194. JAM 3:2. CHRISTIAN IMPERFECTION

Jam_3:2. Christian Imperfection

"In many things we offend all"’97Jam_3:2.

Let us notice,

1. Some of those Things in which Believers offend.

All Christians offend,

1. In the exercises of the heart.

At present only partially sanctified. Many remains of the carnal mind. Thoughts often vain. Desires often unholy. Delights often earthly, &c. All Christians offend,

2. In the communications of their lips.

The tongue an ungovernable member. Christ’s lips, only, were found without guile. How often we speak rashly and foolishly! How often is the tongue the instrument of levity and trifling! Who is clear in this matter? All Christians offend,

3. In the actions of their lives.

How many things improper in themselves! How many proceed from wrong motives! How many done to please ourselves, and not to glorify God! "Who can understand his errors?" "In many things we offend all."

Consider,

II. From whence arise these Imperfections in the Christian Character.

1. From the absolute purity of the divine law It extends to the most secret desires and thoughts. It is exceeding broad. Transcript of the divine mind.

2. From the frailty and weakness of human nature.

This is a state of imperfection. Here the work of holiness is only begun. "If we say, we have no sin," &c. Time of conflict. Old man dying, not dead. We see this in the best of men: Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, &c. These offences against God often arise, however,

3. From unwatchfulness and neglect.

Not vigilant. Not sufficiently alive to our best interests. Prayer neglected. Soul indolent. Means not sacredly and constantly regarded. Graces allowed to be anguid, &c.

III. What Influence should a Consideration of our Imperfections produce upon us?

1. Deep humility.

Souls should be abased’97prostrated before God’97sins confessed, deplored’97mercy daily sought, &c.

2. Spiritual diligence.

Religion must occupy our hearts’97time’97all. Be vigilant, prayerful, believing, and obedient.

3. Fervent prayer.

God has engaged to keep us’97to bless us’97to save us,’97fully, entirely, and forever. His grace should be earnestly sought. "We can do all things through Christ," &c. "Pray always, with all prayer," &c.

4. Forbearance and charity to others.

Our own imperfections should induce us to feel and bear with others. To remember they are men of same passions, and are exposed to the same adversaries and dangers. It should,

5. Excite within us a longing for heaven There we shall be sinless inhabitants of a sinless world’97be perfect, pure heart and shall see God. No spot, nor wrinkle nor any such thing.

Autor: JABEZ BURNS