403. PHP 1:6. THE WORK OF RELIGION

Php_1:6. The Work of Religion

"Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ."’97Php_1:6.

This delightful epistle to the church at Philippi, was sent from Paul, who was now a prisoner at Rome, about twelve years after he had first preached the gospel among them. The apostle commences it with the most ardent expression of good-will and love to them, 5:21. He informs them that it had long been his custom both to bless God on their account, and fervently to remember them in all his prayers, ver. 3-6. Then he expresses his perfect confidence in the preserving grace of God respecting them. "Being confident," &c. We shall endeavor to found several observations on the truths contained in the text.

I. True Religion is an internal Work.

Not a system of notions; not merely a public profession; not external propriety; all these are parts, and included, but true religion is a work in the heart.

(1) Work of light upon the understanding.

(2) Work of truth influencing the judgment.

(3) Work of love softening the affections.

(4) Work of holiness cleansing the conscience.

(5) Work of grace entirely changing the heart.

II. True Religion has God for its Author.

"He who hath," &c. 2Co_4:6; Ephesians 10.

(1) God called us by his word.

(2) He justified us by his grace.

(3) Regenerated us by his Spirit.

III. True Religion is a Work preeminently excellent.

"A good work." Called a "good part." "Mary hath chosen," &c. It is good, as liberty is good, as health is good, as life is good, as abiding felicity is good; good for ourselves, for our friends, for the world, for time, death, and eternity.

IV. True Religion is progressive in its Character.

It must be so, as it is,

(1) Compared to the progress of the grain in the earth.

(2) To the light of the day.

(3) To the growth of the child.

(4) To the erection of a building.

V. True Religion will be carried on and completed by God in the Hearts of his People.

"He who hath," &c. He does this by his word directing, his Spirit comforting, his grace supporting. Of this, all believers might be confident. "Being confident."

(1) From God’s engagements, "He is faithful."

(2) From his love and delight in them.

(3) From the history of his people in every age. Did he ever leave or forsake any of them.

Application

1. Is this work commenced? Have you the signs, &c.

2. God will work with and by you. Be diligent.

3. Anticipate its glorious consummation

Autor: JABEZ BURNS