17 OCTOBER (PREACHED 1770)
A steady, habitual exercise of grace
‘And it came to pass, as they departed from him, Peter said unto Jesus, Master, it is good for us to be here: and let us make three tabernacles; one for thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias: not knowing what he said.’ Luke 9:33
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: 1 Kings 3:5–14, 28
Peter was afraid, surprised and confused, so that he forgot himself and spoke without thought and, as it were, without being aware of what he said. Perhaps this is one reason why perceptible manifestations are so sparingly vouchsafed, considering the weakness of our animal frame; they would too much engage and swallow up our thoughts, indispose for the services of common life, and deprive us of the power of sedately using our judgements. Several observations may be made upon this passage applicable to our general use and especially to young converts. Peter here seems to judge, talk, feel and mistake, as many since his time have done in what is called their first love. We may note therefore that the growth and attainment of a Christian is not to be estimated by perceptive comforts and manifestation. Peter was warm hearted and lively; he was happy for the season, and if he had been at leisure could have told a wonderful story of his experience. Yet at this time he knew but little experimentally either of himself or his Saviour, in comparison of what he knew afterwards. Some poor souls are apt to be discouraged when they see others comfortable and taken up upon the mount, and ready to say, ‘O that I was so’—but there is a difference between pleasant frames and a steady, habitual exercise of grace.
FOR MEDITATION: [‘to a favourite tune of Mrs Newton’s—in Arne’s Opera of Eliza’, Liverpool 1763].
When my Saviour, my Shepherd is near,
By these changes I often pass through,
How quickly my sorrows depart!
I am taught my own weakness to know;
New beauties around me appear,
I am taught what my Shepherd can do,
New spirits enliven my heart:
And how much to his mercy I owe:
But alas! what a change do I find,
It is he who supports me through all,
When my Shepherd withdraws from my sight?
When I faint he revives me again;
My fears all return to my mind,
He attends to my prayer when I call,
My day is soon changed into night.
And bids me no longer complain.
SERMON SERIES: ON THE TRANSFIGURATION, NO. 7 [2/5], LUKE 9:33
Milo 