363. PHP 2:23. MAN’S IGNORANCE OF THE FUTURE
Php_2:23. Man’s Ignorance of the Future
"So soon as I shall see how it will go with me."’97Php_2:23.
Paul a prisoner at Rome, &c. His anxiety for the cause of Jesus; his interest in the Philippians, and his joy in Timothy’s presence; his resolution to send him. "So soon," &c. Notice,
I. That we are entirely ignorant of the Future.
We know not how it will go with us,
1. As to our temporal concerns.
2. As to our families and friends.
3. As to our health.
4. As to our sufferings or joys.
5. As to our lives.
How, when, and under what circumstances we shall die. Now consider,
II. Some of the Reasons why we are kept thus ignorant as to the Future.
1. It is his own divine prerogative to know and foresee all things.
It is highly probable that angels are equally ignorant of the future.
2. A knowledge of future sufferings would disqualify us for present enjoyments.
Christ was overwhelmed with this: he saw the cup in prospect. We should enjoy nothing, do nothing, &c. Our happiness is therefore connected with it.
3. We are called to live by faith, not by sight.
Faith is the essence of religion; it hangs upon God, trusts in him; and this is to be entire, and constant, and till death.
III. The Improvement we should make of this Ignorance of the Future.
1. It should prevent rash arrangements.
Paul could not determine as to sending Timothy, &c. "Boast not thyself," &c. "Brethren, the time is short."
2. It should teach us moderation in all things.
If so, shall we be immoderately attached to present joys, &c., or overwhelmed with sorrows, &c.?
3. It should promote confidence in God.
We are to commit all our concerns into God’s hands by prayer. "Be careful for nothing," &c. "Cast all your care," &c. "Commit thy way," &c. "His eyes," &c. He sees all, and knows all, and has engaged to keep, &c.
4. To lead us to be anxious about the future glories of heaven.
These are real, invaluable, and eternal.
Application
1. Avoid presumption.
2. Be humble.
3. Rely, and trust in God.
Autor: JABEZ BURNS