(James Smith, “Christ Exalted, Saints Comforted, and Sinners Directed” 1855) Play Audio! Download Audio
“For we know, brethren beloved by God, that He has chosen you; because our gospel came to you not simply with words, but also with power, with the Holy Spirit and deep conviction.” 1 Thessalonians 1:4-5
The gospel reveals . . .
a Savior, in whom we must trust;
and a Sovereign, whom we must obey.
A Priest, on whose atonement we must rest;
and a Prophet, from whom we must learn.
A Friend, in whose love we must confide;
and a Brother, from whom we may expect.
A Father, whose authority we must revere;
an Apostle, whose mission we must copy; and
an Advocate, to whom we must commit our cause.
The gospel . . .
flows from the free love, rich grace and abundant mercy of our God;
is founded in the Savior’s person, mediation and death.
Therefore It becomes effectual through the revelation, operation and application of the Holy Spirit.
By it He begets faith, imparts love and excites hope;
and when accompanied by His blessing, the gospel is received in demonstration and power.
The gospel . . .
produces penitence, and godly sorrow for sin.
It begets hatred to sin, and love to holiness.
Because it weans from the world, and wafts the affections to heaven.
It makes us zealous for God, and the good of immortal souls.
Therefore it delivers us from the power of darkness, and translates us into the kingdom of Jesus;
crucifies the flesh, and liberates the spirit.
It unites Christians in love, and raises us above the fear of death.
Because it fortifies us against persecution, and makes us rejoice in suffering for Immanuel’s name.
It humbles the spirit, and dignifies the man;
destroys covetousness, and makes us benevolent.
It roots out pride, and implants meekness;
transforms us from the world, and conforms us to God.
Therefore it begets hatred to impurity, and makes us chaste;
throws down idolatry, and leads us to worship God.
It conquers SELF, and exalts Christ;
softens the hard heart, and produces kindness.
Because it delivers from sin, Satan and the world;
and devotes body, soul and spirit to the Lord.
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