0371. REFRESHING NEWS.

REFRESHING NEWS.

"As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country" (Pro_25:25).

I. The Comparison Made. "Good news, like cold water." What is more terrible than the pangs of thirst? And what more fearful than the ragings of a sin-convicted conscience? Cold water is divinely adapted for a thirsty soul, so is the good news of the Gospel of Christ. Water is the gift of God brought within the reach of man in the up-flowing spring. The good news has been published, and brings refreshing to every believing heart (Luk_2:10-11).

II. The Source of the News. "From a far country." From the kingdom of Heaven, into which our Kinsman-Redeemer has gone (Luk_19:12). To have good news from a far country implies that we have a deep interest in that country because of loved ones there. "We love Him, because He first loved us." The Gospel of God is no good news to those who love the world, and whose affections are set on the things of earth, like the man with the muck rake.

III. The Nature of the News. "It is good."

1. Because it tells of a God who is Love. "God is Love," and "Love is of God." This love is manifested in the gift of His Son (1Jn_4:9), even while we were yet sinners (Rom_5:8). A love that many waters could not quench.

2. Because it tells of a Finished Redemption. "It is finished." He came to give His life a ransom for many, and He could say, "I have finished the work which Thou gavest Me to do" (Joh_17:4; Col_2:14-15).

3. Because it tells of a Home Prepared (Joh_14:2). "A better, that is, an heavenly" (Heb_11:16). The house of the Lord for ever (Psa_23:6). "Within the veil" with Jesus (Heb_6:19-20).

4. Because it tells of a Coming King, who shall give to this waring earth peace (Zech. 14; Rev_11:15). "All the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of our God" (Isa_52:10). Have you heard the good news, and has it been as cold water to your thirsty soul?

Autor: James Smith