2. This is evident in the sublime motive that should animate us in reaching the standard.—The Divine, heavenly calling. “Who hath called you unto His kingdom and glory” (ver. 12)—His own glorious kingdom. We are invited to enter this kingdom on earth and participate in its blessings; but the full splendours of that kingdom are reserved for the heavenly world. How brief and insignificant will the sufferings and sorrows of the present appear, contrasted with the ineffable bliss of the future state! “Do you want anything?” eagerly asked the loved ones who surrounded the dying couch of Melancthon. “Nothing but heaven,” was the gentle response, and he went smiling on his way.
Lessons.—1. In order to success in preaching moral consistency of life must accompany and sustain the faithful declaration of the truth. 2. That the greatest success is achieved when the highest experience of the Christian life is constantly enforced by both precept and example.
GERM NOTES ON THE VERSES.
Vers. 9–12. The High Moral Feeling that should influence the Preacher.—Illustrated by Paul’s work and conduct.
I. In preaching the Gospel.
II. In labouring for his own support.
III. In his behaviour.—1. Towards God. “Holily.” 2. Towards others. “Justly.” 3. Unblameable. Prudent and inoffensive. He could appeal to man and God.—Stewart.
MAIN HOMILETICS OF VERSE 13.
The Correct Estimate of Gospel Truth.
We have before stated that the population of Thessalonica consisted of two diverse classes, Greek and Jew—the one representing the philosophy of paganism, the other being the custodian of the sacred truths of Revelation. Among the Hebrews Moses was recognised as the central human figure and head of their legal system, and his words were profoundly venerated; and the Gentiles were not less devout and ardent in their admiration of Plato and his far-seeing wisdom. The influence of these two systems was all-potent with the Thessalonians; it supplied thought, moulded character and life, and filled up the widest circle of their hopes. The Gospel impinged upon these ancient and revered institutions, and they reeled beneath the shock. The bigoted followers of Moses and Plato were compelled to admit the higher authority of the apostolic message. They formed a correct estimate of Gospel truth when they “received it, not as the word of men, but as it is in truth, the word of God.”