[May 16th, 1852.]
Paul frequently declares that this was his great vocation. It includes,
I. The subject. II. The object of his preaching.
I. Christ is the proper subject of preaching. What does this mean?
It means, 1. That the subject of preaching was not the wisdom of the world.
- That it was the revelation concerning Christ. 1st. The nature of his person. 2d. The character of his work in all his offices. 3d. The method of salvation through him; what we must do to obtain an interest in his salvation. 4th. The duties which we owe to him.
II. Christ as the object of preaching.
The objects which men have are various; some of these are selfish and degrading. Some preach Christ of strife and envy. Others have objects which are legitimate, but subordinate, as the temporal well-being of men, or their eternal well-being. The true, specific and appropriate object is the exaltation and glory of Christ; that he may be known, worshiped and obeyed.
III. Reasons why we should preach Christ.
- Because he is our God and Saviour. 2. Because this is requisite to men becoming Christians. 3. Because to make men Christians is the best means of glorifying God, and the only means of promoting the happiness, holiness and salvation of men.
IV. To preach Christ is a grace.
The reasons why it is so great a favor, are, 1. Because it is the highest service of God and Christ. 2. Because to be permitted to serve him is the highest honor and blessedness. 3. Because it is the greatest source of happiness.
Therefore, brethren, as ye go hence, go to preach Christ. Let that be your theme and that your object. If faithful, you will receive a crown of righteousness. If unfaithful, it would have been better had you never been born.
← 209. Ministerial Responsibility · Contents · 211. For it is not ye that speak, but the Spirit of your Father which speaketh in you. Matt. 10:20 →