310. ACT 23:9. ON FIGHTING AGAINST GOD

Act_23:9. On Fighting Against God

"Let us not fight against God."’97Act_23:9.

Many descriptions given of the sinner’s state and condition, aliens, outcasts, slaves, enemies, rebels, &c. Now, the text contains a term which forcibly applies to every unregenerate man. All such are fighting against God. Let us,

I. Describe the Characters to whom the Text applies

1. Infidels fight against him by denying his providence and revelation.

Few are to be found who say, "There is no God." Chiefly exclude his government, and reject revelation. These are ringleaders in the ranks of the enemies of God.

2. The profane and practical transgressors fight against his laws.

All sin is against God; against the holiness of his nature, his authority, &c.

3. All unbelievers fight against his gospel.

They steel their hearts, become as adamant. This is an effectual preventive against salvation. "He could not do many mighty works," &c. "He that believeth not is condemned already," &c.

4. All formalists fight against him by secretly resisting his grace.

Near, but not of Christ. Almost, but not altogether Christians. Not far from the kingdom of Christ.

5. All backsliders fight against Christ by crucifying him afresh, &c.

Wound him in the house of his friends Make the wicked to blaspheme, &c.

II. Let me dissuade you from fighting against God.

1. It is ungrateful.

Forget not, you fight against your Creator, Benefactor, Redeemer, &c.

2. It is the grossest infatuation.

Can you contend with God? A moth against Omnipotence! Think of Pharaoh of Belshazzar, of Herod, of all his enemies Where are they?

3. It is injurious.

You are not happy. Cannot be so. You are martyring your souls. "No peace saith my God," &c.

4. The result will be terrific.

What will you do on the bed of affliction? When before his bar? He will dash you in pieces as a potter’s vessel Oh, be advised, &c.

Application

1. Christ is the way to God’s favor.

2. Now seek for peace through his name.

Autor: JABEZ BURNS