had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those tilings
that we have need of against the feast ; or, that he should give
something to tlie poor.

Ver. 33.] The Son of Man glorified. 611
They thought that Judas might have been sent on some business by
our Lord, for he cared for the money which belonged to the holy
company, and used to bestow part of it in alms and spend part in
necessaries. One would have thought that the task of conveying
Christ's gifts to the poor and their needs to Him was so sacred and
delightful that no mischief could have got into the heart of one who
had this to do. Alas ! no society and no employment, however
holy, will keep the devil out. He finds a way into the most solemn
moments.
30. He then having received the sop went immediately out :
and it was night.
This wretched man chose darkness instead of light. He could not
humble himself to acknowledge his faults and ask his Master's
pardon, so he rushed off to complete his ruin. Keep me, O Lord,
from choosing evil. Let me not, in the last day, be shut out
from light and joy for ever, and condemned to the outer darkness.
Let me now live as in the light, feeling that Thy eyes are upon all
I do.
31. IT Therefore, when he was gone out, Jesus said, Now is
the Son of man glorified, and God is glorified in him.
The false disciple was now gone, and Jesus was alone with His true
friends, so He began to open His heart to them in the wonderful
discourses which follow. He spoke of His cruel death which was
approaching as His being glorified, because the shame and pain of
it was a small matter compared with God's love and power in
working out our salvation, which appeared then gloriously. Let
us try to look at things as Jesus did, not merely with the outward
eye, but by faith, then we shall see God's glory manifested.
32. If God be glorified in him, God shall also glorify him
in himsdf, and shall straightway glorify him.
Men seek glory too, but then it is merely the flattery of erring men
that they prize, and it does them harm rather than good. But
Christ our Lord sought God's approval first, and took on Him a
lowly nature and mean condition, and at last a death of shame, in
order to make His Father known to men and loved by them. Let
us subdue our ambitious hearts to seek glory in this way, by giving
up and humbly obeying.
33. Little children, yd a little while I am with you. Ye
shall seek me : and as I said unto the Jews, Whither I go, ye
cannot come ; so now I say to you.
What tenderness there is in our Saviour's words ! How He recognises
the great gap which His departure would leave for His friends I
They would in vain desire His bodily presence, His look, His
loving words. The great barrier which parts the unseen world
from this would soon be stretched between them.

612 A New Commandment. [S. John XIV.
34. A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one
another ; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.
Alas ! is not this still a new and untried commandment ? Where
shall we find love after Christ's pattern, and shown to others because
they belong to Him ? We need exceedingly to put this rale into
practice, and think of our brethren's cares and wants as if they were
our own, and in the same spirit that our Master did. Lord, quicken
our cold, selfish hearts with some spark of Thy love.
35. By this shall all men know that ye are my disdples, if
ye have love one to another.
- Thus we can recognise true Christians. This is the surest sign of all.
In the better days of the Church love abounded amongst believers,
they were distinguished from the heathen by this special sign.
This is the way for us to declare our membership in Christ, by a
tender and forbearing regard for our brethren. But how can we
love except Thou, O Lord, shouldest plant and nourish love in our
hearts ?
36. IT Simon Peter said unto him, Lord, whither goest thou ?
Jesus answered him, Whither I go, thou canst not follow me
now ; but thou shalt follow me afterwards.
Our turn may not come yet, but it will come before very long. We
too shall have to step down into the dark river, following our
Master's steps. We shall have to bear mortal pain, and to leave
this world. This way Jesus Himself went, and He will enable us
to tread it safely when the hour comes. Sometimes my heart fails
when I think of death, then I remember that Jesus went first and
so I take courage.
37. Peter said unto him, Lord, why cannot I follow thee
now ? I will lay down my life for thy sake.
I feel I could die for Christ's Name. I kindle at the glorious deeds
of martyrs and long to imitate them. How beautiful it would be
to endure torture and death bravely and win an eternal crown !
Ah, fool that I am ! I will not give up my bosom sins, nor bear
little worries, nor check my pride. How can I take a place in the
noble army of martyrs? I speak of overcoming without knowing
my weakness.
38. Jesus answered him, Wilt thou lay down thy life for my
sake ? Verily, verily, I say unto thee, The cock shall not crow,
till thou hast denied me thrice.
What a sad contrast between brave words and poor performances !
He who would bear all things for Christ turns into a liar and
coward at the first trial. Show me my own weakness, O
Searcher of hearts, that I may be prepared against the day of trial
comes.

Ver. 5.] Christ prepares a Place for us. 613

CHAPTER XIV.
1. Christ comforteth his disciples with the hope of heaven : 6. professeth
himself the way, the truth, and the life, and one with the Father:
13. assureth their prayers in his name to be effectual : 15. requesteth
love and obedience, 16. promiseth the Holy Ghost the Comforter, 27.
and leaveth his peace with them.
IET not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe
J also in me.
This is the secret of peace, to trust in God's Providence and Christ's
redeeming love. While we have this sure foundation to rest upon
we cannot be moved. Pain and anxiety may come, yet through it
all the believer has a deep peace which cannot be taken from him.
2. In my Father's house are many mansions : if it were not
so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.
Our Father's home throws its doors open wide to us. There is room
for all. However weak, or feeble, or unworthy we are, yet God
bids us enter and be at rest there for ever. Christ's work has made
a way for us. His merits give us entrance. Let us in all the changes
of this world bear in mind the eternal home which God has prepared
for them that love Him.
3. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come
again, and recdve you unto myself; that where I am, there ye
may be also.
How does He come again ? He rose from the grave on the third day.
Then He sent His Holy Spirit to renew hearts and make them in
wardly His. Further, the hour of death comes in which we hear
His call to enter on the unseen state. Again, He will come visibly
in glory. But the purpose of these various comings is all one, that
we may be His friends and never parted from Him. Fit us, O
Saviour, to dwell with Thee.
4. And whither I go ye know, and tlie way ye know.
They knew something of God as the end, and Christ crucified as the
way, but as yet they did not understand fully the lessons that they
had learned. These must be our study also. We must look to our
heavenly Father as the end for all men, dwelling in everlasting
glory, full of perfection. That is the end which Christ had in view
and we should have. And the way to reach that end is Jesus Him
self and His death. Let us keep to that path and no harm will
happen to us.
5. Thomas saith unto him, Lord, we know not whither thou
goest; and how can we know the way ?

6 14 The Way, the Truth, and the Life. [S. John XIV.
We must do as Thomas did, confess our ignorance and appeal to
Christ for instruction. There are times when all seems dark to us,
and we see no road through this tangled world. All that we
trusted seems to vanish from our sight and the guides of our youth
fail us. Yet, O Lord, we believe that there is still guidance with
Thee.
6. Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the
life : no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
I believe, O Lord, that Thy life and sufferings are our way, Thy teach
ing our truth, Thy grace our life. In my weakness I lay hold of
Thy strength and feel that Thou only art able to bring me to that
eternal happiness for which I was made. This is the way I
desire to walk in, the truth I believe, the life I wish to live by.
7. If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father
also : and, from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
Our knowledge of heavenly things is very obscure and imperfect
while we live in the world ; but the Lord Jesus has put some light
into our hearts and given us a hope of full brightness to come. If
we believe in a heavenly Father, and know by experience that He
is good to us, we have knowledge enough. There are some who
have never yet learned that lesson.
8. Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it
sufficeth us.
How bold Philip was ! He asked for a sight of God. He forgot
that no man could see God and live. He was not content with the
daily exhibition of God's love in the life of Jesus, or in the blessings
of Providence, but wished for some glorious vision to confirm his
weak faith.
9. Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you,
and yet hast thou not known me, Philip ? he that hath seen me
hath seen the Father ; and how sayest tliou then, Shew us tlie
Father ?
God has been so long time with us, showing us so many tokens of "
His love, sending us above all His dear Son, guiding us along the
road of life, and yet we have not known Him. He has seemed to
be hidden from us. Grant, O Lord, that we may discern Thy love
and follow Thee ; give us eyes of faith to see things invisible.
10. Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the
Father in me ? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of
myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.
It is an important matter for us to believe in the Divine glory of
Jesus Christ. If we do not believe it then we must take Christians
for idolaters, for they have always worshipped Him and prayed
to Him. All our faith in His atoning work depends on His being

Ver. 1 6.] Prayer in Christ's Name. 615
Divine, not a mere man. His wise words, which are so simple
and yet so deep, His works of mercy joined with power, all these
help us to believe in Him as the only-begotten Son.
1 1. Bdieve me that I am in the Father, and the Father in
me : or else believe me for the very works' sake.
Read what He did and said, consider His life, and you will see that
God is manifested in Him. How else can we conceive of God as
revealed among men ? If Jesus is not what He professes to be,
where shall mankind find a Saviour. When I read these words
I answer, Lord, I believe, help me to believe more firmly.
12. Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me,
the works that I do shall he do also ; and greater works than
these shall he do ; because I go unto my Father.
The apostles did greater marvels than Jesus Himself. They went
out and converted the world. Christian preachers since their day
have won whole nations to the truth, and displayed great gifts of
teaching and converting sinners. Ah, but this all comes from the
unseen Saviour. He it is, though at God's right hand, Who does
all that is rightly done for His Name.
13. And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do,
that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
I must pray in the Name of Jesus if I would be heard. That means
trusting in His merits, not my own deservings, feeling that He is
my Friend and Saviour, wishing only for what He thinks best,
believing firmly in His power. My prayers will rise to God if they
are made in union with the great love of Jesus and according to
His pattern. Apart from Him I am so unworthy that I dare not,
and so blind that I cannot, ask.
14. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.
What a bountiful promise ! How is it that our cold hearts draw back
from prayer ? If we felt as we ought our own weakness and danger
we should more frequently fly to our heavenly Friend and pour out
our needs before Him. He is never harsh or indifferent to us.
15. U If ye love me, keep my commandments.
Love is shown by deeds, not words. We must not flatter ourselves
that we love Jesus unless we hate those things that He hates and
love what He loves. This is the real proof of our love, not words,
¦ nor feelings, but a patient obedience to all that our Master enjoined.
16. And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another
Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever ;
This is a Friend Who will never leave us unless we persist in wilfully
rejecting Him. In times of trouble He is our Help, our Light in
darkness, our Comfort in sorrow. He bears long with us, gives us
strength to fight, and love for God, and a hope of heaven.

616 God will be manifest within. [S. John XIV.
1 7. Even the Spirit of truth ; whom the world cannot receive,
because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know
him ; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
Am I of the world, or one of Christ's true disciples ? I am so unable
to discern this Divine Comforter, or to rise up with Him in prayer,
my heart is so full of evil, I see the truth so dimly, that I some
times fear lest I am altogether outside His gracious working. O
Lord, I cannot always tell whether I have this gracious gift, but
this I know, that I have no other hope except in Thee. Unless I
am quickened by Thy Spirit I have no life.
18. I will not leave you comfortless : I will come to you.
Jesus looks on His little family as about to be left orphans. He is
leaving them behind Him in an unkind world, yet not for long.
He comforts them with the thought of His speedy return to be
their ever-present Friend. A Christian can never be quite comfort
less, for the Spirit of Christ helps mm to bear up against trouble.
19. Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but
ye see me : because I live, ye shall live also.
It was only a little while to the end of His earthly life, then He
would be gone from the world's sight ; but true believers would still
see Him by faith and live by that sight. All this life is but a little
while, only it is long enough for us to begin to know and love our
Saviour.
20. At that day ye shall know that I am in my Father, and
ye in me, and I in you.
O great Teacher, let me learn this lesson, that Thou art Divine and
that I am knit to Thee by a strong tie of love. Let that day
quickly come when these mysteries shall be part of my own
experience. These are not barren truths, but the foundation of all
the soul's life.
2 1. He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he
it is that lovdh me : and he that loveth me shall be loved of my
Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.
This is Christ's true friend who is loyal to Him and loves Him, and
so feels more of God's love and sees more of His goodness day by
day. Let me remember that I cannot share this blessedness unless
I resolve to keep His commandments. One who often neglects or
disobeys Jesus Christ will turn His mercy into judgment. I desire
to be a true and faithful servant to so good a Master.
22. Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that
thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world ?
A Christian must rise above earthly notions when he speaks of seeing
his Lord. Jude could not understand how Christ could be seen
by any but bodily eyes, which the world had as well as they. But

Ver. 28.] The Comforter is promised. 617
it is the pure heart alone that can see God. It is a great mistake
to think that any one can have spiritual knowledge without leading
a holy life.
23. Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he
will keep my words : and my Father will love him, and we will
come unto him, and make our abode with him.
Here is a wonderful visit which God makes to the soul of man I
What a Guest to entertain ! How can our mean and narrow hearts
be made fit for the abode of the Lord of Glory ? Every true lover
of Jesus, every faithful servant of His, has a share in this glorious
promise.
24. He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings : and the
word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.
Our Lord obeyed His heavenly Father and taught the word which
He had received, and thus He teaches us to obey willingly and
gladly. Unless we submit ourselves to Christ's holy law we only
make confusion. God's Son obeys His Father. The creatures
their Maker. Shall I, a frail worm, withdraw myself from this
law ? Let it be my pride and glory to keep all that Christ has
bidden me.
25. These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present
with you. 26. But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost,
whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all
things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I
have said unto you.
When our Lord's bodily presence was withdrawn He sent us an
invisible Friend and Guide Who will never leave us. Our darkened
mind wants teaching, our dull memory refreshing, our anxious
heart to be comforted, now the Lord Jesus by His Holy Spirit has
provided for us what we need. How delightful it must have been
for the disciples afterwards when they remembered their dear
Master's sayings afresh, and found a new meaning in them !
27. Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not
as the world givdh, give I unto you. Let not your heart be
troubled, neither let it be afraid.
The world's wish of peace is merely an empty greeting. Christ
imparts it as well as speaks of it. The peace that the world desires
is mere comfort, and ease, and freedom from annoyance ; but the
Christian seeks for an inward peace which no losses or sorrows can
take away. I will leave this world's lovers their satisfactions, if
Thou, O Lord, wilt give me a quiet, obedient, faithful heart that can
lean on Thy promise always.
28. Ye have heard how I said unto you, I go away, and
come again unto you. If ye loved me, ye would rejoice, because
I said, I go unto the Father : for my Father is greater than I.

618 The Prince of this World draws near. [S. John XV.
We should rejoice in our Friend's glory. He came on earth to suffer
and die, then He departed again into the unseen home where
sorrow could not touch Him any more. He is gone, but yet comes
among us still. God has sent Him forth to be the Helper of our
weak humanity. How great is the goodness of the eternal Father
in giving His Son to become man for us, and of the eternal Son
Who took on Himself a creature's life and sufferings !
29. And now I have told you before it come to pass, that,
when it is come to pass, ye might believe.
The believer looks back and sees how many of the Lord's words have
been fulfilled, how He died, how He rose, how He sent the Spirit,
how the world was subdued to the Gospel ; and seeing all this he
takes courage to look for the fulfilment of the rest of Christ's
sayings. Much there is not yet come to pass in all its fulness, but
we await it patiently, knowing that He Who has done so much can
bring to pass the rest.
30. Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince
of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me.
Satan was drawing near. Our Lord already felt the approach of
those pains which should tempt His holy soul in the garden, as
well as of those outrages which should torture His body. He was
going out to meet the enemy and overcome by patience. Mighty
conquerors, rich worldly men, careless livers, are only Satan's
servants. He is their prince and holds them in bondage. It is
the servants of Jesus that are free from that degrading slavery.
31. But that tlie world may know that I love the Father ;
and as the Father gave me commandment, even so I do. Arise,
let us go hence.
Jesus goes forth to meet His death in a spirit of love, with obedience
and with courage. For whom is this example if not for us ? Our
life and death should be, after His pattern, a sacrifice of self to
spread God's love and fulfil His commandments. Let it be said
of us, that we in our little span of life obeyed and loved, and were
always ready at God's call.

CHAPTER XV.
The consolation and mutual love between Christ and his members,
under the parable of the vine. 18. A comfort in the hatred and per
secution of the world. 26. The office of the Holy Ghost, and of the
apostles.

I

AM the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman.
The vine represented to our Saviour His human nature, which is

Ver. 6.] Parable of the True Vine. 619
the source of new life for men, and which God His Father had set in
the world to have many branches and bear much fruit. I desire
nothing better for myself than to be a branch of this Vine, and
derive good thoughts and good works from Him. I am content
to submit myself to the care of the heavenly Husbandman.
2. Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away:
and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may
bring forth more fruit.
If the branch is not clipped and thinned then the vine-dresser has no
hopes of it. He is going only to cut it off. Let us submit cheer
fully to pain, and sorrow, and temptation, they only show us our
heavenly Father's care. He is purifying us by such trials to do
some work for Him. God grant us to be fruit-bearing branches.
All His dealings with us are in mercy to fit us for higher things.
3. Now ye are dean through the word which I have spoken
unto you.
Not only afflictions, but God's Word also can purify our hearts. Dear
friend, if God has spared you sharp trials, take His Word and
correct yourself by that. Apply it daily to your heart, and cut
away by its aid all that offends His eyes. Even if we have been
cleansed once, yet there remains more to do.
4. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear
fruit ofitsdf, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except
ye abide in me.
This is the law of spiritual life. Christian graces can only be in that
soul which is inwardly joined to Christ No fruit could be looked
for on the branch that had been cut off. So true love, and peace,
and hope, and power of converting souls can be found only in the
believer who has daily communion with his Lord. We have no
depth of spiritual power to draw from, Christ's fulness only can
supply us.
5. / am the vine, ye are the branches : He that abideth in
me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit : for with
out me ye can do nothing.
Let this be our portion, to abide in Christ and so bear much fruit.
When Christ quickens us then our words and deeds are living, then
we can do much work for God, then our whole life is raised heaven
wards. His great power supplies our defects, His love fills up our
shallow hearts. Can we not do something for Him, or rather pray
Him to do it in us ?
6. If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch,
and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the
fire, and they are burned.
This is the sad condition ot those who have fallen away. Once
they loved Jesus, they believed His Word, they lived as His

620 How to bear Fruit. [S. John XV.
disciples. Now they despise religion and follow their own pleasure,
yet with an aching heart, and feeling at times what they have lost.
May God in His mercy keep us from such ruin. It is very easy
to lose our innocence or our faith, and very hard to revive them
again. Who can make a dead bough live ? It is impossible with
man, but God is able to bring back erring hearts and join them to
Christ again.
•j. If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye sliall
ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you.
A Christian who would pray so as to be heard must have thought
over his Master's words and made them his own. Holy Scripture
ought to abide in our hearts. Its prayers, its praises, its visions,
its doctrines, stir us up to make such prayers as God approves.
This verse has a happy picture of the believer who loves Christ,
and God's Word, and prayer, and so obtains from God what he
needs.
8. Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit ;
so sliall ye be my disdples.
Alas ! when I think of my own life this verse seems a mockery to me.
God has had little glory from me. I show few signs of being a
disciple of Jesus. Yet I must take courage. If I can but win one
soul for God, or show Christ's love to any one, or but once take
away doubt or appease strife, it will be accepted by Divine mercy.
The more ashamed I feel of my useless life for so long, the more
in earnest I ought to be now.
9. As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you : continue
ye in my love.
Nothing can interrupt the love of Jesus, not death, nor separation,
nor long ages. As He still rejoices in the love of His Father, so
He still delights to care for us. We have but to bring home to our
selves the truth that our Saviour loves us, and to live and work
in the strength of this love. If we continue rooted in this trust
nothing can hurt us.
10. If ye keep my commandments, ye shall abide in my love ;
even as I have kept my Father's commandments, and abide in
his love.
This is loyal love. Jesus obeyed faithfully His Father's will ; so
should the Christian obey his Redeemer. Jesus obeyed even when
obedience led to the Cross ; so it is worth while for us to put aside
all other considerations to follow Christ's Word strictly. The
world thinks it a burden, but it is the true spring of peace and joy.
11. These things have I spoken unto you, that my joy might
remain in you, and tliat your joy might be full.
A mourner thinks, What have I to do with joy ? Yet our Saviour

Ver. 1 6.] Christs Purposes for His Friends. 621
Himself, even in His hour of trial, felt this deep joy and bade His
disciples share it. It is not the world's merry-making but a deep
contentment with God's ways and a hope of light to come.
12. This is my commandment, That ye love one another, as
I have loved you.
Jesus took pains to teach learners this lesson. Human command
ments add much else to this, but this is the substance of all. As
our Master cared for, prayed for, worked for, endured all things for
His brethren, so must any one do who would be reckoned His
disciple. Here is a rule by which to try ourselves.
13. Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down
his life for his friends.
Our hearts kindle at this verse. We should rejoice to give our life
for some dear one. But how can we do this when the hour of
danger comes, unless we have accustomed ourselves to give up our
own way and our own comforts in peaceful times? We must
practise laying down our vanity and selfishness, so that when the
call comes we may be willing to lay down our life too.
14. Ye are my friends, if ye do whatsoever I command you.
We should think it a great honour to be friends with some king or
prince of this world. What shall we say, then, to the offered
friendship of God's own Son ? Let us apply ourselves to know this
heavenly Friend, enjoying His society and never grieving Him by
any folly. Let us bring our dear earthly friends to know Him too.
No path can be lonely, no darkness solitary, while He is with us.
15. Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant
knoweth not what his lord dodh : but I have called you friends ;
for all things that I have heard of my Father I have made
known unto you.
If we would understand the mysteries of grace let us approach Jesus
as a Friend and ask Him to enlighten us. His first disciples were
simple people, yet He revealed to them all the plan of salvation.
The more we enter into God's ways, the more we shall find still to
learn. How great is His condescension in making known to frail
men His great designs !
16. Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and
ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that
your fruit should remain : that whatsoever ye shall ask of the
Father in my name, he may give it you.
This verse is full of comfort for a believer. It anchors him on the
eternal choice, wise guidance, strengthening grace, and pardoning
mercy of God. Our salvation does not rest on our own weak will,
but on God, Who cannot fail. Only His purpose is fixed that we
should bring forth fruit. He expects some return for all His care.
What will the heavenly Vine-dresser say to His chosen vine if He
finds no fruit there when He visits it ?

622 Christ's Friends hated by the World. [S. John XV.
1 7. These things I command you, tliat ye love one another.
18. If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it
hated you.
Here is a contrast between the temper of the world and that of Christ's
friends. If we encourage feelings of unkindness or jealousy we
have gone over in heart to Christ's enemies. Hatred is their
temper, but must not be ours. We must long for the time when
all true believers will love each other and reserve their hatred only
for wickedness. Let us hate cowardice, and filthiness, and cruelty,
but never again any soul for whom Christ died.
19. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own:
but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out
of the world, therefore the world hateth you.
Will the Lord Jesus recognise as His disciple one who lives for the
world and enjoys all its comforts and advantages, one who is worldly
in His thoughts and words, one who never rebukes sin or gives up
an enjoyrrient ? Surely not, if He is the Truth. He will say to
such sort of Christians, "I never knew you, depart from Me." Lord,
separate me once more from worldliness, and let me not be ashamed
of standing up for Thee.
20. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is
not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, tliey
will also persecute you ; if they have kept my saying, they will
keep your's also.
We must be content to make failures, to be laughed at, to have our
love rejected and our advice despised ; for so it was with our
Master. He chose a life of sorrow mixed with joy, and affronts as
well as honours, to give us courage for either condition. Let us
take it patiently when our care and pains for some soul appear to
be all in vain. Christ had the same experience,
21. But all these things will they do unto you for my name's
sake, because they know not him that sent me.
What a loss not to know God ! Let us grieve for such souls, far
from triumphing over them. It is only God's mercy that has made
us better off. But let us take care that we do not fall away from
the knowledge that we have received. How much worse should
we be if we reviled the friends of Jesus after we have learned about
His Father !
22. If I had not come and spoken unto them, they had not
had sin : but now they have no doke for tlieir dn.
They turned God's greatest benefits to their ruin. They were far
worse off after despising Jesus than if He had never appeared among
them. So if I had not had this call from God, this opportunity of
grace, this mercy or this judgment, I should be less to blame. But
now He has spoken to my heart, woe to me if I do not obey 1

Ver. 27.] The Witness of the Comforter. 623
23. He that hateth me hateth my Father also.
In Jesus was expressed clearly God's goodness, His mercy, His
wisdom. Those who reviled Him were in reality reviling the
fountain of all goodness. Hating God seems frightful to think of,
yet if I despise purity and kindness, if I destroy God's image in
the soul by tempting any one to sin, I am making war on God Him
self. What will be the end of such a contest ?
24. If I had not done among them the works which none
other man did, they had not had dn : but now liave they both
seen and hated both me and my Father.
What ! those works of power and love which filled all the beholders,
and even us who read of them now, with admiration, were only
stumbling-blocks to the unbeliever. Without a humble heart, and
the grace of faith, it was no profit to witness them ; they were but
barren wonders. Lord, let me be one who in Thy recorded history
sees and loves Thee, and God in Thee.
25. But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled
that is written in their law, They hated me without a cause.
Why did men hate Christ? He was full of goodness, He had done
harm to none. No, but He crossed the path of their evil passions
and worldly interests. Why do we not love God ? He has poured
out many blessings on us. We have no cause to complain of His
Providence, much cause indeed to embrace it with love.
26. But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto
you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proeeedeth
from the Father, he shall testify of me :
This is their security in a world of conflict, their certainty in a world
of doubt Why need they fear ? The Holy Spirit is a fountain of
light, and peace, and joy which nothing can quench. It is a great
gift to believe in this living Comforter, and to be able to lead others
to this unfailing spring. I believe with my whole heart in a loving
Father Who has given His Son to die for me and His Spirit to
enlighten me. I desire to live and die in this faith.
27. And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with
me from the beginning.
This was the apostles' work. Jesus prepared them for this by show
ing them for three years so many truths, so many wonders. They
were able to speak from their own experience. Can you say, 0
reader, that you have been Christ's friend, that you have walked
with Him along the road of this world, and known His goodness
by experience? That is the only way to bear witness of Him
effectively.

624 Martyrdoms foretold. [S. John XVI.

CHAPTER XVI.
i. Christ comforteth his disciples against tribulation by the promise of the
Holy Ghost, and by his resurrection and ascension : 23. assureth
their prayers made in his name to be acceptable to his Father. 33.
Peace in Christ, and in the world affliction.
THESE things have I spoken unto you, that ye should not be
offended.
When we find wise and great people despising God's Word, when we
see them neglect His Table, when religion is scoffed at by the clever,
when all men speak against what we love, what should we do?
Give it up and join the world's side? No, Jesus has told us it
would be so. He said these words on purpose to guard us from
giving up. His Word abides sure whatever men may say against it.
2. They shall put you out of the synagogues : yea, the time
cometh, that whosoever killeth you will think that he doeth God
service. This has been the lot of the best persons whom the world has seen.
They have been reviled, driven away, put to death. No honour
in this world was worthy of them, so God gave them a crown of
glory instead. If we are spoken well of by all, let us tremble and
look closely to ourselves lest we be going wrong. If God gives us
a share in the cup of shame which His martyrs had to drink, let us
rejoice and take it as a sign of His love.
3. And these things will they do unto you, because they have
not known the Father, nor me.
This has been the source of persecutions. The oppressors did not
know the true service of God or the character of Christ. They
ill-used the righteous even in his heavenly Father's Name, they
thought they were following God's light, while they were only
getting deeper and deeper into darkness. Lord, enlighten us that
we may know Thee and Thy dear Son, and love all His true
followers.
4. But these things have I told you, that when the time shall
come, ye may remember that I told you of them. And these
things I said not unto you at the beginning, because I was with
you. Earthly conquerors promise success and speak of glorious rewards.
Jesus foretold shame, and sorrow, and death to His soldiers. He
did this to remove from their minds a great source of confusion,
and to give them a key'to the world's perplexities. My Master
has told me this, I need not fear. Whatever may come it cannot
go beyond His Word. When the time of my trial comes I can
look to Him and remember His gracious warnings.

Ver. io.] The Spirit's Teaching. 625
5. But now I go my way to him tliat sent me ; and none of
you asketh me, Whitlier goest tliou ?
We have not got our Master visibly present to be inquired of, yet
we can ask Him by looking in His Word, by meeting Him in His
Holy Sacrament, by communion with Him in prayer. He has
gone away from the reach of sight, yet we have much still that we
can ask and can hear from Him. Who can tell us of heavenly
things but the Lord Jesus only ?
6. But because I have said these things unto you, sorrow hath .
filled your heart.
No wonder that they were sad. Their Friend was about to leave
them, and He had foretold for them disgrace and pain. Yet still
the Christian ought not to give himself up to gloomy thoughts.
The Gospel has a treasure of joy so great that it can swallow up
all earthly sorrow. Let the believer look up and see beyond
the Cross an infinite prospect of glory to come. Lord, when
sadness comes on me, do Thou fill my heart with heavenly comfort.
7. Nevertheless I tell you the truth ; It is expedient for you
that I go away : for if I go not away, the Comforter will not
come unto you ; but if I depart, I will send him unto you.
In Christ's view death is only a departure, He is going away and
will not forget those whom He leaves behind. Indeed it was
better that He should go, for while they had His bodily presence
they could not have Him dwelling in their hearts. Only the Holy
Spirit could give them a spiritual joy and love. When this world's
comforts, and friends, and rewards leave me, I desire to have the
abiding presence of the Spirit, which can more than make up to
me for them.
8. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and
of righteousness, and of judgment :
This is the lesson which God's Spirit has to teach mankind; of their
fallen state in Adam, of their new life in Christ, of the final victory
of good. Let me be a willing learner in this school. Let me feel
the weight of sin, long for the gift of righteousness, rejoice in
God's final victory. I have listened too much to idle tales, but now
I will study God's message.
9. Of dn, because tliey believe not on me ;
It was a fallen world into which Jesus came. He brought good
tidings of great joy, and showed a perfect pattern of the true life,
yet He was despised and crucified. This is the welcome which
men gave to their best Friend. They had not hearts that could
value Him. They were corrupt and fallen, so that the trae light
blinded their eyes.
10. Of righteousness, because I go to my Father, and ye see
me no more ; 2 R

626 Divine Lessons. [S. John XVI.
The Spirit shows us Christ risen and exalted. He is no longer in
weakness, but enjoying Divine glory, and able to bestow gifts of
holiness on His faithful people. We do not see Him, but all good
gifts are His and tell us of His love. True righteousness was not
possible till He had died for us, and ascended to plead for us with
God.
1 1. Of judgment, because the prince of this world is judged.
Satan's work was overthrown by Christ's Cross. Our Lord invaded
the kingdom of darkness and rescued many souls from it. One
day He will complete His saving work. Let us be numbered
among His friends who rejoice in His triumphs, and work hard
themselves to rescue souls from the enemy. The dominion of evil
cannot last, though it seems to flourish for a while. We have
thrown in our lot with the Prince of Heaven and know that He is
the strongest.
12. / have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot
bear them now.
Jesus sowed seeds of truth which should in due time spring up and
bear fruit. How wisely and tenderly He dealt with these simple
souls, revealing to them only what they were able to bear ! Do
Thou, Lord, lead me on thus to know Thy truth according to my
capacity.
13. Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will
guide you into all truth : for he shall not speak of himself ;
but wliatsoever he shall hear, that sliall he speak : and he will
shew you things to come.
O blessed Guide, save me from my own fancies and errors, and make
me rest quietly upon Thee. I believe that in Thy Word is all
needful truth for this mortal life, and that things to come will make
clear what is yet dark. If I have to teach, let me learn beforehand
from Thee.
14. He sliall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and
shall shew it unto you.
That is the Spirit's work, to draw men nearer to Christ, Who is their
Divine Head. He brings Christ's words, and death, and glory home
to the believer's heart Lord, let me share in this rich store of
heavenly mysteries which Thy Holy Spirit has to impart concern
ing Thee. Let me day by day behold and adore.
15. All things that the Father hath are mine: therefore said
I, that he shall take of mine, and shall shew it unto you.
How great is our Master ! All God's fulness dwells in Him, all good
gifts are dispensed by His hands ; all that the Spirit does is to
apply His saving work once wrought. Human teachers can only
give to men poor scraps of earthly wisdom, but the Spirit opens
to us an infinite treasure which God's Son has gathered together for
all mankind.

Ver. 21.] Sorrow will turn to Joy. 627
16. A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a
littte while, and ye shall see me, because I go to the Father.
All this world is but a little while. A little while of sorrow, and
again a little while of joy. It is soon over. Neither its sorrows
nor joys are very important. We see Jesus now by faith though
He is gone, and one day we shall see Him more clearly. The soul's
vision is often clouded now, but patience, all will be clear soon.
1 7. Then said some of his disdples among themselves, What
is this that lie saith unto us, A little while, and ye shall not see
me: and again, a little while, and ye sliall see me: and, Because
I goto the Father? 18. They said therefore, What is this that
he saith, A little while ? we cannot tell what he saith.
The disciples did not understand our Lord's words, nor indeed do we
quite understand them yet. They knew not the manner of His
going nor why He was coming back. Yet they spoke of what He
had said and longed for an explanation of it. Let us, too, by
pondering over His weighty sayings, try to comprehend them.
There are depths in His Word not yet fathomed. We cannot tell
all its meaning, yet we seek to throw light on it as we may.
19. Now Jesus knew that they were desirous to ask him, and
said unto them, Do ye enquire among yourselves of that I said,
A little while, and ye shall not see me: and again, a little
while, and ye shall see me ?
The desire of a humble heart is a prayer which God answers. He
may not indeed explain the whole truth fully, but He gives some
measure of light. Our doubts and anxieties are better known to
Him than to ourselves. Can we not cast our care away and
depend more peacefully on so kind and wise a Friend ?
20. Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and
lament, but tlie world shall rejoice : and ye shall be sorrowful,
but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.
This life has grief and sorrow even for true believers, whilst ungodly
men prosper and are merry ; but our Master tells us that this
sorrow will soon turn into joy, and that mirth into heaviness. God's
friends must not think they are utterly forsaken if He lets them
weep for a while. He will give them everlasting joy in exchange
for their tears. Let us grieve over our sins, and others' sufferings,
and all that hinders God's plan of salvation, yet grieve with a quiet
mind, thinking of joy to come.
21. A woman when she is in travail hath sorrow, because her
hour is come : but as soon as she is delivered of the child, she
remembereth no more the anguish, for joy that a man is bom
into the world.
The travail pains were on the Cross. Before our new life could

628 Proverbs will cease. [S. John XVI.
begin our Saviour had to pass through agony and death. All
spiritual joy flows from that bitter hour. Even now all creation
groans and travails. It is passing through a trial-time which will
issue in glory to come. The sufferings of the present time are not
worthy to be compared with that glory.
22. And ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you
again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh
from you.
Those who shared in Christ's sorrows, and grieved at His death, shared
His joy too when He returned. So it is now. Those who face
grief patiently will have in the end joy. Those who seek their
own pleasure will lose it. Our Lord promises a true and lasting
gladness, a draught from unfailing springs. How unlike this
world's delights !
23. And in tliat day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily,
I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name,
he will give it you.
They should know all saving truth and obtain an answer to all prayer.
Tliey should be members of God's family, to whom He would
hearken for their Brother's sake. Let me rest on this promise and
plead this saving Name. I will submit my will in prayer to God's
will, and ask only what He bids me ask, thus I shall be heard.
24.* Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name : ask, and
ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.
Many Christians deserve this reproach. They receive little because
they pray for little. They scarcely ever breathe an earnest supplica
tion to God for Christ's sake. Thus they know little of heavenly
•joy or true peace. Lord, give me this spirit of prayer, that I may
cast myself on thy goodness and expose all my wants to Thee.
25. These things have I spoken unto you in proverbs: but
the time cometh, when I shall no more speak unto you in pro
verbs, but I sliall shew you plainly of the Father.
Our Saviour began with simple parables, then He went on to teach
deeper things as His death drew near, finally He sent down His
Holy Spirit, which enlightened the disciples' hearts and showed
them what their Master had meant. Yet after all the revelations
made to men on earth, there still remains the full daylight of
heaven to come. Let us be learners in Christ's school, and so go
on to feel God's truth more and understand it better day by day.
26. At that day ye shall ask in my name : and I say not
unto you, that I will pray the Father for you: 27. for the
Father himself loveth you, because ye have loved me, and have
believed that I came out from God.
How encouraging are these words! God loves us. Jesus is our

Ver. 32.] Last Encouragements and Warnings. 629
Friend. We do not need to be recommended to God's favour, for
He already views us as His dear children. We who believe in a
Divine Saviour full of love and power have a sure refuge prepared
amidst the world's storms. This faith cannot fail. This love is
stronger than all earthly love. Hearts that are knit together by
this tie are joined for eternity.
28. / came forth from the Father, and am come into the
world : again, I leave the world, and go to the Father.
Here are four great mysteries in the life of Jesus Christ. He is the
Son of God from all eternity. He was born into this world as the
Son of Man. He dies. He ascends again into heavenly glory.
Let us reverently study this Divine history in all its parts. We
adore His eternal Divine nature. We thank Him for coming into
the world at Christmas-time to save us. The thought of His death
fills us with shame for our own sins which called for such a sacrifice.
His ascension into heaven quickens in us a hope of following Him
thither.
29. His disdples said unto him, Lo, now speakest thou
plainly, and speakest no proverb.
Sometimes in studying God's Word we come upon bright and clear
passages. God shows us His full meaning, and thus encourages
us to persevere in our study. Further on we are in obscurity and
cannot see our way. God has ordained that some things in religion
should be very plain, others again dark for a while. But patience,
He will give full light one day.
30. Now are we sure that thou knowest all things, and needest
not that any man should ask thee : by this we believe that thou
earnest forth, from God.
Jesus met their doubts and fears so exactly, He knew their hearts,
and from this they agreed that He must be Divine. The same
thought applies to His written Word. How wonderfully the Bible
suits our case ! How it seems written with a special message from
God to us ! In many passages we meet God's eye fixed directly on
our heart. Further, what a comfort it is to reflect that our wants
are known to God before we express them in words, and more fully
than we are able to express them ! We should tell Him, but yet
He knows alL
31. Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?
At last, O Lord, I believe, I hope, I love, I know Thy mercy.
Nothing shall ever separate me from Thee. Thou art my Divine
Saviour Who hast come into the world to save me. O Christian,
when you feel thus, beware. Remember your own weakness is
great. Fear the strength of temptation. Ciing to the Divine hand
as your only safeguard.
32. Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall

630 Christ's Prayer. [S. John XVII.
be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone:
and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.
The hour of weakness was at hand. They would be overcome with
fear, and forsake Him for the time. This is too much like our own
history. We rejoice in God's mercies for a while, then, when the
time of trial comes, we are shaken and almost give up our faith.
We should learn to feel, like our Master, even in His darkest hour,
that we have one Friend Who will never leave us ; we can always
turn to Him for comfort.
33. These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might
have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation : but be of
good cheer ; I have overcome the world.
What a glorious end to our Saviour's discourse ! His object had been
to give His hearers peace. He had indeed foretold for them the
greatest sufferings, but yet with them revealed a sure foundation of
love which nothing could destroy. Consider well the value of this
Divine peace. The believer may enjoy it even amidst great
sufferings. It is won by Christ's victory, and depends on our being
united with Him.

CHAPTER XVII.
1. Christ prayeth to his Father to glorify him, 6. to preserve his apostles,
xx. in unity, 17. and truth, 20. to glorify them, and all other believers
with him in heaven.
THESE words spake Jesus, and lifted up his eyes to heaven,
and said, Father, tlie hour is come ; glorify thy Son, that
thy Son also may glorify thee :
We should approach this chapter with great reverence, as it unveils
to us something of the communion between the Son of God and
His heavenly Father. No part of Scripture is more full of deep
mysteries. In it our Saviour presents Himself and all His
faithful people before His Father. We too, if we believe, find a
place in this prayer. He has just appointed the memorial sacrifice
of Himself in the Lord's Supper. He is going to enter on the real
sacrifice of His death ; and between the two, at this most solemn
hour, He lets us witness what was in His heart.
2. As thou hast given him power over all flesh, that he should
give eternal life to as many as thou hast given him.
What a gift of God to Christ ! What a gift of Christ to us ! He is,
then, my Lord and Master, and He has in store for me eternal life.
What a shame it would be if I was indifferent to such a service and
such a promise ! Lord, I acknowledge Thy dominion over me, and
I hope firmly that Thou hast for me this gift. Many despise it,
let me not follow them.

Ver. 7.] His Return to Divine Glory. 631
3. And this is life eternal, that they might know thee the only
true God, and Jesus Christ, whom thou hast sent.
This is the best knowledge. Many wise people know everything else
except this. Many simple souls know this and live by it. Grant
me, Lord, this knowledge of Thee as the Strength of my soul, the
Source of all light, and peace, and joy, and especially as revealed to
men in Thy Son's life and death. I have been eager for other
knowledge, but now I see that this is the best. If I know God and
Christ death cannot hurt me, I have a sure hope of immortality.
4. I have glorified thee on the earth : I have finished the work
which thou gavest me to do.
God has sent us here to glorify Him and do His work. He has given
to each of us a certain place and work to do. But the difference
between our service and Christ's is that He gave Himself up to
do this with His whole heart, while we often forget or neglect our
work. When we come to die we shall see that much of our work
is unfinished. Pardon, Lord, we beseech Thee, the many duties
we have left undone.
5. And now, 0 Father, glorify thou me with thine own self
with the glory which I had with thee before the world was.
Jesus desires to return again into that Divine glory which He had left
to come down into this world. What is all earthly splendour in
contrast with God's glory? We cannot understand all that is meant
by the glory of God. It is something too high, too bright, too
awful, for our minds to take in. Yet our Saviour in His great love
laid it all aside, and stepped down into this world of trouble on
purpose to help us.
6. / have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest
me out of the world : thine they were, and thou gavest them me ;
and they have kept thy word.
What a tie Jesus forms with believing souls ! They belonged to God,
they were redeemed by Christ, they have recognised Him as their
true Friend and ordered their lives by His Word. How wonderful
it is that we should be so prized by God ! All the world with its
glory and beauty is nothing in God's sight as compared with one
redeemed soul. '<
- 7. Now they have known that all things whatsoever thou hast
given me are of thee.
Jesus had revealed to His friends God as the Source of all goodness.
Human pride ascribes wisdom, and strength, and other good gifts
to man. Faith sees that all comes from God. If He Who was the
best and wisest of men ascribed all glory to His Father, and
pointed His disciples upwards to Him, how great is our folly if we
seek to be admired for our poor gifts ! Let us rather refer all to
God and recognise our own emptiness.

632 Gifts sought for Christ's Friends ; [S. John XVII.
8. For I liave given unto them tlie words, which thou gavest
me ; and they have received them, and have known surely that
I came out from thee, and they have believed that thou didst
send me.
I desire to share in the blessedness of those first saints. I receive
the words of Holy Scripture as Divine, I believe that Jesus is God's
eternal Son sent into the world to save it, I take Him for my Lord
and Master. Then I too have a place in this prayer. Jesus has
taken me into the number of His friends. He has made much
known to me now, and hereafter He will tell me all. I know
much, I believe more. One day I shall behold all the truth.
9. I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for them
which thou hast given me ; for they are thine.
Am I then of the world, or one of Jesus' disciples ? Are my life and
hopes only of this earth, or do I long for something better ? Our
Saviour died for all men, yet His prevailing prayer and the fruits
of His death are only for believers. Let my whole purpose in life
be to increase their number, and bring home to more and more
hearts that they belong to God, and are redeemed by Christ, and
are dear to His heart.
10. And all mine are thine, and thine are mine ; and I am
glorified in them.
These disciples had recognised God's Son in His humiliation. They
had devoted themselves to love and obey Him. Thus He was
glorified in them. We ought to set our Master's glory, not our
own, before us. It would be theft were we to steal glory for our
selves instead of referring all to Christ What a snare is this
seeking for praise from others, and how hard it is to wait quietly
for the judgment of God !
11. And now I am no more in the world, but these are in
the world, and I come to thee. Holy Father, keep through thine
own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one,
as we are.
What a help to us it is to remember that God is Holy, and Almighty,
and One ! However vile are our temptations, however strong is
wickedness, however vast this visible world, yet we have a Friend
Who hates sin and is mighty to save, and will guard His chosen
through all the snares which beset them. When we are pressed
above measure, we must fly to prayer, and beseech our heavenly
Father to keep us who cannot keep ourselves.
1 2. While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy
name : those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them
is lost, but the son of perdition; that tlie scripture might be
fulfilled.

Ver. 17.] Purity and Truth, 633
In spite of the love and power of Jesus, this soul perished. God's
judgments are terrible, and even in them His Word is fulfilled.
When we see any one run into deadly sin and perish in it, we
should be grieved for him, but yet adore God's awful judgments,
and take warning for ourselves.
13. And now come I to thee; and these things I speak in the
world, that they might have my joy fulfilled in themselves.
Earthly joy soon turns sour and wastes away, but Christ's joy remains
in the heart, and is a perpetual spring of peace even in sorrows.
Jesus spoke all these wonderful words that we might read them
over and rejoice in them. If we do not love to read His words,
we miss the source of true joy. Lord, grant us when we read what
Thou hast spoken that it be to us a saving message to make us
glad.
14. I have given them thy word; and the world hath hated
them, because they are not of the world, even as I am not of the
world. Alas ! I am not hated by the world. I live at peace and am friends
with all men. May it not be that I am too easy-going, that I do
not hold fast to God's Word, or protest against sinful ways? Lord,
give me more courage, that I may not fear any opposition. Let
me not be ashamed to he known as a Christian. Let my conversa
tion be that of one who believes in a world to come.
15. I pray not that thou shouldest take tliem out of the world,
but that thou shoulded keep them from the evil.
Soon we must leave this world, yet while we are in it let us not
be of it God has set us amidst many temptations on purpose
that we may meet them boldly. All round us are filthy words,
and covetousness, and hatred, and deceit, and how can we persevere
through all except by the special help of our God ? It is to make
us perfect by trial that God puts us in the way of temptation. He
will help us through.
16. They are not of the world, even as I am not of the world.
Think, O believer, on the standard here set before you. God requires
of you an unworldly life, after Christ's pattern. A Christian who
lives for his own pleasure, who covets wealth or follows any vice,
is a false disciple who casts shame on his Master. This is a
searching word which tries our whole life and makes us ashamed.
17. Sanetify them through thy truth : thy word is truth.
God's truth received into the heart changes and consecrates the whole
man. To know and firmly believe that God is our Father, and
Jesus is our Redeemer, and the Holy Ghost our Life-giver, is the
spring of a holy life. Those who would bring others to God must
first be sanctified themselves. They must have themselves received
that truth which they would teach.

634 Unity, [S. John XVII.
1 8. As thou hast sent me into the world, even so have I also
sent them into the world.
What good can a Christian teacher hope to do unless he comes among
worldly people out of a higher region, and brings with him a lofty
purpose ? He must come like his Master did, to save them, not
to be corrupted by them. He must set Christ's work before him
as a pattern. Jesus is the first of missionaries, the Pattern of
apostles, the Converter of those who would convert others. All
must look to Him and study His life.
19. And for their sakes I sanctify myself, that they also
might be sanctified through the truth.
Let me bring down these great and awful words to my own level.
How can I hope to sanctify others unless I sanctify myself? Unless
I beat down impurity, give up selfishness, devote my talents to
serving God, I cannot win my friends to the right side. This is an
absolute rule. Jesus, when He would save the world, gave up His
human nature to be consecrated and made perfect. We after our
measlrre must do the same. This should encourage us to be holy,
because only thus can we lead others to forsake sin. I should
regret vile thoughts and worldly friends, for they destroy my power
of doing good.
20. Ndther pray I for these alone, but for them also which
shall believe on me through their word;
Our Saviour's prayer extends through all the ages. It includes all
who believe in Him. It looks on the apostles' teaching as handed
on by the Church from age to age, and producing fresh fruits of
faith right on to the end of the world. Let us also who are now
alive be joined to this holy society, study the apostles' message,
believe on the living Saviour, share the benefits of His prayer.
What can harm us if Jesus has prayed for our salvation ?
21. That they all may be one; as thou, Father, art in me,
and I in thee, that they also may be one in us : that the world
may believe that thou liast sent me.
Lord, restore to Thy Church this mark of Divine indwelling. We are
sick and weary with our unhappy divisions. Make us one again
in faith and love, that all men may know that we are Thine. Those
who believe in one Father, and one Saviour, and one sanctifying
Spirit ought to be at peace and in charity together. How can
we expect to convert the world to Christ while we who believe in
Him are so at variance ?
2 2. And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them ;
that they may be one, even as we are one :
It is a glorious thing to be a child of God, to trust in His love, to be
fed at His Table, to look forward to His presence. How miserable
those are who for a little sin throw away this glory and change

Ver. 26.] The Vision of God. 635
it into shame ! Jesus came as God's holy Child, and He has shared
this quality with us. We are His brothers. God loves us. Shall
we not love Him ?
23. / in them, and thou in me, that they may be made per-
fed in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent
me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me.
Under the Gospel frail men are closely knit to God, they feel His
presence and share His love. Their weakness is glorified by
Divine Power. It is this spectacle of the life of God in the
believer's soul which draws in anxious hearts to believe that they
also may enjoy such peace. The Church of Christ in its better
days was such a pattern of love that unbelievers were won to believe
by seeing the love of Christians for each other. Where is this sign
now ?
24. Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me,
be with me where I am ; that they may behold my glory, which
thou hast given me : for thou lovedst me before the foundation
of the world.
To what heights Jesus raises us ! He asks for us a place in His
glorious kingdom, where we shall see a sight that will make us
happy for ever. One who thinks of such a prospect will keep
himself pure, will take sorrow patiently, will look forward in hope,
sustaining himself by the promises of God. What folly it would
be to throw away heaven for the sake of this perishing world !
25. 0 righteous Father, the world hath not known thee : but
I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me.
How can we enter heaven ? Naturally we are far astray from God,
and tremble before His righteousness ; yet one Man is there Who
is also God's Son, our Friend and Brother, Jesus Christ, Who came
down to bring us near to God. ¦ The world was plunged in dark
ness, but Jesus came to be the True Light, so that those who walk
by it can keep the right way. How can we approach God but
through our dear Saviour's means ? He makes the unclean pure
and justifies the sinner.
26. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will
declare it : that the love wherewith thou had loved me may be
in them, and I in them.
Jesus has not left us desolate. He still dwells in us and teaches us
by His Holy Spirit. However much we have learned from Him,
there is yet more to learn. God loves us not for ourselves, but as
we are in Jesus. His purity and precious Blood covers our vileness
and fits us to be our heavenly Father's children. Glory be to Thee,
Lord, for letting us hear this one prayer of Thine. We beseech
Thee, fulfil it for us as Thy Father fulfilled it for Thee, and help us
to pray acceptably through Thy Name.

636 Our Lord in the Garden. [S. John XVIII.

CHAPTER XVIII.
X. Judas betrayeth Jesus. 6. The officers fall to the ground. 10. Peter
smiteth off Malchus' ear. 12. Jesus is taken, and led unto Annas
and Caiaphas. 15. Peter's denial, ig. Jesus examined before Caia
phas. 28. His arraignment before Pilate. 36. His kingdom. 40. The
Jews ask Barabbas to be let loose.
WHEN Jesus had spoken these words, he went forth with his
disdples over the brook Cedron, where was a garden,
into the which he entered, and his disdples.
Jesus has finished His prayer, and goes forth to complete His sacrifice.
He did not go to the garden as wishing to hide Himself or to
escape, but in order to prepare by a short space of prayer for the
trial that was now coming upon Him. He knew well that this
garden would be the scene of His own anguish and of His appre
hension. Let us prepare to follow His footsteps. What can we
do better than join this holy company ? It is true they are sad and
silent, their garden is not one of pleasure nor their night one of
amusement, yet it is good for us to be with them.
2. And Judas also, which betrayed him, knew the place : for
Jesus ofttimes resorted thither with his disdples.
What quiet hours the Lord and His disciples had spent there ! how
, they had welcomed this place of shelter from the crowded streets
of the city ! what heartfelt prayers had gone up to God, and what
heavenly mysteries had been revealed in this very garden ! but now
the hour of darkness has come, and all these happy seasons are
over. Lord, when it is, Thy will that agony and great trials of
mind or body should come to me, let me approach them with a
patient heart, remembering Thy Son's example.
3. Judas then, having received a band of men and officers
from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns
and torches and weapons.
Shall we not be afraid for ourselves when we see one of the apostles
of Jesus gone over to the side of His enemies, and only anxious to
show his hatred for Him Who was lately his dear Teacher and
Friend ? Alas 1 it would not need any great temptation to make us
fall away. A little money wrought this great change in Judas, but
a little vanity, or pleasure, or some affront, or some enticing words
are enough to turn us into backsliders. Lord, keep us from our
selves, lest we too turn traitors to Thee.
4. Jesus therefore, knowing all things that should come upon
him, went forth, and said unto them, Whom seek ye ?
Jesus rose up and went to meet His enemies. He wished to protect

Ver. io.] The Disciples are let go. 637
His disciples and get them sent away free, therefore it was He
presented Himself and asked who was sought. Not the kiss of
Judas, nor the sudden appearance of the soldiers, nor the thoughts
of all the sufferings to come, could disturb His calmness or prevent
Him from caring for His friends. How different it is in our trials !
We are easily upset, we think too much of ourselves, and forget
others' wants.
5. They answered him, Jesus of Nazardh. Jesus saith unto
them, I am he. And Judas also, which betrayed him, stood
with them. 6. As soon then as he had said unto tliem, I am
he, they went backward, and fell to the ground.
They felt for a moment His mighty power, they drew back in haste
and confusion. His word "I am" seemed to speak of a title
higher than the identity of a mere man. Yet this soon passed
over, and they were none the better for it. What is fear without
love? God may indeed strike us down and confound us, but unless
He touches our hearts there can be no salutary repentance.
7. Then asked he them again, Wliom seek ye? And they
said, Jesus of Nazardh.
When Christians come to church, or to the altar, let them think
Whom they are seeking, and why. They must come there to find
Jesus only, not their own ease or credit, and they must seek Him
to worship and obey, not to crucify Him afresh by sin. Why am
I come before God ? Do I seek to find a Friend and Intercessor,
One in Whom I can obtain pardon ? If I desire to find Jesus, shall
I see in Him no mere good man or wise teacher, but my Saviour ?
Those who seek in earnest will not miss finding in Him all that
they need.
8. Jesus answered, I have told you that I am he : if there
fore ye seek me, Id these go their way :
Christ alone could suffer for us. It was not fit that His disciples should
die with Him ; they could not help to redeem the world. He
thought too, of the great trial to which their faith would-be exposed
and of their present weakness ; therefore, even when about to give
up Himself to His enemies, He bade them let His friends go, and
they obeyed.
9. That the saying might be fulfilled, which he spake, Of
them which thou gavest me liave I lost none.
He saved them then, and for ever. His protecting them from the
soldiers was but a figure of His rescuing them from their ghostly
enemy and everlasting death. Those who are Christ's are safe, He
holds them in His hands, they never fall away. Lord, I think of
this word with trembling and yet with joy. I trust that I am Thine,
and that Thou wilt never lose me. I claim Thy gracious promises
and cling to Thy hand.
10. Tlien Simon Peter having a sword drew it, and smote

638 The High Priests Palace. [S. John XVIII.
the high priest's servant, and cut off his right ear. The ser
vant's name was Malchus.
Peter struck boldly at the man who was about to seize his Master,
but afterwards he lost courage when he saw Jesus condemned.
We need, to serve God as we ought, a spirit and courage that
comes from above, one that will last on, not merely the bravery of
this world that blazes up and is soon quenched. It is harder to
bear insults patiently than to give and receive blows in a fight.
11. Then said Jesus unto Pder, Put up thy sword into the
sheath : the cup which my Father hath given me, shall I not
drink it ?
Do not impatiently put away this cup, God puts it to your lips. It
may, indeed, be mixed by men's hands, or by seeming accidents,
yet, O believer, the hand that offers it is God's. Do not be
surprised if it is intolerably bitter. Christ and His saints have
drunk the same and now it is your turn. Let not any impatience
of yours hinder the design of your heavenly Physician. He means
it for your healing.
12. Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews
took Jesus, and bound him,
Jesus, by being bound, atones for our misuse of liberty, and binds us
also with the easy chain of His law, and sanctifies prison and
bonds to those who should endure them afterwards. There are
many prisoners who may learn to be patient by remembering that
their Lord was a Prisoner once. He was so used without any
fault of His own, but we have deserved all that we have to suffer.
13. And led him away to Annas first ; for he was father in
law to Caiaphas, which was the high pried that same year. 14.
Now Caiaphas was he, which gave counsel to tlie Jews, that it
was expedient that one man should die for the people.
Annas had the chief power, but Caiaphas held the high priest's place
and recommended that Jesus should die. What justice could He
hope for from either 1 They despised this forsaken Sufferer, and
only thought how to make His death fall in with their plans. Let
us try always to see Jesus in others, and to treat them fairly and
kindly. All injustice and oppression is hateful to God and repeats
what His Son had to suffer.
15. IT And- Simon Peter followed Jesus, and so did another
disdple : that disdple was known unto the high priest, and went
in with Jesus into the palace of the high priest.
Peter followed, trusting to his own strength ; he wished to be braver
than the rest, and forgot his Master's solemn warning of his
coming downfall. Soon he learned by a sad experience how weak
he was. Jesus was welcome in the homes of the poor, .but He
only entered the high priest's palace to be mocked and despised.
He found no home with the great ones of the earth.

Ver. 20.] Peter with the Servants. 639
16. But Peter stood at the door without. Then went out that
other disdple, which was known unto the high priest, and spake
unto lier that kept the door, and brought in Peter.
It is the temptation of such and such a place, or of certain persons'
society, that ruins many. The devil often employs our friends to
lead us into company where we shall go wrong. If we are easily
tempted, let us be on our guard, let us keep away from danger
and prefer to remain quietly at home. We see how rash Peter was
to enter. Many Christians now are persuaded to their rain in the
same way by some well-meaning friend.
1 7. Then saith the damsel that kept the door unto Peter, Art
not tliou also one of this man's disdples ? He saith, I am not.
One word from a maid was enough to overthrow his resolution.
What would he have said if the high priest himself, or the soldiers,
had questioned him ? When we shake off Christian behaviour, and
indulge our own passions, we proclaim to the world that we are not
Christ's disciples, we deny and cast Him off. How often has this
been so with us !
18. And the servants and officers stood there, who had made
a fire of coals ; for it was cold : and they warmed themselves :
and Pder stood with them, and warmed himself.
Many young people start in life with good feelings and a desire to
serve God, but they come into a household where there is wicked
ness going on and many bad words spoken, or they walk with
and make friends of those who live thus, and alas ! very soon
they too become evil and are ashamed of nothing. Lord, guard the
hearts of the young, that bad company may not lead them away.
Put into the hearts of masters and mistresses a tender care of their
servants' welfare.
19. U The high priest then asked Jesus of his disdples, and
of his dodrine.
Here is our Master suspected and questioned, for our great comfort,
when men think ill of us. He was asked how many followed
Him, and what was the bond by which He united them together.
They must no doubt be rebels and heretics, and He a detected
Impostor. His truest followers have been so regarded.
20. Jesus answered him, I spake openly to the world ; I ever
taught in the synagogue, and in the temple, whither the Jews
always resort ; and in secret have I said nothing.
The Gospel is good news for all alike, it is not only for the wise or
for the upper classes. It is open to all and comes home to each
true hearer's heart. Jesus was not afraid of His words being
repeated, for He spoke truth always, and had nothing to be
ashamed of. Our life should be such. We should never use
words which we should not like our friends to hear. Night and
day should be alike to us, remembering that God sees and hears all.

640 Jesus is struck on the Face. [S. John XVIII.
21. Why askest thou me ? ask them which heard me, what I
liave said unto them : behold, they know what I said.
Christ's words remained fixed in His hearers' memory. He appealed
to them to prove how harmless His teaching had been. He knew
that those who had heard Him would remember what He had
said. How happy we think those were who had listened to that
Divine preaching ! What effect it should have had on their lives !
Yet He speaks still, and we often take no heed.
22. And when he had thus spoken, one of the officers which
stood by struck Jesus with the palm of his hand, saying,
Answerest thou the high priest so ?
God's Son was pleased to suffer an unjust and insulting blow in order
to confound human pride. He takes His place with the oppressed
of the earth, with the many who have to suffer in silence, and pro
claims that He has a message for them. Let us, when we are
affronted, turn in thought to our Master when His hands were
tied and His face bruised with this blow.
23. Jesus answered him, If I have spoken evil, bear witness
of the evil : but if well, why smitest thou me ?
No fire descended from heaven, the earth did not open, angels did
not appear to avenge this insult. It was the time of Christ's
humiliation ; all He did was to answer quietly that He had com
mitted no disrespect. His answers had been straightforward and
His behaviour respectful even before such a judge. We are far
from being able to appeal confidently to our own words as Jesus
did, we say many things hastily and much amiss.
24. Now Annas had sent him bound unto Caiaphas the high
priest. Lord, when I am oppressed by men, when I am insulted and despised,
or when sickness binds me to a bed of pain, or when my plans fail
and I feel that I am helpless, then let me remember Thy bonds
and cast in my lot with Thee. Thy weakness is my strength. Thy
humiliation makes me believe all the more firmly in Thy power.
25. And Simon Peter stood and warmed himself. They
said therefore unto him, Art not thou also one of his disdples ?
He denied it, and said, I am not.
Here the sad history of Peter's denials goes on. How weak men are !
Our faith cannot be built on them, but on a surer Rock. It needed
the Spirit of God to strengthen Peter himself and the other saints
and martyrs, and enable them to hold out against the world. We
read this lesson, the absolute need of Divine grace, not only in the
teaching of Scripture, but in the downfalls which it records. With
out God's help what are we?
26. One of tlie servants of tlie high priest, being his kinsman

Ver. 32.] The Judgment Hall. 641
whose ear Peter cut off, saith, Did not I see thee in the garden
with him ?
One fall led to another. This is the way with us also, one lie, or one
departure from honesty, one giving way to temptation, entangle
us still further. Those are happy who by God's help confess they
have been wrong, and break off from the tempter before it is too
late. How many have been ruined through persisting in a lie once
uttered !
27. Peter tlien denied again : and immediately the cock crew.
Glory be to God for calling us to our right mind again. The cock
crow reminded Peter of his Master's words and brought home to.
him his own cowardice and folly. Lord, how many sinners there
are who have denied Thee and. still persist in their denial! the cock
crow has not sounded for them ; let them hear the voice now and
awake, and feel how late it is, and that the night of this world is
almost over. If ever I am unhappy enough to fall away from Thee
by deadly sin, rouse me to repent, lest I sleep on and die eternally.
28. IT Then led they Jesus from Caiaphas unto the hall of
judgment : and it was early ; and they themselves went not into
the judgment hall, lest they should be defiled ; but that they
might eat the passover.
The Jews were careful not to set foot within the heathen governor's
house, lest they should be defiled, but they allowed hatred and
cruelty to rule in their hearts without scruple. We are particular
about our dress and appearance, we notice any neglect in such
matters, but meanwhile our hearts are defiled by evil and ravaged
by passion. Lord, take away my defilements, and make me fit in
truth and purity to eat at Thy Holy Table, where the real Paschal
Lamb is spiritually offered to me.
29. Pilate then went out unto them, and said, What accusa
tion bring ye against this man ? 30. They answered and said
unto him, If he were not a malefactor, we would not have
delivered him up unto thee.
They wished Pilate to put Jesus to death on their mere word, without
further question ; but he refused to do this. How often I have
without question received an ill report of some one on mere hearsay,
and acted upon it ! How ready I am to believe all the ill that I
am told of my neighbour ! I take some harsh judgment and make
it my own. I will try henceforward to look into the grounds of
any accusation before I repeat or adopt it
31. Then said Pilate unto them, Take ye him, and judge him
according to your law. The Jews therefore said unto him, It
is not lawful for us to put any man to death: 32. that the
saying of Jesus might be fulfilled, which he spake, signifying
wliat death lie should die. 2 S

642 Christ's Words to Pilate. [S. John XVIII.
They might not condemn any one to die, and so they transfer Jesus
into the hands of the Romans, to be put to death according to the
Roman custom of crucifixion. Thus our Lord's own words were
fulfilled, and His great love found satisfaction. No other death
would have been vile enough, none so full of shame and lingering
pain, none so enabled Him to enter into the depths of our misery.
What a choice for the King of heaven ! We know nothing about
our own death except that it is certain to come, and cannot be far
off. We are content to leave the manner of it in His hands Who
underwent death for us.
33. Then Pilate entered into the judgment hall again, and
called Jesus, and said unto him, Art thou the King of the Jews ?
Jesus is the King of Jews and Gentiles too, but in a way too high for
Pilate's thoughts. He rules over faithful subjects, and makes rebels
into subjects by His converting grace. Earthly eyes cannot
discern this kingdom, but it is real, and mighty, and will one day
be victorious over all other kingdoms. Let me, O Lord, be Thy
loyal subject, and never be ashamed of my duty to Thee wherever
I go.
34. Jesus answered him, Sayest thou this thing of thyself , or
did others tell it thee of me ?
He was not King of the Jews in the sense of rebelling against Csesar
or setting up an earthly court This was the mistake that a Roman
might make when he heard Him accused of being a King. But
He was a King in the Scripture sense of giving laws gathering
together believers, administering gifts and graces. He was not a
King such as Pilate meant in his question, but He would not give
up His claim to rule over God's people, for any danger it might
bring upon Himself.
35. Pilate answered, Am I a Jew? Thine own nation and
the chief priests have delivered thee unto me : what hast thou
done ?
Pilate despised the Jews and the kingdom which they expected.
Our Saviour was pleased to be born of a nation whom the rest of
the world despised, and, still more, to be abhorred and rejected
by that very nation. Pilate little thought Whom it was that he
so lightly questioned, nor do we always recognise Him when He
comes among us now.
36. Jesus answered, My kingdom is not of this world: if
my kingdom were of this world, then would my servants fight,
that I should not be delivered to the Jews : but now is my king
dom not from hence.
Christ's kingdom has no outward splendour, no soldiers, no titles, no
palaces, at least in the sense that this world's monarchs have them.
It does not interfere with the believer's allegiance to an earthly
king. It is not supported by gold, or swords, or intrigues. Lord,

Ver. 40.] The Kingdom of Truth. 643
grant us eyes of faith to discern this kingdom which is from above
and to live for it Its glories are spiritual, but they far excel what
this world can show.
37. Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then?
Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end
was I bom, and for this cause came I into the world, that I
should bear witness unto the truth Every one that is of the
truth heareth my voice.
Every Christian, like Jesus Himself, is bound to bear witness unto
the truth. This is the purpose of our being here. Each has his
own time and occasion to do this. Each must stand up bravely
in his place and so show himself a follower of the great King
Who has set Him here to stand up for truth. I am ashamed to
think that I have been a coward. I have often been silent and
let lies have their way. I will be braver now, and live after God's
truth, and speak of it, and spread it abroad, and give my life for it
if need be.
38. Pilate saith unto him, What is truth ? And when he
had said this, he went out again unto the Jews, and saith unto
tliem, I find in him no fault at all.
The world scoffs at truth. God, and Eternity, and Duty, and Love
are to it merely fine names. The world does not care to inquire
further concerning them, but passes on to take up the next trifle
that comes. What a judgment is this ! Pilate has before him the
Man Who could declare all God's truth, and yet he will not wait to
get an answer from Him. His eyes are blind and his ears deaf to
the heavenly message.
39. But ye have a custom, that I should release unto you one
xtt tlie passover : will ye therefore that I release unto you the
King of the Jews ?
If Jesus had been released we should still have remained in bondage.
Only His death and rising again could free us from the stain of sin
and the fear of death. We were really the prisoners who needed to
be released, and our Lord's death was the only means of opening
our prison door. This deliverance still lasts on. How many souls
are bowed down, and chained by sin, and need to feel the Deliverer's
power !
40. Then cried they all again, saying, Not this man, but
Barabbas. Now Barabbas was a robber.
Alas, how many Christians choose Barabbas rather than Christ !
They follow their own passions, seek their own pleasure, ill-use
their brethren, stand up for the cause of wrong. This was
Barabbas' character, while the meek and holy Jesus led a pure,
humble, self-denying life. Many households in the Christian land,
if they answered truly who was their pattern and their hope, would
say " not Jesus, but sin ; " " not Jesus, but money-getting ; " " not
Jesus, but pleasure." On whose side are we?

644 Our Lord's Mock Royalty. [S. John XIX.

CHAPTER XIX.
Christ is scourged, crowned with thorns, and beaten. 4. Pilate is
desirous to release him, but being overcome with the outrage of the
Jews, he delivered him to be crucified. 23. They cast lots for his
garments. 26. He commendeth his mother to John. 28. He dieth.
31. His side is pierced. 38. He is buried by Joseph and Nicodemus.

T

HEN Pilate therefore took Jesus, and scourged him.

Jesus suffered a cruel and shameful punishment to atone for the
luxuries which we so selfishly enjoy. Let it be a rebuke to us for
indulging our own comfort too much, when we see our Master
stripped, and bleeding, and suffering in every nerve. If His path
lay through such pain as this, how can ours be altogether easy?
2. And the soldiers platted a crown of thorns, and put it on
his head, and they put on him a purple robe,
Here is a word for those who love praise or are highly placed in
the world. Their Master would not receive any earthly crown or
royal robe except these mock ornaments which were offered in
scorn. Before this time He had avoided all honour and lived the
life of the common people. Now indeed He is called a King, but
it is only to insult and destroy Him. If any Christians are placed
in power or reputation let them be content to find thorns in their
crown, and to meet with contempt as well as flattery. All this will
make them more like Christ.
3. And said, Hail, King of the Jews 1 and they smote him
with their hands.
They ridiculed the notion of the despised Jews having a king, and of
this poor Sufferer being that King. It seemed to them a mere joke.
Let us take care how we ridicule or despise our brethren. It may
be that our contempt will pierce the very Son of God Himself.
To laugh at humble souls or treat the weak overbearingly is to
repeat the same treatment that He met with here. God keep us
from oppressing any, and strengthen the oppressed to feel that
Jesus is on their side.
4. Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them,
Behold, I bring him forth to you, that ye may know tliat I find
no fault in him.
He had no fault. How different from us ! And yet He had to suffer
in order to atone for our faults, which cried for punishment. One
day He will be the Judge and we the criminals set before His
judgment-seat. God grant that in that day He may find no
fault in us, but cover our transgressions with His great mercy.
Remembering that awful day to come, we should repent of our own
faults and be slow to find blame in our brethren.

Ver. io.] Behold the Man. 645
5. Then came Jesus forth, wearing the crown of thorns, and
the purple robe. And Pilate saith unto them, Behold the man /
Here is that Man in Whom God's glory shines forth, the Man Who
lived a perfect life, yet came to the extremity of pain and shame,
the Man Who suffered unjustly to teach us patience when we suffer,
the Man Who is also God's own dear Son and our Redeemer. The .
time may come when the faith of many will disappear and their
love grow cold, yet I will never give up this Man as my Friend and
Helper. However others may turn against Him, yet I shall rejoice
the more to own myself His servant and adore His glorious Name.
The world may despise Him, yet to me He is precious.
6. When the chief priests tliere fore and officers saw him, they
cried out, saying, Crucify him, crudfy him. Pilate saith unto
them, Take ye him, and crucify him : for I find no fault in
him. Pilate could see their injustice and rebuke it with scorn, yet he had
not courage to deliver the innocent. So it is with those who see
clearly what is their duty, but are too weak to carry it out. Who
speak better of goodness, and recommend the right course more
wisely than they do? Who are more ready to blame wrong-doers?
But, alas ! they cannot stand to their own words.
7. The Jews answered him, We have a law, and by our law
he ought to die, because he made himself tlie Son of God.
They wished to show that Jesus was a blasphemer, and so worthy
of death according to the Law, because He called Himself God's
Son. Indeed they could not prove that this title on His lips was
any blasphemy. But the real Law according to which He must die
lay much deeper. It was a law laid down in the inmost counsels
of God, and in the heart of man, requiring a sacrifice for sin that
could meet God's justice and our wants. The Law of love and of
holiness required such a one as He is to die for us.
8. II When Pilate therefore heard tliat saying, he was the
more afraid; 9. and went again into the judgment hall, and
saith unto Jesus, Whence art thou ? But Jesus gave him no
answer. Pilate had a superstitious fear of his Prisoner, but did not dare to do
his duty and set Him free. Therefore he got no answer. God
gives us light enough to know what is right for us to do. If
we follow that He will teach us more, and reveal to us one mystery
after another ; but if we do not approach Him in sincerity He
leaves us in darkness.
10. Then saith Pilate unto him, Speakest thou not unto me ?
knowest thou not that I have power to crucify thee, and liave
power to release thee ?
Look at the boastfulness of our poor weak nature. We make much

646 Pilate seeks to release Jesus. [S. John XIX
of our position and authority over men, we have power to kill or
save, to lead men this way or that; but can we stand up for right,
cari we despise ridicule, can we drive away sin, can we conquer pain
or sorrow? How weak the strongest are when weighed in this
balance ! Lord, our power is utter frailty. Let Thy right hand
strengthen us in the hour of trial.
1 1. Jesus answered, Thou couldest liave no power at all
against me, except it were given thee from above : therefore he
that delivered me unto thee hath the greater sin.
All human power is given and overruled by God. A believer sees
His decrees working themselves out even by men's iniquity. He
looks up through men to God, and makes an act of submission to
Him. He is not surprised or confounded even by men's greatest
ingratitude, for he has his eyes fixed on God and knows that He
will do him justice. What peace such a one has even in this
stormy world I
1 2. And from thenceforth Pilate sought to release him : but
tlie Jews cried out, saying, If thou let this man go, thou art not
Ccesar's friend: whosoever maketh himself a king speaketh
against Ccesar.
Pilate could not resist this attack. He knew the emperor's jealous
temper and the danger of sparing any one who was called a king.
He gave way to fear and sacrificed Jesus. Yet before we con
demn his conduct let us call to mind how often we have done
the same, how often we have sacrificed reverence, and kindness,
and purity, and duty through base fear of what men will say of us.
Let us take shame to ourselves and try to behave more bravely, as
Christ's soldiers should.
13. IT When Pilate therefore heard that saying, he brought
Jesus forth, and sat down in the judgment seat in a place that
is called the Pavement, but in tlie Hebrew, Gabbatha.
Pilate sat down on his lofty seat, which stood on a curiously wrought
pavement, and prepared to pronounce a sentence which he knew
was unjust. All round were servants and soldiers waiting" for his
orders. He was master there, with power over life and death. And
yet in truth he was a slave to fear, and to the Jews' enmity, and to
the designs of God's Providence. We should not envy great people
if we knew their lives, and hearts, and all tlieir miseries.
14. And it was the preparation of the passover, and about
the sixth hour : and he saith unto the Jews, Beliold your King /
All was preparing now for the sacrifice of the true Passover Lamb,
which should deliver us from a worse plague and a more grievous
bondage than out of Egypt. All was ready. And now the
innocent Sufferer was brought out and pronounced to be a King.
Lord, I recognise Thee by Thy humiliations. The very signs of

Ver. i 9.] Bearing the Cross. 647
scorn and outrage, and the grief which appears on Thy countenance,
assure me that I can find in Thee One able to feel for me. I
present myself before Thee and desire to be Thy faithful subject.
15. But they cried out, Away with him, away with him,
crucify him. Pilate saith unto them, Shall I crucify your
King ? The chief priests answered, We have no king but Ccesar.
The Jews threw away all their hopes of a Messiah in their rage against
Jesus, and professed obedience to Csesar, whom they hated. They
were carried away by tlieir passion to deny and to take up what
they would never have given up or chosen otherwise. Our evil
passions repeat this same cry, and scornfully reject God's salvation,
and enslave us to the world. What a terrible choice the Jews
made, taking Tiberius Caesar instead of the Son of God ! But
Christians sometimes do the like.
16. Then delivered he him therefore unto them to be crucified.
And they took Jesus, and led him away.
Jesus enters on the road of death. His sentence has been pronounced.
He has done with the world, and addresses Himself straightway to
bear the Cross and die. Lord, let me when I die have (if it please
Thee) a clear warning, and be able to put away the world, and be
alone with Thee for a time. My deathbed may perhaps be easier
than Thine, and may at least learn from Thine entire submission
to whatever comes.
17. And he bearing his cross went forthPinto a place called
the place of a skull, which is called in the Hebrew Golgotha :
This is what Jesus thought of when He spoke long before this time of
our taking up the Cross and following Him. He meant no light
weight, and no easy journey, but a heavy burden of misery borne
amidst scoffs and revilings. This scene has helped believers in
every age to bear all their trials. They have been upheld by seeing
their Master go first When He fell down under the weight Simon
was called in to help Him. We, too, are called to share Christ's
Cross. Ours is sanctified by and becomes one with His.
18. Where they crudfied him, and two other with him, on
either side one, and Jesus in the midst.
What lessons we should learn from this sight ! What prayers we
should make ! What blessings we should receive ! Here is the
Lord of life and glory hanging with pierced hands and feet on the
Cross of shame, where fever, and thirst, and painful wounds, and
the agony of a constrained position made each moment worse than
the last. Suffering men can see here One Who suffers, outcasts
can see One Whom the world despises, sinners One Who pleads for
them with God.
19. H And Pilate wrote a title, and put it on the cross. And
the writing was, JESUS OF NAZARETH THE KING OF
THE JEWS.

648 Christ's Garments divided. [S. John XIX.
The criminal bore on his cross the inscription which declared his
crime, and in Jesus' case it was that He had called Himself a king.
This was what He died for. Yet those who crucified Him had no
notion what His true kingdom was. Can we not now see how
many hearts He reigns over, what laws He gives, what state He
keeps? His kingdom yet lasts on, though so many royalties have
perished.
20. This title then read many of the Jews: for the place
where Jesus was crudfied was nigh to the dty : and it was
written in Hebrew, and. Greek, and Latin.
Those who prayed to God, and praised Him like the old Hebrews
did, or who studied books and arts like the Greeks, or administered
the world's affairs like the Romans, might all look at the Cross and
say, "Here is om' King. We belong to His new people of believers."
His claim is clearly written, so that none can mistake. If He is
not fit to be our souls' Master, whom can we adore ?
2 1. Then said the chief priests of the Jews to Pilate, Write
not, The King of the Jews ; but that he said, I am King of the
Jews. 2 2. Pilate answered, What I liave written I have written.
This inscription, with its declaration of Jesus being their King,
tormented the chief priests ; they felt the shame that it cast upon
them, but Pilate refused to change it. We often wish too late
to blot out the memory of what we have done, or have it written
otherwise. But it is too late to undo the past. Yet still by
repentance we can prevail on God to wipe out its results. His
sentence stands clear against us, yet Jesus' Blood and our tears
and prayers can alter it.
23. IT Then the soldiers, when they had crudfied Jesus, took
his garments, and made four parts, to every soldier a part;
and also his coat : now the coat was without seam, woven from
the top throughout.
When we die all has to be left behind. We can take nothing with
us.. Our very clothes go to others. But Jesus was stripped naked
and robbed of all even before His death came. His friends must
have felt the greatest horror when they saw Him Whom they loved
hanging naked and bleeding before them, and His clothes divided
among the soldiers. Soon I shall be lying on a bed of death, and
all my property will go to another. All that I can keep then will
be the memory of any faithful act or prayer. .
24, They said therefore among themselves, Let us not rend
it, but cast lots for it, whose it shall be : that the scripture might
be fulfilled, which saith, They parted my raiment among them,
and for my vesture then did cast lots. These things therefore
the soldiers did.

Ver. 28.] Alary at the Cross. 649
This was the Roman law, that the soldiers who attended an execution
might have the criminal's clothes ; but yet they, without knowing
it, were fulfilling the prophecy which spoke of the sinless Sufferer.
Men's violence, or what seems like chance, are all alike in the
hands of God, and fulfil His wise purposes. One day this will
be made clear to us, but now we can only see glimpses of it. They
did these things ignorantly, but great mysteries were figured
thereby.
25. IT Now there stood by tlie cross of Jesus his mother, and
his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Cleophas, and Mary
Magdalene. Mary had courage to come and stand by her Son's Cross and share
His sufferings. She represents to us those many souls in whom
faith and love have triumphed over the weakness of the flesh, who
have put aside their own tender hearts, and have borne pain, and
shared and relieved it for Christ's sake. When we stand by those
we love, and see them suffer, we must unite ourselves in heart with
Mary, and give up our dearest ones to fulfil the Father's will, as
she did.
26. When Jesus therefore saw his mother, and the disciple
standing by, whom he loved, he saith unto his mother, Woman,
behold thy son /
His mother and His friend were the two best treasures that Jesus
had, and He committed each one to the care of the other. He
was not ashamed, even when dying for the sins of the world, to
remember His mother and all her love for Him. -He looked back
on the years which He had spent as her obedient Son. How
grievous it will be if one day the thought of neglect towards- our
parents, of disobedience and selfishness at home, comes before us
when it is too late to make amends ! Never let us despise a mother's
love, but thank God if we have known it, and requite it with
love again.
27. Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother/ And
from that hour that disdple took her unto his own home.
Christ's friend gained this great honour by coming to His Cross, in
spite of the world's scoffs and threats. He gained the Saviour's
mother for his own. We can imagine what love he showed her,
and what holy and peaceful years they spent together, full of
remembrances of Christ's work and lookings forward to His glory.
That home was little known by the world, but filled with faith,
and love, and deeds of charity. John comforted his new mother,
and in doing so himself found comfort
28. IT After this, Jesus knowing that all things were now
accomplished, that the scripture might be fulfilled, saith, I thirst.
This was the burning thirst which was one of the chief sufferings of
the crucified, and it was foretold in the prophetic picture of Christ s

650 It is finished. [S. John XIX
Passion which is given in the Psalms. When His people suffer
intense bodily pain they may remember that He has known it too ;
and when they are surrounded with comforts, the remembrance of
His being thirsty may lead them to deny themselves. If the Son
of God endured all this, shall we be afraid of the least incon
venience borne for His sake ?
29. Now there was set a vessel full of vinegar : and they
filled a spunge with vinegar, and put it upon hyssop, and put
it to his mouth.
The vinegar represents the return we make to Christ for His love.
It expresses the coldness, bitterness, jealousy, and evil thoughts
which fill our hearts. There is nothing there sweet and pure, or
fit to offer to God. All is corrupt and evil. If others treat us
ungratefully, what wonder is it considering the recompense which
we make to God for His great love ? Our Master had to put up
with this draught patiently, and could get no better refreshment in
His need.
30. Wlien Jesus therefore liad recdved the vinegar, he said,
It is finished: and he bowed his head, and gave up the ghost.
Lord, grant that I may breathe my last in this same spirit of submission.
Let me give up myself to be ill and to die with a good will, trusting
myself in my Father's hands. Let me feel at that day that I have
tried to do Thy work. Alas ! I have not finished what Thou hast
given me to do, too often I have scarcely begun it. Let Thy death
and Passion be my help, and stir me up now to work for what
time I have. Once more I have finished standing by Thy Cross
and tracing Thy sufferings, let not such a sight be to my own
condemnation.
31. The Jews therefore, because it was the preparation, that
the bodies should not remain upon the cross on the sabbath day,
(for that sabbath day was an high day,) besought Pilate that
their legs might be broken, and that they might be taken away.
They did not wish that on their great festival day the bodies of
condemned criminals should affront the sight, so they desired their
removal. But they could not so easily put away their great sin.
How jealous, ungrateful, cruel, they had been ! And now they
think that all this can be hidden as soon as the bodies are taken
away. No, the consequences of our sins cannot be thus put out
of sight. They keep rising again in judgment against us.
32. Then came the soldiers, and brake the legs of the first
and of the other which was crucified with him.
This agony, added to what they had endured before, was enough to
kill the sufferers. They passed away each to his own place. One
to the side of Jesus Christ in Paradise, where all the stains of sin
were wiped away and everlasting joy begun ; the other, with all his

Ver. 37-] The Pierced Side. 651
unforgiven sins, entering on the unseen world without a friend, and
his last words those of blasphemy. Which of these two deaths
will be ours ?
33. But when they came to Jesus, and saw tliat he was dead
already, they brake not his legs :
Malice could do no more to Christ. He had passed out of the reach
of human violence. Why should we fear men ? Their worst
threats and utmost cruelty are soon ended. If we have made God
our Friend, we shall enter trustfully on the life beyond the grave,
leaving enemies, temptations, sufferings, far behind us.
34. But one of the soldiers with a spear pierced his side, and
forthwith came there out blood and water.
This water and blood which flowed from our Lord's side teaches us
about the two Sacraments, which bring home to us the power of
His death. Not only real water and blood, but an ever-flowing
stream of mercy, and pardon, and comfort have flowed out to sinners
from that pierced side. His heart has been opened to us, and we
are able in our troubles to take refuge there.
35. And he that saw it bare record, and his record is true :
and he knoweth that he saith true, that ye might believe.
Jesus was really dead. No one could doubt this who saw His side
pierced. Yet it was marvellous that blood and water should flow
from a dead body. John saw in this a proof of his Master's Divine
glory, and of His being the Fountain of life to thirsty souls. He
saw and wondered, and wrote it down, that we also might feel as
he did.
36. For these things were done, that the scripture should be
fulfilled, A bone of him shall not be broken.
Not a bone of the Passover lamb might be broken ; and herein it
was a figure of the true sacrifice of Christ on the Cross, which
wrought a greater deliverance and saved believers from a worse
destruction than the old Passover had done. The Jews remembered
at every Passover how the blood of the lamb had turned away the
destroying angel from their doors. But we have more reason to be
thankful when we think of Christ our Passover and His redeeming
Blood.
37. And again another scripture saith, They shall look on
him whom tliey pierced.
Let us look with sorrow, yet with hope, on Him Whom we have
pierced. Our neglect, our unbelief, our deadly sins, have joined
to outrage Jesus. Glory be to His mercy for turning our hearts.
What a great gift it is to be able to look with faith upon His sacred
wounds, and feel that He died for us, and that all our sins are
forgiven in Him ! Our bodily eyes cannot see Him yet, but one
day they will open upon Him either for our confusion or for our
joy.

652 Joseph and Nicodemus. [S. John XX.
38. 1T And after this Joseph of Arimathcea, being a disciple
of Jesus, but secretly for fear of the Jews, besought Pilate that
he might take away the body of Jesus : and Pilate gave him
leave. He came therefore, and took the body of Jesus.
Joseph gained courage now. While Jesus lived he did not dare to
profess himself a disciple, but now that He was dead he went
boldly to the governor and asked for His Body. This is the power
of Christ's Cross, which alone gives us strength to endure threats or
scoffs. Lord, grant us grace to declare ourselves Thy followers, and
to honour Thee, in whatever company we find ourselves.
39. And there came also Nicodemus, which at the first came
to Jesus by night, and brought a mixture of myrrh and, aloes,
about an hundred pound weight.
Nicodemus too had become bold. He no longer clung to the shelter
of night, but came openly and brought a costly offering. He saw
fulfilled now what Jesus had taught him about His being lifted up
like the brazen serpent. His faith indeed was imperfect, for he
prepared the Sacred Body for burial as though it would not rise
again ; but yet God accepted him, and led him on to learn higher
things still.
40. Then took they the body of Jesus, and wound it in linen
clothes with the spices, as the manner of the Jews is to bury.
When we prepare our friends' bodies for burial we are following in
the steps of those saints. We honour the bodies of the dead as
having been temples of the Holy Spirit, and designed one day to
rise to everlasting life. The frame indeed turns to dust, in spite of
all our loving care ; but God knows from whence to raise it up.
Meanwhile we can hide it reverently from sight and put up some
token in memory of the sleeper.
41. Now in the place where he was crudfied there was a gar
den ; and in the garden a new sepulchre, wherein was never
man yet laid.
The Body of Jesus lay for His two days' rest in a new tomb amidst
the spring flowers of a garden. Soon it would rise up to a new
life. Our hearts which receive Him spiritually should also be new,
pure from evil, and fit for Plis abiding ; and our good thoughts
and devotions should spring up like the bright and fragrant spring
flowers that were opening around.
42. There laid they Jesus therefore because of the Jews' pre
paration day ; for the sepulchre was nigh at hand.
When our life closes may our rest be after Christ's pattern. After work
well done and finished, suffering patiently borne, a brave stand
made for truth, a loving behaviour shown to those round us, may
we lie down to rest with a firm trust in eternal life. Some are

Ver. 5.] Mary Magdalene at the Grave. 653
buried thus reverently with all care, and in a well-known spot.
The ashes of others are swallowed up by fire or the sea. What
matters it ? They are all alike in our Father's hands.

CHAPTER XX.
1. Mary cometh to the sepulchre : 3. so do Peter and John, ignorant of the
resurrection. 11. Jesus appeareth to Mary Magdalene, ig. and to his
disciples. 24. The incredulity, and confession of Thomas. 30. The
scripture is sufficient to salvation.
THE first day of the week cometh Mary Magdalene early,
when it was yet dark, unto the. sepulchre, and seeth tlie
stone taken away from the sepulchre.
She remembered Christ's great mercies to her, she had watched His
last moments on the Cross, she desired to bestow more care on
His Sacred Body, therefore she rose early and reached the sepulchre
first of all. And her diligence was rewarded by the great things
which God showed her. He never leaves unrewarded any trouble
taken for His service. Why do Christians let Sunday mornings
find them so often slothful ? Why do they not rise up early and
get ready to meet their Master ?
2. Then she runneth, and cometh to Simon Peter, and to the
other disdple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, Tliey
liave taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know
not where they have laid him.
This was sad news for the friends of Jesus, for they could not yet
believe His resurrection, and supposed only that His lifeless Body
had been removed to suffer fresh insults. Our Easter morning is
more joyful than theirs was, for we know that He left the sepulchre
in power and glory, and is now with God and living for ever.
This world was not the place for Jesus to stay in. All here passes
away. He is gone to a better home.
3. Peter therefore went forth, and that other disdple, and
came to the sepulchre. 4. So they ran both together : and the
other disdple did outrun Peter, and camefird to the sepulchre.
These two had often heard the Lord speak of His rising again, and
though the words had seemed to them like a figure, and they dared
not grasp their full meaning at once, yet this message raised hope
in their minds. They came eagerly, desiring some tidings of that
Friend Who had been so long for them the Fountain of wisdom and
love. What things He had done in their sight ! What words He
had said ! Perhaps death had not really robbed them of Him.
5. And he stooping down, and looking in, saw the linen
clotlies lying; yet went he not in.

654 Peter and John on Easter Morning. [S. John XX.
John bowed down and saw the linen clothes lying there, which had
wrapped the sacred corpse, but his very reverence kept him from
searching further, he waited for further light and for another's
guidance, yet -in his heart he began to feel how things really
were.
6. Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into
the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, 7. and the napkin,
that was about his head, not lying with the linen clothes, but
wrapped together in a place by itself.
All was in order, and spoke not of profane robbers stealing the body,
but of One Who had awoke and gone forth. The Lord had awoke
early from His death-slumber, and had risen up and gone, even
before the stone was rolled away. The sepulchre was not a place
of corruption, but a quiet room where Christ had slept a while,
and which He had now left empty. When will that day come
when all graves shall be opened, and death himself pass away ?
8. Then went in also that other disdple, which came first to
the sepulchre, and lie saw, and believed.
The truth that Christ had risen flashed upon John's mind. He felt
sure that his Friend Who had been so full of love and goodness for
him had come back from the grave. Grant us, Lord, such a firm
trust that we may not fear death, but remember Thy triumph over
it. If we believe that our Redeemer rose again and overcame
death, then it will lose its terror for us also.
9. For as yet they knew not the scripture, that he must rise
again from tlie dead.
Scripture had foretold Christ's glory, had spoken of His road through
suffering to a kingdom, had displayed many types of His being
humbled and exalted ; yet all was still dark to the disciples. It
needed a Divine Teacher to open their eyes and show them the
true meaning. Lord, open our eyes that we may see Thy love and
power, and Thy great plan of salvation disclosed step by step
throughout Scripture.
1 o. Then the disdples went away again unto their own home.
They told their news that the Sacred Body was gone, and no doubt
their hopes that their Master was living. All the day they
pondered over it, gradually recalling Christ's sayings and learning
that His rising again was possible. How God enlightened these
first believers by slow degrees I He alone can teach us and plant
full faith in our hearts.
n. IT But Mary stood without at the sepulchre weeping:
and as she wept, she stooped down, and looked into the sepulchre,
Mary Magdalene was grieved that she could not pay the last honours
to her Master. He had rescued her from ruin, had driven out the

Ver. 16.] Jesus appears to Mary Magdalene. 655
devil from her heart, and now she could not even find His lifeless
Body. God bids us feel grateful to our friends and mourn their
loss. A hard indifferent heart-is displeasing to Him. Lord, grant
us such tears as may bring comfort in the end.
12. And seeth two angels in white dtting, the one at the
head, and the other at the fed, where the body of Jesus had lain.
The angels came down to honour the Son of God and to remind us
of the unseen world. God has many other servants besides men.
His praises are sung and His orders obeyed by countless hosts of
creatures. Let our obedience, and purity, and love be such that
we may one day take our place with the holy angels and serve God
as they do.
13. And they say unto her, Woman, why weepest thou?
She saith unto them, Because they have taken away my Lord,
and I know not where they have laid him.
Mary's chief thought was the Lord Jesus. The angels' glory and
their question did not amaze her, so much was she taken up with
her search. Let us imitate her in an earnest seeking for our
Saviour. He is not far from us nor hard to find. Let this be our
chief object, to have Jesus in our hearts and live as in His presence.
If we have found Him, no other loss can hurt us.
14. And when she had thus said, she turned herself back,
and saw Jesus standing, and knew not that it was Jesus.
Here is the Lord Jesus come back from the grave. What regions
has He seen, what triumphs has He won, since the afternoon of
Good Friday ? We do not know, but He is changed, like one who
has been in a far country. After a while His friends knew Him
again and enjoyed His love as before ; but it was not so at first.
I look forward to that change which death will work in me, but I
know that I shall pass through it and remain the same, as my
Master did.
15. Jesus saith unto her, Woman, why weepest thou ? whom
seekest thou ? She, suppodng him to be the gardener, saith unto
him, Sir, if thou have borne him hence, tell me where tliou had
laid him, and I will take him away.
If we grieve for our sins, if we seek God's mercy, we shall find peace
at last There will be a time when weeping and seeking shall end
in rejoicing and finding. Then our mourning shall be turned into
gladness, and our lost friends found again. Then we shall see our
Saviour clearly and understand all His dealings with us. In this
world we often mistake Him, and do not recognise His gracious
hand, but one day it will be different.
16. Jesus saith unto lier, Mary. She turned herself, and
saith unto him, Rabboni ; which is to say, Master.

656 • fesus seen by His Disciples. [S. John XX.
What power tliere is in one word of Christ's 1 It drove away dark
ness and brought back joy to her heart. And what love, and
reverence, and obedience in that one word of Mary's ! She felt
that she was in the presence of One to Whom she owed all. Let
there be seasons, O Lord, when I may hear Thy voice speaking to
me, and devote myself afresh to Thy service. Thou art a gracious
Master, willing to accept my poor service.
17. Jesus saith unto her, Touch me not ; for I am not yet
ascended to my Father : but go to my brethren, and say unto
tliem, I ascend unto my Fatlier, and your Fatlier ; and to my
God, and your God.
Before His death Jesus had lived with His friends as a Man amongst
men, they could see, hear, touch Him ; but now He would be
with them in a spiritual way, which was better. Though He is at
God's right hand, we all can enjoy His presence, hear His Word,
feel that He is our Friend. How much better this is than earthly
touching ! Now He calls us His brethren, and bids us follow Him
into that glory where He has gone.
18. Mary Magdalene came and told the disdples that she
had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto lier.
What a glorious message to be charged with ! What delight and
wonder her hearers must have felt ! The Lord Jesus did not let
her enjoy His presence long, though she had sought it with tears.
But He gave her work to do for Him. He bade her be the first
preacher of His resurrection. What happiness is there greater than
bringing home to other souls the truths that we have ourselves
learned from Christ !
19. IT Then the same day at evening, being the first day of
the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were
assembled for fear of tlie Jews, came Jesus and stood in tlie
midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
This is the temper of Easter Day. Peace has come to us. We have
a charm against the fear of death, or the fear of enemies, or the
fear of our own frailty. Nothing can do away with our Master's
victory. His love is stronger than death or hell. He has destroyed
the power of sin. Let us open our hearts to this consoling word
and accept the peace which. Christ offers us. If we have this peace
within no storms can overthrow us. The fear of death is a great
burden to nature, but believers trust in One Who has overcome
death.
20. And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands
and his side. Then were the disdples glad, when they saw the
Lord. The sight of Jesus risen proves to us God's love, and the forgiveness
of sins, and the life to come. Is not this good news, and fit to

Ver. 25.] Power to remit aud retain Sins. 657
make us glad ? Even the tokens of His past sufferings are comfort
ing to us. _ We see what He endured to gain the victory. When
will that time come when we shall look back from a world of peace
on this world's sufferings, and feel that they are over ?
21. Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as
my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.
To pastors these words are full of encouragement, and yet of confusion.
They show the power with which Christian ministers are sent, how
they stand in Christ's place and act by His appointment. But
they also show what kind of life they should lead, one like Christ's,
as full as His was of obedience and patience. Their work should
be after His pattern. Ought they not to tremble when they read
that they are sent as their Master was, and yet feel how far they
come short of His pattern ?
22. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and
saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost :
This breath was the sign of an inward life which Jesus bestowed on
them. They did not receive the fulness of the Spirit till Pentecost,
but their Master, as soon as He came back from the grave, brought
them some light, and peace, and inward strength. They received
this gift humbly and prayed for it to be completed.
23. Wlwse soever rins ye remit, they are remitted unto them ;
and whose soever rins ye rdain, they are retained.
Grant us, Lord, to read this verse as believers, not as disputers. We
feel the heavy burden of our sins, we seek for pardon in Thy holy
Church, through whatever means Thou art pleased to impart it to
our souls. We fear the sentence that goes out against impenitent
sinners. Let us reason thus. God's mercy is near, and we are
welcome. The ordinances of His Church bring forgiveness home
to our hearts. If we despise them, or use them profanely, we may
bind a burden on ourselves which nothing can take away.
24. II But Thomas, one of tlie twelve, called Didymus, was
not with them when Jesus came.
Thomas missed much by his absence on Easter Day. We should
come to God's house with our brethren, and go with them to the
altar. United prayer has many promises which those lose who
remain at home without sufficient cause. Jesus still comes to His
Church when they are met together to hear His Word and pray to
Him.
25. The other disdples therefore said unto him, We have seen
tlie Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his
hands the print of tlie nails, and put my finger into the print
yfthe nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
He was too much discouraged to believe the news he heard. He had
' forgotten his Master's prophecies that He would rise again, and the
grave seemed too strong, death too terrible, ever to yield back its
2 T

658 Thomas convinced. [S. John XXI.
prey. He thought that the disciples might have seen some bright
vision, or fancied they saw such, but that it could not possibly be
his Master alive again as of old. Lord, if such doubts ever arise in
my heart, pardon them as Thou didst pardon Thomas, and make
me feel the full comforting truth.
26. IT And after eight days again his disdples were within,
and Thomas with them : then came Jesus, the doors being shut,
and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
This first glorious Easter week ended, as it had begun, with a sight of
the risen Saviour. He came as wonderfully, as suddenly, and as
full of peace and love as He had come before. Perhaps they were
expecting Him to come on that day, and had gathered together in
that hope, and had urged doubting Thomas to come that he might
be convinced at last. When they saw their crucified Lord thus
among them again, what comfort and trust and courage filled their
hearts I Who could harm them now ?
27. Tlien saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and
behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it
into my side : and be not faithless, but believing.
Jesus repeated the very words that Thomas had used. He would
not have spoken so positively if he had thought that his Lord
could hear. And He let him touch the sacred wounds, so as to
prove the reality of His risen Body. The doubts of Thomas serve
to strengthen our faith when we read how Jesus satisfied them.
We cannot touch the literal flesh of the Lord Jesus, but when we
kneel at His Holy Table, we touch Him spiritually and feel that
He is with us.
28. And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and
my God.
Thou art my Lord, Who hast overcome death ; my God, Who knowest
the heart. Sight and touch cannot reach Thee now, and doubters
multiply ; but I resolve to obey Thee as my Master, and worship
Thee as God revealed to man. If I have doubted, or disobeyed, or
neglected Thee before, let my loving service for the future be more
humble and watchful. I cannot keep to this saving faith unless
by Thy mercy.
29. Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen
me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and
yd have believed.
Jesus spoke these words for us. They are our share of the Gospel
history. We have not seen Him with our bodily eyes, yet faith
leaps over the great space between, and finds in Him a Friend,
and Lord, and atoning Sacrifice, like the first disciples found. We
are not tried now by fiery persecutions, but by the graver trial of
unbelief. Praise to Christ's glorious grace, which triumphs over
space and time, and brings true hearts to tlieir Saviour's feet now
as of old.

Ver. 3.] The Object of this Gospel. 659
30. IT And many other signs truly did Jesus in tlie presence
of his disdples, which are not written in this book :
Many of Christ's wonderful works are hidden from us. They were
brimful of power, and had a meaning for the disciples' hearts ; they
set forth Christ as the Saviour and Lord of all. Yet it has not
pleased God to preserve them for us. We must thank Him for
what He has told us. It is sufficient to build up our faith, and we
can wait till a better world to learn the rest. The four Gospels
present us with a living picture of the Lord Jesus as He was when
on earth. No other history can be to us what this is.
31. But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is
the Christ, the Son of God ; and that believing ye might have
life through his name.
John had learned to believe, and had found life in this faith, and his
whole desire is to bring his readers along this same path. " Here,"
he says, "is the Christ Whom God's ancient people longed after.
Here is God's Son Who comes from above, and yet is Man like us.
Give up yourselves to be His, and you will find in doing so peace
and joy without end."

CHAPTER XXI.
1. Christ appearing again to his disciples was known of them by the great
draught of fishes. 12. He dineth with them : 15. earnestly com
mandeth Peter to feed his lambs and sheep : 18. foretelleth him of
his death: 22. rebuketh his curiosity touching John. 25. The con
clusion.
AFTEK these things Jesus shewed himself again to the dis-
j\_ dples at the sea of Tiberias ; and on this wise shewed he
himself. After the Easter week was over the disciples left Jerusalem and
returned to Galilee again to wait for their Master there. It was
the same sea and the same shore which they had known of old,
where they had first followed Jesus and He had taught them many
things, yet how much had happened since ! Now they had the
Cross and the Resurrection to think of, and their great work of
converting the world to prepare for. God leads us on wonderfully
in ways we know not of, and fits us for each day's work as it comes.
2. There were together Simon Peter, and Thomas called
Didymus, and Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, and the sons of
Zebedee, and two other of his disdples. 3. Simon Peter saith
unto them, I go a fishing. They say Unto him, We also go
with thee. They went forth, and entered into a ship immedi
ately; and that night they caught nothing.

660 Jesus stands on the Shore. [S. John XXI.
The disciples were poor. They had to work for their daily bread.
Often their toil was fruitless ; yet they lived together in love,
speaking frequently of their Master, knit together by a common
faith in Him, and longing for the time to come when they might
give themselves wholly to the work of multiplying His worshippers.
Sometimes a lowly station of life and poor circumstances only set
off the more a sincere loving faith.
4. But when the morning was now come, Jesus dood on the
shore : but the disciples knew not that it was Jesus.
That will be a blessed morning when this life's voyage is over and we
see the Lord Jesus ready to welcome us to the shore. No more
trials, nor darkness, nor weariness, no more lonely hours or anxious
fears, but clear light and perfect peace, and a Friend's presence.
Grant us, Lord, such an end to our voyage after all the storms of life.
5. Then Jesus saith unto them, Children, have ye any meat ?
They answered him, No.
He wished to remind them of that former occasion when they had
toiled all the night and had taken nothing. He bids us feel our
own insufficiency and yet trust in His mercy. Of ourselves what
strength, or grace, or comfort have we ? and yet He has helped us
before, and we may still rely on Him. He feels for workers every
where, and bids them look up to Him in their work and so be
encouraged.
6. And he said unto them, Cast the net on the right side of
tlie ship, and ye shall find. They cast therefore, and now they
were not able to draw it for the multitude of fishes.
He gives success when He pleases. There are numberless souls
waiting to be caught in the Gospel net now, but only God's Spirit can
lead them in. We must pray Him to bless teachers and hearers, so
that the Church may be abundantly filled with His faithful servants.
What a contrast ! AH the night the nets were empty, and now
they are overfull. But the Christian worker takes failure or suc
cess as alike from God, and desires only to obey Him.
7. Therefore that disciple whom Jesus loved saith unto Peter,
It is the Lord. Now when Simon Peter heard that it was the
Lord, he girt his fisher's coat unto him, (for he was naked,)
and did cast himself into the sea.
What thoughts came into the disciples' minds when they found out
who it was 1 They must have remembered all the mighty works of
Christ, His loving words, His goodness to them. When Peter
felt this nothing could stop him. Only he wrapped his clothes
round him so as to appear reverently in such a presence. Believers
now may meet Christ. He is not far off from us. He is to be
found in prayer and at His altar. Do we come before Him with
gladness, full of gratitude and love, and yet reverently, as Peter
did?

Ver. 12.] The Meal prepared. 66 1
8. And the other disciples came in a little ship ; (for they
were not far from land, but as it were two hundred cubits,)
dragging the net with fishes.
Two hundred cubits. A few feet only separated their fishing-boat
from the shore where their risen Lord was. They came indeed
different ways to it, one through the water, others in the boat, but
it was near to all. How little separates us from eternity ! A few
moments, a step only, and we may be there. God grant that we
may be welcomed there, and that our works may follow us.
9. As soon then as they were come to land, they saw afire of
coals there, and fish laid thereon, and bread. ,
Why had the Lord prepared this meal for them ? No doubt it was
out of His loving care, for they would be wet, tired, and hungry,
after their night's work. Pie meant to show them that He had
thought of them, and cared for their welfare, even when they did
not see Him. His blessing went with them, and so they had
prospered. It is a comfort to reflect that Jesus cares for our needs,
and that the blessings which we enjoy come from Him.
10. Jesus saith unto tliem, Bring of the fish which ye have
now caught.
We must do our part. What a joy it will be to all eternity to have
brought some souls to the love and knowledge of God 1 We
cannot do this without His help, yet, trusting to that help, let us
not give up doing all we can.
11. Simon Peter went up, and drew the net to land full of
great fishes, an hundred and fifty and three: and for all there
were so many, yet was not the net broken.
This represents the Church as it will one day be, all its members
perfected, all peace, all love, all security. Lord, begin m us this
happy state, take away from us all strife, keep us safe from falling,
heal the great divisions that exist among believers. In this world
the Church will never be quite perfect, that is reserved for a better
country; but we can think of and long for that happy day.
12. Jesus saith unto them, Come and dine. And none of
the disdples durst ask him, Who art thou? knowing that it
was the Lord.
He was full of kindness ; yet there was a change in Him from what
He had been of old. They felt in awe of Him as of one who had
been through death. They perceived His Divine glory more clearly.
Fear and love strove together in their hearts^ Grant us Lord
when we receive Thy spiritual Body at the Holy Table such a
disposition as this, that we may accept Thy mvitat ion obedienti £
eagerly, and yet reverently. We can tell Who He is Who comes
to us there, but the manner of His presence is beyond our under
standing.

662 Lovest thou Me?  [S. John XXI.
13. Jesus then cometh, and taketh bread, and giveth tliem,
and fish likewise.
Here is the Father of the family providing for the wants of His
children. They receive everything at His hands. He knows
what their needs are. Let us imitate this good Master in caring
for the souls and bodies of those whom God has placed around us.
What better work have we than to minister to their wants ?
14. This is now the third time that Jesus shewed himself to
his disdples, after that he was risen from the dead.
Three different days, three different meetings of the disciples, had
seen Jesus returning after He had passed through death. This was
to confirm their faith. Who could doubt any more after seeing and
speaking with the Lord three successive times ? They had to tell
the whole world that He had risen again, so He took pains to
bring that truth home clearly to their own faith first.
15. 11 So when they had dined, Jesus saith to Simon Peter,
Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou me more than these ? He saith
unto him, Yea, Lord; thou knowest that I love thee. He saith
unto him, Feed my lambs.
Peter was wiser now than He had been before. He did not boast
his love to be greater than that of the others, but he referred
himself wholly to his Master's judgment. We are happy if we
can in truth appeal to Christ as a witness of our love for Him. If
we love Him, we shall not grieve Him by sin, or neglect His
commands, or join with those who scoff at Him. Have we these
proofs of love ? There is One Who reads all hearts, and discerns
who are His friends.
16. He saith to him again the second time,' Simon, son of
Jonas, lovest thou me ? He saith unto him, Yea, Lord ; thou
knowest that I love thee. He saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
To feed Christ's sheep and lambs to any good we must have a love
for Him. It is not enough to have a kindly disposition or a desire
for success. If we would do good to suffering and burdened souls,
if we would enlighten the ignorant or comfort the afflicted, we
must be able to point them to a heavenly Friend Whom we have
found dear to our own hearts. Jesus gives this great charge to
His friends, and makes loving Him a condition of fitness for it.
17. He saith unto him the third time, Simon, son of Jonas,
lovest thou me ? Peter was grieved because he said unto him
the third time, Lovest thou me ? And he said unto him, Lord,
thou knowest all things ; thou knowest that I love thee. Jesus
saith unto him, Feed my sheep.
These three questions had pierced Peter's heart. He remembered
his three denials and felt his weakness. This was the lesson which
Christ bade him learn. The more we feel our own weakness and

Ver. 2i.] Peter's Death foretold. 663
recollect our former falls, the more ready is God to raise us up and
call us to work for Him in His Church. Lord, I am grieved when
I remember what I have been, and frightened when I think what
I am ; but I trust in Thy victorious love, and am willing to obey
the call that Thou hast given me. Those who are under my
influence I will help and teach for Thy sake.
18. Verily, verily, I say unto thee, When thou wast young,
tliou girdedst thyself, and walkedst whither tliou wouldest : but
when thou shalt be old, thou shall stretch forth thy hands, and
another shall gird thee, and carry thee whither thou wouldest
not. There was bitterness in this warning, yet also comfort. Jesus told
His friend that he would one day die a death of shame and
violence from which nature would shrink, and yet that he would
persevere this time even to death. No more denials, the way
indeed was hard, but he would pass safely over it. Lord, I know
not what lies before me, what sharp pain or long tedious decay may
accompany my end, but I am not afraid. Better submission to Thy
will than any choice of my own.
19. This spake he, dgnifying by what death he should
glorify God. And when he had spoken this, he saith unto him,
Follow me.
The death of any Christian may be such as to glorify God. In that
last act of our life, grant us, Lord, patience, and faith, and a sincere
repentance, that our end may witness to Thy ever-present mercy.
If in our lives we have failed to glorify Thee as we ought, let our
death at least testify that we are Thine. Thou hast left us these
two last rules, " Follow Me while you live. Glorify God when
you die."
20. Then Peter, turning about, seeth the disdple whom Jesus
loved following ; which also leaned on his breast at supper, and
said, Lord, which is he that betrayeth thee ?
These two were friends, and when the Lord called Peter apart to
teach him further, John also drew nearer to share their communica
tions. It is not strange that Peter should have made a friend of
John. He in whom the Lord of all found so much to love must
have been a friend worth having. Lord, grant that our affections
for earthly friends may be sanctified by Thy grace, and increased
by loving Thee above all, and being dear to Thee.
2 1. Peter seeing him saith to Jesus, Lord, and what shall
this man do ?
The veil had been lifted for Peter himself. He had been told some
thing of his end ; and he was curious to know what would become
of John, what glory, what peace, what victory the Lord reserved
for him whom He loved. Peter desired earnestly to gratify his
curiosity and know some secrets of the future.

664 John winds up his Gospel. [S. John XXI.
22. Jesus saith unto him, If I will that he tarry till I come,
what is that to thee ? follow thou me.
We are told enough to live by, not enough to satisfy our inquiring
minds. Doing our duty, following Jesus, bearing the cross, is all
plain and clear ; but when we wish to penetrate the counsels of
God we are answered, " What is that to thee? " Lord, grant us
grace to give up ourselves to do Thy will and to trust our days to
come in Thy hand. Whatever may be Thy disposition for our end,
we will be contented with it and patient under it.
23. Then went this saying abroad among the brethren, that
tliat disdple should not die : yd Jesus said not unto him, He
shall not die ; but, If I will that he tarry till I come, what is
that to thee ?
A strange story went about amongst the first Christians that John
should not die, but remain alive on earth till the judgment day.
Yet this was not the meaning of his Master's words. John is now
long since dead and buried. These words were to rebuke Peter's
curiosity, and they meant also that John should stay on earth for a
while until after Jerusalem was destroyed and the Christian Church
set up, and then in old 'age that Christ should call him by a peaceful
death. But all this was only explained by events as they came.
24. This is the disdple which testifieth of these things, and
wrote these things : and we know that his testimony is true.
This was John's employment in his old age, to witness to others and
preserve for them the memory of the great things which the
Redeemer had done. He had been honoured with special graces
and revelations, yet it was all for our sakes. We too, who live in
these days, have to thank him for the Gospel that he undertook to
write, it has illumined our hearts too. We believe and adore as
he did. We hope to die in this faith, and, still professing it, to
awake to everlasting life. Glory be to God for the holy catholic
faith, and for rooting it in our hearts.
25. And there are also many other things which Jesus did,
the which, if they should be written every one, I suppose that
even the world itself could not contain the books that should be
written. Amen.
We only know a very small part of the Saviour's words and acts.
How we should like to know the rest that is hidden from us ! Yet
there is enough told for us to profit by. More would only increase
our responsibility. Jesus is infinite in power, wisdom, and love.
Human words cannot fully describe Him, nor human minds compre
hend Him, yet He bids us love Him. Not all the books of human
learning, however multiplied, can contain such another record as
the Gospels. This book is the food which nourishes all that is
best in us.

INDEX TO SOME OF THE CHIEF PERSONS AND
SUBJECTS OF THE GOSPEL HISTORY.

Agony of Christ
Apostles chosen and sent out
Ascension, the .
Baptism of Christ, the
Barren fig-tree, parable of .
Barren fig-tree, incident of .
Bethesda, sick man at
Birth of Christ, the .
Blind man at Bethsaida
Blind men at Jericho .
Blind men, two, healed in the house
Blind, the, man from his birth healed
Bread of life
Burial of Christ, the .
Caiaphas, our Lord before
Centurion's servant healed .
Children brought to Christ .
Cleansing of the Temple .
Crucifixion of Christ, the .
Deaf and dumb man healed
Death of Christ, the .
Demoniac in the Synagogue
Braught of fishes (first)
Draught of fishes (second)
Dropsy, man healed of
Ears of corn eaten
Egypt, flight to .
Emmaus, walk to
Ephraim, stay of Christ at
Feast of Dedication .
Feeding of four thousand
Feeding of five thousand
Friend at midnight, parable of

PAGE 478
. 44, 196, 375
. 304, 499
11, 181, 330, 506
413
. 120, 258532
4, 319234
116, 255, 448 42
574
. 548, 550
175, 299, 490, 652
163, 288, 481, 639
. 34, 357
107, 119, 248, 444
118, 259, 456, 512
171, 296, 487, 647 230
173, 298, 489, 650
. 184, 338
14, 183, 341
660 419
56, 192, 347 6
. 302, 494596 584
. 87, 232
78, 222, 378, 542395

666

Index.

PAGE

Gadarene demoniacs

37, 207, 370

Genealogy of Christ .

1, 332
Good Samaritan, parable of
391
Good Shepherd, the .
582
Great Supper, parable of
421
Heeob and John Baptist .
75, 218, 330
Herod and Christ
¦ "ii,
217, 376, 483
Holy Communion, institution of
156, 282, 473
Infancy of Christ, the
7, 324
Innocents slain ....
7
Issue of blood healed .
. 41, 212
Jaieus' daughter raised from the deac
. 41, 213
Jesus, the name of
3, 310, 321
John Baptist's birth .
. 307, 314
John Baptist's preaching .
'9, 181,
327, 504, 521
Joseph, the husband of Mary
. 3, 7, 325
Labou-rees in the vineyard, parable o
f . . .
111
Last Supper, the . . . .
. 155,
281, 473, 606
Lazarus raised ....
594
Leaven, parable of
. 70, 415
Leper cleansed ....
33, 187, 342
Lost piece of money, parable of .
426
Lost sheep, parable of
. 100, 425
Lunatic boy ....
95, 240, 382
Marriage of the king's son
125
Martha and Mary
392, 590, 597
Mary (the Blessed Virgin) . 3, 6,
64, 198, 309, 313,
323, 510, 649
Mary Magdalene
. 174, 176,
300, 493, 655
Mustard seed, parable of .
.
70, 205, 415
Nazareth, scenes at .
. . . 73,
214, 309, 337
Nicodemus, discourse with .
» 515
Nicodemus, burial of Christ by .
652
Nobleman's son healed
530
Palsy healed ....
38, 188, 343
Passover, preparation for .
155, 280, 472
Penitent thief . .
488
Peter confesses Christ .
! 90,
235, 378, 553
Peter denies Christ
. 164,
290, 480, 639
Pharisee and publican, parable of
443
Pharisees condemned .
133, 400, 570
Piece of money in fish's mouth .
98
Pilate and our Lord .
'. 167
292, 485, 642
Pounds, parable of
451
Presentation of Christ in the Temple
322
Prodigal son ....
426
Promise of the Comforter .
. 561,
617, 623, 625
Index.

667

Resurrection, the .
Rich fool 
Rich man and Lazarus, parable of
Rich young man

PAGE
177, 302, 492, 655
4054S3
108, 249, 445

Sadducees question Christ
Seed growing secretly, parable of
Sermon on the mount
Seventy sent out
Sower and seed, parable of .
Spirit of infirmity healed .
Syrophenician woman's daughter
Tabernacles, feast of
Talents, parable of
Tares and wheat, parable of
Tempest stilled .
Temptation of Christ, the .
Ten virgins, parable of
Ten lepers healed
Transfiguration of Christ, the
Treasure and pearl, parables of
Triumphal entry
True vine, the .

Unjust judge, parable of .
Unjust steward, parable of
Unmerciful servant, parable of

Walking on the sea .
Water turned into wine
Wicked husbandmen, parable of
Wise men from the east
Withered hand .
Woman taken in adultery .
Woman of Samaria
Zacchvbus . . - •
Zacharias ....

128, 265, 461204
. 16, 351386
65, 199, 366
414
. 84, 228 554147

36, 206, 369
12, 182, 334 145438
93, 238, 380 72
117, 256, 453, 599619

442430 103
79, 223, 544511263 4
57, 193, 348563523 449
. 306, 315

INDEX TO THE GOSPELS APPOINTED TO BE
READ IN THE COMMUNION SERVICE.

FOR THE CHRISTIAN SEASONS.

First Sunday in Advent .
Second Sunday in Advent
Third Sunday in Advent
Fourth Sunday in Advent
Christmas Day
S. Stephen
S. John ....
Innocents' Day
First Sunday after Christmas
Circumcision .
The Epiphany
First Sunday after Epiphany
Second Sunday after Epiphany
Third Sunday after Epiphany
Fourth Sunday after Epiphany
Fifth Sunday after Epiphany
Sixth Sunday after Epiphany
SeptuagesimaSexagesimaQuinquagesima
Ash Wednesday
First Sunday in Lent
Second Sunday in Lent
Third Sunday in Lent
Fourth Sunday in Lent
Fifth Sunday in Lent
Sixth Sunday in Lent
Thursday in Holy Week
Good Friday .
Easter Even .
Easter Day
Monday in Easter Week
Tuesday in Easter Week
First Sunday after Easter
Second Sunday after Easter
Third Sunday after Easter
Fourth Sunday after Easter
Fifth Sunday after Easter
Ascension Day
Sunday after Ascension .
Whitsun Day .
Monday in Whitsun Week

Matthew xxi.
Luke xxi.
Matthew xi.
John i.
Matthew xxiii.
John xxi.
Matthew ii.
i.
Luke ii.
Matthew ii.
Luke ii.
John ii.
Matthew viii.xiii. xxiv.xx.
viii. xviii.
Matthew vi. iv.
xv.
Luke xi.
John vi. viii.
Matthew xxvii.
Luke xxiii.
John xix.
Matthew xxvii.
John xx.
Luke xxiv.

Liike

John

xx. x. xvi.

Mark xvi.
John xv. xvi. xiv. iii.

1-13
25-332-10 19-281-14
34-3819-2513-18 18-25
15-21 1-12
41-52 1-111-13
23-34 24-3023-31 1-16
4-15
31-43
16-211-1121-2814-281-1446-591-54 1-49
57-66 1-10
13-35 36-4819-23 11-1616-22
5-15 23-33 14-20
26-27 1-4 15-31
16-21

PAGE
116-119
468, 469
51, 52
504-506
501-503
136, 137
663, 664
6, 7
2-4
320, 321 4-6
324-326510-512 32-35
36-38
68, 69
141, 142
111-113365-368 446-448 25
11-13
84, 85
396-398541-543571-574166-174 482-490
644-653174-176
653, 654
493-497497-499
656, 657
582, 583
627, 628
625, 626
628-630
303, 304
623, 624
615-618
518, 519

Index

669

Tuesday in Whitsun Week

John x.

1-10

PAGE
. 581, 582

Trinity Sunday

iii.

1-15

. 515-518

First Sunday after Trinity

Luke xvi.

19-31 .

433-435

Second Sunday after Trinity .

xiv.

16-24 .

. 421, 422

Third Sunday after Trinity

XV.

1-10

. 425, 426

Fourth Sunday after Trinity .

vi.

36-42 .

, 353, 354

Fifth Sunday after Trinity

V.

1-11

. 340-342

Sixth Sunday after Trinity

Matthew v.

20-26 .

18, 19

Seventh Sunday after Trinity .

Mark viii.

1-9

. 231, 232

Eighth Sunday after Trinity .

Matthew vii.

15-21

30, 31

Ninth Sunday after Trinity

Luke xvi.

1-9

. 430, 431

Tenth Sunday after Trinity

xix.

41-47

. 455, 456

Eleventh Sunday after Trinity

xviii.

9-14

. 443, 444

Twelfth Sunday after Trinity .

. Mark vii.

31-37

. 229, 230

Thirteenth Sunday after Trinity

Luke i.

23-37

. 390-392

Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity

xvii.

11-19

. 437-439

Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity

Matthew vi.

24-34

26-28

Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity

Luke vii.

11-17

. 358, 359

Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity

xiv.

1-11

. 418-420

Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity

Matthew xxii.

34-46

. 130, 131

Nineteenth Sunday after Trinity

ix.

1-8

38, 39

Twentieth Sunday after Trinity

xxii.

1-14

. 125-127

Twenty-first Sunday after Trinity

John iv.

46-54

. 530, 531

Twenty-second Sunday after Trinity Matthew xviii.

21-35

. 102-105

Twenty-third Sunday after Trinitj

' xxii.

15-22

. 127, 128

Twenty-fourth Sunday after Trinity ix.

18-26

41, 42

Twenty-fifth Sunday after Trinity

John vi.

5-14

. 541-543

FOR THE SAINTS' DAYS.

S. Andrew ....

Matthew iv.

18-22

14, 15

S. Thomas

John xx.

24-31

. 657-659

Conversion of S. Paul

Matthew xix.

27-29

110

Purification of the Blessed
Virgin Mary

[ Luke ii.

22-40

. 321-324

S. Matthias ....

Matthew xi.

25-30

55, 56

Annunciation of the Blessed
Virgin Mary

[ Luke i.

26-38

. 309-311

S. Mark 

John xv.

1-11

. 618-621

S. Philip and S. James .

xiv.

1-14

. 613-615

S. Barnabas ....

XV.

12-16

621

Nativity of S. John the Baptist

Luke i.

57-80

. 314-317

S. Peter 

Matthew xvi.

13-19

90, 91

8. James. ....

XX.

20-28

. 114, 115

S. Bartholomew

Luke xxii.

24-30

. 474, 475

S. Matthew ....

Matthew ix.

9-13

39, 40

S. Michael and All Angels
S. Luke 

xviii
Luke x.

, 1-10 1-7

98-100
. 386, 387

S. Simon and S. Juin

John xv.

17-27

. 622, 623

All Saints' Day

Matthew v.

1-12

16, 17

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By J. B. Mozley, D.D.,
Late Canon of Christ Church, and Regius Professor of Divinity
University of Oxford.
Contatts.
The Right Eye and the Right Hand — Temptation treated as Opportunity — The
Influences of Habit on Devotion — Thought for the Morrow — The Relief of
Utterance — Seeking a Sign — David Numbering the People— The Heroism of
Faith— Pro verbs — The Teaching of Events— Growing Worse — Our Lord the
Sacrifice for Sin — The Parable of the Sower — The Religious Enjoyment of
Nature— The Threefold Office of the Holy Spirit— Wisdom and Folly Tested by
Experienced-Moses, a Leader — The Unjust Steward — Sowing to the Spirit —
True Religion, a Manifestation — St. Paul's Exaltation of Labour — Jeremiah's
Witness against Idolatry — Isaiah's Estimate of Worldly Greatness — The Short
ness of Life — The Endless State of Being — The Witness of the Apostles — Life
a Probation — Christian Mysteries, the Common Heritage — Our Lord's Hour —
Fear — The Educating Power of Strong Impressions — The Secret Justice of
Temporal Providence — Jacob as a Prince Prevailing with God.

Selections from Pusey.
Crown Zvo. -$s. 6d.
Selections from the Writings of Edward Bouverie Pusey, D.D.,
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Mozley's Essays.
Two Vols. Zvo. 24s.
Essays, Historical and Theological.
By J. B. Mozley, D.D.,
Late Canon of Christ Church, and Regius Professor of Divinity in the
University of Oxford.
(Contents.
Volume I. — Introduction and Memoir of the Author — Lord Strafford — Arch
bishop Laud — Carlyle's Cromwell — Luther.
Volume II. — Dr. Arnold — Blanco White — Dr. Pusey's Sermon — The Book of
Job— Maurice's Theological Essays — Indian Conversion — The Argument of
Design — The Principle of Causation considered in opposition to Atheistic
Theories — In Memoriam — The Author's Articles and Works.
Practical Reflections on New Testament.
Crown Svo.
Practical Reflections on every Verse of New Testament.
By a Clergyman.
With a Preface by H. P. Liddon, D.D., D.O.L.,
Canon Residentiary of St. Paul's.
First Series.— THE HOLY GOSPELS. Third Edition. 4s. 6d.
Second Series.— ACTS TO REVELATION.
1 We cannot speak too highly of this useful conversation. For the sick and infirm, for
volume. It is a work of little pretence and such as are unable to read the Gospels with
of great merit. . . . Rattier the reflections fixed purpose for any length of time, or for
serve to deepen impressions which the Ian- busy persons, the book is admirably adapted ;
guaee of the Gospel will have awakened in while to the preacher, the school teacher,
meditative minds, and exactly serves the and such as read a portion of Holy Scripture
purpose of such readers of the Bible as wish in their family devotions, it will prove to be
to be assisted in drawing inferences from it of no inconsiderable service.' — Guardian.
which may influence their own daily life and
Liddon's Elements of Religion.
Cheap Edition. Small %vo. is. 6d. ; or in Paper Cover, is. 6d.
Some Elements of Religion. Lent Lectures.
By Henry Parry Liddon, D.D., D.C.L.,
Canon Rcsidcitiary oj St. Paul's.
The Crown &vo. 5s. Edition may still be had.

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Mozley on the Old Testament.
Second Edition. Zvo. ios. 6d.
Ruling Ideas in Early Ages and their Relation to Old
Testament Faith. Lectures delivered to Graduates of the
University of Oxford. By J. B. Mozley, D.D.,
Late Canon of Christ Church, and Regius Professor of Divinity in the
University of Oxford.
Contents.
Abraham — Sacrifice of Isaac — Human Sacrifices — Exterminating Wars — Visita
tions of the Sins of Fathers upon Children — Jael — Connection of Jael's Act with
the Morality of her Age — Law of Retaliation — Retaliation Law of Goel — The
End the Test of a Progressive Revelation— The Manichzeans and the Jewish
Fathers.

Keys to Christian Knowledge.
Seven Volumes. Small Zvo. is. 6d. each. Sold separately.
Tlie zs. 6d. Edition may still be had.
Edited by the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., F.S.A.,
Editor of the * Annotated Bible,* 'Annotated Book of Common Prayer? etc., etc.
THE HOLY BIBLE.
THE BOOK OF COMMON PRAYER.
CHURCH HISTORY (Ancient).
CHURCH HISTORY (Modern).
CHRISTIAN DOCTRINE AND PRACTICE (founded
on the Church Catechism.)
Edited by John Pilkington Norris, D.D.,
Archdeacon of Bristol, and Examining Chaplain to the Bishop of Manchester.
Editor of the ' New Testament with Notes,' etc.
THE FOUR GOSPELS.
THE ACTS OF THE APOSTLES.

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Aids to the Inner Life.
32mo, Cloth linip, 6d. each ; or Cloth extra, is. each.
These Five Volumes, Cloth extra, may be had in a Box, Price js.
Also an Edition with Red Borders, -zs. each.
Aids to the Inner Life.
Edited by the Rev. W. H. Hutchings, M.A.,
Sub-Warden of the House of Mercy, Cleiucr.
These books form a series of works provided for the use of members of the
English Church. The process of adaptation is not left to the reader, but has-
been undertaken with the view of bringing every expression, as far as possibleT
into harmony with the Book of Common Prayer and Anglican Divinity.
OF THE IMITATION OF CHRIST. In Four Books. By Thomas A
Kempis.
THE CHRISTIAN YEAR. Thoughts in Verse for the Sundays and Holy
Days throughout the Year.
INTRODUCTION TO THE DEVOUT LIFE. From the French of S.
Francis de Sales, Bishop and Prince of Geneva.
THE HIDDEN LIFE OF THE SOUL. From the Frenchof Jean Nicolas
Grou.
THE SPIRITUAL COMBAT. Together with the Supplement and the Path
of Paradise. By Laurence Scupoli.
¦We heartily wish success to this im- venient for common use. The price at
portant series, and trust it may command an which the volumes are produced is marvel-
cxtcnsive sale. We are much struck, not lously low. It may be hoped that a large
only by the excellent manner in which the circulation will secure from loss those who
design has been carried out in the Transla- have undertaken this scheme for diffusing
Lions themselves, but also by the way in far and wide such valuable means of
which Messrs. Kivington have done their advancing and deepening, after so high a
part. The type and size of the volumes are standard, the spiritual life.' — Literary
precisely what will be found most con- Chitrchnuin .

Blunt's Theological Dictionary.
Second Edition. Imperial %vo. 42s. .- or in half-morocco, 52J. 6d.
Dictionary of Doctrinal and Historical Theology.
By Various Writers.
Edited by the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., F.S.A.,
Editor of the 'Annotated Book of Common Prayer,' etc., etc.

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Goulburn's Collects of the Day.
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The Collects of the Day : an Exposition, Critical and Devotional,
of the Collects appointed at the Communion. With Preliminary-
Essays on their Structure, Sources, and General Character, and
Appendices containing Expositions of the Discarded Collects of
the First Prayer Book of 1549, and of the Collects of Morning
and Evening Prayer.
By Edward Meyrick Goulbur-n, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
GTontEnis.
Volume I. Book I. Introductory.— On the Excellencies of the Collects— On
the Origin of the word Collect— On the Structure of a Collect, as illustrated by
the Collect in the Burial Service— Of the Sources of the Collects : Of the Sacra-
mentary of Leo, of the Sacramentary of Gelasius, of Gregory the Great and his
Sacramentary, of the Use of Sarum, and of S. Osmund its Compiler — On the
Collects of Archbishop Cranmer — Of the Restoration . Collects, and of John
Cosin, Prince-Bishop of Durham — Of the Collects, as representing the Genius of
the English Church. Book II. Part I.— The Constant Collect. Part II.— Col
lects varying with the Ecclesiastical Season— Advent to Whitsunday.
Volume II. Book II. contd.— Trinity Sunday to All Saints' Day. Book III.
— On the Collects after the Ojffertory. Appendix A. — Collects i?i the First
Reformed Prayer Book of 1549 which were suppressed in 1552 — The Collect
for the First Communion on Christmas Day — The Collect for S. Mary Mag
dalene's Day (July 22). Appendix B. — Exposition of the Collects of Morning
and Evening Prayer — The Second at Morning Prayer, for Peace — The Third
at Morning Prayer, for Grace — The Second at Evening Prayer, for Peace —
The Third at Evening Prayer, for Aid against all Perils.
Blunt's History of the Reformation.
Two Vols. Zvo.
The Reformation of the Church of England : its History,
Principles, and Results.
Vol. I/(a.d. 1514-1547). Its Progress during the Reign of Henry VIII. Fifth
Edition, 16s.
Vol. II. (a.d. 1547-1662). From the Death of Henry VIII. to the Restoration
of the Church after the Commonwealth. 18s.
By the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., P.S.A.,
Editor of the ' Annotated Book of Common Prayer,' etc., etc.

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Blunt's Dictionary of Sects.
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Dictionary of Sects, Heresies, Ecclesiastical Parties, and
Schools of Religious Thought. By Various Writers.
Edited by the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., F.S.A.,
Editor of the ' Dictionary of Theology,' the ' Annotated Book of Common Prayer,' etc., etc.

Blunt's Household Theology.
New Edition. Small Bvo. 3s. 6d.
Household Theology : a Handbook of Religious Information re
specting the Holy Bible, the Prayer Book, the Church, the
Ministry, Divine Worship, the Creeds, etc. , etc.
By the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., F.S.A.,
Editor of the ' Annotated Book of Common Prayer,' etc., etc.

Lear's Life of Lacordaire.
With Frontispiece. Second Edition. Crown 8vo. js. 6d.
Henri Dominique Lacordaire. A Biographical Sketch.
By H. L. Sidney Lear,
Author of Christian Biographies,' etc.
Lear's Five Minutes.
i6mo. 3s. 6d.
Five Minutes. Daily Readings of Poetry.
Selected by H. L. Sidney Lear.

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The Book of Church Law.
Third Edition, revised. Crtnun $vo. js. 6d.
The Book of Church Law : being an Exposition of the Legal
Rights and Duties of the Parochial Clergy and the Laity of the
Church of England.
By the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., F.S.A.
Revised by Walter G. F. Phillimore, D.C.L.,
Barrister-at-Law, and Chancellor of the Diocese of Lincoln.

Maxims from Pusey.
Second Editiojt. Crtrwn i6mo. 2S.
Maxims and Gleanings from the Writings of Edward Bouverie
Pusey, D.D.
Selected and arranged for Daily Use, by C. M: S.,
Compiler of 'Daily Gleanings of the Saintly Life? ' Under the Cross,' etc.
With an Introduction by the Rev. M. F. Sadler,
Prebendary of IVells, and Rector ofHoniton.

Under the Cross.
Crown Svo. 5s.
Under the Cross. Readings, Consolations, Hymns, etc., for the
Sick ; Original and Selected.
Compiled by C. M. S.
Edited by the Rev. M. F. Sadler,
Prebendary of Wells, and Rector ofHoniton.

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Jacob's Vision of the Holy Child.
Square i6mo. is. 6d.
The Vision of the Holy Child. An Allegory.
By Edith S. Jacob,
A nthor of ' The Gate of Paradise. '
Williams on the Catechism.
New Edition. Two Vols. Crown Bvo. 5s. each. Sold separately.
Plain Sermons on the Catechism.
By the Eev. Isaac Williams, B.D.,
Late Fellow of Trinity College, Oxford; Author of a ' Devotional Commentary
on the Gospel Narrative.'
CTnutrnts.
Volume I. — The Christian Name— Godfathers and Godmothers in Baptism — A
Member of Christ— A Child of God— An Inheritor of the Kingdom of Heaven —
The World, the Flesh, and the Devil— All the Articles of the Christian Faith-
God's Holy Will and Commandments — God the Father Almighty, Maker of
Heaven and Earth — Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord)— Conceived by the
Holy Ghost : born of the Virgin Mary — Suffered under Pontius Pilate : was
Crucified — Dead and Buried— He descended into Hell— He rose again from the
Dead— He ascended into Heaven — Sitteth at the Right Hand of God — He
shall come to judge the quick and the dead— I believe in the Holy Ghost— The
Holy Catholic Church— The Communion of Saints— The Forgiveness of Sim. —
The Resurrection of the Body — The Life Everlasting— The Father, the Son,
and the Holy Ghost— The Ten Commandments — The First Commandment —
The Second Commandment— The Third Commandment — The Fourth Com
mandment—The Fifth Commandment— The Sixth Commandment— The Seventh
Commandment — The Eighth Commandment — The Ninth Commandment — The
Tenth Commandment.
Volume II.— The Exhortation to Prayer— Forms of Prayer— Our Father,
Which art in Heaven— Hallowed be Thy Name— Thy Kingdom come — Thy
Will be done— Give us this Day our Daily Bread— Forgive us our Trespasses-
Lead us not into Temptation— Deliver us from Evil— The Doxology— Amen—
The Two Sacraments— The outward visible Sign — The inward spiritual Grace
—The Washing of Water— The Washing of Water by the Word— The New
Birth— Repentance and Faith in Baptism— Infant Baptism -The Continual
Remembrance— The Bread and Wine— The Body and Blood of Christ— The
Strengthening and Refreshing of the Soul— Self- Examination before Com
munion.

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Early Influences.
Crown Zvo. $s. 6d.
Early Influences. New Edition.
With a Preface by Mrs. Gladstone.
Chapter I. — Infancy. Chapter II. — Watchfulness and Affection. Chapter III.
— The Faults of Childhood and the Influence of Religious Instruction. Chapter
IV. — Good Impulses and Moral Influence. Chapter V. — Manner and Accom
plishments. Chapter VI. — The Mental Powers of Childhood — Instruction in
General. Chapter VII. — Home — The Influence of Domestic Life upon the
Country in General. Chapter VIII. — The Difficulty and the Reward.

Baker on the Articles.
i6mo. 2s. 6d.
A Plain Exposition of the Thirty-nine Articles of the
Church of England, for the Use of Schools.
By William Baker, D.D.
Head Master of Merchant Taylors' School, and Prebendary of St. Paul's.
Holland's Logic and Life.
Second Edition. Crown Bvo. js. 6d.
Logic and Life, with other Sermons.
By the Rev. H. S. Holland, M.A.,
Senior Student of Christ Church, Oxford.
• Some of these sermons are as powerful spiritual feeling and judgment, speaking in
as any preached in tins generation, and, in- language brilliant, forcible, copious, rising
deed, full of genius, original thought, and often to splendour and magnificence.' —
spiritual veracity. Of the three first, it Church Quarterly Review.
would be hard to speak in terms too high.'— ' The sermons are thoughtful, earnest, and
Spectator often eloquent and powerful. They fully
' These [two last-named! sermons exhibit bear out the high reputation Mr. Holland
at the full the real greatness of Mr. Holland's has obtained as a preacher of considerable
power_his originality, his insight, his range acceptableness and influence with hearers
of experience, observation, andsympatliies ; of education and culture.'— Guardian.
and, above all, his never-failing elevation of

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Jennings' Ecclesia Anglicana;
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Ecclesia Anglicana. A History of the Church of Christ in
England, extending from the Earliest to the Present Times.
By the Rev. Arthur Charles Jennings, M.A.,
Jesus College, Cambridge, sometime Tyrwhitt Scholar, Crosse Scholar, Hebreio
University Prizeman, Fry Scholar ofS. John's College, Cants and
Scholefield Prizeman, atid Vicar of Whiitlesford.

Bickersteth's The Lord's Table.
i6mo. is. ; or Cloth extra, zs.
The Lord's Table ; or, Meditations on the Holy Communion Office
in the Book of Common Prayer.
By the Rev. E. H. Bickersteth, M.A.,
Vicar of Christ Church, Hampstead, and Rural Dean.
' We must draw our review to an end, and sincere thanks to Mr. Bickersteth for
without using any more of our own words, this goodly and profitable "Companion to
except one parting expression of cordial the Communion Service.'"— Record.

Fletcher's Prayers and Meditations.
New Edition, with Rubrics in Red. Royal ^zmo. zs. 6d.
An Edition without the Red Rubrics, yzmo. is.
Prayers and Meditations for the Holy Communion.
By Josephine Fletcher.
With a Preface by O. J. Bllicott, D.D.,
Lord Bishop of Gloucester and Bristol.
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Norris's Rudiments of Theology.
Second Edition, revised. Crown Zvo. is. 6d.
Rudiments of Theology. A First Book for Students.
By John PUkington Norris, D.D.,
Archdeacon of Bristol, and Examining Chaplain lo the Bishop of Manchester.
Contents.
Part I.— Fundamental Doctrines :— The Doctrine of God's Existence— The
Doctrine of the Second Person of the Trinity— The Doctrine of the Atonement
—The Doctrine of the Third Person of the Trinity— The Doctrine of The Church
— The Doctrine of the Sacraments.
Part II. — The Soteriology of the Bible:— The Teaching of the Old
Testament— The Teaching of the Four Gospels— The Teaching of S. Paul—
The Teaching of the Epistle to the Hebrews, of S. Peter and S. John— Soteri
ology of the Bible (concluded).
Appendix — Illustrations of Part I. from the Early Fathers: — On the
Evidence of God's Existence — On the Divinity of Christ — On the Doctrine of
the Atonement — On the Procession of the Holy"Spirit— On The Church— On the
Doctrine of the Ejicharist — Greek and Latin Fathers quoted or referred to in
this volume, in their chronological order — Glossarial Index.

Mozley's University Sermons.
Fifth Edition. Crown 8vo. js. 6d.
Sermons Preached before the University of Oxford and on
Various Occasions.
By J. B. Mozley, D.D.,
Late Canon of Christ Church, and Regius Professor of Divinity, Oxford.
(Eontmts.
The Roman Council— The Pharisees— Eternal Life — The Reversal of Human
Judgment — War — Nature — The Work of the Spirit on the Natural Man — The
Atonement— Our Duty to Equals-v-The Peaceful Temper — The Strength of
Wishes — The Unspoken Judgment of Mankind— The True Test of Spiritual
Birth— Ascension Day— Gratitude— The Principle of Emulation— Religion the
First Choice— The Influence of Dogmatic Teaching on Education.

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Newman's Selection from Sermons.
Second Edition. Crown Zvo. 5s.
Selection, adapted to the Seasons of the Ecclesiastical Year, from
the ' Parochial and Plain Sermons ' of John Henry Newman,
B.D., sometime Vicar of S. Mary's, Oxford.
Edited by the Rev. W. J. Copeland, B.D.,
Rector of Farnham, Essex.
ffiantmte.
Advent:— Self-denial the Test of Religious Earnestness— Divine Calls— The
Ventures of Faith— Watching. Christmas Day .-—Religious Joy. New Year's
Sunday : — The Lapse of Time. Epiphany : — Remembrance of Past Mercies —
Equanimity — The Immortality of the Soul — Christian Manhood — Sincerity and
Hypocrisy — Christian Sympathy. Septuagesima: — Present Blessings. Sexa-
gesitna ; — Endurance the Christian's Portion. Quinquagesima ; — Love the One
Thing Needful. Lent: — The Individuality of the Soul— Life the Season of
Repentance — Bodily Suffering — Tears of Christ at the Grave of Lazarus-
Christ's Privations a Meditation for Christians— The Cross of Christ the Measure
of the World. Good Friday:— The Crucifixion. Easter Day : — Keeping Fast
and Festival. Easter- Tide ; — Witnesses of the Resurrection — A Particular
Providence as Revealed in the Gospel — Christ Manifested in Remembrance —
The Invisible World — Waiting for Christ. Ascension: — Warfare the Condition
of Victory. Sunday after Ascension: — Rising with Christ. Whitsunday: —
The Weapons of Saints. Trinity Sunday ;— The Mysteriousness of our Pre
sent Being. Sundays after Trinity: — Holiness Necessary for Future Blessed
ness — The Religious Use of Excited Feelings — The Self-wise Inquirer — Scrip
ture a Record of Human Sorrow — The Danger of Riches — Obedience without
Love as instanced in the Character of Balaam — Moral Consequences of Single -
Sins — The Greatness and Littleness of Human Life — Moral Effects of Com
munion with God— The Thought of God the Stay of the Soul— The Power of
the Will — The Gospel Palaces — Religion a Weariness to the Natural Man — The
World our Enemy — The Praise of Man — Religion Pleasant to the Religious —
Mental Prayer — Curiosity a Temptation to Sin — Miracles no Remedy for Un
belief—Jeremiah : a Lesson for the Disappointed — The Shepherd of our Souls
— Doing Glory to'God in Pursuits of the Worid.
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Mozley on Miracles.
Fifth Edition. Crown Svo. js. 6d.
Eight Lectures on Miracles: being the Bampton Lectures for
1865.
By J. B. Mozley, D.D.,
Late Canon of Christ Church, and Regius Professor of Divinity in the
University of Oxford.

The Prayer Book of Edward VI.
Small &vo. 6s.
The First Book of Common Prayer of Edward VI. , and the
Ordinal of ^49. Together with the Order of the Communion,
1548. Reprinted entire.
Edited by the Rev. Henry Baskerville Walton, M.A.,
Late Fellow and Tutor of Merlon College.
With Introduction by the Rev. Peter Goldsmith Medd, M.A.,
Rector of North Cerney, late Senior Fellow of University College.flxford.

The Prayer Book Interleaved.
Tenth Edition. Small %vo. js. 6d.
The Prayer Book Interleaved. With Historical Illustrations
and Explanatory Notes arranged parallel to the Text.
By W. M. Campion, D.D., and W. J. Beamont, M.A.
With a Preface by the Lord Bishop of Winchester.

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Goulburn's Study of Scripture.
Tenth Edition, revised and enlarged. Small 8vo. 6s. 6d.
An Introduction to the Devotional Study of the Holy
Scriptures :, with a Prefatory Essay on their Inspiration, and
specimens of Meditations on various passages of them.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.

Goulburn's The Child Samuel.
Small Bvo. 5s.
The Child Samuel. A Practical and Devotional Commentary on
the Birth and Childhood of the Prophet Samuel, as recorded in
1 Sam. i. , ii. 1-27, iii. Designed as a Help to Meditation on the
Holy Scriptures for Children and Young Persons.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.

Goulburn's Gospel of the Childhood.
Second Edition. Square i6mo. 5s.
The Gospel of the Childhood : a Practical and Devotional Com
mentary on the Single Incident of our Blessed Lord's Childhood
(S. Luke ii. 41 to the end) ; designed as a Help to Meditation on
the Holy Scriptures, for Children and Young Persons.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Nonoich.

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Goulburn on Everlasting Punishment.
Second Edition, revised aud enlarged. Crown Svo. 6s. 6d.
Everlasting Punishment. Lectures delivered at St. James's
Church, Piccadilly, on the Six first Sundays after Trinity in the
Year 1880. With Three Dissertations on Kindred Topics.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
ffiontrttte.
Everlasting Punishment not inconsistent with Gods Justice— Everlasting Punish
ment not inconsistent with God's Love-Everlasting Punishment not inconsis
tent with God s purpose m Creation-Lessons on the Story of the Crucified
t .1 ef^c'°rs-ScnPturalJmodifications of the difficulty-On the irretrievable ruin
of the fallen Angels, and on the fewness of the Saved-On the limitations of the
Human Understanding in apprehending God and His Ways.

Goulburn's Holy Catholic Church.
Second Edition. Crown Zvo. 6s. 6d.
The Holy Catholic Church : its Divine Ideal, Ministry, and
Institutions. A short Treatise. With a Catechism on each
Chapter, forming a Course of Methodical Instruction on the
subject. By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
Contents.
What the Church is, and when and how it was founded— Duty of the Church
towards those who hold to the Apostles' Doctrine, in separation from the Apostles j
fellowship — The Unity of the Church and its Disruption — The Survey of Zion's'
towers, bulwarks, and palaces — The Institution of the Ministry, and its relation
to the Church — The Holy Eucharist at its successive Stages — On the Powers of
the Church in Council — The Church presenting, exhibiting, and defending the
Truth — The Church guiding into and illustrating the Truth— On the Prayer
Book as a Commentary on the Bible — Index.

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Goulburn's Thoughts on Personal Religion.
New Edition. Small 8vo. 6s. 6d.
Thoughts on Personal Religion : being a Treatise on the
Christian Life in its two Chief Elements — Devotion and Practice.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
Also a Cheap Edition. 3s. 6d.
Presentation Edition, elegantly printed on Toned Paper.
Two Vols. Small Svo. ios. 6d.
Goulburn's Pursuit of Holiness.
Fourth Edition. Small Svo. 5s.
The Pursuit of Holiness : a Sequel to ' Thoughts on Personal
Religion,' intended to carry the Reader somewhat farther onward
in the Spiritual Life.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
Also a Cheap Edition. 35. 6d.
Goulburn's Family Prayers.
Large type. New Edition. Crown %vo. 3$. 6d.
Family Prayers. "" ' Compiled from various sources (chiefly from
Bishop Hamilton's Manual), and arranged on the Liturgical
Principle. By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
Also a Cheap Edition. i6mo. is.
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Goulburn on the Lord's Supper.
Sixth Edition. Small Svo. 6s.
A Commentary, Expository and Devotional, on the Order of the
Administration of the Lord's Supper, according to the Use of the
Church of England ; to which is added an Appendix on Fasting
Communion, Non-communicating Attendance, Auricular Confes
sion, the Doctrine of Sacrifice1, and the Eucharistic Sacrifice.
By Edward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.
Also a Cheap Edition, uniform with ' Thoughts on Personal Religioji,*
and ' The Pursuit of Holiness? 3s. §d.

Goulburn's Devotional Forms.
Fourth Edition. $2mo. is. 6d.
Short Devotional Forms, for Morning, Night, and Mid
night, and for the Third, Sixth, Ninth Hours, and Eventide of
Each Day of the Week. Arranged to meet the Exigencies of a
Busy Life.
By Ed-ward Meyrick Goulburn, D.D., D.C.L.,
Dean of Norwich.

The Compendious Annotated Prayer Book.
Crown tivo. ios. 6d.
The Compendious Edition of the Annotated Book of Common
Prayer, forming a concise Commentary on the Devotional
• System of the Church of England.
Edited by the Rev. John Henry Blunt, D.D., P.S.A.,
Editor of the ' Dictionary of Sects and Heresies' etc., etc.

Waterloo place, HoitDon.

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Luckock's After Death.
Fourth Edition. Crown Zvo. 6s.
After Death. An Examination of the Testimony of Primitive
Times respecting the State of the Faithful Dead, and their rela
tionship to the Living.
By Herbert Mortimer Luckock, D.D.,
Canon of Ely, etc.
Contents.
Part I.— The Test of Catholicity— The Value of the Testimony of the Primi
tive Fathers — The Intermediate State — Change in the Intermediate State —
Praters for the Dead : Reasons for Our Lord's Silence on the Subject— ^The
Testimony of Holy Scripture — The Testimony of the Catacombs— The Testi
mony of the Early Fathers — The Testimony of the Primitive Liturgies —
Prayers for the Pardon of Sins of Infirmity, and the Effacement of Sinful
Stains — The Inefficacy of Prayer for those who died in wilful unrepented Sin.
Part II. — Primitive Testimony to the Intercession of the Saints — Primitive
Testimony to the Invocation of the Saints— The Trustworthiness of the Patristic
Evidence for Invocation tested — The Primitive Liturgies and the Roman Cata
combs — Patristic Opinions on the Extent of the Knowledge possessed by the
Saints — The Testimony of Holy Scripture upon the same Subject — The Beatific
Vision not yet attained by any of the Saints — Conclusions drawn from the fore
going Testimony.
Supplementary Chapters.— (a.) Is a fuller Recognition of the Practice of
Praying for the Dead desirable or not?— (&.) Is it lawful or desirable to practise
Invocation of Saints in any form or not? — Table of Fathers, Councils, etc.—
Passages of Scripture explained or quoted — General Index.

S. Bonaventure's Life of Christ.
Crown Zvo. js. 6d
The Life of Christ.
By S. Bonaventure.
Translated and Edited by the Rev. W. H. Hutchings,
Sub-Warden of the House of Mercy, Clewer.
' The whole volume is full of gems and seek food for their daily meditations, we can
rich veins of thought, and whether as a com- scarcely imagine a more acceptable book.'
panion to the preacher or to those who —Literary Churchman.
©BaterToo pface, HUnBott.

OF RECENT PUBLICA TIONS.

Luckock's Studies.
Second Edition. Crown Bvo. 6s.
Studies in the History of the Book of Common Prayer.
The Anglican Reform — The Puritan Innovations— The Eliza
bethan Reaction — The Caroline Settlement. With Appendices.
By Herbert Mortimer Luckock, D.D.,
Canon of Ely, etc.
'This able and helpful book — recom- arranged volume is a valuable contribution
mending it emphatically to all educated to liturgical history, which will prove in-
members of the entire Anglican community.' teresting to all readers and almost indispen-
— Church Quarterly Review. sable to the theological student who has to
¦ We heartily commend this very interest- master the history and rationale of the
ing and very readable book. '— Guardian. Book of Common Prayer.'— Notes ami
'Dr. Luckock's compact and clearly- Queries.

Knox Little's Mystery of the Passion.
Second- Edition. Crown Zvo. 3s. 6d.
The Mystery of the Passion of our Most Holy Redeemer.
By the Rev. W. J. Knox Little, M.A.,
Canon Residentiary of Worcester, and Rector ofS. Alban's, Manchester.

Williams on the Apocalypse.
New Edition. Crown 8vo. 5s.
The Apocalypse. With Notes and Reflections.
By the Rev. Isaac Williams, B.D.,
Formerly Fellow of Trinity College, Oxford.
JSKatetfoo place, JLottDon.

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Knox Little's Manchester Sermons.
Second Edition. Crown Zvo. js. 6d.
Sermons Preached for the most part in Manchester.
By the Rev. W. J. Knox Little, M.A.,
Cation Residentiary of Worcester, and Rector of S. Alban's, Manchester.
fiContmts.
The Soul instructed by God — The Claim of God upon the Soul- —The Super
natural Powers of the Soul — The Soul in its Inner Life — The Soul in the World
and at the Judgment — The Law of Preparation — The Principle of Preparation
— The Temper of Preparation — The Energy of Preparation — The Soul's Need
and God's Nature — The Martyr of Jesus — The Secret of Prophetic Power — The
Law of Sacrifice — The Comfort of God — The Symbolism of the Cross — The
Beatitude of Mary, the Mother of the Lord.

Knox Little's Christian Life.
Second Edition. Crown Zvo. 3s. 6d.
Characteristics and Motives of the Christian Life. Ten
Sermons preached in Manchester Cathedral in Lent and Advent
1877. By the Rev. W. J. Knox Little, M.A.,
Canon Residentiary of Worcester, and Rector ofS. Alban's, Manchester.
Contents.
Christian Work — Christian Advance — Christian Watching — Christian Battle —
Christian Suffering — Christian Joy — For the Love of Man — For the sake of
Jesus— For the Glory of God— The Claims Of Christ.

Williams on the Epistles and Gospels.
New Edition. Two Vols. Crown Zvo. $s. each. .
Sold separately.
Sermons on the Epistles and Gospels for the Sundays
and Holy Days throughout the Year.
By the Rev. Isaac Williams, B.D.,
Author of a ' Devotional Commentary on the Gospel Narrative.'

IKtatettoo place, JLoiibott.

OF RECENT PUBLICA TIONS. 23
Williams's Female Scripture Characters.
New Edition. Crown Zvo. $s.
Female Characters of Holy Scripture. A Series of Sermons.
By the Rev. Isaac Williams, B.D.,
Formerly Fellow of Trinity College, Oxford.
Contents.
Eve — Sarah — Lot's Wife — Rebekah — Leah and Rachel — Miriam — Rahab —
Deborah— Ruth— Hannah— The Witch of Endor— Bathsheba— Rizpah— The
Queen of Sheba — The Widow of Zarephath — Jezebel — The Shunammite —
Esther — Elisabeth — Anna — The Woman of Samaria— Joanna— The Woman
with the Issue of Blood — The Woman of Canaan — Martha — Mary — Salome
—The Wife of Pilate— Dorcas— The Blessed Virgin.
Williams's Old Testament Characters.
New Edition. Crown Zvo. $s.
The Characters of the Old Testament. A Series of Sermons.
By the Rev. Isaac "Williams, B.D.,
Formerly Felloio of Trinity College, Oxford.

Body's Life of Temptation.
Fifth Edition. Crown Zvo. 4s. 6d.
The Life of Temptation. A Course of Lectures delivered in sub
stance at S. Peter's, Eaton Square ; also at All Saints', Margaret
Street. By the Rev. George Body, M.A.,
Canon of Durham, and Rector ofKirkby Misperton.
Contents.
The Leading into Temptation-The Rationale of Temptation-Why we are
Tempted-Safety in Temptation-With Jesus in Temptation-The End of
Temptation.

ffiUaterloo place, ImtBon.

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Williams's Devotional Commentary.
New Edition. Eight Vols. Crown Zvo. $s. each. Sold separately.
A Devotional Commentary on the Gospel Narrative.
By the Rev. Isaac Williams, B.D.,
Formerly Fellow of Trinity College, Oxford.
THOUGHTS ON THE STUDY OF THE HOLY GOSPELS.
A HARMONY OF THE FOUR EVANGELISTS.
OUR LORD'S NATIVITY.
OUR LORD'S MINISTRY (Second Yeah).
OUR LORD'S MINISTRY (Third Year).
THE HOLY WEEK.
OUR LORD'S PASSION.
OUR LORD'S RESURRECTION.

Voices of Comfort.
Sixth Edition. Crown Zvo. js. 6d.
Voices of Comfort.
Edited by the Rev. Thomas Vincent Fosbery, M.A.,
Sometime Vicar of St. Giles's, Oxford.
This Volume of prose and poetry, original and selected, aims at revealing
the fountains of hope and joy which underlie the griefs and sorrows-of life.
It is so divided as to afford readings for a month. The keynote of each day is
given to the title prefixed to it, such as : ' The Power of the Cross of Christ,
Day 6. Conflicts of the Soul, Day 17. The Communion of Saints, Day 20.
The Comforter, Day 22. The Light of Hope, Day 25. The Coming of Christ,
Day 28/ Each day begins with passages of Holy Scripture. These are fol
lowed by articles in prose, which are succeeded by one or more short prayers.
After these are poems or passages of poetry, and then very brief extracts in
prose or verse close the section. The book is meant to meet, not merely cases
of bereavement or physical suffering, but ' to minister specially to the hidden
troubles of the heart, as they are silently weaving their dark threads into the
web of the seemingly brightest life.'
IBHatertoo place, JLoittion.

OF RECENT PUBLICA TIONS.

Body's Life of Justification.
Fourth Edition. Crown Zvo. +T. 6a\
The Life ok Justification. A Series of Lectures delivered in
substance at All Saints', Margaret Street.
By the Rev. George Body, M.A.,
Canon of Durham, and Rector of Kirkby Misperton.
Contents.
Justification the Want of Humility — Christ our Justification — Union with
Christ the Condition of Justification — Conversion and Justification — The Life of
Justification — The Progress and End of Justification.

Hutchings's Mystery of the Temptation.
Crown Zvo. 4J. 6d.
The Mystery of the Temptation : a Course of Lectures.
By the Rev. W. H. Hutchings, M.A.',
Sub-Warden cftlie House of Mercy, Clewer.
Cdhttnts.
The Entrance into the Temptation — The Fast— The Personality of Satan— The
First Temptation — The Second Temptation — The Third Temptation — The End
of the Temptation.

The Treasury of Devotion.
New Edition. iZmo, -zs. 6d. : Cloth limp, 2s. / or bound with the
Book of Common Prayer, 3 s. 6d.
The Treasury of Devotion : a Manual of Prayers for General and
Daily Use.
Compiled by a Priest.
Edited by the Rev. T. T. Carter, M.A.
Also an Edition in Large Type. Crown Zvo. $s.

matetloo place, JUnnon.

26 RIVINGTON'S SELECT LIST
The Star of Childhood.
Third Edition. Royal i6mo. zs. 6d.
The Star of Childhood : a First Book of Prayers and Instruction
for Children.
Compiled by a Priest.
Edited by the Rev. T. T. Carter, M.A.
With Illustrations after Fra Angelica.
The Guide to Heaven.
New Edition. iZmo. is. 6d. ; Cloth limp, is.
The Guide to Heaven : a Book of Prayers for every Want. For
the Working Classes.
Compiled by a Priest.
Edited by the Rev. T. T. Carter, M.A.
An Edition in Large Type. Crown Zvot. is. 6d.; Cloth limp, is.
Lear's For Days and Years.
New Edition. i6mo. zs. 6d.
For Days and Years. A Book containing a Text, Short Reading,
and Hymn for Every Day in the Church's Year.
Selected by H. L. Sidney Lear.
A Iso a Cheap Edition, ^zmo, is. ; or Cloth gilt, is. 6d.
Adams's Warnings of the Holy Week.
Eighth Edition. Small Zvo. 4s. 6d.
Warnings of the Holy Week, etc. : being a Course of Parochial
Lectures for the Week before Easter and the Easter Festivals.
By the Rev. William Adams, M.A.,
Author of ' Sacred Allegories,' etc.

Utaterloo Place, JUttuon.

OF RECENT PUBLICA TIONS.

Moberly's Plain Sermons.
New Edition. Crown Zvo. 5$.
Plain Sermons, Preached at Brighstone.
By George Moberly, D.C.L.,
Bishop of Salisbury.
Contents.
Except a man be born again— The Lord with the Doctors— The Draw-Net— I
will lay me down in peace— Ye have not so learned Christ— Trinity Sunday—
My Flesh is Meat indeed— The Corn of Wheat dying and multiplied— The Seed
Com springing to new life— I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life— The Ruler
of the Sea—Stewards of the Mysteries of God— Ephphatha— The Widow of
JNain— Josiah s discovery of the Law— The Invisible World : Angels— Prayers
especially Daily Prayers— They all with one consent began to make excuse—
Ascension Day— The Comforter— The Tokens of the Spirit— Elijah's Warning,
fathers and Children— Thou shalt see them no more for ever— Baskets full of
fragments— Harvest— The Marriage Supper of the Lamb— The Last Judgment

Lear's Precious Stones.
Three Vols, yzmo. is. each ; or i?i Paper Covers, 6d. each.
Precious Stones, collected by H. L. Sidney Lear.
I. PEARLS— GRACE.
II. RUBIES— NATURE.
III. DIAMONDS— ART.
Also a Superior Edition, i6mo, with Red Borders, zs. each.
' Diamonds contains extracts having re- Kempis, Bishop Jeremy Taylor, Faber,
ference to Art. Many will appreciate the Newman, Emerson, while one or two reflec.
beautiful passages from Ruskin : and the tions fraught with practical wisdom have
carefully chosen thoughts from the writings been gathered from Lord Chesterfield. The
of Newman, Faber, and Sir Joshua Key- collection called Rubies contains reflections
nolds will give pleasure. An undercur- oil Nature from S. Augustine, S. Francis
rent of devotional feeling has guided the de Sales, and S. Gregory, besides extracts
choice of these extracts. In Pearls the from Ruskin, Neale, Hugh Macmillan, and
compiler has taken a wider range. We Charies Kingsley.' — Times.
find valuable meditations from Thomas a

WLatttlao place, JLoTtDott.

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' Half-a-Crown Editions of Devotional
Works.
Edited by the Author of ' The Life of S. Francis de Sales.'
Half-a-Crown Editions of Devotional Works.
New and Uniform Editions.
Seven Vols. i6mo. zs. 6d. each. Sold separately.
SPIRITUAL LETTERS TO MEN. By Archbishop Fenelon.
SPIRITUAL LETTERS TO WOMEN. By Akchbishop Fenelon.
A SELECTION FROM THE SPIRITUAL LETTERS OF S. FRANCIS
DE SALES, BISHOP AND PRINCE OF GENEVA.
THE SPIRIT OF S. FRANCIS DE SALES, BISHOP AND PRINCE
OF GENEVA.
THE HIDDEN LIFE OF THE SOUL.
THE LIGHT OF THE CONSCIENCE. With an Introduction by the
Rev. T. T. Cartek, M.A.
SELF-RENUNCIATION. From the French. With an Introduction by the
Rev. T. T. Carter, M.A.
Lear's Weariness.
Large Type. Second Edition. Small Zvo. 5s.
Weariness. A Book for the Languid and Lonely.
By H. L. Sidney Lear,
Author of ' For Days and Years,' ' Christian Biographies,' etc., etc.

Sunrise, Noon, Sunset.
Three Vols., with Red Borders. 4Zmo. is. each. Three Vols, in a Box, +r.
Also a Superior Edition, printed on Hand-made Paper, zs. each,
or bound in Parchment, 3s. each.
Sunrise. Noon. Sunset. A Selection from various Authors.
By H. L. Sidney Lear.

CBsterloo place, JUnDou.

OF RECENT PUBLICA T/ONS.

Lear's Christian Biographies.
Eight Vols. Crown Zvo. 3$. 6d. each. Sold separately.
By H. L. Sidney Lear.
MADAME LOUISE DE FRANCE, Daughter of Louis xv., known also
as the Mother Terese de S. Augustin.
A DOMINICAN ARTIST: a Sketch of the Life of the Rev. Pere Besson, of
the Order of S. Dominic.
HENRI PERREYVE. By A. Gratry. Translated by special permission.
With Portrait. v
S. FRANCIS DE SALES, Bishop and Prince of Geneva.
THE REVIVAL OF PRIESTLY LIFE IN THE SEVENTEENTH
CENTURY IN FRANCE. Charles de Condren-S. Philip Neri and
Cardinal de Berulle— S. Vincent de Paul— Saint Sulpice and Jean Jacques
Olier.
A CHRISTIAN PAINTER OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY:
being the Life of Hippolyte Flandrin.
BOSSUET AND HIS CONTEMPORARIES.
FENELON, ARCHBISHOP OF CAMBRAI.

Crake's Church History.
New Edition. Crown Zvo. js. 6d.
History of the Church under the Roman Empire, a.d. 30-476.
By the Rev. A. D. Crake, B.A.
Crake's Edwy the Fair.
Fourth Edition. Crown Zvo. 35. 6d.
Edwy the FAir ; or, The First Chronicle of ^Escendune.
A Tale of the Days of S. Dunstan.
By the Rev. A. D. Crake, B.A.,
AutAorofthe 'History of the Church under tlie Roman Empire,' etc., etc.
OTatertoo Place, LonDon.

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Crake's Alfgar the Dane.
Fourth Edition. Crown Zvo. 3$. &£
Alfgar the Dane ; or, The Second Chronicle of jEscendune.
A Tale.
By the Rev. A. D. Crake, B.A.,
Author of the ' History of the Church wider the Roman Empire,' etc., etc.

Crake's Rival Heirs.
Crown Zvo. 3J. 6d.
The Rival Heirs ; Being the Third and Last Chronicle
of jEscendune.
By the Rev. A. D. Crake, B.A.,
Author of ' History of the Church under the Roman Empire,' etc., etc.

Liddon's University Sermons (First
Series).
New Edition. Crown Zvo. $s.
Sermons Preached before the University of Oxford.
First Series, 1859-1868.
By Henry Parry Liddon, D.D., D.C.L.,
Canon Residentiary of St. Paul's.
GEontmts.
God and the Soul — The Law of Progress — The Honour of Humanity — The
Freedom of the Spirit — Immortality — Humility and Action — The Conflict of
Faith with undue Exaltation of Intellect — Lessons of the Holy Manger — The
Divine Victim — The Risen Life — Our Lord's Ascension, the Church's Gain —
Faith in a Holy Ghost — The Divine Indwelling a Motive to Holiness.

fljKaterloo place, HonDott.

OF RECENT PUBLICA TIONS.

Liddon' s University Sermons (Second
Series).
Third Edition. Crown Zvo. $s.
Sermons Preached before the University of Oxford.
Second Series, 1868-1882.
By Henry Parry Liddon, D.D., D.C.L.,
Canon Residentiary of St. Paul's.
GTonttnte.
Prejudice and Experience — Humility and Truth — Import of Faith in a Creator
— Worth of Faith in a Life to Come — Influences of the Holy Spirit — Growth in
the Apprehension of Truth — The Life of Faith and the Athanasian Creed —
Christ's Service and Public Opinion — Christ in the Storm — Sacerdotalism — The
Prophecy of the Magnificat — The Fall of Jericho — The Courage of Faith — The
Curse of Meroz — The Gospel and the Poor — Christ and Human Law — The Cure
of Low Spirits — The Sight of the Invisible.

Liddon's Bampton Lectures,
Ninth Edition, revised. Crown Zvo. $s.
The Divinity of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ ; being
the Bampton Lectures for 1866.
By Henry Parry Liddon, D.D., D.C.L.,
Canon Residentiary of St. Paul's.

Maxims from Keble.
Crown i6mo. -zs,
Maxims and Gleanings from the Writings of John Keble, M.A.,
Author of ' The Christian Year.'
Selected and arranged for Daily Use, by C. M. S.,
Compiler of * Daily Gleanings of the Saintly Life,' ' Under the Cross,' etc.
Witn an Introduction by the Rev. M. F. Sadler,
Prebendary of Wells, and Rector ofHoniton,
IHaterloo Place, Hottoott.

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