[January 18th, 1852.] I. As an introduction, give an account and explanation of Paul’s conversion. II. The state of mind expressed by this prayer. III. The cause of it. I. Paul’s conversion. 1. It was an improbable event. 2. It was a miraculous event, in its circumstances. 3. As such, it is a proof of the gospel. a. Because no rational solution, other than that he gives, can be given for it. It was not a delusion. It was not a deception. b. Because it proves Christ’s resurrection, and thereby the whole gospel. c. Because it authenticates Paul’s doctrine as a supernatural revelation from Christ. 4. Though miraculous in its circumstances, it was normal in its essentials: a. As to the nature of the change. b. As to the means by which it is effected. c. As to the evidences of its sincerity. II. State of mind expressed.
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It included an entire abnegation of self. He sought not, a. his own advancement, b. or his own enjoyment, c. or his own improvement.
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It included absolute submission to Christ’s authority. a. Not his own will; b. nor that of friends, rulers, or the world; c. but Christ alone had authority to determine and direct his course.
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It included entire consecration to the service of Christ. a. Readiness to do his will. b. A willingness that he should determine not only the service, but the field and the circumstances.
III. Means by which it was produced. It was the revelation of Christ.
- The nature of this revelation.
a. It was external and adventitious. Yet this was not all, for he was thus revealed to thousands.
b. It was a revelation to the reason. A rational conviction was produced.
c. It was a spiritual revelation, effected by his Spirit, and consisting in spiritual manifestation.
- The truth revealed was the Divinity of Christ.
a. Because called Lord.
b. Because, in Gal. 1:16, he says: “It pleased God to reveal his Son in me.”
c. Because of the analogy between this revelation and that in the Mount of Transfiguration.
d. Because Paul makes conversion consist in this knowledge of Christ. e. From its effects, which were an entire turning from self, an entire submission to Christ, and entire devotion to him.
IV. Application.
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Have we this state of mind?
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In order to have it, we must have Christ revealed to and in us as Paul had.
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