3. This joy was expressed in fervent thanksgiving.—“What thanks can we render to God again for you?” (ver. 9). His gratitude was so great that he knew not how to give it adequate expression. The grateful heart prizes blessings that may seem to others of small value. He rendered thanks to God, the Author and Preserver of their faith. The heartiest thanksgiving seems cold and utterly insufficient when compared with the mercies of God.
IV. Their steadfastness excited an earnest longing for the opportunity of imparting additional good.—1. The apostle assiduously prayed for the opportunity of a personal interview. “Night and day praying exceedingly that we might see your face” (ver. 10). The longer the absence, the more eagerly he desired to see them. The good tidings of their constancy increased the desire. A love like his could be satisfied only with personal spiritual intercourse. It was not enough simply to write. Voice and manner have a pre-eminent charm in the interchange of mind with mind. Reading, praying, and all other endeavours will be unavailing if we despise prophesying—the oral declaration of the truth.
2. The apostle sought this interview to supply what was deficient in their faith.—“And might perfect that which was lacking in your faith” (ver. 10). None so perfect in faith as not to be susceptible of improvement. Faith is based on knowledge; and as knowledge, especially in the things of God, is capable of indefinite extension, so faith may be continually increased—broadening and deepening its foundation and consolidating its structure. The less distinctly the great subjects of faith are understood, the more defective is faith; the more explicit, the more perfect. They most vaunt of faith who have least experience in its practice. “Empty vessels sound the loudest.” We have all need to cry, “Lord, increase our faith.”
Lessons.—1. The true minister cannot be indifferent to the spiritual state of his people. 2. The fidelity and perseverance of believers is an inspiration and unspeakable joy to the anxious worker. 3. Faith and practice powerfully react upon each other.
GERM NOTES ON THE VERSES.
Vers. 7–10. Glad Tidings of Christian Steadfastness—
- Produce comfort of mind (ver. 7).
- Make life more enjoyable (ver. 8).
- Are the occasion of thankful joy before the Lord (ver. 9).
- Excite to assiduous and earnest prayer (ver. 10).
Vers. 9, 10. Religious Joy—
- Is occasioned by the religious progress of others.
- Is mingled with ingenuous gratitude.
- Is enjoyed as in the presence of God.
- Is accompanied with fervent prayer.
MAIN HOMILETICS OF THE PARAGRAPH.—Verses 11–13.