Читать книгу The House of God - Rev. John Peter Bodner - Страница 8
ОглавлениеHe has come to seek and to save the lost
To give His life a ransom for many to save sinners.
And we have received this Gospel.
For our sins He has died according to the Scriptures
He was buried and rose the third day according to the Scriptures
This same Jesus Thou hast made Lord and Christ
Exalted to Thy right hand, O Father,
He has received the promised Holy Ghost
shed Him forth abundantly
with the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Spirit
to justify us by grace and make us heirs of eternal life.
In His Name
Repentance and remission of sins is now preached to all nations
As we go into all the world and preach the Gospel to every creature.
To us hast Thou entrusted the Gospel.
We are separated unto the Gospel of God
Set for the defense and confirmation of the Gospel.
How can men hear without a preacher?
How can we preach except we be sent?
God Triune, be pleased to make our feet beautiful
who preach the Gospel of peace
Grant us to finish our course with joy
The ministry we have received of the Lord Jesus
To testify the Gospel of the grace of God!
Confirm this glorious Gospel, O blessed God, to our lives
That our daily conversation become the Gospel of Christ;
That we adorn the doctrine of God our Savior in all things:
Teach us to know nothing but Jesus Christ and Him crucified
And preach the Gospel with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven
In demonstration of the Spirit and power.
Make us not ashamed of the Gospel
But be pleased by it to manifest Thy power to salvation
to all who believe.
Send us in the fullness of the blessing of the Gospel of Christ,
Ready if needs be to lose life itself for the Gospel’s sake,
to forsake all in its service,
even to preach in regions beyond where Christ is not named.
Further the Gospel, O Lord, in all that happens to us
That Christ be magnified in us by life or death.
Forbid that we abuse our trust or authority in Thy service
In uncleanness, guile or deceit, covetousness or vainglory
But rather preach Christ Jesus the Lord
And ourselves but His servants
Not as pleasing men, but Thee, O God,
Which triest and searchest our hearts.
Strengthen us in Thy power to partake of the afflictions of the Gospel
Bless us when men revile us, persecute us
And say all manner of evil against us falsely for Thy Son’s sake:
Let the Spirit of glory and of God rest upon us
When we are reproached for the Name of Christ
And get to Thy Name the glory in us
As partakers of Christ’s sufferings
That the Gospel of God be spoken boldly
In power, in the Holy Ghost and in much assurance.
And defend, O Lord, we pray, Thy Gospel
From all that would corrupt us from the simplicity of Christ
with another “Jesus”, another “spirit,” or “another gospel”
Which is not another, but would pervert the Gospel of Christ.
Sanctify Thy Son in our hearts, and enable us
To give an answer for the hope in us
With meekness and fear, and a good conversation.
Make us hold fast Thy faithful Word as we have been taught
And enable us by sound doctrine
both to exhort and convince all gainsayers.
Fill us with the Holy Ghost and faith;
Give us a mouth and a wisdom
Which all our adversaries shall not be able to gainsay or resist:
Make us gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient,
In meekness instructing those who oppose us:
And grant to them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.
Keep us in Thy love
As we build ourselves up in Thy most holy faith,
Praying in the Holy Ghost
And looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ to eternal life.
And now to Him that is of power to establish us
According to this Gospel
And the preaching of Jesus Christ
According to the revelation of the mystery
Which was kept secret since the world began,
But is now made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the prophets
According to the commandment of the everlasting God
Made known to all nations
For the obedience of faith:
To God only wise
Be glory through Jesus Christ forever.
Amen.
18. What boldness have we, brethren, now to pray
1 What boldness have we, brethren now to pray
And enter into heaven’s holiest place,
Since Jesus made that new and living way
Through His rent flesh unto the throne of grace!
2 Our great Priest standing o’er the house of God
Now saves His people to the uttermost:
There, where He entered in by His own Blood,
He lives and reigns o’er earth and heaven’s host.
3 In faith then, let us to our God draw near;
In hope, let us hold our confession fast:
In love, let us still hold each other dear
Till that great Day when Christ returns at last!
10.10.10.10.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 29; New Testament: Matthew 18 Psalm: 18
1 Timothy 2:1–2
1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
What to do? How to remedy the terrible bane of “any other doctrine,” of “vain jangling” plaguing the Churches? How can I keep myself and my people on course from “making shipwreck of faith and a good conscience?” Paul does not warrant out a theological commission. Nor does he institute an inquisition. He prescribes no curriculum of books and seminars. The Apostle’s antidote to the power of error begins in the hearts of pastor and people, at Church, in worship, in God’s felt presence: I exhort therefore . . . first of all . . . prayers. Paul puts his arm round Timothy’s shoulder; with fatherly care for “son Timothy” he embodies the mercy of the Holy Ghost as Comforter to saints in his counsel (John 14:26): I exhort therefore—as if to say, “Son, the answer is prayer!” The saint is always safe on his knees; the congregation is secure at prayer; the pastor and elders of Ephesus are best commended to God and the Word of his grace, when Paul kneels down and prays with them all (Acts 20:28,32,36; Eph 3:14–21).
First of all . . . prayers: This is more than ensuring an elegant, appropriate invocation leads off the service. Paul is bidding us give priority, significant time, and preparation for prayers at Church. Without this, there is no unction of the Holy Ghost for the preacher, and there is no illumination, or conviction of the Holy Ghost for sinners or saints. If God Himself is indeed our Refuge and Strength, if our help is in His Name, then without Him all is vain—so first of all . . . prayers. I exhort . . . supplications, prayers, intercessions, giving of thanks: The Apostle urges us to walk with God Triune through all life, and engage Him in reverent, yet intimate conversation. To seek His presence and counsel in prayer; to present our most pointed petitions at His throne for ourselves in supplications and for others in intercessions; and always to stir up our love for Him, praise to Him, and trust in Him by giving of thanks. This is spending “family time” in the household of faith; this is our common adoption as children of God by faith in Jesus Christ; this is our common prerogative as members of His royal priesthood (Eph 1:3–7, 2:13–20,3:8–12, 5:1–2; 1 Pet. 2:1–5,9–10). Paul calls us in our prayers to speak for all men. Abraham pleads even for Sodom because of Lot (Gen 18); Jeremiah calls the remnant to remember Babylon for its own peace (Jer 29); the Lord shortens days of tribulation for His elect (Mark 13)—so we too pray for all men. No class, color, condition is past prayer. Prayer informs us of, involves us with, and endears us to all men, as children of God (Matt 5:44).
19. Come, Holy Ghost, the Comforter
I.
1 Come, Holy Ghost, the Comforter
Which our Lord Jesus gives
To God’s elect who by Thy power
Repent, believe and live!
2 Blest Holy Ghost, eternal God
The Father and the Son
Have sent Thee to impart the life
The Risen Christ has won.
3 Convince, convict of every sin,
Ill done, or good undone;
Reprove the world of righteousness
Of judgment yet to come!
4 Spirit of supplicating grace,
On every soul twice-born,
Pour out repentance, at the cross
To look on Christ, and mourn.
5 No man but by the Holy Ghost
Can call Christ Jesus Lord:
The gift of faith God gives by Him
Through preaching of the Word.
C.M.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 30; New Testament: Matthew 19 Psalm: 19
1 Timothy 2:1–2
1I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
Timothy well knew Paul’s “manner of life,” he well knew how Paul himself prayed. The Apostle practiced what he preached; he prayed for believers just as he asked believers to pray for him. So he himself prayed for the Church just what he ordained us to pray for in Church.
Pray for kings? Paul dared to pray for Agrippa (Acts 26:25–29). Dare I not pray for Gospel grace when I say, “God save the Queen”?
Pray for all in authority? Paul astonished Sergius Paulus of Paphos and led him to faith (Acts 13:6–12); he made Felix and Drusilla tremble as he reasoned of the faith of Christ (Acts 24:24–25). He baptized his jailer at Philippi (Acts 16:23–34). His bonds for Christ were known in Nero’s palace, and he found saints in Caesar’s household (Phil. 1:12–13; 4:22). Do not the men and women in Parliament, in the police, in the courts, in civil service have souls, and families with souls?
Pray for all men? Paul makes himself servant to all to gain the more; he seeks the profit of the many, that they may be saved (1 Cor 9:22,10:32–33). Will he not pray for all? Will I not?
Lord Jesus, teach me to pray! Thou didst take a penny, and finding the image and superscription of Caesar on it, teach us to render to Caesar what is Caesar’s (Luke 20). Teach me how to pray for kings.
Thou didst pay the Temple tax, though the Son by nature, exempt from the tribute due from Thy Father’s servants. Thou didst put a coin in the mouth of the fish which Peter caught, to pay both for him, and for Thee (Matt 17:24–27). Teach me how to pray for all that are in authority.
Thou didst go about doing good, healing all that were oppressed of the devil, for God was with Thee (Acts 10:36). Thou, the chosen, beloved Servant of Jehovah, Thou didst not strive nor cry, neither did any man hear Thy voice in the streets (Matt 12:15–21). Let me not ask “Who is my neighbor?” Let me ask “To whom can I be neighbor?” (Luke 10:25–27). Teach me how to pray that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life.
From a Child didst Thou grow, waxing strong in spirit, filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon Thee; Thou didst increase in wisdom and stature and in favor with God and man; of Thy fullness have all received, and grace for grace (Luke 2:40, 52; John 1:16). Teach me how to pray that we may lead . . . life in all godliness and honesty.
Lord Jesus Christ, of the seed of David raised from the dead (2 Tim.2:8), who hast now all authority in heaven and earth (Matt 28:18), so overrule the conditions of our land, our nation, our society that Thy people may flourish and adorn the Gospel by leading a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
20. Come, Holy Ghost, the Comforter
II.
6 Spirit of witness, in our hearts
Shed forth the love of God,
Which gave His Son to die for us
And shed His precious Blood!
7 O Spirit of adoption, sent
Into our hearts to cry
To God, “Our Father!” now begin
In us to testify.
8 Spirit of promise, Earnest blest,
Thou hast believers sealed
Unto redemption’s glorious day
When Christ shall be revealed.
9 O Holy Spirit of God, let not
Our sins Thy presence grieve:
The living temple of our hearts
Forsake not—never leave!
10 Our souls and bodies now possess,
Our minds and hearts renew:
Within us Thy good pleasure work
To think, to will, to do.
C.M.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 31; New Testament: Matthew 20 Psalm: 20
1 Timothy 2:3–4
3For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.
O God, Thou art our Savior! “Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song: He also is become my salvation” (Isa 12:2; 2 Sam 22:2–4). “God hath chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth; whereunto He called you by our Gospel to the obtaining of the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ” (2 Thess. 2:13–14). “Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Savior be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen” (Jude 24–25).
All that advances Thy good pleasure and purpose as God our Savior is good and acceptable in Thy sight. “So He was their Saviour. In all their affliction He was afflicted, and the Angel of His Presence saved them; in His love and in His pity He redeemed tem, and carried them all the days of old” (Isa 63:8–9). “I, even I am the Lord, and beside Me there is no Saviour” (Isa 43:11). “There is no God else beside Me; a just God, and a Saviour; there is none beside Me. Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth, for I am God, and there is none else!” (Isa 45:21–22). “All flesh shall know that I the Lord am Thy Saviour, and thy Redeemer, the Mighty One of Jacob” (Isa 49:26). “Who is this . . .? I that speak in righteousness, Mighty to save” (Isa 63:1).
Paul who is “an apostle by the commandment of God our Saviour” (1:1), will surely enforce what is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior. What is that? Prayer—“first of all . . . prayers” (2:1). Prayer for all men puts us in the will of God our Savior, seeks His glory and reflects His likeness who will have all men to be saved and to come into the knowledge of the truth. Such prayer He finds good and acceptable: He will heed, honor, hear and answer it. This too is “the fervent effectual prayer of a righteous man” which “availeth much” (Jas. 5:16).
God our Savior . . . will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth: the election of His grace embraces every class, color, condition and clime of humanity—no sort of sinner is excepted. “A great multitude, whom no man could number” shall cry “Salvation to our God, which sitteth upon the throne and unto the Lamb” “Thou art worthy . . . for Thou wast slain and hast redeemed us to God by Thy Blood out of every kindred and tongue and people and nation” (Rev. 5:9–10; 7:9–17). So let me lay out my fullest powers of desire and expression to “magnify the Lord” and “rejoice in God my Saviour” in the service of “prayer . . . for all men”, even the worst (1 Cor 6:9–11) body and soul, everywhere, always.
21. Come, Holy Ghost, the Comforter
III.
11 Spirit of truth, into all truth
Now written in Thy Word
Lead all the saints, by love to grow
In likeness to their Lord.
12 Come, Unction from the Holy One,
Anoint us all to learn
The faith delivered to the saints,
All error to discern.
13 No eye hath seen, no ear hath heard
Nor into any heart
Hath entered all the depths which God
The Spirit shall impart.
14 Yet built upon our holy faith,
We in the Spirit pray
To keep ourselves in God’s own love
Till our Lord Jesu’s Day.
15 Then shall the Spirit of Christ from death
To life immortal raise
The saints made perfect like the Son
To God’s eternal praise.
Doxology
16 O Father, by thy Spirit lead
Our souls to Christ Thy Son,
And in Him grant us access free—
Praise God the Three in One!
C.M.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 32; New Testament: Matthew 21 Psalm: 21
1 Timothy 2:5–6
5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
There is one God: to none other is my soul’s devotion, my body’s obedience, my heart’s affection, my mind’s delight, my will’s submission due. I must love Him therefore with all. None, nothing less, else is worthy (Deut 6:4–5; Rev. 4:11). There is one God: hence it is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour” that “all men . . . be saved, and . . . come to the knowledge of the truth” (2:3–4). There is one God: apart, above all the din and duncery of “gods many and lords many,” of the “gods of the heathen” which are “but idols”—like whom all who trust in them become—to the living and true God Triune I must live and die in time, appear and give account in eternity (1 Cor 8:6; Ps 115:4–8; Ps 97:7; Isa 40:18–25; Rom 14:7–8.12). Hence as there is one God, it is meet and right that there be but one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus. God He is, for His Name is “Jehovah saves”—Jesus; His Name is called Emmanuel, “God with us.” Man He is, the man Christ Jesus. He can redeem for He our near Kinsman; we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones. “Forasmuch as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, He also Himself likewise took part of the same, that He might by death destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage” (Ruth 2:20, 4:3; Eph 5:30; Heb.2:14–15). He is “mighty to save” as “God our Saviour,” Jesus—“for it pleased the Father that in Him all fullness dwell”—“in Him dwelleth the fullness of the Godhead bodily,” “God was in Christ” (Isa 63:1; Col.1:19–20,2:9; 2 Cor 5:19). What more could I need or want? Here is a Daysman to lay hold of God and man, heaven and earth, and bring us nigh—one mediator between God and man (Job 9:33; Eph 2:13–18).
This one mediator, the man Christ Jesus . . . gave himself a ransom for all. And what more could He give? “He loved me and gave Himself for me” “The Son of man came . . . to give his life a ransom for many.” “He gave Himself for our sins.” “He gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people.” ”Christ loved the Church, and gave Himself for it.” He said, “I lay down my life for the sheep;” “My flesh . . . I give for the life of the world;” “I gave my back to the smiters” “And He bowed His head, and gave up the ghost” (Gal 2:20; Mark 10:45; Gal 1:4; Tit. 2:14; Eph 5:25; John 10:15,6:51; Mark 15:37). What has He not given in that gift? “To them gave He power” “My peace I give unto you” “A Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance . . . and remission of sins” “I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish” (John 1:12, 14:27, Acts 5:30–31; John 10:28). Unspeakable gift! (2 Cor 9:15).
22. In the Spirit on the Lord’s Day
1 “In the Spirit on the Lord’s Day,”
Let us trace the steps once trod
By the aged, beloved disciple
Exiled for the Word of God,
Till the Lamb enthroned we worship,
Who hath bought us with His Blood!
2 See an open Door in Heaven:
Hear the Voice with trumpet sound
Beckon us to share the vision
Of the Throne, with all around,
Gathered in sublime submission
To our Savior, glory crowned.
3 Now attend unnumbered voices,
Surging like the boundless sea,
Of the saints in whom His choice is,
Loved, and washed, from sin set free:
How each ransomed heart rejoices
In His final victory!
4 “Thou art worthy!” hear them singing,
Praise outpouring like a flood,
“From all nations sinners bringing,
“Thou redeemed’st us by Thy Blood!
“Honour, riches, glory, blessing
“Is Thy due, O Lamb of God!”
5 “O come quickly—come, Lord Jesus!”
Every Sabbath let us pray!
May we thus in worship hasten
On until the Judgment Day.
When shall come new earth and heavens,
Which shall never pass away!
6 Father, Son, and Holy Spirit,
One, true, living God alone—
Grant us, on that Day assembling,
Grace to gather round Thy throne:
Make Thy Church Thy foursquare Temple,
Built on Christ the Cornerstone!
8.7.8.7.4.7.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 33; New Testament: Matthew 22 Psalm: 22
1 Timothy 2:5–6
5For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; 6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.
One Mediator—who could possibly share the rights, the Name, the glory of Christ Jesus as that one mediator between God and man? None. “He saw that there was no man, and wondered that there was no intercessor: therefore His arm brought salvation unto Him, and His righteousness, it sustained Him” “Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.” He said it Himself: “No man cometh unto the Father but by Me” (Isa 59:16; Acts 4:12; John 14:6).
One Mediator . . . who gave Himself a ransom for all. All the diversity and depravity of the innumerable host of God’s elect are fully compensated by the one mediator . . . who gave himself. For all my sin, in all my need, for all my days “Christ is all in all,” “a ransom for all.”
A ransom . . . to be testified in due time: In the fullness of time, God sent forth His Son, made of a woman, made under the Law, to redeem them that were under the Law (Gal 4:4). The times of ignorance God winked at, but now commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). Now the revelation of the mystery in the preaching of Jesus Christ is made manifest, and by the Scriptures of the prophets according to the commandment of the everlasting God made known to all nations for the obedience of faith (Rom 16:25–26). And so Paul does not count his life dear to himself, but to finish his course with joy and the ministry he received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God (Acts 20:24). Paul, Peter, James, John, Jude, all the apostles and all the prophets bear witness that whosoever believes on Christ Jesus shall receive remission of sins (Acts 10:43; 1 John 1:1–4, 4:14–15). From them we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Savior of the world. Now then is the accepted time; today is the day of salvation (2 Cor 6:2).
O Father of mercies, so fill me with the Holy Spirit that I may testify in due time to my one mediator . . . Christ Jesus, that saving ransom for all. Exalt Thy Son, our Prince and Savior, to give repentance and remission of sins and constrain me to speak of what I have known, to obey God rather than men (Acts 4:19–20; 5:29). In this due time and day of salvation, open the doors of utterance and grant me boldness to speak plainly as I ought (Eph 6:19–20; Col. 4:3–4). Open Thou my lips, O Lord, and my tongue shall shew forth Thy praise; my tongue shall sing aloud of Thy righteousness, that I may teach sinners Thy ways, and they be converted unto Thee! (Ps 51:12–15). Let me testify the Gospel of Thy grace!
23. Come, Comforter and Holy Ghost
1 Come, Comforter and Holy Ghost,
O fill me in this hour,
To preach my Savior to the lost
With wisdom, love and power!
A pastor after God’s own heart,
Make me, as Scripture saith,
With doctrine sound to build the saints
In their most holy faith.
2 O Holy Spirit of God, reveal
The things of Christ to me:
The mysteries of Thy Word unseal—
Let me His glory see!
Blest Unction of the Holy One,
Anoint mine eyes to know
The Father’s witness to the Son
Which all the Scriptures show.
3 Now let all men be plainly taught
The counsel of our God,
Now feed the flock Christ Jesus bought
With His own precious Blood.
Thy power and demonstration give
That I should now proclaim
Christ crucified, in all I live
And preach in His great Name!
4 Thy people, wilt Thou not revive,
That they may yet rejoice
In our Good Shepherd, as they live
And follow at His voice?
A form of godliness alone
Forbid that we should have:
Come, Wind of Heaven, on these dead bones,
And show Thy power to save!
5 Father of mercies, show the face
Of Jesus Christ our Lord
In fullness of His truth and grace
By Thine own Spirit and Word!
O Triune God of holiness,
Wisdom and might display
The foolishness of preaching bless
To save the lost today!
D.C.M.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 34; New Testament: Matthew 23 Psalm: 23
1 Timothy 2:5–7
5The man Christ Jesus; 6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
Paul’s ministry is to “testify the Gospel” of the ransom for all which Christ Jesus has paid. He commits “the testimony of our Lord” to Timothy (2 Tim.1:8; 2:2), and Timothy who holds the witness of the apostles and prophets in the Holy Scriptures passes the truth in Christ . . . in faith and verity on to us; to this I am called (2 Tim.3:15–4:2).
Not as an eyewitness of the sufferings of Christ (1 Pet. 5:1), not an apostle, as was Paul; no, Paul all his life contended for “his apostleship” from his earliest, even to the last of his Epistles (Gal:1:1; 2 Tim. 2:8–10). Even here he must say I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not. I have not seen the Lord Jesus physically, as Paul did, to qualify as an apostle (1 Cor 9:1; 15:8–11).We are rather blessed as those who have not seen, yet believe; we love Christ, and joy in Him seeing Him not (John 20:29; 1 Pet. 1:8–9).
But I am like Paul, with Paul and Timothy ordained a preacher . . . a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity. Now, can I have any part in the name apostle? Not directly, but derivatively, for I bear witness and declare what they have seen in fellowship with those who saw (Luke 1:1–4; 1 John 1:1–4). My ministry is “apostolic” as I continue steadfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and bear the Biblical truth confessed by all the one, holy, catholic and apostolic church (Acts 2:41–42). Bearing their Word, and believing their Word, the Savior may say, “He that heareth you, heareth me” (Luke 10:16; 1 John 4:6). Even I can stand alongside Paul and Timothy, and say in concert with them, “We are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” “We are not as many which corrupt the Word of God: but as of sincerity, as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.” “As we were allowed of God to be put in trust with the Gospel, even so we speak; not as pleasing men, but God, which trieth our hearts” (2 Cor 5:20;, 2:17; 1 Thess. 2:4). This is the faith and verity which makes the preacher and teacher apostolic. Total personal and public confidence in the Scripture; diligence and fidelity to confess and contend for “the faith once delivered to the saints” and “the common salvation” (Jude 3)—this is the truth in Christ . . . in faith and verity.
After this manner, Christ Jesus, my Lord and King, God and Savior, make me a minister; count me faithful to put me into the ministry (Eph 3:7; 1 Tim. 1:12–15).
24. Boats and Nets
1 Boats and nets they knew, in making
Trade as fishers by the sea:
All the night they toiled, yet taking
Nothing from Lake Galilee—
When they heard the Master calling
“All forsake, and follow Me!”
2 Boats and nets they ventured, taking
Jesus simply at His Word,
Then the catch their nets was breaking,
And they knew it was the Lord
Maker of all earth and heaven,
Who such bounty could afford.
3 Boats and nets and fish, forsaking
All they left to follow Him,
Who would teach and train them, making
Fishers of the souls of men:
To His service hence devoted,
All their days and hours to spend.
4 Fishers of the souls of sinners
Make us—in the path they trod,
Master, we in turn surrender
Lives redeemed by Thine own Blood:
Still to us Thy Word remember,
Jesus, Saviour, Lord and God!
8.7.8.4.7.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Genesis 35; New Testament: Matthew 24 Psalm: 24
1 Timothy 2:5–7
5The man Christ Jesus; 6Who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time. 7Whereunto I am ordained a preacher, and an apostle, (I speak the truth in Christ, and lie not;) a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity.
Lord, speak; for Thy servant hears. Speak, O Lord, through me.
Enable me so to live, pray, deny myself, visit, and study that men may hear Thy voice, not mine; see Thee, not me; know what Thou wouldst impart, and not what little I know.
Make me a preacher: graciously grant me the unction, utterance, demonstration and power of the Spirit to “preach Christ and Him crucified,” to “preach the unsearchable riches of Christ,” to “preach upon the housetops” what I have heard with the ear from Thee (1 Cor 1:23; 2:2; Eph 3:7; Matt 10:26–27). Send me, like the prophets of old, to stand in Thy presence, to hear Thy words at Thy mouth, to find and feed upon Thy words, and then to warn the people from Thee, and turn them from their wicked ways, whether they hear or forbear (Jer 15:16, 23:22; Ezek 3:1–4,10,17). Make me a fisher of men, as I follow Thee; a servant to all, that I may gain the more; not pleasing myself, but seeking the profit of many, that they might be saved; doing the work of an evangelist to make full proof of my ministry (Mark 1:17, 1 Cor 9:19,10:33; 2 Tim.4:5). Make me, like Noah, a “preacher of righteousness;” let me never cease “teaching and preaching Jesus Christ” (Acts 5:42; 2 Pet.2:6).
Make me a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity: grant me the wisdom to give milk to babes and meat to men; to bring out of the treasures of the Bible “things old and new;” to provide each member of Thy house their portion in due season (1 Cor 3:1–2; Heb.5:13–14; Matt 13:52, 24:45–46). Train me to study that I may be a workman unashamed, rightly dividing the Word of truth; empower me to do and teach all that Thou hast commanded (2 Tim.2:15, Matt 5:19,28:20). Let me do all I do with charity, for without it I can do nothing; let me do all I do in Thee, for without Thee I can do nothing (1 Cor 13:1–4; John 15:5). Let me cherish an affectionate desire to impart to my people not the Gospel of God only, but even my own soul; make my heart’s desire and prayer for them, that they should be saved (1 Thess. 2:7–8; Rom 10:1).
Keep before me Thy great commission to “go into all the world and preach the Gospel” as a preacher . . . and teacher of the Gentiles (Mark 16:15–16). Lift up mine eyes to look on the fields white to harvest (Matt 9:37–38, John 4:35–38); let me never forget that I myself was a bondman to sin (Deut 16:12, John 8:31–36, Rom 6:16–18, 22), and remain a debtor to Greek and barbarian (Rom 1:14). Make me willing to become all things to all men, that some might be saved (1 Cor 9:22).
I have received this ministry, even as I received mercy; I did not choose Thee, Savior, but Thou me; and to this I have been ordained (2 Cor 4:1–5; John 15:16. Let me take heed to what I have received and fulfill it.
25. When the Morning Light is Dawning
1 When the morning light is dawning,
As the shadows flee away
I can hear the Master calling
To the secret place to pray.
As I enter in the stillness
And behind me shut the door
My Lord Jesus from the fullness
Of His grace gives more and more.
2 When my burdened heart is bearing
Sorrow, bitterness and pain
Or the tempter comes ensnaring
Me to fall in sin again
I find refuge, pardon, mercy
As I call on Jesu’s Name
He’ll not fail me nor forsake me—
He’ll not put my soul to shame.
3 In the day’s long, weary hours
Filled with toil and anxious care
I receive the Spirit’s power
As I raise my heart in prayer
For my great High Priest is pleading
There amid shining host
For the help my soul is needing,
Saving to the uttermost.
4 When the sun has set at evening
And my work at last is done
Once again I kneel, believing
On the Name of God’s dear Son
And I pray our heav’nly Father
For His sake will safely keep
All who in my household slumber
Through the hours of darkness deep.
5 Every morning, every evening,
Through the hours of every day,
Savior, keep me ever heeding
Thine own Word, to watch and pray:
Till at last I stand before Thee
Faultless at the throne of grace
And behold Thee in Thy glory
Safe in heaven—face to face!
8.7.8.7.D
Tune: By the Riven Rock I’m Resting
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 1; New Testament: Matthew 25 Psalm: 25
1 Timothy 2:8
8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
All that is “good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth;” all the Gospel’s testimony to the “one Mediator . . . the man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for many;” all must be effected by the ordained means of prayer (2:1,3–6). Therefore under God’s good hand to effect salvation among mankind, Paul says, I will . . . that men pray. This is more than affectionate exhortation (2:1); it is his inspired “counsel,” reflecting “all the counsel of God” revealed, and “the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God” decreed (Acts 2:21; 20:27). It is a necessary part of the plan given the apostle “in all the churches” (1 Cor 3:10–11, 4:16–17). It is integral to what he has taught the elders and saints at Ephesus as “a preacher, an apostle . . . a teacher of the Gentiles in faith and verity” (Acts 20:36; Eph 6:18). No prayer, no Christian; no prayer, no church; no prayer, no Gospel ministry; no prayer, no missions. I will therefore that men pray: The fullness of the stature of the manhood of Christ is manifest in prayer. Real men are men of God; real men know God by prayer. Jacob became as a prince of power with God as he wrestled and wept all night in prayer, till he cried at daybreak, “I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me” (Gen 32:24–31; Hos 12:3–4). The Church’s hope for “a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty” rests on prayer; and such prayer is a man’s job. Prayer requires all a man can be and bring to it: sanctifying his resolve, tenacity, courage, forethought, energy, initiative and responsibility for Christ’s people and their households. I will therefore that men pray: what a man truly is, he is on his knees. King Solomon was never so regal as when he knelt down and spread forth his hands to dedicate the first Temple; almost all that followed that golden moment was his decline and fall (2 Ch.6:1–9:12). I will therefore that men pray everywhere: Wherever the congregation assembles, men must pray everywhere. Under any conditions, on all occasions, whatever else be lacking from the Church’s worship men are to pray. The preacher may be absent, and the sermon with him; bread and wine may fail from the Lord’s Table; perhaps no Bible is at hand to read—but in this the Church may still worship, and without this the Church does not worship—the men pray. So the Lord Christ ordains: “If two of you shall agree on earth as touching anything that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. For where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there am I in the midst” (Matt 18:19–20). Such worshippers the Father seeks (John 4:23–24).
26. Teach Us, Lord to Pray
1 As we wait upon Thee,
Jesus, day by day,
By Thy Word and Spirit,
“Teach us, Lord, to pray.”
For us interceding
At the Throne on high,
Savior, hear us pleading:
“Teach us” to draw nigh.
2 After Thine own manner,
“Teach us Lord, to pray:”
In Thy chosen pattern,
From our hearts to say:
“O our heavenly Father,
Hallowed be Thy Name,
All Thy kingdom gather,
All Thy will make plain.”
3 “For this day supply us
Daily bread and care;
All our sins forgive us,
As we others spare.
Keep us and deliver,
In temptation’s hour:
Thine the kingdom ever,
Glory Thine, and power!”
4 Thou hast shown our Father
Is no unjust judge;
He his needy children
Never will begrudge.
“Ask: it shall be given,
Seek and ye shall find;
Knock—the door shall open”
Is Thy promise kind.
5 Jesus, let Thy Spirit
Lead us in Thy way,
Promised by the Father,
“Teach us, Lord to pray”!
Boldness with the Father,
Access through the Son,
Unction in the Spirit,
Grant us, Three in One!
6.5.6.5.D
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 2; New Testament: Matthew 26; Psalm: 26
1 Timothy 2:8
8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
We employ all our faculties to pray: physical, vocal, emotional, social, not just mental and spiritual. “When ye pray,” says the Master, “Say . . .” not “think.” Jeremiah declares, “Arise, cry out in the night, pour out thy heart like water before the face of the Lord: lift up thy hands toward Him.” David says, “O come, let us worship and bow down, let us kneel before the Lord our maker” (Luke 11:2; Lam 2:19; Ps 95:6). But the body without the soul is a corpse, as much as the soul without the body is a ghost. Any rite offered without righteousness is empty and vain. “When ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood. Wash you, and make you clean . . .” (Isa 1:15).
So Paul outlines both physical posture and spiritual preparation—I will therefore that men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands. “Who shall ascend into the hill of the Lord? Or who shall stand in His holy place? He that hath clean hands and a pure heart” (Ps 24:3–4).
What have my hands touched? “Touch not the unclean thing, and I will receive you” (2 Cor 6:17–18). What have my hands done? “These things doth the Lord hate . . . are abomination unto Him . . . hands that shed innocent blood” (Prov 6:17). What have my hands sought? “Let him that stole steal no more, but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good” (Eph 4:29). What have my hands held? “He that walketh righteously, and speaketh uprightly; he that despiseth the gain of oppressions, that shaketh his hands from holding of bribes . . . he shall dwell on high . . . thine eyes shall see the King in His beauty” (Isa 33:15–16).
How terrible for God to find our prayers offensive because our lives are sinful: “So is this people, and so is this nation before Me, saith the Lord, and so is every work of their hands; and that which they offer there is unclean” (Hag 2:14). How terrible when our laws issue licenses for iniquity: “that they may do evil with both hands earnestly” (Mic 7:3; cf. Lam 1:17–18). How terrible when God will not listen to us, because we are not listening to Him: “He that turneth away his ear from hearing the Law, even his prayer shall be abomination” (Prov 28:9).
How often has the Father of lights, from whom comes every good and perfect gift, with whom is neither variableness nor shadow of turning, who is of purer eyes than to behold iniquity, because of my stained hands, turned aside His eye and ear from my vain show of long prayers? Did I notice in all my much speaking? Did I care? Or have I like the Pharisee in the temple only really prayed with myself? (Jas. 1:17; Hab 1:13; Mark 12:40; Luke 18:11; Matt 6:1; Luke 18:11). Pray every where, lifting up holy hands!
27. Lord Jesus, teach me how to pray
1 Lord Jesus, teach me how to pray,
And to my prayer give heed—
I know not what to ask or say
In all my sin and need!
2 My High Priest, who for me didst die,
Hear from Thy throne of grace!
Put in my heart to lift my cry
And boldly seek Thy face!
3 By precious Blood my conscience free,
That I may walk in white,
And lift up holy hands to Thee,
Accepted in Thy sight!
4 Lift up mine eyes to Thee above
From whence my help must come:
Loved with an everlasting love,
Be Thou my Shield and Sun!
5 Open my lips and let my tongue
Shew forth Thy glorious praise!
Be my salvation, strength and song,
My light through all my days!
6 O God that answerest prayer, to Thee
All praise and thanks be given,
Thou ever-blessed Trinity
Ruling in earth and heaven!
C.M.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 3; New Testament: Matthew 27; Psalm: 27
1 Timothy 2:8
8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.
Can an angry man pray? “Be ye angry, and sin not” Paul has told these very Ephesians among whom Timothy now labors (Eph 4:26). There are imprecations against God’s enemies that are true prayer—and yet hard to utter rightly (Ps 137; 139:21–24). But to vent our own spleen into the ears of the Almighty cannot be prayer; to use the same tongue to bless God and curse men ought not to be (Jas 3:8–12). If we are to be slow to speak, slow to wrath because man’s wrath works not God’s righteousness, how much more ought we hesitate to pray out of anger? (Jas. 1:17–20). “Be not rash with thy mouth to utter anything before God; for God is in heaven, and thou upon earth: therefore let thy words be few . . . fear thou God” (Eccl 5:2, 7).
To pray, we must be still and know that the Lord is God; we must keep silence before Him when the Lord is in His holy temple. Our motive must be right: pray . . . without wrath.
And the object must be right, too: pray . . . without doubting. When our Savior gave us His pattern for our prayers, He taught us to seek God’s kingdom and righteousness first, before anything might be added to us: “Thy Name . . . Thy kingdom . . . Thy will” precedes and puts in perspective “our daily bread . . . our debts . . . our debtors . . . temptation . . . evil.” When we offer our supplications and intercessions “that the Father may be glorified in the Son;” when we can plead the “exceeding great and precious promises” our covenant God gives us for “all things pertaining to life and godliness” which are “yea and amen” in Jesus Christ; when our delight in the Lord governs the desires of our hearts; and when we may trust our dearest desires to His perfect wisdom and love with the words, “nevertheless, not my will, but Thine be done”—why then, we surely may pray without doubting (Matt 6:9–13, 33; John 14:13–14; 2 Pet. 1:3–4; 2 Cor 1:19–20; Ps 37:4–5; Luke 22:42).
To believers who pray “after this manner” come the promises: “What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them” “Let him ask in faith, nothing wavering” “Whatsoever we ask, we receive of Him, because we keep His commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in His sight. And this is His commandment, that we should believe on the Name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He gave us commandment. And he that keepeth His commandments dwelleth in Him, and he in Him. And hereby we know that He abideth in us, by the Spirit which He hath given us.” “This is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us: and if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him” (Mark 11:24; Jas.1:6–8; 1 John 3:22–24,5:14–15). “Cease from anger, and forsake wrath . . . trust also in Him.”
28. Faithful Savior Jesus, hear me!
1 Faithful Savior Jesus, hear me!
Thee I seek, poor and weak,
Naked, blind and needy:
Not my own, but Thine who bought me
Unto God by Thy Blood.
For Thy praise and glory!
2 May Thy grace suffice my weakness,
Sun and Shield, let me yield
To Thy Word in meekness
Humbly I would wait upon Thee:
Strength renew, will and do
All Thy pleasure through me!
3 Let Thy gracious Holy Spirit,
Dwell within, purging sin,
By Thy Blood and merit:
To our Father’s praise redounding
Make me blest; righteousness
Joy and peace abounding!
4 Thus conformed to Thee in suffering,
Pain and loss, trial and cross,
Make my life an offering
Outpoured in Thy service wholly
To Thy praise, all my days,
Blameless, spotless, holy!
8.6.6. D.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 4; New Testament: Matthew 28 Psalm: 28
1 Timothy 2:8–10
8I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. 9In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with braided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; 10But (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.
I will . . . that men pray . . . in like manner also that women: The women pray too! For in Christ Jesus there is neither male nor female—we are all the children of God by faith in Jesus Christ; all one in Christ Jesus (Gal 3:26–28). The New Testament Church, like the Old Testament Church, must have men, women, and children all gathered before God to hear the Book of God, to worship, and to pray (Deut 31:9–18; Neh 8). The Twelve preached our Master, and the women followed to minister to Him (Luke 8:1–3). The Lord Jesus visited Bethany; there Martha served, and Mary sat at His feet to hear His word (Luke 10:39–42). Men and women added to the Church, baptized into Christ alike, continue in the apostles’ doctrine, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers—sharing the common priesthood of believers (Acts 2:41–42; 8:12; 1 Pet. 2:1–10). Brethren and sisters alike share the same tribulations for the testimony of Christ (Acts 8:3–4; Rev. 1:9). The household of faith embraces all members of the family who believe, so the Apostle has distinct instructions for husbands, wives, parents, children, young men, virgins and widows (Eph 5–6; 1 Cor 7; 1 Tim. 5; Tit. 2). In like manner . . . women are numbered with the redeemed of the Lord according to the election of grace. In like manner also: that is, as these women share in the prayers of the Church. Whether they may participate vocally or simply share the men’s prayers in silence, these women do pray, and will pray alongside the men of the congregation (Acts 1:13–14). They share in the primary obligation of public worship to offer “first of all . . . prayers” (2:1). In like manner to the men as well, these sisters must prepare their hearts for prayer, and their hearts will be revealed and expressed in the dress and demeanor of the whole person. Women in Christ, like all women adorn themselves and here the tree is known by its fruit. Sinful, fallen, worldly woman values the superficial, the sensual, the self-centered beauty she attains by what she gets: braided hair, gold, pearls, costly array. Saved, redeemed women professing godliness value the “hidden beauty of the heart” revealed by what they give in good works. They can express their freedom and dignity in modest apparel, shamefacedness and sobriety. Abundant life in Christ needs not the abundance of possessions (Luke 12:15; John 10:9–10). The “beautiful people” God knows are not in the salons, but in Church.
29. Thou Art All Fair, My Love!
1 “Thou art all fair, my Love!”
His Spouse, the Bridegroom greets;
Their union, once-espoused,
Communion now completes:
“Thou art all fair, my Love!”
Th’eternal Prince of peace
Enfolds His chosen Bride,
Despite her sin-scarred face.
2 “Thou art all fair, my Love!”
The scorching sun revealed
Her shame, but in His eyes,
She stands in mercy veiled.
“Thou art all fair, my Love!”
His banner o’er her spread,
Within His banquet-house,
They share the wine and bread.
3 “Thou art all fair, my Love—
There is no spot in thee!”
God’s well-beloved Son,
Christ Jesus, speaks of me!
“Thou art all fair, my Love!”
He loved me, and He gave
Himself to taste of death
My worthless soul to save.
4 “Thou art all fair, my Love!”
His nail-pierced hands embrace
And draw me to His heart
With cords of deathless grace
“Thou art all fair, my Love!”
On Jesu’s riven breast,
My weary soul would lean,
And find in Him my rest.
5 “Thou art all fair, my Love!”
Mine eye in wonder scans
His visage, crowned with thorns,
More marred than any man’s:
“Thou art all fair, my Love!”
The words impart a kiss
In raptured faith received—
A taste of endless bliss!
6 “Thou art all fair, my Love!”
We all with open face
As through a darkling glass
Upon King Jesus gaze:
“Thou art all fair, my Love!”
Transfigured by His Word,
The Spirit fits the Bride
In likeness to her Lord.
7 “Thou art all fair, my Love!”
When Christ shall come again,
Upon His glorious Bride
No spot shall then remain.
“This is my Spouse Beloved,
My Father, and my Guide!”
With God the Three in One
We ever shall abide.
6.6.6.6.D
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 5; New Testament: Romans 1; Psalm: 29
1 Timothy 2:11–15
11Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Let the woman learn: Modern minds can scarcely realize what a word the Holy Spirit has moved Paul to pen here. The Christian woman is commanded to learn—not merely permitted—but mandated as a full disciple of Christ, baptized into the Name of God Triune, to be taught to observe the Lord Jesus’ commandments, secured in the better part of sitting at Jesu’s feet to hear His Word (Matt 28:18–20; John 8:31–32; Luke 10:38, 42; Acts 8:12). Her intellect and conscience are recognized and devoted to read, reason, reflect and respond to Truth incarnate.
But more: this word falls from the Apostle Paul. As Saul of Tarsus he sat at the feet of Gamaliel (Acts 22:3); after the strictest, straitest sect of his religion he lived a Pharisee, exceeding zealous of tradition (Acts 23:6; 26:4–5; Gal 1:14). The traditions of the rabbis forbad women to learn the Law; but Paul, in whom God has revealed His Son to preach Him among the Gentiles, says, Let the woman learn (Gal 1:15–16; 1 Tim.2:7). The Savior who saved and sent Paul has given womankind a Word that sets us free. The Bible confirms the created order of man and woman: equal in God’s image; distinctive in glory; consecrated to reflect the unity and diversity of the Triune Godhead (1 Cor 11:1–4; (Gen 1:28).
This word has divine guidelines: let the woman learn in silence, with all subjection. Her subjection, as under the Law, is betokened by her silence (1 Cor 14:33–36). She enters the same silent subjection of faith which moved the blessed virgin Mary to say, “Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to Thy Word” (Luke 11:38) and then to ponder all things in her heart (Luke 2:19, 51). Her faith made her blessed (Luke 1:45; 11:27–28).
When Paul says, Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection, he calls her into subjection not to man in himself, but to man under the Lord, and so at last to the Lord Himself (1 Cor 11:3,11–12). She expresses in her own unique way the silent subjection of all the Church to Christ, of the Bride to the Lamb. “Be still, and know that I am God” “In quietness and confidence shall be your strength” “It is good that a man should hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord” “But the Lord is in His holy temple: let all the earth keep silence before Him.” (Ps 46:10; Isa 30:15; Lam 3:25–28; Zech 2:13; Hab 2:20).
30. For Me to live is Christ
1 For me to live is Christ,
To die is but my gain:
To live and die to Him
His love my heart constrains.
2 For me to live is Christ,
Who gave Himself for me
In love, that I might live
In Him from sin set free.
3 For me to live is Christ,
Who shed His precious Blood,
And died for the unjust,
To bring me back to God.
4 For me to live is Christ,
Who ever lives to plead
Before the Throne of grace
In every time of need.
5 For me to live is Christ:
My heart with longing burns
To see Him face to face:
Lord Jesus, soon return!
6 My life is hid with God
In Christ, who reigns above:
His Spirit in my heart
Sheds forth the Father’s love.
7 O Father, by Thy Son,
Thy Holy Spirit give,
That to the Triune God
I hence may ever live.
6.6.6.6.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 6; New Testament: Romans 2 Psalm: 30
1 Timothy 2:11–15
11Let the woman learn in silence with all subjection. 12But I suffer not a woman to teach, nor to usurp authority over the man, but to be in silence. 13For Adam was first formed, then Eve. 14And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived was in the transgression. 15Notwithstanding she shall be saved in childbearing, if they continue in faith and charity and holiness with sobriety.
Learn . . . but . . . not . . . teach: Paul commands the Christian woman to learn, as he forbids her to teach. If she cannot abide subjection with all silence, she will usurp authority over the man. She cannot teach in the Church; it is a shame, Paul says, for her even to speak in the Church (1 Cor 14:34–35). But in Church she must learn—let the woman learn, that she may teach elsewhere. She is to teach younger women (Tit. 2:3–4). She is to teach children in the Holy Scriptures which are able to make them wise to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus (2 Tim. 3:14–15) so that faith by grace may dwell in grandmother, mother and child even as it did from Lois to Eunice to Timothy himself (2 Tim. 1:5). She may with all believers “exhort one another daily” against the deceits of sin (Heb. 3:12–13; and she may “speak the Word everywhere” to the lost (Acts 8:3–4). To an unconverted husband, this silent subjection to Christ makes for a witness “without word” (1 Pet. 3:1–2, 5–6). Silence has a potent force which we too freely squander in a welter of words. Our Lord Jesus could say much with silence (Matt 27:12–14). No woman in Christ need desire to usurp authority over the man, if men in Christ will live up to their calling to minister to women—when pastors and elders treat them as mothers and sisters (5:1–3), when husbands attend them with the self-sacrificial love Christ shows His bride (Eph 5:22–33). Woman in Christ is no chattel—she is an intelligent, devout disciple in her own right: let the woman learn. She exercises her life and service in Christ as the divine order of creation designed in subjection to God and to man under God. To be in silence is her privilege and her liberty from the burdens which authority over the man and the exertions to teach in the Church would bring. The roots of this commandment (2:11) are in creation (2:13), and of this sanction (2:12) in sin (2:14). Adam stands prior and principal in the human family; Eve, the helpmeet, stands second and subordinate. Woman is of man, for man; man is by woman, never without woman (1 Cor 11:3, 8–9, 11). Eve once taught and usurped authority over Adam; of this came all conflict of man and woman (Gen 3:6, 17–20). Adam chose Eve over God; he transgressed with open eyes in heeding her over Him. Yet Eve began, and led Adam, and all in Adam to our lost estate. In Christ creation is restored from the chaos of sin; woman is restored to her true glory—saved in childbearing . . . in faith, charity and holiness with sobriety.
31. O Triune God! Assembled Now Before Thee
1 O Triune God! Assembled now before Thee,
Gathered in reverence at the throne of grace,
We heed Thy call for hearts who worship truly,
We seek Thee, who hast said, “Seek ye My face!”
2 No temple made with human hands contains Thee:
Earth is Thy footstool, heaven of heavens Thy throne;
Yet to the contrite heart, at Thy Word trembling,
Hast Thou respect, and dost Thou look alone.
3 No graven image dare we make or offer;
Thou art a Spirit—only by Thy Word,
As it is written , we draw nigh to serve Thee,
Our Shield, and our exceeding great Reward.
4 Praise right and meet, we bring in adoration,
Raising in psalms, in hymns and spiritual songs,
Honor and blessing, for Thy great salvation:
Worthy Thou art—all praise to Thee belongs!
5 Prayer do we offer, fervent and effectual,
Led by Thy Spirit, in the Savior’s Name:
Pleading Thy promise, holy hands extending,
That we should live before Thee without blame.
6 We hear Thy living voice—the Holy Scriptures;
These make us wise to trust Thee and obey:
Strengthen and bless our Pastors, Elders, Teachers,
That we may know by them what Thou dost say!
7 Keeping Thine ordinance, as the Savior told us,
Baptised in water, have we made our vows;
And as disciples, let Thy grace uphold us,
To do and teach whate’er the Scripture shows.
8 Gathered around the Table we remember,
How Jesus died, to bring us back to God:
Here do we meet, of Bread and Cup partaking,
In pledge and sign, the Savior’s flesh and Blood.
9 Thee would we fear, and keep the Sabbath holy,
Meeting upon the first day of the week;
Resting from all our works, and in Thee solely
Finding our hearts’ delight, Thy ways to seek.
10 And every day, in labor and in leisure,
Our sweet communion with Thee would we keep:
Grant that Thy Word, and prayer may be our pleasure,
Alone, in family, when we wake and sleep.
11 Eternal Father, who in love hast sought us,
Eternal Son, who bought us with Thy Blood:
Eternal Spirit, who in mercy taught us
Worship in truth and spirit , Thou art God!
11.10.11.10.
Preparatory Reading: Old Testament: Exodus 7 New Testament: Romans 3 Psalm: 31
1 Timothy: Reading over Chapter 2
The chapter I have completed has aimed to preserve the purity of worship, both in letter and spirit, both in form and fervor. Let me review and reflect on this chapter, calling on God to embody its precepts and principles in me and my hearers as that true circumcision who worship God in the Spirit and rejoice in Christ Jesus and have no confidence in the flesh.
Prayer before Worship in the Congregation
The Lord is in His holy temple:
Let all the earth keep silence before Him!
Heaven is Thy throne, O LORD, and earth is Thy footstool:
Where is the house man shall build to Thee? Where is Thy rest?
To this man dost Thou look
Even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit,
Who trembles at Thy Word.
But wilt Thou indeed dwell on the earth?
Behold, the heavens and heaven of heavens cannot contain Thee:
There is no God like Thee
In heaven above or on earth beneath
Who keepest covenant and mercy with Thy servants
Who walk before Thee with all their heart:
Thou dwellest not in temples made with hands
Neither art Thou worshipped with men’s hands
As though Thou needest anything.
But the hour is come, and now is
When Thou, O Father, seekest true worshippers
And they that worship Thee must worship Thee
in spirit and in truth
Now Thou hast brought us nigh who once were afar off
Without God and without hope in the world,
Nigh by the Blood of Christ
For by Him we have access to Thee in one Spirit
We are the circumcision which worship God in the Spirit
And rejoice in Christ Jesus
And have no confidence in the flesh.
Now we are fitly framed together an holy temple,
An habitation of God by the Spirit
Built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets
Jesus Christ Himself the chief cornerstone.
Now hast Thou called us out of darkness into Thy marvelous light
Us which had not mercy, but now have obtained mercy
Which were not a people, but are now the people of God.
Now are we Thy chosen generation
A spiritual house, a royal priesthood and holy nation
To offer up spiritual sacrifice acceptable to Thee
By Jesus Christ.
Worthy is the Lamb that was slain
Who hast redeemed us to God by His Blood
Out of every kindred, nation, tongue and people,
Who loved us and loosed us from our sins,
And has made us kings and priests unto Thee
O God our Father!
Open our lips, O Lord
And our tongues shall shew forth Thy praise!
Draw nigh to us as we draw nigh to Thee
