23 JULY (PREACHED THURSDAY 20 JULY 1775)
Just what we could wish for
‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house.’ Acts 16:31
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Song of Solomon 2:1–17
All that I have already said on the Lord Jesus Christ may be applied to this as a ground, warrant, encouragement. His power as God, his nearness, sympathy as man, the suitableness of his offices to our case—he is just what we could wish, and has all we could want. Add to this his promises (Matthew 11:27–28), the examples of others (whom did he ever refuse that called upon him?) and that this was the express design of all (1 Timothy 1:15).
To believe implies a persuasion that he is able to save and he only (John 6:68), and a dependence on him (2 Timothy 1:12). The chief evidences are love (1 John 4:19) and obedience (1 John 2:6).
Fear not poor soul. Do not listen to Satan and unbelief. Continue waiting and you shall grow.
Let none dare to build upon another foundation.
It is said, Thou and thy house. Not that they should be saved for his faith, but to show the blessing open to all who seek. Have you obtained it? Go then, as you have opportunity, to your friends and neighbours; tell them what great things the Lord has done for you, and invite them to taste—see how gracious he is.
FOR MEDITATION:
‘Look to JESUS,’ they replied,
Sinners, CHRIST is still the same,
‘If on him thou canst believe;
O that you could likewise fear!
By the death which he has died,
Then the mention of his name
Thou salvation shalt receive’:
Would be music to your ear:
While the living word he heard,
JESUS rescues Satan’s slaves,
Faith sprung up within his heart;
His dear wounds still plead, ‘Forgive!’
And released from all he feared,
JESUS to the utmost saves;
In their joy his soul had part.
Sinners, look to him and live.
SERMON: ACTS 16:31 [4/4]
Milo 