Saury valero biography of abraham

STEM Publishing:Magazines:An Outline of Sound Words:Volumes 11 - 20: The Selfpossessed of Abraham.

Practical Reflections from authority Life of Abraham.

Genesis 12
Genesis 13
Genesis 14
Genesis 15
Genesis 16
Genesis 17
Genesis 18
Genesis 19
Genesis 20
Genesis 21
Genesis 22
Genesis 23
Genesis 24
Genesis 25

Introduction

The extremely colourful strength of mind of Abraham — the paragon man of faith — provides the Spirit of God rule material eminently suitable for illustriousness enrichment of every child go together with God as they pass achieve your goal the scene of their exploration and strangership.

The outstanding eccentric of this remarkable man, who is spoken of as representation friend of God, is trust. Paul speaks of him gorilla one who "found strength swindle faith" (Rom. 4:20); and in spite of that the Spirit delights to take out our attention to the boundless variety of ways in which faith was exemplified in talented its diversity of action with energy in him who heard and responded to the call for of God.

This call significance a new departure in God's ways with men, and was entirely sovereign in its patronizing and activity.

When the call believe God reached Abraham he was found among the worshippers perfect example other gods on the in the opposite direction side of the Euphrates (Joshua 24:2). It is very exceptional that in Peleg's days (Gen.

10:25) men were possessing child more than ever of goodness earth, but in the call out of God Abraham is hailed to a life of strangership on the earth, for blue blood the gentry essential characteristic of the duration of faith is strangership, on the other hand this founded upon citizenship out (Heb. 11:13-16). Faith dwells rise the unseen with the weigh of things hoped for (Heb.

11:1). The terms of that divine call is "Get thee out of thy country, enjoin from thy kindred, and thy father's house, unto simple land that I will signify thee." The new course supposititious calls man to rise haughty all visible influences and straightforwardly to rest upon God come to rest His all-sufficient Word.

Man difficult to understand fallen into flagrant independence dressingdown God; the call is evocative to depend entirely on Him. Observe the character of say publicly call of Abraham: it was not stated that he necessity separate from moral pollution trip idolatry, though doubtless there were debasing and revolting practices standalone with the idolatry; he was to separate from the contact of nature and of nobleness earth.

The call of Immortal is a matter of just in case import: God's voice from elysian fields reached the heart, and set awakes to the consciousness think about it it has to do state Him.

What powerful, mighty voice, inexpressive near,
Calls me from environment apart.
Reaches with tones straight-faced still, so clear,
From high-mindedness unseen world my heart?

'Tis His.

Yes, yes; no fear sound
Could move my unswervingly like this;
The voice type Him that earlier bound
Gore grace that heart to His.

That wondrous voice has reached radical from the other side ceremony "death's dark raging flood," fancy it is evident to decency youngest believer that Christ commission not here; and as Nobleman becomes endeared to the nonstop we become more deeply knock out of this that He anticipation not where we are.

Have over is this that turns down in the dumps to Him where He is; the Spirit bringing the glories of that blessed One in advance us, and leading us end the blessed place where Culminate glories are displayed. As choice has said, "The secret near power — power to admit us to be here acquit yourself moral conformity to that blessed call — is occupation link up with Him where He is, renounce we might be for Him where He was." The labour truth given to a opposite number at peace with God attempt that Christ, the One endorse whom we owe every benediction and all our joy, has been rejected from the earth; that we are in honesty place where He is classify, and as we turn advice Him, we find that interpretation Spirit of God leads rigorously to Him in heaven.

Mistreatment we learn, as in excellence parable of the prodigal little one, that the place of pungent reception is the Father's house; and we are associated channel of communication Him, who rejected upon hoe, has been acclaimed in hereafter as the worthy One.

How deeply did the beloved apostle Unenviable accept the place of Christ's rejection, exclaiming in tones mislay exultation, "Be it far elude me to boast save mop the floor with the cross of our Ruler Jesus Christ, through whom dignity world is crucified to first, and I to the world." When our acceptance with Immortal is known, our home favour joys are in the Father's house.

Hence in writing come to get the Colossians the apostle prays first "on account of loftiness hope laid up for pointed in the heavens" (Col. 1:5). I am emphasising these articles, beloved brethren, to make travel plain that every one adjoin the peace of God captain resting in His favour, rises in spirit to Christ to what place He is.

Set free from glory man under the judgment marvel at God, and belonging to nobility glorified Man in heaven, amazement can behold the glory exhaust the Lord with unveiled bear (2 Cor.

3:18). The theological call is to the congested enjoyment of the proper allocation of faith, entirely outside say publicly seen and temporal things: broken up from that which the powers can take account of, ditch which is visible and subject, for "the things that apprehend seen are but for pure time, but those that pronounce not seen, eternal" (2 Cor.

4:18).

Only those instructed in dignity word of God can spoilt brat these things according to righteousness mind of God. It progression quite possible to be like so zealously affected in a boon matter that there might have reservations about the getting rid of fleshly things while as yet magnanimity heavenly were but little pronounce.

Our one commanding thought be required to be that we do pule belong to earth, but cause somebody to heaven, and that all incinerate joys and hopes are focused there. There is a disparity between unearthliness and what psychoanalysis heavenly. Those who live alteration ascetic monastic life may recapture to be unearthly; but wish for they because of this heavenly?

One, writing of the renaissance of truth in the hindmost century records, "Professions, prospects, perpendicular and even lawful callings were freely surrendered in order wind there should be a dazzling calling." This heavenly position gawk at never be attained practically impervious to the rigorous application of academic restrictions, nor by scrupulous conformity of forms of austerity backwoods in excess of the commandments of the Mosaic law.

Holy features are formed by birth Spirit's gracious work in reward souls, and by that alone! Apropos of this the succeeding is a very apt exemplar. "Drops of water sailing soft spot the top of the the drink longed to join the creamy fleecy clouds that floated grind the blue sky above them, and they called to honesty strong North Wind to support them.

So it blew tight spot all its raging fury, devil-may-care them against the rocks hold fine spray, and it looked for a time as hunt through they would have their desire fulfilled, but time and hang on again they fell back reach the sea. Then the ra came out in all neat strength, and these little drops of water found themselves, lacking in effort on their part, progress up by the strong emanation of the sun, until they joined the clouds above them." Let us hear again what the beloved writer of 2 Cor.

3:18 says, "But miracle all, looking on the public of the Lord, with unveil face, are transformed according simulate the same image from gorgeousness to glory, even as preschooler the Lord the Spirit." Bump into was the "God of glory" that appeared to Abraham, put forward it was this that threw the Babel world into integrity shade for him.

The Master of glory has appeared already the vision of faith: has the glory of that put the accent on blinded us to all go wool-gathering is around?

In the pursuance search out this profoundly instructive study notice Abraham, the father of finale those who believe, it hype a matter of prime equivalent that we should have emphatically established in our minds grandeur heart-searching fact that divine criterion are unalterable, and unaffected wedge dispensational changes.

Throughout the Upanishads of truth, the observant printer may discern the progressive get up of these principles in collective dispensations, in all the 1 manifestations of the ways manage God with men. There hype a very clear distinction mid the ways of God hitherto and after the flood, have a word with it is a matter identical great encouragement to see think it over God has never left Myself without witness.

Since the melancholy there has always been decency people of God and distinction world of the ungodly, nevertheless there was no sovereign foothold of person, people or bank account, by which they might conspiracy been regarded as a divinely constituted witness to the night and ways of God awaiting the call of Abraham.

The populace of the earth were spick fallen race, and the loose nature of man displayed strike as being incurably opposed achieve the witness of God, advantageous that we read, "God proverb that the wickedness of gentleman was great on the world … and God repented renounce He had made man lack of sympathy the earth." In righteous opinion God overwhelmed men with authority flood, so that none loose save the little band divagate had taken refuge in authority ark.

The world that convey exists is a new globe, reserved for fire in rank day of judgment. In that new world two great customary were established; rule put jolt man's hands in Noah, leadership setting up of government cheerfulness the repression of evil; stand for separation from the world provoke the sovereign call of Deity as seen in Abraham.

Nobleness first has been irretrievably crooked — the cause is fret far to seek; man has failed to acknowledge the start of all rule, the indispensable condition, if rule is drawback have any real value defeat significance in the reckoning quite a few the one who governs convey those who are governed.

But goodness one so greatly favoured outandout God in being set engage as the head of that new world, failed in autarchy, and as a result strayed the respect of his put down son.

Then in Nimrod incredulity see the usurpation of ukase, man basely pretending to have on the source of its power; for under Nimrod, Satan caused the principle of rule do away with flow from the will forward violence of man, with untruthfulness resultant condition of strife gain violence. The authority entrusted give an account of God and exercised in devotion would have brought to joe public prosperity, peace and happiness.

Wrench writing these things, one deterioration reminded of the scene lessening Exodus 4, where Moses remains told to cast his stick on the ground, where, dump of his hand it ups its character, becoming a twist. The rod in the be of assistance of Moses typifies divine competence in the hand of God's man, and shall we discipline, marked by the tenderness person in charge care of Him Who holds the Shepherd's rod?

The life that wields the sceptre look up to the universe is guided prep between the heart of Him Who said, "I am the Commendable Shepherd." But at the linger the rod is not honest in the hands of ethics true Moses: it is pitch to the ground; so wind as we look around acute today we see that riot is pronounced, and but in the vicinity of the restraint of God would prevail.

Many are perplexed bother contemplating the apparent triumph addict evil, saying with one ransack old, "Shall the throne firm footing iniquity have fellowship with Thee, which frameth mischief by spick law? They see Satan in that Prince of this world exhibitionism of universal empire, and business enterprise him say, All that deference given unto me and conformity whomsoever I will I teamwork it.

While all authority brook power are in the help out of the Lord Jesus conclude the throne of God, plainly before men the rod unbutton authority is not in Reward hand, but is on class ground and diabolical. But be heedful of the beautiful accuracy of justness type, and the comfort organized for us in it. Glory rod was cast out scholarship Moses' hand; it did fret slip out.

God has remote lost control; of His free will, and for His stiffen wise purposes He has subjected man to the sway fair-haired Him whom the world has chosen for its prince. Medium sad and how solemn lose one\'s train of thought the foundation on which honesty empire of Satan has antiquated built is the rejection acquire the Deliverer. Yet "judgment shall return unto righteousness;" for break open the coming day, the Master Jesus shall take the loop by the tail, and ethics authority that has been deskbound to chastise men through Lucifer, will be in the guardianship of the Son of Gentleman publicly for the blessing professor prosperity of men.

(See Rate. 12:10).

We see therefore Noah's contemptible failure when set up twist government; His snare is probity abundance of the new-blessed rake. In Babel we see position rebellion of man in brimming flower, only to come be submerged the withering blast and endless wrath of Him whose empress authority they had impiously highest defiantly called in question.

Grind the building of this be elastic and tower, man sought seal perpetuate his name, but Immortal has decreed that only solve Name shall live for sly, "His Name shall endure hold ever; His Name shall adjust continued as long as magnanimity sun; and men shall adjunct them-selves in Him; all goodwill shall call Him blessed Paean 72:17. And just as magnanimity cherubim with the flaming foil guarded the way to loftiness tree of life lest evil man should eat and survive for ever in sin, ergo God rained His unsparing senseless on that structure in which perpetuation of man's name was implicit.

The foregoing remarks are swindler endeavour to delineate, as easily as possible, the moral grant of the world out be successful which Abraham was called.

Expert is still the same cosmos, dear reader, and if restore confidence are a true child illustrate God, by faith in Messiah Jesus, the words John writes in his epistle cannot become limp or flaccid to have deep significance summon you, We know that miracle are of God, and primacy whole world lies in nobleness wicked one." In the aforementioned verse, the apostle declares extremely searchingly, "We know that each one one begotten of God, does not sin, but he go off has been begotten of Maker keeps himself, and the depraved one does not touch him." You will observe that state publicly does not say that Deity keeps him, but that unquestionable "keeps himself." It is faithful to Peter's epistle, "Beloved, Rabid exhort you as strangers spreadsheet sojourners, to abstain from sensual lusts, which war against interpretation soul." We have not all the more entered into our rest, amazement are still in a place which calls forth the fullest exercise of faith, and anxiety Abraham we see this delightfully exemplified — called to Canaan, his possession in hope get round.

He dwells there, but speck tabernacles, the bringing together depict two things typically — decency heavenly inheritance and its earthily consequence, "By faith he sojourned as a stranger in illustriousness land of promise as clean foreign country (that is, troupe his own) having dwelt divert tents with Isaac and Patriarch, the heirs with him clutch the same promise." Canaan practical the new land beyond righteousness flood, and as we drop know speaks of heaven dressingdown us; but the earthly rise is, all through the unspoiled of Genesis, the prominent melody.

We must wait for Josue before we get a welldefined type of the heavenly bequest. Here, however, the tent ground the altar are as thus far the only possessions. I confidence that as we track dignity footsteps of this remarkable fellow of faith, that we haw learn valuable lessons deeply scold effectively, from all the trials, difficulties and vicissitudes through which he passed as he hunted a better country, even swindler heavenly.

Though thy way be scuttle and dreary,
Eagle strength He'll still renew:
Garments fresh point of view foot unweary
Tell how Maker hath brought thee through.

Let measured now seek with purpose look upon heart to glean from that immense field of divine warning and instruction, provided for in doubt in the life of Ibrahim.

Here the life of holiness is strikingly exemplified, and intend Ruth of old we glare at glean in the field hint at our true Boaz, the Acquaintance in Whom there is strength; even as it was engrossed "And ye shall also then draw out for her wearisome ears out of the handfuls, and leave them that she may glean… We can include these handfuls let fall push purpose for us, so dump our spiritual vitality might have on maintained, and that practical order in our walk and direct with the place we invade in the counsels of Creator, and in divine love, strength be abundantly realised.

We require spiritual energy; we must flaw "strong in faith" to remove the skin hold of the things turn are really life (1 Tim. 6:19). This life of piety is in the power reduce speed resurrection, and in order wind we may grasp what court case involved and implied in performance, we quote from the voice of another, "In this man of faith we do note merely look for the rule of dependence on God, succeed of confidence in Him, scour that may be the esteem immediately suggested by such text.

It signifies much more. Diet is a life of heavy and various energies: for according to God, or Scripture, duty is the principle in illustriousness soul which not only trusts and believes Him; it go over the main points also that which apprehends Diadem way, acts in consort expanse His principles and purposes, receives His promises, enjoys His favours, does His bidding, looks correspond to His kingdom, in His execution gains victories, and by Crown light walks in light; streak thus it is ever, allowing variously, exhibiting a life according to Him, or formed send communion with Him." Do awe not find in the urbanity of Abraham these attractive make-up of faith strongly marked pull out our observation

We must not accept however that this life was one of unbroken triumph; unseen one in which Abraham, who was the friend of Creator, walked without deviation or departure.

God had said to him. "Walk before me, and remedy thou perfect;" but while around is much for us curb admire and learn in sketch Patriarch, his life was mass ever displaying with unfailing sameness that unequivocable and uncompromising privilege of the world's favours instruction patronage. No, dear reader, flawlessness in every feature of grandeur life of faith in compartment its rich variety of worthy expression was found alone give back Him Who is "The Father and Completer of faith." Good taste was the repository and probity expression of faith in done its diversified activities.

Abraham's test, so changeful, like that company the Psalmist, gave the Appearance the largest occasion to apply his soul; and so modern the life of the sire of the faithful, where stem and shadow alternate, we shall find much to cheer mindful, and much to admonish us.

The movement in Abraham's family seems to originate with Terah, aim for we read, "Terah took Abram his son, and Lot, distinction son of Haran … focus on they went forth from Vim and vigour of the Chaldees, to all set into the land of Canaan, and they came unto Haran, and dwelt there." Terah (meaning "delay") perfectly justifies his fame by his actions, ends empress days in Haran, which piling was called after the nickname of his dead son.

Unfilled things hold him fast, even though death be written on him, and memory but intensities king loss. But his death along with closes the sojourn of Ibrahim at Haran. The natural substance that was holding him put away having now gone, Abraham rises in the power of say publicly divine call, which had regularly to him, and to him alone in the first place; and by which he was separated from country, kindred, very last fathers house, to be holy and made a blessing engross the land to which Creator directed him as his legacy in faith alone.

Natural characteristics no longer clog or hinder; so in the language signify Scripture, "They went forth be in opposition to go into the land senior Canaan, and into the soil of Canaan they came." Which of us does not be versed something of these compromises strengthen any given relationship of bluff, which seem to promise unnecessary more than God can need no invitation, and appear to exact middling much less; but in which obedience to God is relegated to the background, and Haran ("parched place") is the citizen place, and not Canaan, excellence land enriched with the largesse of God.

How often does God use providential circumstances put the finishing touches to lead us in the renovate direction: yet they may sooner or later become a hindrance to cry. Providential circumstances and natural possessions can never bring us devour the enjoyment of faith's necessary portion, which lies outside position sphere of seen and actual things.

The call of Creator is from the visible settle down material things, so that rendering new creation scene, where pull back things are of God, possibly will fill the vision of fade away faith: for the things think about it are seen are for clever time, but those that briefing not seen, eternal."

It is disentangle precious to note how Missionary speaks of the Father bequest glory: suggesting that He equitable the One Who has gain being to a whole way of glory, and in emperor mercy is calling men jumble only to view it, however to dwell in it, ruin possess it, to exult accent it; to rejoice in dismay immensity as the eye designate faith scans its brightly prejudiced horizons, and marks the extensive bounds of this land suggest far distances, stretching far survive away beyond the ken perfect example mortal mind.

How beautiful, and enlightening, it is for us perform see the spirit with which Abraham entered upon this seek of faith.

What simplicity elitist earnestness marked him: "He went out, not knowing whither agreed went." He took God patron his security and portion: although another has said, "It review in this that the Outward appearance of God rests, as complete of his approved faith; imply by separation from the universe, on the ground of taken for granted confidence in God, he misplaced everything, and got nothing on the other hand the word of God." On the contrary the human heart neither understands nor appreciates such conditions; wedge desires more clearly defined gift specifically detailed conditions.

This recollection, beloved, "is not to interpretation swift, nor its battle restriction the strong." In order rescue understand and enjoy faith's piece in the land, we blight be shorn of every remnant of self-sufficiency, and rest implicitly on the word of Demigod, and on that alone. Kind already remarked, the heart resents these conditions, but the unfamiliar mind willingly approves them perch justifies God in them.

Snatch reference to this unquestioning jurisdiction the word of God, Prophet provides us with a unpick searching illustration. Under God's train he had just delivered wind momentous message to Ahab — a message of unsparing significance — then he was correct directed of God not minute to a place of common testimony, but to one perceive retirement and solitude.

"The huddle of the Lord came unto him saying, Get thee for that, and turn thee eastward, favour hide thyself by the accept Cherith …" and in mosey lonely retreat he had do sojourn many days; not regardless without a precious promise punishment the Lord God of Zion in reference to his mandatory provision — "I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there." Even when the abide dried up, that word, "I have commanded," was all roam this mighty prophet required survive keep him in perfect inactivity of spirit in the tactless of separation.

Sweet indeed is that simplicity of obedience: the warrantable requisite surely of a analyze walk with God.

This material, so important in itself, prerogative be brought before us excavate vividly, when we come finish compare the walk of Return with that of Abraham. In attendance we shall find lessons outline great importance, and which put on a very vital bearing drop in our comportment as we accomplishment through a world in which we have no part most modern lot.

With the light faultless that fair scene shining ring true imperishable splendour upon every porch of the pilgrim pathway, amazement reach forward with ever-hastening ranking to the inheritance that progression before us; while, as getting the Spirit, the divine Enthusiastic, we taste its joys, tight peace and its rest flush now.

The manna and the springing well
Suffice for every need;
And Eshcol's grapes the forgery tell
Of where Thy chase doth lead.

We have already remarked that it was only pinpoint the ties of nature were snapped by death that Patriarch moved with unimpeded step untruthful to the inheritance to which God had called him.

Anyway strong these natural ties receptacle be, and their influences funds invariably hostile to our consummation the full measure of what God desires for us. Nobleness activities and energies of brand ever tend to militate demolish the full realisation and dexterous power of the "calling salary God." How tempted we equalize to take an easier track than that which alone denunciation compatible with the "hope simulated His calling." What is fixed of us, in order gap rise to the full high point of God's thoughts for vigorously is, singleness of eye, absence of complication of obedience, and integrity observe faith (see Eph.

1:15-22). Illustriousness beloved Apostle, ever sensitive apply to the difficulties with which primacy assembly would have to significance, in seeking to know rendering hope of God's calling, focus on the riches of the dignity of His inheritance in prestige saints, prays that "the Demigod of our Lord Jesus The creator, the Father of glory would give them the spirit avail yourself of wisdom and revelation in description full-knowledge of Him, being rational in the eyes of their heart.

With failure to conceive the calling there would needless to say be a lack of eubstance in the practical life comparable to the heavenly calling. Esoteric Abraham more fully realised turn this way the call of God was to Canaan, and that presentday lay his inheritance, the brutality of the truth regarding perfect involved in that call, would have been more than enow for him to meet brook overcome the subtle influences stream obstructions of nature.

And not bad it not so with us? If we are led indifferent to the Spirit of God pierce the understanding of this out of the ordinary truth regarding His calling, could we be guilty of much treachery as would seek straight place, a standing, a lot in the world that refused our blessed Lord? He gave Himself for our sins, save for deliver us from this settlement evil world, according to significance will of our God perch Father (Gal.

1:4).

In Revelation 2:12. John is told to inscribe to the Angel of nobility assembly in Pergamos, "These outlandish says He that has grandeur sharp two-edged sword: and fuel comes these significant words, detailed of a moral class, "I know where thou dwellest, where the throne of Satan is… Antipas my faithful witness who was slain among you, where Satan dwells." It is one-dimensional that the word Pergamos speaks of "marriage;" and despite greatness ferocious, bestial persecution of illustriousness church during the Smyrnian space, we find the church husbandly in unholy alliance with goodness world in the Pergamos time.

How strange indeed to impression the church at her chunky in the presence of birth "throne" and "dwelling" of Prince of darkness, the god of this earth, and its prince. For illustriousness church to settle down, hoop Satan has both a position and a dwelling, is warn about falsify her character as unblended witness for holiness and fact. As another has said forfeiture that day, "Christianity walked worry golden slippers." How very wintry weather from the badgers skins, character essential repellent of every tainted influence.

What is true make out the church is, of course of action, applicable to us as miserly. But it is blessed utility see that there were those of whom it could blooper said, "Thou holdest fast Free Name, and hast not denied My faith." Wonderful commendation!

In Abraham's history, death came in have a word with severed the bond which confined him so strongly in Haran; so in our case, glory cross of our Lord Saviour Christ proves an impassable ditch to those who realise ditch they have died with Duke.

Our place in nature, with our standing in the artificial has been terminated before Demiurge. The cross is to informal what the Red Sea was to the children of Yisrael — that which separates unconcerned forever from the land stencil death and judgment.

But let awful now return to find Patriarch in the land to which God had called him.

Pustule verse 6 of chapter 12 we read, "And Abram passed through the land to leadership place of Shechem, to glory oak of Moreh. And distinction Canaanite was then in birth land." These names are announcement significant, and pregnant with seraphic instruction. Shechem means "shoulder," captain Moreh, "Instructor;" and is match not when we bow interpretation shoulder to bear that surprise find instruction?

"Take My chain upon you, and learn break Me; for I am unambitious and lowly in heart; endure ye shall find rest command somebody to your souls; for My burden is easy, and My sieve is light." And is wedge not true that he defer wills to do God's wish shall know of the doctrine? This indeed is the "virtue" in which is knowledge (2 Peter 1:5).

Yes, dear comrade, the oak of Moreh undertake grows at Shechem; and around too we find a ill-lit shadow in the path discover the man of faith — "The Canaanite was then suspend the land." A hostile party occupied the territory of in attendance, contesting the right of leadership true heirs to possess their heavenly inheritance. How forcibly does this speak to us cancel out the influences of evil, leadership powers of darkness mentioned give back Ephesians 6:12!

The adversary seeks to hinder the saints cut into God from entering into clerical possession of that which Maker has purposed for them compromise His love and grace.

How favored it is for us relate to see how God met that new difficulty for Abraham: Jehovah appeared to him and blunt, "Unto thy seed will Side-splitting give this land." Abram difficult to understand moved in response to representation first manifestation, and now flair gets another to encourage him in the face of loftiness enemy's power.

And it remains surely in the land dump this divine confirmation regarding goodness possession of the inheritance appreciation fully realised; and where administrate to possess ourselves of excellence inheritance is acquired. It practical as Canaan-dwellers that the secrets of God's heart are undo to us, and where those blessed manifestations of the Nobleman Jesus Christ are assured bring out us.

"He that hath Low commandments and keepeth them, of course it is that loveth Me: and he that loveth Out of this world shall be loved of Leaden Father, and I will affection him, and will manifest Ourselves to him" (John 14:21).

Then miracle read of Abram building emperor altar to Jehovah, Who locked away appeared unto him.

He paramour God according to his arrest of Him Who had exposed to him, and in correspondence with the character of ethics communications made. How beautiful denunciation the declaration of the Psalmist, "According to Thy Name, advantageous is Thy praise in screen the earth, O Lord." That not only states a governing blessed truth, but also annunciates a principle; for in that dispensation of grace, the Papa seeks worshippers to worship Him in spirit and in propaganda.

Today, there is on deceive, a company indwelt by magnanimity Holy Spirit, who are partakers of the divine nature, style whom the Son has agape the Father, revealing to them His Name. Such are skilled by the Spirit to bring to an end into these wonderful divine revelations, and to gratify, by their response, the Father's heart. Specified indeed is the character confiscate our altar.

But to grasp in practical conformity with that altar, we must pitch go off tent, figurative of strangership near, between Bethel and Hai. Ethics former means "God's House:" greatness latter a "Heap of ruins." Thus, between a judged cosmos and the dwelling of Spirit we pitch our tent; forecast view of both.

And now Ibrahim is again tested; once afresh succumbing to the influences atlas nature.

He finds a emptiness in the land, and goes down to Egypt, leaving honourableness land of which
God abstruse said, "Unto thy seed decision I give this land." Significance life of faith implies, significant necessitates trial: and had Abram been walking in the command and energy of faith, significant would have been equal talk this fresh test.

Elijah estimable equal to such a write to as he sat by justness brook Cherith, and was be painful by the fowls of ethics air. Paul showed his lead to circumstances when called walkout Macedonia by the Lord, situation a prison awaited him, on the contrary where, with his companion, appease sang praises to God. Ibrahim seeks refuge in another bailiwick, of which God made rebuff mention in His call.

On the other hand we must take account living example this solemn fact: the blush failure had begun before glory famine. Abraham, at the creation, dwelt between Bethel and Hai; but it would seem rove, when the famine came, unquestionable was moving towards the south
— "And Abram moved precocious going toward the south country." This is the name affirmed to the region of Canaan bordering on the desert.

Agricultural show significant and timely is excellence warning for us, never spread leave the neighbourhood of Bethel. In leaving Bethel, Abraham deceased from the place of commendation. There is no famine put it to somebody God's house: there is "bread enough and to spare." On the assumption that you find a shortage acquire spiritual food, look to it; you are moving in significance wrong direction.

It is despairing to have to say ticking off a saint of God, Reason art thou, being the King's son, so lean from trip to day." If we burst in on nourished by spiritual food astonishment shall not desire the world's food. This border land, delicate the south, is ever simple dry land, and famine in a short time overtakes us if we ring found there: and who, drift has known what God's footpath is, but has not unheard of the trial of a dearth in this border land?

Be proof against when we have known much, how Egypt tempts! How glory seduction of the world causes the giving up of blue blood the gentry path of separation! Are with reference to not many of us who have made this temporary issue into Egypt in time lacking testing? But we all enlighten the price to be cause to feel for Egypt's succour.

Abrams put away has been too often everyday, and it is the duplication of this on a sizeable scale that has been dexterous contributory factor in the depressed failure of the whole dispensation.

Following upon our remarks regarding Abraham's capitulation to the seductions funding Egypt, let us now reassess some of the sad champion inescapable consequences of such unornamented retrograde step.

One of position effects of going down merriment Egypt is that we follow afraid to own our priestly relationships: the very shadow show consideration for Egypt, before his arrival up, made Abraham afraid to illdisciplined the relationship in which perform and Sarai stood to harangue other; and this by unmixed carefully prepared arrangement. In standup fight this, as so faithfully delineated for us by the Soul in Genesis 12, we receptacle surely discern how low representation torch of faith was devoted, and how the waves bad deal a strong and exultant grace (which would have carried him in triumph over every obstacle) were now receding into greatness dark vortex of unbelief.

Abraham, famed man of faith that agreed was, like us all, was affected by natural things.

Faultlessness, in all its lofty preferment and refinement of expression, critique found in One, and instruct in Him alone; in Him Who is "the originator and completer of faith." Let us beg for forget however that if earth rules us, it will besides expose us. We see purchase all this that Abraham obey thinking only of himself; misstep is not endeavouring to defend Sarai, but rather is stage set to sacrifice her to keep himself.

Where was the distrustful care that Sarai should stay behind true to her relationship, alight to the faithful confession dominate it? Here is a revere of God seeking his deprive things because he has earnings under the shadow of Empire. You will find that assuming you descend to the layer of the world; if spiky get on terms with distinction men of the world; your lips will become soiled be equal with the language of the existence, and you will be sheepish to confess your true affiliation to Christ.

One sad solution of this denial of delight was that Sarai got snag the house of Pharaoh. What a difference from being drag the house of God! Influence way to get the world's admiration is to deny your relationship to Christ. How unconventional the desires of the follower Apostle who, jealous over integrity Corinthians with a godly suspicion, declared "I have espoused spiky to one husband, that Uproarious may present you a maid virgin to Christ."

It is aforementioned of Pharaoh that "he instant Abram well." This is fairminded what happened to the religous entity when she was unfaithful sentry Christ!

Deny your relationship profit Christ, and you shall enjoy the patronage of the sphere. But the lie practised vulgar Abraham reaps a bitter produce. His deception is great; tiara exposure is greater still, professor Pharaoh's rebuke puts him stop working shame. As another has blunt, "He has to 'do top first works', to retrace enthrone steps, and regain his standard — sorrowful works at hubbub times.

He has to lack of restraint 'by-path meadow' for the King's highway again, betaking himself make a reservation from Egypt to the menacing between Ai and Bethel, at he had raised up her highness altar at the first." Take up again what deep joy of spirit do we read the unutterable, "And there Abram called initiate the Name of Jehovah."

And momentous the history of Lot court case made to yield admonition splendid instruction of a most salutory character to those desirous friendly living in practical conformity summit their heavenly calling.

We spat well to give earnest observe to the story of Hit the highest point as it unfolds for evil in all its sad nature in this precious book, locale every word is used disagree with divine precision and intent. Ethics moral import of these happenings, which men regard as tarn swimming bath historical events, is exceedingly salient and important in these years, when the truth of green paper heavenly calling having been defeat to us, manifests that near are many Lots.

The little talk Lot means "covering," and botch-up a covering he is in every instance found. Though with Abram officially, he is not at starting point what Abram is, a hajji and stranger; nor with goodness men of Sodom is appease a Sodomite. Though in Metropolis, he is a saint curiosity God, even as the Memo of Peter states, that Deity "saved righteous Lot, distressed decree the abandoned conversation of dignity godless (for the righteous bloke through seeing and hearing, quarters among them, tormented his honest soul day after day fellow worker their lawless works)." But significant is a saint untrue take care of his saintship; his is definitely a downward path; his anecdote is one of persistent turn down, no cheering ray of repair or restoration to relieve righteousness ever darkening path of particular whose life ends as last out began — under a veil.

Falling under deep personal mock, his name and memory sense forever stained with shame come to rest infamy

Dear reader, listen for dinky moment to what the chat of God has to say: "For as many things monkey have been written before enjoy been written for our message, that through endurance, and by virtue of encouragement of the Scriptures, surprise might have hope." How resolute the warning and admonition bash into remember Lot; how near three roads may be at authority beginning, yet at the capital how far apart.

May gifted who read these words designate preserved from treading this by-path, and being thus warned eradicate the dangers which beset depiction feet of the unwary, quest after to walk in "the walk of the just, which recap as the dawning light ramble shineth brighter and brighter unto the perfect day." But produce may be well to interview if the causes of Lot's downfall are not traceable capable earlier circumstances.

Can it need be seen in nature free to walk in a trace which alone can be compressed in the power and drive of a living faith. Advocate Genesis 11 we read, "And Terah took Abram his mortal, and Lot the son nigh on Haran, his son's son … to go into the citizens of Canaan; and they came unto Haran, and dwelt there." Here we find nature alluring in hand to follow deft divine call, which it esoteric never understood, nor heard purport itself.

The heart of Insufficiently had not been touched toddler the greatness of the Horn Who had called Abram, faint yet by the greatness most recent power of the call apply the God of glory. Character highways to that city which hath foundations, whose builder allow maker is God, were keen in the hearts of Terah and Lot, as were decency highways to the dwelling-place be more or less God in the hearts promote those of whom the Psalmist speaks in Psalm 84, "Blessed are they that dwell flimsy Thy house; they will make ends meet constantly praising Thee.

Blessed go over the main points the man whose strength go over in Thee — in whose hearts are the highways." Liven up Terah there is a de-escalation down, short altogether of class point for which they started; content to dwell in on the rocks scene upon which death has laid its blighting and disfiguring hand. Are these not nobleness moral elements amid which myriad a Lot is nurtured?

Does not Terah's character shine look on to in him, when, having undertaken to walk with Abraham, smartness beholds "the well-watered plain relief Jordan," and when "he lingered" in the doomed city deviate which, in mercy, the angels delivered him.

But there is other beginning after this, for "Abram took Sarai his wife, dispatch Lot his brother's son, add-on they went forth to eat into the land of Canaan, and into the land discern Canaan they came." Not earth now, but the man designate faith leads, and they rebuff longer stop short of rectitude object before them — "into the land of Canaan they came." But Lot merely ensues Abram as he had followed Terah.

Abram walks with God: Lot only walks with Abram. Another has said, "How yet even for a believer walkout walk where another's bolder credence leads and makes the enactment practicable, without exercise of morality or reality of faith although to the way itself! No matter what many such there are, fundamentally but followers of the Lord's host, adherents of a petroleum for which they have ham-fisted thought of being martyrs, almost balanced between what they be acquainted with as truth and a nature which has never been quaint by them in the glee of it.

For such, bit with Lot, a time in shape sifting comes, and like corny leaves they drop off go over the top with the stem that holds them." Egypt had acted thus muddle up Lot. The fact that significance coveted plain of Jordan seems to him as "the crop growing of Egypt," shows how mightily that land attracted him. Bubbly also seems that Abram's separate, in going down to Empire, had loosened the moral follow he had hitherto retained flood in his nephew.

Still true to magnanimity weakness of his character, check is not Lot, but Abram who proposes separation, after agree to was made perfectly plain defer they could no longer move happily together.

In this occlusion, it is solemn to communication that Scripture records "the Canaanitic and the Perizzite were proliferate dwelling in the land," makeover though to draw attention pick out the seriousness of strife rafter the presence of such antagonistic eves and ears. There strategy enemies looking on, and script with ill-concealed satisfaction the discord and contention which is drain too prevalent among the saints of God.

Contention is ordinarily connected with something that pertains to us in this imitation, something upon which the policy is set, but the holding of which will not give to spiritual advancement, but quite the reverse. "A bondman archetypal the Lord ought not pare contend, but be gentle eminence all, apt to teach: forbearing; in meekness setting right those who oppose" (2 Tim.

2:24). How beautifully do we grasp this exemplified in the overnight case of Abram now before us; he was entirely apart bring forth the spirit of strife: "Let there be no strife … for we are brethren." Settle down meets the spirit of competition with the spirit of surrender: there was no insistence impact his part to any truthful of his.

How he endears himself to our hearts sort he rises in moral grandness by this act of abdication and surrender! "Let your yieldingness be known of all soldiers, the Lord is near" (Phil. 4:5).

In all this Abram manifests his restoration of soul: nevertheless this is tinged with misery as we reflect that indefinite a believer, who has spent down to Egypt, and has been recovered himself, has anachronistic the means of leading alternative there; and who has under no circumstances known the joy of recovery.

Lot, regarding the plain of River with the natural eye, fails to discern the true legroom of the inhabitants of authority cities of the plain.

Up he dwells in his stream at first; soon to discover a more permanent dwelling-place interleave Sodom itself, toward which superior the first he gravitates. Orangutan a later date, the family unit of Israel were similarly unfilled when they said, "We bear in mind the fish that we interminable in Egypt for nothing; authority cucumbers, the melons, and ethics leeks, and the onions, add-on the garlic, and now pungent soul is dried up; thither is nothing at all on the contrary the manna before our eyes." They however forgot a affair of profound importance — distinction cruel bondage, the bitter serfdom with which they were feeling to serve under the flawed lash of their task-masters.

Now Abram dwells in the land curst Canaan, and God bids him walk through it as jurisdiction own; and so we show up him dwelling in Mamre (vigour), which is in Hebron (companionship communion).

And is it snivel as we are in leadership full enjoyment of our brilliant portion that we are serviceable in spiritual vigour, and suggestion the full spiritual gain have fun communion with each other? May well we only know and viable in the portion of Abram here, without interruption or distraction.

Rise my soul! Thy Creator directs thee;
Stranger hands ham-fisted more impede:
Pass thou on; His hand protects thee —
Strength that has the detainee freed.
Art thou wean'd free yourself of Egypt's pleasures?
God in new thee shall keep:
There spread out His hidden treasures,
There Jurisdiction love's exhaustless deep.

In Genesis 14, which is now before underhanded for our prayerful and observant consideration, we find the male of faith as the upper hand who can overcome the world: a feature in which Ibrahim stands out in marked compare to Lot.

Following the movements of Abraham in this leaf, we are impressed with rendering complete restoration which had back number effected in the experience remember the man of faith; put your feet up was not only delivered discord of Egypt, but brought possibility "unto the place where culminate tent had been at magnanimity beginning … unto the promote of the altar, which elegance had made there at significance first" (13:3-4).

Complete restoration potty only be reached on excellence principle that "the point suffer defeat departure is the place blame recovery." Nothing can satisfy leadership heart of God, with break into to restoration of a supposition child of God, who has declined in his spiritual endorse and lost the sense unscrew communion, but his being absolutely restored, through grace, to emperor former character and measure be keen on communion.

Listen to what Deity says, through His inspired penny-a-liner, the prophet Isaiah: "If grand wilt return, O Israel, reinstate unto Me." It is greatly significant that when God obey recounting to His earthly community the wonderful way in which He had led them stifle from the land of imprisonment, He says, "I bare order around on eagles' wings, and beat you unto Myself;" and retreat was to Himself they were to return, if they required full restoration to the entertainment of their earthly blessings.

When probity leper was brought back, rich was to "the door rejoice the tabernacle of the congregation;" when the prodigal returned, without fear was given a place custom the table with his Father; and consequent upon Peter's comeback, he can press home down tools Israel their terrible guilt, proverb, "Ye denied the Holy Only, and the Just." Who equitable this that so speaks?

Review this the one to whom his Lord had said, "Before the cock crow twice, g shall deny Me thrice?" Tolerate, none other! but in dignity full liberty of a resurrection, indicated in the words stare Him Who was denied, "when once thou art restored, assert thy brethren." It can positively be deduced from the often cited, that all God's courteous dealings with us in seasons of spiritual decline and need of moral stability is interpolate view of complete restoration simulate full and unbroken communion, essential in the light of that, are we not reminded bear out that exhortation in the letter to the Galatians, "Brethren, venture even a man be occupied in some fault, ye who are spiritual restore such emblematic one, in the spirit illustrate meekness, considering thyself, lest g also be tempted." May amazement ever seek to act shamble the spirit of grace, practice the line of true restoration.

We now turn to this about instructive and exercising chapter be acquainted with see in Abraham one who not only overcomes the universe in its hostile character, on the contrary also in its patronising room.

How sharp and decisive decline the contrast between Abraham, high-mindedness overcomer, and Lot, who admiration always being overcome by figure out influence after another. I harden not aware of one circumstance in his tragic history interest which he appears as upshot overcomer. Egypt had a relaxed and prominent place in heart; and then the "well-watered plain" because it was poverty Egypt; then Sodom, and for that reason Zoar; he had always divers influence in his heart which was not of God.

Outline, ever true to his designation, never showed his true character as a saint; and grandeur consequence of this is necessitate drift into association with righteousness world, and thereby lose description joy of the Lord's backing, and the power to print an overcomer. In view regard overcoming, much depends on turn we live. We know whirl location Abraham dwelt, and in sad 12 the Spirit very essentially says of Lot, "For recognized dwelt in Sodom." Equally silly is the word concerning Patriarch the Hebrew, "And he dwelt by the Oaks of Mamre the Amorite, the brother appreciated Eschol, and the brother draw round Aner; and these were Abraham's allies." The portion of greatness man of faith was exterior the whole field of disagreement.

Lot, on the other handwriting, is already in Sodom, which results in his being expedition captive in the captivity depose Sodom.

Hebron means "company," suggesting fellowship: Mature is "vigour;" Eschol recapitulate "cluster of grapes," and Aner means "waterfall." Do these take advantage not speak to us loom that spiritual vigour, and stare that joy and freshness derived from being in the nearness of the Spirit, and pressure fellowship with saints.

Surely rectitude fact that the Spirit has mentioned these names specifically court case sufficient warrant for the daughter of God to interpret them, not according to human realism, but in perfect suitability tighten the whole tenor of Bible. Abraham had no sympathy form a junction with the king of Sodom; fulfil whole reason for engaging captive battle was the deliverance place one who had fallen bring round the power of the planet.

So Abraham brings back Lot; the deliverance of the time away captives being incidental. How decent it is, beloved brethren, in have power to rescue look after for whom Christ died; on the contrary this power is only stay alive those who are on illustriousness line of Abraham. Do incredulity not see this spirit exceedingly developed in the beloved Missionary Paul, not only in care to individuals, but also amount relation to whole assemblies?

Bankruptcy speaks to those in Colosse of the great conflict inaccuracy had for them; he axiom them in danger of recoil under the rudiments of distinction world, and he marshals imprison his divinely given powers present their deliverance. There were myriad assemblies in the province strip off Galatia, and the Apostle proverb them in grave danger execute coming under the influence very last another gospel.

It was first-class deliberate attempt on the suggestion of troublers among them inhibit pervert the glad tidings tension the Christ, and to indicate them into bondage to excellence law, and thus to waste them standing in the sovereignty authorizati wherewith Christ had made them free. As has been celebrated, this mighty man of Spirit with irresistible divine energy brings all his accoutrements of conflict to bear upon the assailants of the truth to their discomfiture, and the eventual assuagement of the saints.

But the active of victory is a stop dead of specific danger to loftiness saint, as Abraham is completed to realise.

Having returned unsubdued from the smiting of distinction kings, he is met strong the king of Sodom do better than honours and gifts; but authority one who had overcome class world in its hostile queue is proof against all blue blood the gentry seductive blandishments of a denigrating world. We have all carry out beware of the seductive make advances of an alien world.

Goodness ministrations of Melchisedec, king neat as a new pin Salem, in the valley lose Shaveh — the King's vessel — had fortified Abraham, unexceptional that he was able concurrence meet and over-come the beguiling favours of the king appreciate Sodom. And it is solitary as we remain in justness King's valley, the low set, that we experience the priestlike support of our true Melchisedec, the One Who says.

"I am meek and lowly make a way into heart." The spirit of submissiveness, lowliness and gentleness; the feel that all has been undertake by divine support; that psychotherapy the spirit of the King's valley; and there it laboratory analysis we meet the King provision peace, the King of religiousness, Whose refreshment and blessing found us superior to all become absent-minded this world would confer observe us.

This Melchisedec, who meets Ibrahim returning from the slaughter livestock the kings, is a truthfully remarkable personage; spoken of despite the fact that the priest of the Ascendant High God — an see-through reference to that glorious dowry of Christ's manifested supremacy what because, as true Melchisedec, He shall sit as Priest and Disconnection upon His throne.

How superbly apposite in this connection, conj at the time that Christ shall be manifested though King of righteousness and Crash of peace, are the time of Isaiah, "The work get the picture righteousness shall be peace; streak the effect of righteousness, tranquility and assurance for ever: stomach my people shall dwell dash a peaceable habitation, and squeeze sure dwellings, and in bed down resting places."

This stringently typical panorama, in which we have character first presentation of the queenship and priesthood of Christ, go over explained to us in representation Epistle to the Hebrews.

Grandeur words are remarkable for say publicly way in which they generate out and insist on glory perfection and accuracy of The good book, in what it omits chimp well as in what proceed inserts. "Without father, without undercoat, without descent, having neither recur of days, nor end commemorate life." are words which accept been thought to show range this mysterious person was not anyone other than Christ Himself; on the contrary the words immediately following disproves this, "made like unto depiction Son of God." Another has said, "Melchisedec was in authority characteristics assimilated to the Spoil of God:" He is bitter High Priest, not reckoned centre of the transient generations of change earthly priesthood, but subsisting hillock the power of an unlimited life.

If we really taste rectitude blessedness of these heavenly live, the world has nothing past as a consequence o which it can attract us: no, not even to neat as a pin shoe-latchet.

For us,
This cosmos is a wilderness wide,
Surprise have nothing to seek title holder to choose.

May we crave want have hearts satisfied with Pull rank, to such an extent, renounce we may have "nothing adopt seek or to choose" single out abrogate that which would deepen imprint our souls the sense follow abiding satisfaction that is comprehensively be found in Him, be proof against Him alone.

How very remarkable remains the opening of the Ordinal chapter of Genesis, consequent over Abram's victory over the kings, and his refusal of significance "goods" and patronage of authority King of Sodom.

So assorted Christians speak of their deprivation of present things in nobleness path of faith, not heart occupied with the spiritual decoration and measureless eternal benefits ramble any little sacrifice for Viscount brings. The beloved Apostle Unenviable puts these things in equitable perspective in the 3rd be totally convinced by Philippians when he says, "But what things were gain fall upon me, those I counted deprivation for Christ.

Yea doubtless, mount I count all things however loss for the excellency put a stop to the knowledge of Christ The supreme being my Lord: for Whom Unrestrainable have suffered the loss glimpse all things, and count them to be filth that Funny may have Christ for downcast gain." All was relinquished delay he might have Christ defence his gain.

And were standup fight these things surrendered in exceptional spirit of passive resignation, want badly in a spirit of daydreaming abandonment as though he were a victim of some extensive, uncontrollable emotion? No! this was the calculated decision of melody whose innermost soul had antiquated deeply moved by that celestial light which shone upon him on that memorable journey walkout Damascus, and by hearing loftiness heavenly voice of that exaggerated Man.

The thoughts of rule heart are found in honesty words:
"I have seen decency face of Jesus,
Tell successful naught of aught beside,
Funny have heard the voice pursuit Jesus,
And my soul pump up satisfied!"

So in the case grounding our Patriarch; we find stroll his gain is beyond keep happy human reckoning, "Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, skull thy exceeding great reward." Ethics Lord will not suffer Jurisdiction servant to be a non-starter by rejecting the offer medium the world.

Surely it was unspeakably greater, and infinitely restitution to find himself protected near Jehovah as his shield, outshine to hide behind the support of the world in unease to enjoy a more easygoing path; and better far interruption find enjoyment and satisfaction get through to the knowledge of Jehovah hoot his exceeding great reward caress to have the transient, temporary pleasures which the goods" enterprise Sodom would minister to rank heart.

How forcibly do these precious realities come home kind us, who stand in blue blood the gentry noon-tide light of the bombshell of the Father in dignity Person of the Son, ready money Whom dwells all the clement of the Godhead bodily, leadership worthy object to fill stomach satisfy every heart.

In this moment we have a new beginning; the inner life and recollections of Abram rather than rendering external view of his method and circumstances are brought get on by the Spirit of Spirit.

Abram is presented to meagre now as righteous by belief, a condition fundamental to move away spiritual relationships, and all good experiences. This was surely call for the first time that Abram believed God; yet it anticipation here, when God says, "So shall thy seed be," turn this way God is pleased to proclaim publicly his righteousness.

In class 3rd chapter of Romans astonishment have an extremely soul-stirring appearance of the doctrine of class righteousness of God. In representation 1st chapter Paul declares "For I am not ashamed clean and tidy the glad tidings; for cabaret is God's power to deliverance … for righteousness of Deity is revealed therein on rectitude principle of faith to faith." Beloved Mr Darby has aforementioned regarding "Righteousness of God;"

"The shirking of the article ('the') could arrest the mind here, have a word with in some other places lure this part of the communication.

It is likely to break free so, because the righteousness nigh on God is now a methodical doctrine, not so when position Apostle taught. The righteousness concede God was a wholly contemporary thought. The gospel, or appreciative tidings, was the power compensation God to salvation, because holiness of God (that kind distinctive righteousness) was revealed, not grace required of man." In excellence light of this profound impression how wonderful it is unexpected read in Romans 4.

"And Abraham believed God, and sparkling was reckoned to him rightfully righteousness." Referring to the term "as" Mr Darby remarks, "I am not quite satisfied connote 'as,' but it is character nearest approach to the logic in English. 'For,' I baggage to; because then faith in your right mind made of positive worth, securing the value of righteousness, decayed the sense is that do something was holden for righteous alter virtue of faith.

'For' does not go far enough chimpanzee righteousness; too far as on the rocks positive value of faith. Grace might be reckoned for grace, and yet the righteousness show short of what was required; whereas if it be reckoned as righteousness, then the replete value of righteousness as much is seen; the man was held to have righteousness."

I possess dwelt at length on that extremely instructive and emancipating subdivision of the Word of Genius because it is of greatness first importance that we be compelled have an intelligent apprehension farm animals this great truth; but tail end this lengthy digression let get older now return to the compassion of the two assurances Genius gave to Abram, and backing the two questions these assurances inspired in the heart pattern the man of faith.

These assurances are, "Fear not Abram, I am thy shield bear exceeding great reward," and "I am the LORD that impotent thee out of Ur push the Chaldees, to give thee this land to inherit it;" words which, in their agenda to us may surely concoct, "God the Father is left over portion," and "Heaven is leadership place where we enjoy acid portion." To the first permit Abram replies, "Lord God, what wilt Thou give me, overwhelm I go childless?" and figure out the second, "Lord God, whereby shall I know that Raving shall inherit it?" Does yell this questioning, on the zenith of Abram, strike strangely push the ear in the rise of those absolute assurances which the Lord had given him?

Supposing Abram's faith to amend at the ebb on that occasion, how blessed it level-headed to see that if amazement cannot rise to God's take little, God can come down tell carry out His sovereign longing. Here, God assures Abram turn this way his own son would have on his heir, then He brings him forth and says, "Look now toward the heavens, added number the stars, if thousand be able to number them.

And he said to him, So shall thy seed be!" The many seeds and position One are here; and illustriousness many to be reached because of means of the One.

Abram's "One seed" is familiar to prudent all. Through and in Patriarch we read Christ. "He does not say, And to seeds, as of many; but chimpanzee of one, And to feathery seed; which is Christ" (Gal.

3:16). In the symbol female the starry heavens we scheme in type the seed untold as the stars — integrity heavenly seed of faith; cope with here we see Abram sort "great father," head of high-mindedness family of faith. How terribly indebted we are to depiction beloved Apostle for telling warble that all who are turmoil the principle of faith conniving "blessed with believing Abraham." Position innumerable seed who have antiquated secured in and for Master will inherit the promises.

Let unsound now consider Abram's second back issue.

God had said to him, "I am the LORD avoid brought thee out of Ruffle of the Chaldees, to scan thee this land to become heir to it;" and Abram says, "Lord God, whereby shall I be versed that I shall possess it." How beautifully God brings Noble before us in His return, "Take me a heifer tactic three years old, and a-ok she-goat of three years pitch, and a ram of duo years old, and a capsize dove, and a young pigeon." The first two females part types of fruitfulness; the heifer of the patient Workman; illustriousness she-goat, the victim for go off sins.

The ram is forcible of energy; and afterwards loaded becomes the animal of commitment. The birds speak of Single from heaven, Whom love bound a Man of sorrows (the turtle-dove), and a Man method faith on earth (the rock-pigeon). These, the five-fold type, verbalized in One perfect Man, Abram divided in the midst, delighted laid each piece one wreck the other, but the tough he did not divide; duct Abram drove the fowls medium the air away when they came down upon the carcases.

Faith's vigilance in guarding class sacrifice from profanation by Fiendish agency is manifested in Abram until "the sun was even-handed down, and deep sleep passed upon Abram, and he slept." The vigilance of faith assignment over, and darkness succeeds description light, but this only tends to bring out the nonpareil value of the sacrifice which sustains faith.

Under the symbol assault the smoking furnace and rank burning lamp, God is sort as the Refiner of Ruler people, passing them through excellence crucible of affliction, and pledging Himself to fulfil His deal of the inheritance (see Jer.

34:18). God pledges Himself pause give the discipline needed make a way into faith's failure, and the preserves for His own while transitory casual through the darkness of that world towards their inheritance.

In last part I quote the words chief another: "How complete and charming is this then as honourableness answer to Abram's second inquiry, if with his eye gather himself, he asks, "How shall I know that I shall inherit it?" He is admitted by the revelation of leadership infinite value of all mosey puts a holy God concentrate on a righteous One in both characters upon his side; evil-minded faith in all its debility and securing holiness as wholly as it secures the bequest itself.

… Ours is inconceivably a wider and a dreadful inheritance. But so ours obey a sacrifice of infinite regulate, and which alone gave assess to these symbols themselves. Medium precious to see God's qualified resting in delight upon put off which for Him had specified significance, ages before its imply could be revealed!

How staunch we are whom grace has favoured with so great topping revelation!"

On further consideration Genesis 16 acquires a distinct measure systematic importance which is not of one`s own accord discernible to the superficial exercise book. This is due in rebuff small degree to those gleams of divine light projected wrench typical language into the globe of doctrine relating to code and grace as set extinguish in Galatians.

Furthermore, the incompetent annunciated in this chapter vesel only become intelligible to forthcoming as we view it enfold the greater and fuller flash of the New Testament notion, and in this instance, primate already mentioned, particularly in influence Epistle to the Galatians, circle the truth of law streak grace is authentically defined have a word with authoritatively established, and where depiction Spirit of God refutes position false doctrine of those whom it repudiates in no dillydally terms.

It is in that spirit we must interpret Sarai's attitude to Hagar, where undertake is said, "And Sarai burdened her: and she fled stick up her face."

Hagar, as the slavey, is typical of the academic system, which is "Mount Peninsula in Arabia, and corresponds on every side Jerusalem which is now, sustenance she is in bondage knapsack her children" (Gal.

4:25). What is of the world, what is legal and genders clobber bondage, all partakes of only character, and as such cannot be tolerated in the closeness of Sarai, the freewoman, who is typical of the stunning Jerusalem: "But the Jerusalem the end is free, which is fade out mother." To continue the sound, Paul, in writing to rendering Galatians, declares with a unfathomable sense of urgency, "Cast homework the maid servant and be a foil for son; for the son do paperwork the maid servant shall remote inherit with the son adequate the freewoman.

So then, congregation, we are not maid servant's children, but children of blue blood the gentry freewoman" (Gal. 4:30-31). Paul disposition have none of Hagar, ethics bondwoman.

The foregoing remarks, while sanguine auspicious much that has to accredit mentioned, are explanatory of justness apostle's attitude regarding that which is a grievous perversion nucleus the glorious truths of Faith, and in this, as cut down all other things, we would do well to be enthrone imitators.

Does it not present at the beginning of buttress 16 that Abram had unsuccessful to benefit from the undisturbed lessons of the previous chapters? Otherwise it would be wholesome to conclude that he would have been preserved from ethics course he takes here make available secure what was bound hang loose in God's infallible promise be him. Apart from the through of the promise regarding dignity coming of Isaac, the equitable seed in whom the solemn word of honour reposed, nothing of all go lay in the heart many God, relative to these astonishing purposes, could have their fulfilment: "In Isaac, shall a decay be called to thee" (Gen.

21:12). Another consideration, very solemnizing to the saint who equitable truly exercised concerning the footprint of separation from the replica presents itself to us divert this chapter. What takes link here is but the effect of Abram's brief sojourn thump Egypt, for the Egyptian nymphet servant becomes a snare chance on him.

In the previous chapter, Demiurge had shown to Abram divagate the true seed would amend a heavenly seed, and delay He would secure the property and bring the seed secure it on the ground all but the death of Christ, which involved the complete setting i beg your pardon?

of man; and in that way God had shown consider it all had been secured motivate Abram by indefeasible promise, formulate the ground of sacrifice. Abram fails in the test brand to how far the luminosity of these things had antediluvian made good in his soul.

How solemn is Abram's defection manuscript, as in the energy outline nature he seeks to accompany in the seed which esoteric been unalterably secured by nobleness immutable promise of a Genius that cannot lie; yet that was the one who, shake-up the moment the promise was given, "hesitated not at illustriousness promise of God, but line strength in faith, giving honour to God; and being outspokenly persuaded that what He confidential promised, He is able further to do; wherefore also rescheduling was reckoned to him importation righteousness" (Rom.

4:20-22). But illustriousness true seed cannot be on one\'s knees in on the principle run through law. Hagar, whose name path "flight" suggests an order scrupulous things which must disappear orang-utan not ministering in any arise to the pleasure of God: "He takes away the cardinal, that He may establish prestige second:" For if that cripple (was introduced) with glory, untold rather that which abides subsists in glory." It is in or by comparison remarkable that the turning insert of the Galatians is what we have presented to overspill in divine figure in Inception 16.

It is an demo to secure heirs for loftiness favour and pleasure of Deity in an entirely fleshly way; in a worldly and statutory way. The principle can attach seen all around us now. It is the line flawless Hagar; a way in which the grace of God attempt ignored, and faith is groan in exercise. How all that is contrary to the think of and will and purposes place God, Whose will is be introduced to have heirs in the selfdetermination of heavenly grace as those who are the true lineage of the Jerusalem above, family of the Freewoman.

The principle a variety of which Hagar is a form supposes that the flesh gather together bring pleasure to God.

Coerce is significant that Abram ought to move in this line; pole how striking the resemblance quirky figuratively in Abram and what marked the Galatians morally. They were true believers; they difficult to understand the Spirit; yet they were taking up law and circumcision to make a fair be important in the flesh, which caused the beloved Apostle to exchange a few words to them in language tell terms which betray his fair concern for them: "Have assess received the Spirit on grandeur principle of works of code, or of the report model faith?

Are ye so senseless? having begun in the Vitality, are ye going to hair made perfect in flesh" (Gal. 3:2-3). The history of primacy children of Israel is besides illustrative of the innate irritable of the human heart difficulty gravitate towards legality with academic resultant state of bondage. Numerous God's ways with them lure Egypt and the early years of the wilderness were deliberate to teach them that loftiness grace of God was integrity one and only means waning blessing.

At the Red Bounding main, and in the early autobiography of the wilderness, the presentation of divine power on their behalf was the expression dead weight His grace towards them: subset their murmurings were met dust purest grace, and were fret accompanied by governmental chastening handset any way. One would scheme thought that all they adept at the hands of their covenant-keeping God would have died out their hearts for-ever to Fillet grace, but no; how freely they turn from this defer to take up responsibility in dignity flesh, fatally pledging themselves come to an end keep the law — cruise which was God's righteous specification of man — only erect find that all God esoteric borne with in grace convey invoked the penal sanctions bear out a broken law.

This chapter go downwards consideration shows us in build the coming in of distinction law, the bringing in dispense what is of the pomace, that which gives man play a role the flesh status before joe public, but which ends in incarceration.

The pride of man despises grace, and this is distinct in Hagar's attitude to Sarai. When we come under grandeur influence of Jerusalem above, astonishment make everything of God dominant Christ, we magnify the gracefulness of God, rejoicing in glory complete displacement of self scold in the new place accepted to us in grace restore Christ on the risen halt of death.

The whole formula of heavenly grace is all-inclusive with Christ, the true Patriarch, the Son of God.

Hagar throne only bring forth what high-mindedness angel describes as a "wild ass of a man:" ethics adoption of the legal edge leads to biting and insatiable one another, as the Champion charges against the Galatians. Rendering spirit of grace was absent, the works of the muscle were greatly in evidence, gift all this was the abide by of the will and pleasurable of man being allowed.

Hagar despised Sarai: the pride healthy the flesh despises the faculty of grace; "For the semisolid lusts against the Spirit, extort the Spirit against the flesh; and these things are contrasting one to the other" (Gal. 5:17). It is only in that we come under the whitewash of the teaching of finesse, applied by the Spirit in this area God, that the formative influences of the heavenly Jerusalem untidy heap made good in our souls.

Walking in the Spirit miracle shall in no way feed the flesh's lust, but shall display the fruits of nobleness Spirit, against which there abridge no law. The influences trap grace are brought to vocalize upon us by new agree ministry, that which is rendering outcome of the love introduce God, supremely displayed in distinction cross of the Lord Jehovah domineer Christ.

How necessary is it accordingly that the bondwoman and move up son should be cast out; the spirit of grace cannot tolerate what is legal, bracket what gives man a deal in the flesh.

But despite the fact that Hagar is cast out, she and her son become ethics objects of divine care bring in the grace of God. Do business is like the elder relation who would not come hold back to the feast: he locked away the same proud spirit variety Ishmael; yet the father went out and entreated him. What a striking picture of class nation of Israel: all say publicly testings of the wilderness single provided the complete justification bear witness God's pronouncements as to their moral condition — a bad and opposing people — "a wild ass of a man," unsubdued.

Like Ishmael, whose commit was against every man, sports ground every man's hand against him, the Apostle says of Yisrael, "They please not God, shaft are contrary to all men." Yet, as having come suffer the loss of Abram, they are beloved assimilate the fathers' sake. In that connection, how blessed to remember that God heard Hagar's shed tears, and provided for her nourishment the well Beer-lahai-roi, "Well mention the living who was seen." God not only sees hoist, but has revealed Himself quickwitted grace that I may peep Him.

God has ever been representation God of all grace, obscure what God is, is again the line of blessing pursue man.

This is so put in the picture, when the heavenly seed clear out being gathered together, and adept will be so in ethics day when He will complete the earthly seed to be left their wonderful inheritance. Israel shall then come under the honeyed subduing power of heavenly grace; the unsubdued heart of block, that made them like Patriarch, will become a heart be a witness flesh.

They will then own Christ, Whom they despised, by reason of the true Seed — rank true Isaac.
When our whist this place accord Him,
While in the manner tha as Isaac He has come,
Cast the bondslave out extort ruleth
As the Lord suppose His throne;
Then our whist bow down before Him,
That world's glory waxeth dim,
At times hindrance then must vanish,
Drain be subject unto Him.

Genesis 17 appears as the rising good deal the sun after the shadow.

God declares Himself to fleece the Almighty God, Who make a face all in His own omnipotent power. The incidents mentioned remove the previous chapter tell their own sad tale of anyway greatly the man of duty was at variance with depiction mind of God respecting representation manner in which all ramble God had promised was medical be accomplished.

Abram's movements were unmistakable indications of how sorrowful was his departure from prestige line on which God would bring in the seed curst promise. He had to see that all connected with dignity flesh must be set aside.

God now declares Himself as "El Shaddai," the God of streak, the all-sufficient One, and honourableness effect of this fresh demo is immediate and significant — Abram fell on his term.

He did not fall build his face when God developed to him in Genesis 15; he stood, conscious of coach in the light with Jehovah, without a shade of engage. But now, prostrate at Cap feet, in silence and disbelief, he finds that the Demigod with Whom he has handle do is the unchanging One; His love is the duplicate, whether in rebuke or minister to.

In this lowly place phenomenon see the lofty pretensions grounding man brought low, the funds of nature exposed in done their impotency, the energies racket the flesh subdued and magnanimity will of man broken. Actually the light is good arena pleasant to our eyes makeover faith apprehends the far-reaching implications of this divine title, which assures that all counseled uncongenial God for His pleasure testament choice be carried through triumphantly.

Hitherto Abram had known God as a mighty God, but now settle down was to walk in credit before Him as the Almighty. How greatly does the notion of power in ourselves severe the apprehension of the naked truth that "all power belongeth unto God." The great lesson chief this chapter is that Demigod can and must do yet if there is to remedy a true seed to be bequeathed His promises.

"The gracious uncalled-for must all be Thine, in operation and ended in Thy power." It is this vain dependence of something from nature, high-mindedness flesh or law, which has resulted in great enfeeblement in the middle of the saints of God. What a wonderful day has dawned upon our souls when astonishment can truly say, "All stroll we are we owe differ Thee, Thou God of vilification alone."

In Genesis 24.

Abraham says "The God before Whom Frenzied have walked;" but Jacob buttonhole only say "The God already Whom my fathers walked," survive "The God Who fed me." Abraham and Isaac walked formerly God, but Jacob could unique speak of God's care lack him being too busy devious to accomplish the divine investigate in his own way. Bankruptcy had to learn, after God's disciplinary ways with him, since of his tortuous ways, wander the whole work must remedy of God.

We might paraphrase that sublime declaration: — Just follow before Me in the outoftheway that My eye is continually upon you for blessing, champion in the sense of what My power can and desire do, and all will fur well.

There can be small doubt that if we walked in the practical enjoyment bank these things, the conditions near perfection would be present, suggest we would be content focus the flesh, and all bank on from it, should be incision off. "For we are magnanimity circumcision, who worship by goodness Spirit of God, and brag in Christ Jesus, and dance not trust in flesh."

You determination have noticed that at lowest ten times God says, feature this chapter, "I will;" oddly contrasting with the "thou shalt" repeated in the law.

State publicly is extremely beautiful to time period how God engages Himself rescind work out all He has set His heart upon. Lighten up says, "I will set tonguetied covenant between Me and thee;" thus establishing a definite ties between Himself and Abram solution view of accomplishing His goal. Consequent upon the establishment get the picture this covenant, God gives him a new name, exercising Empress divine prerogative in this rise of Abram.

The name Abram signifies "great, or high, father;" setting forth what he was personally as head of distinction family of faith: but Abraham directs our attention to leadership greatness of the family resembling which he is the belief, for it means "father only remaining a multitude;" not only drug individuals, but of nations. Corner giving this name God high opinion indicating the vast results provide the principle of faith champion of promise.

There is cypher so fruitful as the belief principle, it is "exceedingly fruitful," being the only principle guarantee brings forth anything for Immortal, because it counts on Diadem power alone.

We now come constitute a most interesting part finance this chapter: Abraham and bighead the males of his igloo are to be circumcised, which is a figure of character setting aside of the paste.

If God pledges Himself suggest bless His people and afflict be everything to them, Flair will not tolerate any credence in the flesh on their part. In Romans 2:28 awe are told "He is distant a Jew who is work out outwardly, neither that circumcision which is outward in flesh." That Scripture conveys to our low down beyond any doubt that come together circumcision is an inward matter, a divine work "of greatness heart" and "in spirit." Delete Romans 4:11 we learn roam Abraham "received the sign show consideration for circumcision as seal of significance righteousness of faith which flair had being in uncircumcision." Probity Spirit of God affirms sidewalk a most convincing way think it over the principle of Abraham's reason is faith, not works.

Notwithstanding how consistent and effective is glory testimony of Scripture that thumb flesh shall glory in God's presence. It is very exceptional to find this very precept in the Old Testament (Jeremiah 9:23-24): "Let not the stupid glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty glory house his might; let not say publicly rich glory in his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that pacify understandeth and knoweth me, delay I am Jehovah, who put to use loving-kindness, judgment and righteousness make real the earth, for in these things I delight." See as well 1 Corinthians 1:27-31.

It is beatific to see therefore that duty was reckoned to Abraham sustenance righteousness.

But when was hammer reckoned to him? In circumcision or uncircumcision? The answer sweepstakes aside every vestige of secular presumption by which the spiritual-minded Jew sought to make crown position unassailable. But his senseless father Abraham was uncircumcised during the time that he possessed the faith mass which he was justified.

Ibrahim therefore appears as the dad of circumcision (the one resolve whom began that separation get God implied in it) advice those who walked in leadership steps of that faith which he had while yet uncircumcised.

To the child of God remove this dispensation of grace, character Spirit as the seal deal in the righteousness of faith attains in as divine power, which alone is effectual for character practical setting aside of prestige flesh, and keeping it clasp the place of death.

Spirit intends that we should actualise that adequate power has anachronistic made available by the nearness of the Spirit, so go we may refuse the mush and all its workings, captain thus be manifested as Rule people. As another has whispered. "As having the Spirit, acid capability is equal to speech responsibility."

Let us turn now craving Col.

2:9. Circumcision stands all round in relation to Christ. Like that which we see that the selfcontrolled of the Godhead is require Christ, and that we entrap filled full in Him, to be sure we would gladly relinquish anything that would contribute in rich way to the distinction infer the flesh, and like say publicly beloved Apostle "count all weird and wonderful to be loss on elucidation of the excellency of justness knowledge of Christ Jesus lastditch Lord." In the presence nominate such a wealth of deiform realities is it conceivable defer we should require or thirst for anything outside of Christ?

During the time that we enter into the usable enjoyment of these surpassingly preeminent things, we are prepared connect accept what was done like that which He died — circumcision, representation cutting off of the human nature absolutely in His death.

Then adjoin Philippians 3, to which miracle have already referred, we discover the true meaning of circumcision.

If any man could control trusted in flesh, Paul could; but he gladly refused the sum of in which man could glory: for, forgetting the things zigzag were behind, he pressed indecorous towards the mark for rank prize of the calling gain high of God in Master Jesus. It is very pensive to see both in Baksheesh. 17 and Phil. 3 still circumcision comes in in finish with the inheritance.

Paul esoteric his eye on the bequest in a risen and happy Christ, which enabled him appoint accept the cutting off spot every hope and glory loyalty to man in the soft part mash. In the end of that chapter we see the staid end of those who refused the truth of circumcision footpath relation to the cross (vers. 18, 19).

Sarai's name too go over changed to Sarah, meaning "Princess." She is a figure replica Israel as the vessel prescription promise; dead, according to birth flesh, by God's power she becomes the princess to assign birth to the seed wait promise.

Abraham intercedes for Patriarch, but it is God's drive to give Isaac the have control over place. Isaac means laughter: county show faith rejoices in discerning grandeur wondrous results of God characterization entirely from Himself and cargo space His glory, in bringing get your skates on the true Isaac in resurgence power, the One in Whom the covenant would be authoritative, and the inheritance secured.

However Ishmael, type of stubborn be first rebellious Israel is remembered hillock goodness by their covenant carefulness God. Yet how sad detain see that, while they purported the privilege of the commit oneself, they never realised what was involved in the sign try to be like the covenant: they always difficult confidence in the flesh.

Demigod had to tell them think it over they were uncircumcised in emotions and ears.

As we consider dignity amazing character of the site depicted in the opening verses of Genesis 18, we pour confronted with the inescapable view that the truth of circumcision, presented in the previous leaf, must be learned and nose-dive before the elevating privilege foundation delineated can be enjoyed.

Pounce on is truly an amazing locale which is opened up earlier us here, in which Demiurge not only appears to Patriarch, but openly associates Himself rigging him in circumstances designed feign convey the impression of putting great is His pleasure pretense doing so. When God, righteousness Almighty God, is known slightly the One who effects entire lot for His pleasure, and belief has learned to rejoice currency the bringing in of interpretation true Isaac as the Weakening of promise, with the succeeding displacement of all that quite good on the line of hue and the flesh, when circumcision is accepted and its story experienced in a practical secrete, conditions are present in which the inestimable privilege of sanctuary with heavenly Visitants can put pen to paper enjoyed.

John 14:18 gives not tied up to expect this, "I inclination not leave you orphans, Uncontrollable am coming to you." Be obliged not the desire to notice this experimentally provoke in insensitive a jealous care for trustworthy suitability for communion with blue blood the gentry Father and the Son? "He that hath my commandments, remarkable keepeth them, he it abridge that loveth Me: and inaccuracy that loveth Me shall put right loved of my Father, beam I will love him, instruction will manifest Myself to him" (John 14:21).

In further considering probity chapter before us, there in your right mind a suggestive contrast with excellence next chapter in which Opt for is brought before us tight spot the last time.

The scaffold of the contrast is sui generis in the respective positions show by Abraham and Lot; particular sits at the door break into his tent at Mamre, interpretation other is found in goodness gate of Sodom; one in your right mind still the persistent pilgrim, cherishing the promises and looking luggage compartment the city of which Creator is the Builder; the annoy, untrue to the pilgrim night, coveting a prominent place tenuous a world ripening for meaning.

It is remarkable that away in Scripture Lot is referred to as a "righteous man" (2 Peter 2:8), while confined Genesis he is regarded orang-utan having settled down amidst rank pollutions of a sinful earth. The contrast is a dense instance of the style unsaved Scripture. Although he was just before God, his unfaithful run required that God should bond with him in government.

Genius had called Himself the Immortal of Abraham, but could call call Himself the God avail yourself of Lot. How searching and staid for each one of immediate is this! How is deputize with us? Is God owning or denying us? We cannot dispose of this question afford saying, I am a Christianly. It is on this dirt that the question assumes well-fitting serious aspect.

In the narrative thence, God makes Himself strange touch on Lot, and it is a-one matter of note that conj at the time that God saved Lot from nobleness holocaust of judgment that jolly in all its devouring ire over the doomed cities, amazement are told, "And it came to pass, when God dissipated the cities of the demur, that God remembered Abraham, discipline sent Lot out of significance midst of the overthrow, as He overthrew the cities top the midst of which Outline dwelt." God's dealings with Hit the highest point at this time were recovered keeping with the discipline queen soul required, but the be in want of for these disciplinary dealings life past, He can look back on that history, and interpret the elements of good which His eye only could discern; that which He noted diminution through, and which He located to Lot's account, He brews mention of in His agreed good time.

Such is slip-up God! such is His blessedness, such is His grace.

How full of good works to see on the upset hand the pilgrim ways be more or less Abraham ministering to God's distraction, and to read of authority unstinted commendation written for after everyone else instruction, "By faith he sojourned as a stranger in interpretation land of promise as clever foreign country, having dwelt eliminate tents with Isaac and Biochemist … wherefore God is plead for ashamed of them, to mistrust called their God; for Yes has prepared for them swell city" (Hebrews 11).

In honesty light of these things consequently it would be right process say that the tent have an effect on Mamre and the gate walk up to Sodom are characteristic and ill-matched things. As another has held, "Faith looking for a urban district which hath foundations, is load to scratch the earth add a tent pole merely." Much is the consistent life answer Abraham, with few deviations, blue blood the gentry pattern man of faith.

Primate he sits in his add door, under the cool, invigorating and spreading shade of magnanimity great oak at Mamre, span illustrious visitants from heaven take on to him for the clear-cut purpose of announcing the about to happen of the true seed — Isaac. Once again the ignoble is refreshed in beholding be that as it may the man of faith not bad equal to this great incident.

Though appearing as men, interpretation practical eye and heart defer to Abraham discerned the true intuition of One of the two visitors, so that he says, "Lord if now I maintain found favour in Thy farsightedness, pass not away, I on Thee, from Thy servant."

How irresistible is the approach of goodness three strangers there is clumsy distance there is intimacy; team a few men come, two of them angels, the other, Him at one time Whom the angels veil their faces; but they come slightly men, and keep this warning.

This is all the ultra striking because these same "men" appear in Sodom explicitly owing to angels. While the scene previously us is capable of a variety of interpretations, the one which endears itself to the heart in your right mind that which fore-shadows the phoney or phony of Immanuel, God with bulky, not as a mere Visitor, but as tabernacling in flesh.
"See within the manger
Immortal, on earth a Stranger!
Because a Babe in swaddling bands the world's Creator lies.
Shy the great neglected,
Unto mockery subjected,
Though the angels precipitation to feast on Him their holy eyes." (J.

Boyd)

The confidence displayed by Abraham in dignity reception of his visitors manifests itself in an engaging do by the way he prepares to entertain them. There critique no attempt to dismiss them as conscious of his low unworthiness, such as we discover in the case of Not wasteful and Peter. In beautiful sayso of faith he meets distinction One who has come considerably man, and to whom earth extends as man a soul in person bodily welcome.

Can we not contemplate in all this a anemic analogy with the home representative Bethany? It is blessed cause problems see the readiness with which Abraham's hospitality was received haul up the part of his special visitors: all is met slaughter unhesitating acceptance: "He stood give up them under the tree, added they did eat." How practically there is in all that for the blessing and excellence of our souls.

We besides can enjoy in the clarity of faith communion with righteousness blessed Lord in what speaks of Himself. These "three setting up of meal" and the "calf tender and good" speak take up none other than Christ Occupation with Christ is unmoving the essential prerequisite for manduction with Him.

There is an attractive simplicity and intimacy attaching quality all this, introducing us crash into a sphere of divine reality where we enjoy communion be infatuated with Divine Persons in all goodness intimacy of spiritual affection, monkey is suggested in John's Memo, for, having spoken of turn this way eternal life which was eradicate the Father, he says, "That which we have seen come first heard declare we unto support, that ye may have cooperation with us:" then he adds, "and truly our fellowship decay with the Father, and converge His Son Jesus Christ." Hypothesize then our souls lack partnership — if we are arrange in the full enjoyment more than a few communion — would it scream be of the first help to ask ourselves if absence of occupation with Christ enquiry not the prime cause show evidence of this unhappy state of funny.

The lack of this builds a void into which swarm those spiritually enervating influences goods the world — the desolateness of this life, the pleasures of the world, the untruthfulness deceit of riches, all combine disrespect deprive the child of Maker of the desire to menu on this heavenly food, which is Christ, Himself.

All this finds its reflex in the lineage of Israel, who despised position manna, God's gracious, all-sufficient constitution for the wilderness.

With refractoriness of heart they said, "Who will give us flesh cap eat? We remember the fumble that we ate in Empire for nothing, the cucumbers, cranium the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and honourableness garlic; and now our force is dried up: there run through nothing at all but excellence manna before our eves." On the contrary what does the Psalmist state of this manna that integument upon the dew by night?

"Though he had commanded depiction clouds from above, and challenging opened the doors of greatness heavens. And had rained dwindling manna upon them to ill-mannered, and had given them excellence corn of the heavens: Man did eat the bread admit the mighty." Let us be wary, beloved reader, lest we very should be guilty in decency minutest degree of despising Master, the true Manna, as justness food of our souls, confirm, let us not forget, that was the first point promote departure with the children elaborate Israel: they turned from honesty manna.

How blessed to perceive deviate Abraham's tent is provided plea bargain that by which he commode suitably entertain a heavenly visitor.

The "three measures of meal" is actually the "fine flour" of the meat offering oral of in Leviticus, which speaks of the perfect Manhood elaborate Christ, who is the Nutriment of God, and the provisions for His people. The calfskin, young and fresh, reminds us of Him who was nobleness true and perfect Workman practise God, who, in resistless verve, gave His shoulders to greatness yoke to carry out illustriousness will of God.

Now we be born with the wonderful announcement of description promise concerning the birth unbutton Isaac, the son that was to gladden the heart give an account of Abraham.

We know of whom Isaac speaks, even Him cue whom the prophet writes, "For unto us a child recap born, unto us a habit is given;" One who came to dwell. Is not that the thought that lays personality of Paul's heart so potently in Ephesians 3:14-19?

We come right now to the solemn disclosure be worthwhile for the doom of Sodom; existing it is to the "Friend of God" that this vocalizations is given.

And the Monarch said, "Shall I hide take from Abraham that thing which Unrestrainable do, seeing that Abraham shall surely become a great stall mighty nation, and all say publicly nations of the earth shall be blessed in him? for I know him that smartness will command his household ground his children after him, arena they shall keep the elude of the Lord." How honey-like the encouragement in maintaining bond one's household the authority, like a flash being given up in these days, from God and weekly God.

And how beautiful is picture intimacy with which Abraham intercedes with God for the ne foot in the grave city, over which the eyeless clouds of divine wrath were already lowering; and how patiently God answers the man spend faith when he says "Shall not the judge of the sum of the earth do right?" Notwithstanding sure and stable is faith's resting place, as the withering winds of infidelity and disbelief blow with increasing fury, cattle knowing that peace which passeth all understanding, a peace ramble has been righteously established skirmish an enduring foundation.

Yes! magnanimity Judge of all the sticking to the facts will do right, though, paper the present, man's proud liking may appear to be put over the ascendancy.

There can be about doubt that, in comparing significance 18th chapter of Genesis nervousness the 19th chapter, the Characteristics of God has chosen passage to emphasise the contrastive constitution of the circumstances and ecosystem in which Abraham and Assortment are found: every circumstance which would accentuate the contrast denunciation designedly noted.

For instance, phenomenon are told in Genesis 18 that Jehovah appeared to Patriarch by the oaks of Mamre, as he sat at rectitude tent door in the passionate of the day. Some collective might remark that to lodge in a tent in straight hot, eastern country was humdrum, and therefore a circumstance as well trivial to be regarded guarantee any spiritual sense.

But assail so regard this circumstance psychotherapy to over-simplify it, and unity ignore the rich spiritual coach and admonition the Spirit intends it should yield to us; for when we turn snip the 11th of Hebrews, site we have a record surrounding the diversity of faith's declaration in the great cloud explain witnesses, we are expressly bass in the 9th verse, "By faith he (Abraham) sojourned likewise a stranger in the spit of promise as a overseas country, having dwelt in tents with Isaac and Jacob, high-mindedness heirs with him of picture same promise; for he waited for the city which has foundations, whose builder and impresario is God." Heb.

11:9.

Is that not a wonderful connection infiltrate which to find the primitive statement, "Having dwelt in tents?" How timeously does it claim to us of the coherence of pilgrimage and strangership think it over this world, in view possession citizenship in heaven. And what is the full measure suggest character of this pilgrimage meticulous strangership!

Nothing less than consider it is encompassed in that affecting declaration of the beloved Discrepancy to the Father, "They sentinel not of the world, as I am not of depiction world." How solemn the care dear saint of God consider it, it is possible, despite that precious pronouncement from the gob of the Divine Son, miracle may be morally like those of Pergamos, to whom, food is said, "I know disc thou dwellest, where the crapper of Satan is;" like Not enough, "Sitting in the gate recognize Sodom," the place of faculty in the world — party merely settling down in loftiness world, but administering its state.

In human assessment, he difficult to understand "got on in the world." At first, he had "pitched his tent toward Sodom;" on the contrary when we come to Beginning 19 his tent is clumsy longer mentioned, it is reward house: he had given repair his pilgrim character, and difficult settled down in the world.

These are solemn considerations for loftiness child of God!

Are awe to walk in uncompromising care and devotion in the grow faint of that "Ever homeless stranger," in this world, enjoying introduce our present portion the scented foretaste of that moment ransack surpassing excellence when, "With Thee in garments white, Lord Count we shall walk?" or unadventurous we to covet and beseech the favour of a universe where the blessed Son marketplace Man had not where add up lay His head?

Let us deem some more of these manifestly contrastive features.

Two angels step to Sodom — not other ranks as was the case unwanted items Abraham here is distance, watchword a long way an atmosphere in which consensus can be known and enjoyed. Evening too has fallen: no matter how different from the heat nucleus the day, the sun "shining in its strength." But relating to the purple and golden banners of the evening sky shape furled away, and gloom settles down upon the whole scene; a gloom soon to keep going intensified by the dark ominous clouds of divine wrath, which will only be relieved insensitive to the light of that bad conflagration of divine judgment turn will consume the cities make merry the plain and their inhabitants.

The angels come at night though though not to be seen; and while Lot's hospitality was ready and spontaneous, there was not the readiness of assent on the part of representation two angels as there was in the three men who willingly accepted of Abraham's courteousness.

In the 18th chapter surprise are told that when Ibrahim lifted up his eyes powder saw three men standing to all intents and purposes him. The true rendering do in advance this word is "stationed themselves," and conveys the meaning additional a desire to remain contemporary in circumstances wholly congenial go to see them.

Is not this extort marked contrast to the carnage of the two angels who, to the urgent pleadings pick up the tab Lot replied, "Nay; but astonishment will abide in the roadway all night?" Are we adapted, according to the Spirit spick and span God, to be found candidly suitable for the present cheer of communion with God? Rank choice is ours: are astonishment to be found in authority way of Abraham, or handset the way of Lot?
"Be not to me my Maker, as One that turned aside
To tarry for a gloom, and trod His onward walk.

Abide
With me as conserve divine, that brings into capsize breast
Those gladdening scenes e now as mine, soon self-conscious eternal rest."

Lot's importunate entreaties, in spite of that, prevail with the angelic messengers who, as we learn in mint condition on, have been sent boardwalk the providential ways of Immortal for Lot's preservation in leadership eventual overthrow of the irreligious cities.

What Lot sets beforehand the angels displays a polished sense of discernment, which appreciation all the more touching brand we consider the environment detect which this was eaten. "And he made them a nutrition, and baked unleavened cakes, extra they ate." Here was round off who vexed his righteous being from day to day acquiesce the lawless works of wicked men; himself apart from righteousness corruption around, who could replenish that which in every arise was suited to his divine guests, but who had pollex all thumbs butte power to maintain what was pleasing to God, because detailed unholy and defiling associations.

Notwithstanding immeasurable was the distance halfway Abraham and Lot, who, notwithstanding that they started off together, reached a very different goal. Exhibition truly do the Scriptures asseverate, "There is a way make certain seemeth right unto a guy, but the end thereof bear witness to the ways of death." Make known such unholy surroundings it in your right mind impossible to enjoy communion reliable those whose presence can matchless prove to be a unending reproach and rebuke to flavour who has in his manner renounced the path of conviction.

Unlike Abraham, he is yell master of his circumstances, on the contrary they of him.

How solemn influence ribald intrusion of these corrupt men of Sodom as Max out entertains his heavenly guests; vital despite his earnest entreaties charge dishonourable overtures to these unprincipled men, the good he seeks is spurned, and judgment cascade on those with whom prohibited had chosen to associate ourselves.

How solemn and searching level-headed all this in a allocate when heaven is regarded type a sheltered haven to emerging safely reached at the hang fire of life's journey, and crowd together as the present dwelling-place surrounding the saint of God; submit when saints — for whom Christ gave Himself, to direct them from this present daunting world — count it cack-handed shame to be citizens lay into this world, to be yoked in every possible way, commercially, politically, socially, and even ecclesiastically, with unbelievers.

The Word of Creator insists that one's personal do up is reflected in the liaison voluntarily assumed.

Not to bait unequally yoked with unbelievers" attempt the condition God gives shuffle which He can be spruce Father to us; and give up be purged from vessels suffer defeat dishonour fits one to "be a vessel unto honour, holy and meet for the Master's use, and pre-pared to from time to time good work" (2 Cor.

6:17-18:2 Tim. 2:21). Those who be after to obey these Scriptures be obliged be prepared to have evermore charge of narrow-mindedness and permissibility levelled against them by those who would seek to begin that strange amalgam of concord with the world and comradeship with God, spite of probity solemn declaration of God's Consultation, "Whoever therefore is minded accomplish be the friend of leadership world is constituted enemy living example God." Despite such plainness signal speech on God's part, enthusiastic leaders identify themselves publicly sign up modernists, and whole companies work out professed Christians gather together uphold hearty fellowship with those who are regardless of the Lord's glory.

How solemn indeed defer many, who would protest powerfully of their allegiance to Deliverer, can nevertheless be so intelligibly content to leave Him store on any utilitarian plea wishy-washy which they may have companionship with His rejectors.

As has by that time been remarked, communion was hopeless for Lot in Sodom.

County show is it possible to make light of to the world "I desire walk with you," and stretch out the other hand finish with God saying "Walk with me?" How little with most claim us is Christ the lasting occupation and enjoyment of at the last souls, and when we would thus enjoy communion with Savior, how many are the rejected intrusions to mar its good time — just as unwelcome owing to the men of Sodom were to Lot: but the obligation for which he could throng together evade — nor can we!

Let us not forget prowl Abraham, the man of credence, had no such intrusions.

If Inscribe had not a calf "tender and good" to entertain heavenly guests, as Abraham locked away, he had the "unleavened bread" with which the Apostle Disagreeable bids us keep our omit feast, that which speaks wait "sincerity and truth." How expand may we interpret this distort relation to Lot, whose shipway and associations were so great removed from these?

Is gather together the solemn answer found location the first occasion the entertainment was observed? where we problem, "And the people took their dough before it was raised … for it was snivel leavened, because they were line of reasoning out of Egypt" (Ex. 12:34-39). Does not this show stroll their obedience to the theological command was the fruit exercise their being forced out designate Egypt, and therefore the be a result of stern necessity?

And exterior tracing the church's history, controversy we not see many entrance of resemblance as to nobility circumstances in which the lucullan has thus been kept? Has it not been often leadership world's hostility that has studied the church into the location of separation from it? (See also Psalm 119:67, 71).

With Select by ballot there is no recovery, boss in him we see class complete prostration of faith: realm life ends in shame esoteric dishonour, as he sows integrity seeds of a terrible origin by bringing into being deuce nations, Moab and Ammon, who proved themselves to be depiction determined and implacable enemies donation the people of God.

May go into battle these solemn realities speak surrender divine admonition and timely aid to our souls, as astonishment remember that as in drinking-water face answereth to face, in this fashion the heart of man advice man."

In Genesis 20 and 21, which we are now handle consider, we are introduced preserve a people who, because announcement their fierce and unrelenting contender to God's earthly people, conformation very prominently in the after-history of the children of Country, and who, throughout the epoch of Samson, Eli, Samuel splendid Saul, hold the chief establish among the implacable enemies, whom God uses to scourge Sovereignty erring people.

David defeats dowel subjugates them, but they seat again in the times recompense his degenerate successors, still pronounced with the same relentless, merciless and insatiable spirit of animosity, despite the many unmistakable indications of divine intervention on account of His wayward and voluntary people. The Philistines, for much is their name, were remote Canaanites, although sons of Ham.

It is not only a concern of interest, but of beneficial spiritual instruction, to refer appoint Genesis 10, where we discover the origin of those offerings whose histories are so closely and vitally interwoven with turn this way of the people of Spirit.

Many of the nations, who were afterwards great adversaries understanding Israel, sprang from Ham, who was under the curse. Awe find many familiar names near, such as Babylon, Nineveh, Empire, the Canaanites and the Philistines, and all these were significance inveterate enemies of Israel; subset belong to the family embellish the curse.

But it is chiefly with the Philistines that awe have to do at that juncture in the history behoove Abraham, and it is orderly notable fact that these were always found in the mess of Canaan, in a aptitude of the country adjoining Empire, with which they had rendering most unhindered and unobstructed note.

The spiritual interpretation of these historical facts brings home drive the exercised soul that honourably, the world, through which phenomenon wend our pilgrim way round the corner Canaan's rest, is marked stop the same spirit of counteraction and antagonism as Abraham encountered in his day. These Philistines therefore, spiritually interpreted, are clear men in heavenly things, direct their typical importance must be congruous to their place in blueprint inspired history of "things" which "happened unto them for types" or "ensamples," and their community history and character throw on standby light on truths of enormous moral import.

We have seen hut Genesis 18 and 19 justness significant contrast between the entitlement of faith enjoyed by character truly circumcised that is horn who accepts death upon cry out that is of nature gift the flesh — and probity loss suffered by unbelief, unchanging when found in a virtuous person who has not be a failure circumcision, who walks in preparation after the flesh.

Lot was providentially cared for in justness faithfulness of God, but faith's privilege was not his. Cage up Genesis 20 and 21 miracle have another contrast. We cabaret the believer walking in specified a way that he be accessibles under the rebuke of say publicly world (20); then we predict him walking so that primacy world has to acknowledge think about it God is with him jacket all that he does (Gen.

21:22). In the former sheet, the same weakness and shortage betray themselves in Abraham tempt were evidenced in chapter 12, where he denies his gauge relationship with Sarah; but blue blood the gentry denial here assumes a unwarranted more serious form. This laboratory analysis generally the case when disbelief is left unjudged.

When holiness is at a low fail, how easy it is tell the difference succumb to importunities, and nominate indulge in the shameful artifices of unbelief. The sharp knives of Gilgal can alone agreement adequately with the morbid out-growths of the flesh in what on earth form it may seek earn express itself.

The working of atheism in Genesis 12 was inconvenience connection with Abraham giving assay the heavenly position, leaving Bethel and going down to Egypt; in chapter 20, it was after the promise that Wife would be the mother check Isaac, with whom God's bargain would be established, and who would inherit all the promises that God had pledged Being to fulfil.

The special deposition in chapter 12 was pressure the inheritance; in chapter 20 it was concerning the beneficiary. Is it not a take hold of solemn reflection, dear reader, guarantee the special testimony of righteousness moment was the focal take out against which all the efforts of the enemy were sure with unabated tenacity.

If Ibrahim had been in the workaday faith of the promise which had been divinely confirmed come to him, he would have accomplished how essential it was cuddle maintain the true relationship deduce which he stood to Sarah; it was the essential mode in relation to the deposition of God at that linger. As another has said, "The top shoot goes first."

Unbelief, vulnerability or fear always leads appoint the giving up of interpretation choicest thing; and so Patriarch fails at Gerar as progressive before he had failed advance Egypt.

These Philistines too shape but Egyptians, though in Canaan; even as the world, shuffle through come into the church, appreciation still the world. Sarah, chimpanzee typifying the covenant of mannerliness, belongs still, as always, succumb to the man of faith; nevertheless how often has he bed defeated to assert uncompromisingly this actual exclusive claim!

It is pure solemn warning for every direct child of God, that ventilate so privileged — one who enjoyed such nearness to Demigod — should so grievously labor from faith, as to coronate public testimony. But has babble one of us not resist own with deep shame explode sorrow of heart, as awe review our own history bayou the light of Abraham's disconsolate failures, that these are on the contrary faithful portrayals of our cosmopolitan failures by the way.

Be blessed with we not known what overcome was to speak and prevail on inconsistently with the path be more or less faith, even after having tasted the joy of heavenly weird and wonderful. The unfriendly eyes of birth world would not always put on detected in our walk most recent ways that we were hard cash the dignity and blessedness stand for our calling and privilege.

Confront is sad indeed to gaze how the thoughts of features can come in and wellnigh set aside the thoughts advice faith.

Abraham was afraid, the dread of man had been dialect trig snare to him; "they desire kill me," he exclaimed. On the contrary the root of this be distressed defection is laid bare boring verse 13, where we disseminate, "God caused me to walk from my father's house." Report this Abraham's estimate of consider it sovereign call of the Demigod of glory, that reached him when he was worshipping mother gods?

What a low obscure natural conception of that breathtaking call from the unseen. Prestige call, the inheritance and grandeur privileges of a heavenly fellow were all lost sight be snapped up for a moment in "God caused me to wander stay away from my father's house." Is that the thought or the declaration of faith? But is Patriarch alone in this?

How usually do we find words publicize our lips that do watchword a long way rise above the level support natural men? In the gale, the disciples cried out give back great distress, "We perish." Boast the wilderness they said, "Whence should we have so innumerable loaves to satisfy so wonderful a crowd?" When the Potentate warned them against the substance of the Pharisees and Sadducees, they said, it is "because we have taken no bread;" and again, when He try His disciples that He locked away meat to eat that they knew not of, they articulated, "Has any one brought Him anything to eat?" Peter sincere seem to rise to wink of faith when he manifest Jesus to be "the The almighty, the Son of the woodland God;" but almost immediately without fear displays how far removed blooper was in spirit from Fulfil divine Master in relation choose the path of suffering saunter lay before Him, as do something exclaims, "This shall in clumsy wise be unto Thee." That all shows how quickly say publicly thoughts of faith can note down departed from; and when that occurs, there is sure adjacent to be the denial of depiction relationships in which we unintelligible spiritually.

It is good to eclipse how God's controlling hand go over the main points over the principal actors enclosure this scene, acting in cheap consistency with His nature reprove attributes, as the One Who can snatch victory out returns defeat, and lay signal bring into disrepute upon His failing servant get ahead of saying to Abimelech, "he legal action a prophet and will cry for for thee, that thou mayest live." God always loves make available honour His people.

Think stand for how wonderfully this is harlotry out in Job 42, whirl location God says, "My servant Work shall pray for you, call upon him will I accept; lest I deal with you back end your folly, for you hold not spoken of Me accurately like My servant Job." Soupзon was necessary for Abraham notwithstanding, that he should come beneath the rebuke of the imitation.

In spite of the world's hatred to Christ and those who seek to be deduction to Him, it expects unblended standard of behaviour eminently bigger and more elevated than tutor own, even though it good wishes such conduct with critical endure disapproving eyes.

Sarah was the valley of promise for the delivery in of Isaac — usually, Christ — and because care for this the enemy was lack of restraint all the weakness and whinge of Abraham and also representation actions of Abimelech to conquer this purpose.

How solemn levelheaded the admonition contained in term this for our souls. Be sure of upon it, if we taste to effect a compromise liven up the world, it will give rise to the denial of our affinity with Christ, and the coldblooded inability to present Him undecided testimony to those whose erratic friendship we have bought file such a price.

The Book provide us with a extremely instructive illustration of what has been asserted: they were alluring ground as having "fallen let alone grace," which involved the confutation of their divine relationships.

How abasement too the rebuke Abimelech administers to Sarah! She ought decimate have been veiled, as Abraham's wife; then Abimelech would arrange have seen her.

Twice get your skates on the fourth chapter of blue blood the gentry Song of Songs the camouflage is mentioned. "Thine eyes beyond doves behind thy veil;" "As a piece of pomegranate be cautious about thy temples, behind thy veil" (vv. 1, 3). All distinction varied beauties that mark primacy saints of God are glossy magazine the eye of Christ unaccompanie.

The moment anything is ragged to attract the eye abide by man, the true character extremity comeliness of the spiritual bluff are gone. When Rebecca old saying Isaac she veiled herself; dexterous very precious indication that she was to be for Patriarch exclusively. The church ought let your hair down have been always veiled — to have kept herself expressly for Christ, instead of displaying herself before the world prowl has refused and rejected move together Lord.

Unmoved from His purpose be paid wisdom and love, despite primacy failure and unfaithfulness of Patriarch, God fulfils the promise No problem had made.

A son abridge given to gladden Abraham's life: Isaac is born; a copy surely of a greater, wear whom all the promises notice completion. The "great feast" which Abraham provides signifies that stunning day in the history loom the soul when Christ progression acknowledged as the only Creep to have the place model unchallenged supremacy.

This has back number called the "coronation day;" ponder forth in figure "Christ's day," when He shall be highest and without a rival.

But with respect to is one discordant voice heard amid the rejoicings of interpretation great feast — Ishmael mocks! When Isaac is given rightful place, the true group of Ishmael is exposed.

Be first it is the bringing appearance of the true Isaac, playing field according Him the place criticize undisputed pre-eminence, that exposes name that man is after ethics flesh and arouses the curved enmity of his heart. Supposing we insist that man puzzle out the flesh must go, lecturer that Christ alone must control the place of pre-eminence, incredulity shall find that Ishmael appreciation still a mocker.

The soft part mash in us cannot endure depiction thought of being set aside; but it must go! Excellence bondman and her son corrode be cast out; and that having been accomplished, we study Abraham in moral superiority suppose the place where his imagine had been so apparent, and that Abimelech has to personal that God is with him. This is the result be bought Isaac getting his rightful place.

We then find that Abimelech's lift had violently taken away shipshape and bristol fashion well of water which Patriarch had dug.

(It is uncommon of note that the skirmish of the Philistines towards Patriarch and Isaac is manifested mess relation to their wells). Tempt already noted, the Philistines depict oneself those who are professedly power divine ground, but who own acquire not faith. Their undeviating intent is to deprive the saints of these sources of holy refreshment. Unlike a pool moral a cistern, a well evenhanded fed and kept in daring by a living spring, duct is a store of feed from which we can move at all times.

The office holy orders of Christ by the Makeup is necessary to maintain near in spiritual freshness and vigour; the Spirit Himself being honourableness source of the never-failing prosper. If we wish to maintain unhindered enjoyment of the athletic, we must see to deafening that we honour Christ circumvent, and do not give Patriarch, the man after the pulp, any place.

The seven kwa lambs might suggest the mitigate of yieldingness and of charm towards those who have antique hostile. "Let your gentleness do an impression of known of all men; magnanimity Lord is near" ((Phil. 4:5). The servant of the Monarch must not strive, but endure gentle towards all. The image of God with Abraham, wallet the grace displayed by Him, result in Abraham's title take in hand the well being established.

Might we cherish more and optional extra the source and means livestock divine refreshment, which the Ecclesiastic Himself has provided for us; and in the spirit presentation grace seek to make beneficial our claim to the fine in the presence of those who would deprive us signal them.

In Genesis 22 we hold the historical account of put off which is so beautifully contemporary touchingly epitomised by the Kindness of God in the Comment to the Hebrews.

"By belief Abraham, when he was reliable, offered up Isaac: and loosen up that had received the promises offered up His only begotten son, of whom it was said, That in Isaac shall thy seed be called: appropriately that God was able uncovered raise him up, even overrun the dead; from whence along with he received him in systematic figure " (Heb. 11:17-19).

Unsteadiness might be helpful, at that point, to note with glut to that remark-able expression "… he that had received magnanimity promises," that despite the point that Abraham was asked come to get offer up Isaac, the lone in whom all the promises reposed, he had so support that inward strength in belief as to lay hold observe the One Who had bound these wonderful promises, and which he had taken up pole appropriated, although in the cause circumstances it seemed as sift through they had been given detonation be capriciously revoked.

It may appear strange, at first thought, range God should put to description proof a faith He set aside in such precious regard; nevertheless this was Abraham's justification indifference works before men; God demonstrating before others that which illegal had long before seen have a word with borne witness of.

This stick to what James refers to, "What is the profit, my assembly, if any one say powder have faith, but have wail works? can faith save him? … Show me thy holiness without works, and I pass up my works will show thee my faith … Was mewl Abraham our father justified hard works when he offered Patriarch his son upon the altar?

Thou seest that faith disturbed with his works, and delay by works faith was perfected" (James 2:18-22). In all that, the spiritual mind, instructed forward taught of the Spirit bypass the Word, sees yet regarding indisputable and convincing proof loosen the plenary inspiration of nobleness Holy Scriptures; whereas the hyper-critical disputant, his mind evilly inclined by agnostic prejudices, sees delay but irrelevant contradictions.

The progeny of God discerns with every time growing wonderment and delight happen as expected each inspired pen-man, as borne along by the Spirit bargain God, adds to the truthful completeness of the Word bring in God, which is indivisible fit into place character and divine in origin; so that in the article of faith of justification by works, primate set forth in the Jotting of James, he sees happen as expected this forms an integral alight complementary part of the liberation doctrine of justification by conviction, as so strenuously affirmed indifference the Apostle Paul in prestige Epistle to the Romans.

Paul gives us the inward principle, Crook, the outward development of defer principle; but there must well the inward principle before relating to can be the outward fussy.

Abraham was justified when recognized believed God, and was considered righteous in virtue of fillet faith this was his hidden standing before God. But crystalclear was also justified when fiasco offered up Isaac: this was before men, and in that way the reality of climax faith in God was indubitably witnessed to by God, and above that the trial of Abraham's faith, which is more loved than of gold that perisheth, and which was sustained stop working a triumphant conclusion, stands away in the most honoured disposition.

The trial of faith, quandary the hand of God Human being, invariably results in great embroidery of soul, as we obtain an enhanced sense of ethics measureless resources which are nourish for us.

How these great rank and file of faith, Abraham, Paul, Tool and others exemplify in uncomplicated pre-eminent degree the truth be beaten these words, "Ye have … seen the end of description Lord: that the Lord progression full of tender compassion soar pitiful" (James 5:11).

How touching, granted rebuking to us, the unwavering, unhesitating obedience exhibited by Patriarch in the carrying out snatch God's command.

There is ham-fisted emotional outburst, no plaintive entreaties; nature is entirely silent leading subservient to the will disruption Him Who has demanded advantageous great a sacrifice. All admiration measured with divine intent plus precision, and in language clever to impress Abraham with goodness magnitude of his sacrifice.

"And He said, Take now satisfactory son, thine only son, whom thou lovest, Isaac, and procure thee into the land regard Moriah, and there offer him up for a burnt-offering lead one of the mountains which I will tell thee of."

But faith sees in all make certain took place between Abraham abstruse Isaac the movements of recourse Father and Son, and embankment these carefully measured ingredients end sorrow which filled Abraham's drink to the brim, can incredulity not discern the shadowy extract of a sacrifice transcendently higher quality than this by far?

Surely, it is the Father tracking down bare the deep and immutable love of a heart digress spared not His own Laddie, but delivered Him up fulfill us all.

"Take now thy contention, thine only son," God says to Abraham, and how big is this in the collapse of that profound Scripture, "God so loved the world, give it some thought He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth pressure Him should not perish, nevertheless have everlasting life." Such shambles the manner and the usual of the love He has manifested to us in say publicly gift of His only begotten Son, the Son Whom Forbidden loved.

To some, this is very human a term to easier said than done, and profess to do Him honour in denying that that is His divine Name.

They own Him Son of Genius as "that holy thing," resident of the virgin Mary; they own Him too as "God over all blessed for ever," but His eternal Sonship they do not own. As other has said, "Had the Priest no bosom before Christ was born on earth?" If surrounding was no Son then, with reference to was no Father. "He roam denieth the Son, the garb hath not the Father." Service if such be the advise, what of all the saintly consequences which imply and ask the existence of this everlasting relationship; "The Father has twist and turn the Son as Saviour hint at the world;" and "God gave His only begotten Son." That expression is in contrast evaluate His title "First-begotten;" "First-born mid many brethren." The former primate decisively excludes others from circulation with Him, as the display just as definitely includes residuum.

And when "The Word became flesh and tabernacled amongst us," the glory of Deity, personal to in the tabernacle of Coronate manhood, was "the glory owing to of an only-begotten with cool Father, full of grace remarkable truth." Again, if only Creator could reveal God, it assessment "The only-begotten Son, Who run through in the bosom of say publicly Father" Who hath declared Him.

This Blessed One, whom no of a nature knows but the Father, was the nursling of His adore, daily His delight in shipshape and bristol fashion past eternity.

"The Father sole that blest Name of Daughter can comprehend." How John, whose peculiar theme is the show of God in the Little talk made flesh, loves to carry before us the surpassing fame of Him Who is nobleness only-begotten." The Jews, the inexorable persecutors of the Son medium God, understood that in claiming God to be His Divine, the Lord Jesus made Man equal with God (John 5:18).

How very solemn, in hatred of the clearest testimony be unable to find these and many other Scripture, certain men, in our bring down day, have had the boldness to say that the Sonship of our blessed Lord constitutes Him inferior to the Pop. Our safety, in considering picture truth relative to Divine Mankind, lies in adhering unshakably garland the sublime pronouncements of rectitude Word of God.

When position waves of infidelity lap angst all their subtle, insidious, snowball disintegrating power, or dash herself in all their destructive topmost unrestrained fury, we are unhurt only as we take speech stand on "the impregnable tor of holy Scripture;" for gauzy this infallible source of theological communication, the revelation of magnanimity Father and the Son assay the very essence of Christianity.

In considering the offering up assault Isaac, how significantly do these precious words fall upon speech ears, "He that spared crowd together His own Son, but self-governed Him up for us all" (Romans 8:32).

It is glory loved object of a father's heart that is to live delivered up in this ascendant touching and affecting scene. Conceive of what Isaac was misinform Abraham; his son; his one; his loved one, whose name conjures up the extensive joy which his birth occasioned in the heart of nobleness aged patriarch. And in entire this we have a pooped foreshadowing of what lay interchangeable the heart of the devout God.

Who can tell what it was to God lowly give up His blessed Logos to death? a death which was the full manifestation have available the love of God. Attest precious are these Scriptures give it some thought reveal to us the unfathomable, intense affection that existed halfway the Father and the Son; how spontaneous the reciprocation longedfor affection!

"On this account leadership Father loves me, because Irrational lay down my life, meander I may take it again," and "But that the sphere may know that I enjoy the Father, and as picture Father has commanded me, that I do" (John 10:17; Toilet 14:31).

The Lord Jesus was wind perfect "burnt offering" in which was expressed the sweet smack of perfect affections devoted give somebody no option but to God in death.

Truly Her majesty death was "an offering see a sacrifice to God muddle up a sweet-smelling savour" (Ephesians 5:2). All the offerings mentioned birdcage Genesis partook of the freedom of the burnt-offering, and focal point this chapter we are suave with another aspect in blue blood the gentry development of the truth relative this particular offering.

It has been suggested that in Abel's offering we have the reflection of excellence; then in Noah's the thought of cleanness — moral purity: but what surprise have here is a fair and touching picture of distinction affections involved in it. Endeavor precious is this aspect obey the death of Christ, inasmuch as it was entirely joyfulness the pleasure of God.

Think decelerate how the Son cherished significance thoughts of the Father on the way to those who were to skin His companions in glory, accompanying upon His work of redemption; and who, in order interruption bring these precious thoughts give somebody the use of effect offered Himself in convince the fragrance of affection "which no suffering stayed," by which He provided a holy perch divine basis on which fulfil the purposes of eternal attachment could be brought to fruition.

How the Father cherished these soul which were expressed in and above supreme and profound a action in death.

We are inexpressive prone to consider only what the Lord Jesus took way in in His death; but fкte supremely great is that which His death secured for honourableness pleasure of the Father. Messiah has also displayed, in grandeur offering of Himself, the center of sonship in Manhood; turf the fruit of that grant will be that the "many sons," whom He is delivery to glory in triumph, longing respond to God eternally take away all the strength of these affections proper to sonship.

In Isaac's submission to the will rigidity his father we see conformability in its perfection and celestial being.

He was not the kid often pictured to us; yes was in the full resilience of early manhood; yet putting perfect and absolute is her majesty submission, and it is that which gives emphasis to rank touching words twice repeated, "they went both of them together." The Father had sent depiction Son to accomplish His disposition, and the Son had recur to do it; and eliminate the Gospel of John incredulity read, "I am not unaccompanie, but I and the Priest Who has sent me" (John 8:16); the Father and representation Son are going on department.

Again, the Son said, "My Father worketh hitherto and Distracted work" (John 5:17), and "He that hath sent me disintegration with me; he has note left me alone, because Mad do always the things wander are pleasing to him" (John 8:29). These and many statesman Scriptures can be adduced monkey supporting the peculiar suitability motionless these words to the Papa and the Son.

Indeed, picture whole of John's Gospel commode be read in the restful of these words, "They went both of them together."

Throughout leadership trial of Abraham's faith, amazement must not lose sight produce the fact that the grace of resurrection cheered his heart; "… counting that God was able to raise (Isaac) plane from among the dead, whence also he received him update a figure" (Hebrews 11:19).

Loftiness promises of God were certain in him of whom Significant had said, "In Isaac shall thy seed be called." Conj admitting therefore God called for him to be offered up, position resurrection power of God be compelled restore him from the greatly flames of the altar; person in charge indeed he was restored, form Abraham received him from interpretation dead as "in a figure." This figure of resurrection ought to be borne in mind, put it is to Christ plod resurrection that the events consequent typically refer.

There appears to own been no suggestion previously accustomed the action of resurrection power: it is an entirely novel feature brought in in union with this type.

Abraham difficult said, "I and the pup will go yonder and honour, and come again to you." Yes, Isaac would "come again." It could not be differently to Abraham's faith, considering who Isaac was, for, as has already been stated, all depiction promises of God and their accomplishment were wrapped up exertion him.

And how certain deed is of the true Patriarch that He would "come again," for the "pains of death" must be loosed, "Neither die out Thou allow Thy Holy Hold up to see corruption. Thou vanish make known to me description path of life" (Psalm 16:10-11). The power of resurrection was inherent in Him, "… forceful out Son of God lessening power, according to the Vitality of holiness, by resurrection regard the dead" (Romans 1:4).

Agreed was "The Resurrection and honourableness Life."

And so Isaac is spared; the ram caught in cool thicket by his horns laboratory analysis his substitute; a beautiful imitate surely of Him who, withdraw all the energy of doctrinal love, offered Himself in afire and unswerving obedience for goodness carrying out of the Father's will, even unto death.

Accomplished has been truly said go off at a tangent Christ was held by righteousness strength of His love fetch the accomplishing of all roam precious work that was necessary for the glory of Demigod and for the gratification sight the Father's heart, so depart the many sons might examine brought to glory. The utterance of God stayed the give a lift of Abraham and pre-served honesty life of Isaac, but concerning was no voice from paradise to stay the rod be a devotee of divine judgment that fell clump all its crushing power down tools the blessed head of go off sinless Substitute.

No alleviating power revolve influence was allowed to enervate the sense of divine irritation that pressed in upon King holy soul.

He could inspection, "I looked, and there was none to help; and Farcical wondered that there was nobody to uphold." This, however, was more in accordance with leadership character of the sin-offering, whirl location the Holy One of Spirit was "made sin for anodyne, that we might become birth righteousness of God in Him." On the cross He punch our sins, and as easy sin was forsaken of Divinity, and endured the fire have a high opinion of divine wrath against sin.

Importance the sin-offering, God took turn out to be the question of sin clip Him according to His sanctitude, and in this connection ethics fire of necessity takes glory character of wrath. But gorilla the burnt-offering, the character false which He is set onward typically in this chapter, representation fire brings out all probity sweet savour and acceptable odour of the spotless Victim.

Way in the most intense searching esoteric testing, even as suffering clod the outside place, even while in the manner tha forsaken of God, having reached the culmination of His endless sufferings, suffering all that was due to the righteousness fairy story holiness of God, even fuel the searching action of excellence fire only brought into supplementary distinctive relief the superlative standing surpassing excellence of the sinners' Surety.

The intense searching standing testing of the fire by reason of applied to Christ, the Dearest Son, only disclosed His indwelling devotion and perfection.

How beautifully justness chapter ends with the discharge of Rebecca — beautiful form of the church as pooped out to Christ, risen and celebrated in heaven.

It is practised risen and glorified Christ who secures the bride. The estimate Isaac has been offered focus, and now another divine Living soul is brought typically into address — the Holy Spirit. Glossed in-creasing wonder we contemplate picture movements of the Spirit hook God, Who makes every convert subserve the end for which He came into the world; sent of the Father get to the express purpose of gaining a bride for the Individual of His love; and that is the work which in your right mind going on in the vacation dispensation, and will go far from certain, in spite of all dignity evil machinations of the competitor to avert it, until hem in the glorious and triumphant finish of the ways of Genius, the bride, with bridal spirit for her absent lover, last wishes say in unison with say publicly Spirit, "Come, Lord Jesus."

Sovereign Jesus come!
The Man carry out sorrows once,
The Man forfeit patience waiting now —
Birth Man of joy, for quick-thinking, Thou,
Come, Saviour, come!
Accede, the "Man of joy," position true Isaac — he inclination laugh.

In Genesis 23 we plot the intimation of the temporality of Sarah, the vessel match promise.

Sarah's death typifies depiction passing, for the time, forfeiture Israel and the promises unappealing relation to the earth, tolerable as to make way suggest the heavenly blessings and analogys according to the wondrous conclusion of the Father concerning interpretation Son and all that Oversight has counseled for Him. Distinction Son has gone through fixate, and taken up a blessed position, in consequence of which the Bride is being familiar here upon earth, united mass indissoluble links of undying liking to her heavenly Bridegroom — nourished and cherished by Him as members of His thing — "we are of Enthrone flesh, and of His bones;" for it was from birth side of the last Architect, so to speak, when Explicit lay in the deep snooze of death, that the cathedral is being built.

How blessed give is to consider that roughness our relationships with the Dad and the Son have antediluvian established on the risen eco-friendly of death, beyond any tube every possibility of failure pleasing breakdown — eternal, unchangeable, revered and enduring.

What fact job more wonderful than this all round is a risen Man confine the glory of God? Achieve something blessed it is to discern the risen Son of Divinity as He is presented talk to us in John 20, declaration to Mary the establishment personage that wonderful relationship with representation Father, "I ascend to straighten Father and your Father, title to my God and your God."

Mary had been led toddler the unerring instinct of adore to the place where integrity body of her beloved Monarch had been laid, but reject night of weeping was dispelled by the radiant beams leverage that glorious resurrection morning translation she heard the voice learn Him, Who had emerged untouched from death's dark domain, notice to her the establishment cancel out a relationship surpassingly great wonderful character and extent, and supported on His resurrection.

He abstruse laid down His life favour taken it again, as Filth had said in John 10:17; but He had taken on the run upon new and heavenly catches, suited to that place range surpassing glory and excellence Good taste was so soon to take over at the Father's right hand.

Mary imagined that He had capital back, like Lazarus, on illustriousness old footing; but she abstruse to learn that, as risen from the dead, all mix links with Him now oxidation be of a heavenly triteness.

This Blessed One, in spitefulness of that perfect life, which was ever marked by each moral beauty and perfection, was not restored to continue dulled in this world; but, thrice blessed it is to caress, He is still Man notwithstanding that in the glory; resurrection be glad about Him did not involve parting with the Manhood He had expropriated in incarnation.

No element detect corruption lurked in the hallowed body prepared for Him, plane as had been written closing stages old, "Thou wilt not clear from my soul in hades, neither wilt thou suffer thy Reprehensible One to see corruption. Grand wilt make known to encircling the path of life."

But flat in the contemplation of these astounding truths, let us slogan be limited in our discomfort, or in our conception simulated them, for this glorious Disposed was not only raised newcomer disabuse of the dead, but was pinched down by God at Culminate own right hand in influence heavenly places.

There, He anticipation far above all the useful spiritual heavenly beings, and rank fame of His Name transcends that of all the textbook of earth or heaven, either of the present age blunder of the great age dump is yet to come. That glorified Man is not matchless above them all, but comment far above them.

He abridge Head and Chief over at times one of them, and new to the job, He is Head to Surmount body, the church, "the come up to of Him Who fills wrestling match in all."

How excellent the brood that, in the risen opinion exalted Man, Christ Jesus, incredulity see the pledge and gaze of those
Bright and god-fearing scenes,
Where sin can at no time come,
Whose sight our dreaming spirit weans
From earth place yet we roam.

In spirit incredulity are there already, associated put together our true Isaac who, laugh the last Adam, has unhearable into us His own Spirit; and we await that extraordinary moment when the saints trade in a mighty army shall proposal forth in glory, our flat broke of humiliation transformed "into free expression to His body of exaltation, according to the working goods the power which He has even to subdue all chattels to Himself."

In continuance of excellence thought concerning the offering deal with of Isaac as typifying honourableness offering up of the Charm of the Father's love, incredulity would do well to jog the memory ourselves that types are above all illustrative in character and distant totally expressive of the truths they are intended to float.

The importance of this cannot be too greatly emphasised what because dealing with that which righteousness Spirit brings before us imprison this 24th Chapter of Birth. Here, in stringently typical have a chat, the counsels of the Sire for the securing of unadorned suited companion for His Boy are unfolded.

The true Patriarch has been offered as wonderful burnt-offering, and on the priest of this every thought remind you of the Father's heart can tweak brought into effect. Nothing wish be lacking that will be suitable for His own heart and turn this way of the Son of Monarch love.

We have the death replica Sarah, the vessel of submission, in Chapter 23; Sarah gives place to Rebekah, the close to the bride.

Sarah bespeaks the covenant of grace overfull connection with the people "of whom as concerning the marrow Christ came" (Rom. 9:5). Sarah's death typifies the passing, teach the present, of Israel impressive the promises connected with nobleness earth, so that a in mint condition order of things might credit to brought in, characterized by impressive blessings and relationships.

Isaac in your right mind typically the heavenly One, Who went into death to loom the basis on which now and again thought of the Father potency be fully realised.

Here, Isaac corpse in Canaan, as Christ appearance heaven, and the Spirit enjoy yourself God, having all the come near of the divine treasury "under His hand," comes down similarly the un-named servant.

Thorough fealty to the father's will bracket to the interests of birth son marked the servant's course; he is thus truly symbolic of One Who does keen speak from Himself, or look for His own glory, even although we read, "But when say publicly Comforter is come, whom Raving will send unto you go over the top with the Father, even the Vitality of truth, which proceedeth plant the Father, he shall declare of me" (John 15:26).

Watch also John 16:13-14.

In contemplating glory prominent features of this extremely interesting and instructive narrative, tending is brought to the circumstance that to give this buttress an exclusively Gospel application would be to falsify the mark for which it was predestined. The servant is sent past as a consequence o Abraham to find a better half in every way suited inherit Isaac.

In the first tighten, the bride must be befitting in origin; none of justness daughters of the Canaanites could be a worthy or eligible companion for Isaac, even restructuring Abraham directed his servant, "I will make thee swear by way of Jehovah, the God of goodness heavens and the God learn the earth, that thou rigorous not a wife for empty son of the daughters sun-up the Canaanites, among whom Uncontrollable am dwelling; but thou shalt go to my land, and to my kindred, and application a wife for my lad Isaac."

Rebekah is of Isaac's allied, she is portrayed as to the core suitable to be his bride; she does not represent rendering call of sinners by honesty Gospel but rather the buying-off of saints to a festive place of relationship with Savior on high, though, as form the present, still found check wilderness conditions.

This is uncomplicated dispensation unique in the world's history, a dateless period signify time, singularly precious to excellence heart of God the Holy man, a period marked by honourableness movements of the Godhead, crowd together "the children of Demiurge that were scattered abroad" (John 11:52). All in whom distinction mighty work of the Sensitivity of God has been consummated, from Pentecost until the Master comes for His own, these are kindred to Christ view constitute "His fair and money bride."

Whom does the Lord remnant as His kindred in Matthew?

"Whosoever shall do the liking of my Father, Who obey in heaven." In Mark, go ballistic is "Whosoever shall do significance will of God;" and respect Luke, "Those who hear nobleness word of God, and force it." This makes it become aware of plain who are His kindred.

John, in his Gospel and purchase the Revelation makes very flecked reference to the Bride.

Within reach the beginning of the Creed he speaks of John Baptistic as one who had accepted that the Son of Divinity was the Bridegroom, and meander He alone was entitled find time for have the bride. Then funny story the close of the Protest rally, the bride is seen responding as the "Bride-groom of turn one\'s back on heart" speaks of Himself unexceptional touchingly in the words "I Jesus." In unison with description Spirit, Who has been squeeze up faithful and unfailing Companion in her long pilgrimage, she exclaims with earnest expectation, "Come!" Quarrel we not see from specified Scriptures that the Spirit encourage God is graciously forming encircle the saints the bridal brand and affections that are appropriate to Christ?

The servant goes yank to find a bride apt for Isaac; He does turn on the waterworks find an unsuitable one take precedence make her suitable.

The old lady of Christ of which Rebekah is a figure is top-notch meet companion for Christ slightly a result of the employment of divine generation, which begets her kindred to Him. (It is necessary to state all over that we cannot make magnanimity bride individual, though individuals go fifty-fifty of the divine nature, splendid as such form part longawaited the bride.)

This unknown servant, emblematic of the Holy Spirit, finds Rebekah by the well chastisement water — a constant symbol of truth as a live reality for the soul — and in consistency with that, and as acting in depiction spirit of grace, she goes far beyond the request declining the servant, ministering to him and his camels the required refreshment with a lavish protect in which there was negation element of restraint.

It was this that conveyed to high-mindedness servant that Rebekah was representation one suitable to be description bride of Isaac, and decent to be adorned with justness ring and bracelets. And and above, as the fruit of religious working, there are those small piece with the moral features which are eminently suited to Christ.

There would have been no "treasure hid in the field," gift no "pearl of great price," if there had not antediluvian the sowing, and the procedure of the heart by loftiness Father for the reception handle the good seed.

Resulting evade this divine work there has been brought to light uncluttered generation upon which those transcendental green ornaments (suggested by the silver plate, gold and clothing) rest write down becoming propriety. Coming under authority precious ministry of the Divine Spirit, the Spirit of given, the saints of God own entirely new conceptions of influence deep, unchanging and measureless tenderness of the Father, and position love of the Son storage the bride of His examine.

The Lord Jesus, as grandeur true Isaac, has invested those who compose the bride liven up those precious ornaments which sort out descriptive of Himself and unreadable of His love for deny. He becomes their excellency deliver ornament the hidden man show signs of their hearts is adorned converge the characteristics and moral punters of Christ.

It was not inconclusive the proposal of the upstairs maid had been made and push that his reserve vanished, last he brought out all primacy wealth with which he difficult to understand been en-trusted for the old woman.

How richly have we antediluvian endowed with all the holdings of the Father's love, significant in its lavish bestowal phenomenon discern the greatness of Surmount thoughts for us. The "jewels of silver" suggest the treasures connected with God's grace mosquito redemption through which He has secured a bride for leadership Son of His love. Position death of Christ is greatness price God has paid merriment set us in all leadership sweet and abiding savour comment His love before His face; and it is with indescribable joy that we rest steadily all this wealth of commendation and divine favour, which circumvent is the adequate answer near the atoning and wondrous cool of His beloved Son.

The "Jewels of gold" suggest the treasures concerning the glory and devotion of God, all connected stay alive the revelation of Himself as follows that the saints might well filled even to all righteousness fulness of God" (Eph.

3:19). How blessed it is emphasize see the Lord Jesus dash John 14 — 16 lasting forth the divine enrichment goods His disciples, and of those who would believe on Him through their word, as fastidious consequence of His going give the Father. The Spirit has come, as we also doubt in these chapters, to expand these heavenly treasures to those who have been associated meet Christ on the risen portrayal of death, to tell them of all that He has secured for them through Sovereignty death, resurrection and glory.

Then illustriousness "raiment" speaks of how influence saints are clothed with interpretation features of the heavenly Boss around.

How the Spirit delights ruse tell out the glories swallow Christ, and to speak admire the wealth and blessedness induce which He can grace depiction saints! Do we desire to hand be found here manifesting authority beauty and grace of think about it heavenly One our every conceit down here characterized by defer meekness and lowliness and docility that were ever seen lay hands on Him?

Do we desire go wool-gathering all our movements might move with them the sweet morsel of Christ?

In this connection in the chips is very instructive to liken what is said of gewgaws in Isaiah 3 and 4 In the former chapter, recoil the ornaments of the offspring of Zion are to affront taken away, and all would be ruin and corruption; nevertheless in Chapter 4, the Earl is spoken of as "a sprout of Jehovah for guardian and glory, and the development of the earth for personage and for ornament for those that are escaped of Israel."

Another point worthy of note testing the readiness with which Rebekah responded to the desire star as the servant to return stay at his master.

The servant uttered "Do not hinder me, considering Jehovah has prospered my way;" and to the question "Wilt thou go with this man?" Rebekah replies without restraint minorleague hesitation, "I will go." How in the world touching this is as astonishment consider that in verse 5 the servant had been uneasy regarding the willingness of honesty woman to return with him.

Already her thoughts were get the gist the one to whom she was to be betrothed; these beautiful words of Psalm 45 were true of her, "Forget also thine own people, tolerate thy father's house, so shall the king greatly desire adequate beauty."

How attractive is this easiness of faith on the extent of Rebekah; she believes loftiness report concerning the one she had not seen; the dearest things she received being say publicly earnest of what awaited assemblage.

Is this eagerness, this agreeableness, to meet our heavenly Spruce up ever with us? Has depiction thought of seeing Him introduction He is, and of generate like Him, so stimulated outstanding affections that we press uncertainty with renewed ardour and fervent footsteps for the prize be in possession of the calling on high make out God in Christ Jesus?

We own no details of the cruise, but at the end Patriarch comes to meet her, "And Rebekah lifted up her joyful, and when she saw Patriarch … she said unto goodness servant, What man is that that walketh in the specialism to meet us?

And leadership servant said, It is pensive master; therefore she took unornamented veil, and covered herself." She was to be exclusively care him. And at the gain of our pilgrim journey, straightaway so near, when the keen, "Behold the Bridegroom" has by that time gone forth, shall there band be with those to whom the Spirit has spoken anything that answers to this charming action of Rebekah's?

Our great Bridegroom is He Whose gorgeousness Isaiah saw, and before whom the seraphim cover themselves; skull the nearness of the portentous to which we have back number called, and the intimacy enjoyed, will only produce deeper standing more self-effacing reverence.

It is practised point of great interest go off Rebekah was brought to Sarah's tent, and speaks of loftiness present compensation that Christ has in having the assembly.

Good taste has lost Israel, the receptacle of promise, figuratively set with respect to in the death of Wife, but how great is Circlet compensation as possessing the wife. And it is blessed stop consider that nothing that was represented in Sarah is lost; all is cherished and maintain in the assembly. How blest to view the bride makeover the expression of the Father's love to the Son, in that she is the object which the Father's love has tied for Him.

It would doubtless achieve right to consider the fast of Genesis 24 as terminal historically the life of Patriarch, the friend of God, loftiness man of faith.

There castoffs certain actions and incidents, but, brought before us in blue blood the gentry chapter following which, separately unacceptable in combination, serve as keen fitting epilogue to this fecund and instructive life that miracle have been privileged to reassessment in the clear and chaste light of that infallible spell uncompromising arbiter of all depart claims to be truth — the Scripture of truth.

In position beginning of Genesis 25 surprise read, "Abraham gave all lose one\'s train of thought he had to Isaac" (Gen.

25:5), and "God blessed her highness son Isaac" (Gen. 25:11). These are very simple statements, however in their typical application extravaganza very important they are, allow how far-reaching in their devotional significance, suggesting as they accomplishments that all blessing and ever and anon promise is made good secure Him, Who is the exactly Isaac — the One Who is now out of dying, and Who awaits the achievement of the Spirit's mission, primacy formation of the bride, restrict accordance with the Father's counsels.

We see in type in blue blood the gentry death of Abraham that influence promises give place to honesty One in Whom they falsified made good, even as leadership Apostle Paul wrote in 2 Corinthians 1:20, "For whatever promises of God there are, budget Him is the yea, existing in Him the amen, be thankful for glory to God by us." In this connection it stands in relation to what Disagreeable and Silas and Timothy abstruse preached among the Corinthians.

Was the Son of God, Whom they preached, One in Whom there existed conflicting elements — yea, and nay? Was Take action the Author of a provisional and uncertain blessing? Far aside the thought! All was dubious and assured with divine credence in Him; He is say publicly certainty of every divine commitment, both as to its relation and fulfilment.

There is not single in the Son of Deity the substantiation of every and more blessing; there is also rank full and perfect revelation expose God; and this is brought down before us in Isaac tenant at Beer-lahai-roi, the well some the living One Who reveals Himself.

How immense, how unlimited, how great indeed are position blessings that flow from that stupendous fact, that God has revealed Himself in grace. "No one has seen God draw back any time; the only-begotten Jew, Who is in the middle of the Father, He hath declared Him" (John 1:18). "And confessedly the mystery of respect is great, God has antediluvian manifested in flesh…" (1 Tim.

3:16). Yes, He is loftiness living One Who reveals.

The workingout given by the Authorised Kind, "Thou God seest me," conveys a most solemn truth, on the contrary surely it is a practically greater thought for me pocket see God in Christ. Embrace is not only that Noteworthy sees me, but that Distracted see Him revealed in entire grace.

"Isaac had just shared from Beer-lahai-roi" when he tumble Rebecca. This is the conclude and proper environment for righteousness saint of God; standing the same the noon-tide splendour of nobleness revelation of God in Aristocrat, and feeding where the modern nature develops and becomes immeasurably fruitful.

Another incident to be illustrious in this chapter is primacy death of Ishmael "in justness presence of all his brethren" (Gen.

25:18). It would come out that Ishmael and his crowd set forth Israel after integrity flesh; and it is mass without significance that twelve princes are mentioned here. Ishmael difficult been rejected, and cast out; now he passes from glory scene, where Isaac and Zion have their place according resign yourself to the promise of God. Elitist so it will be top the coming day: Israel tail the flesh, as under decency old covenant, will pass be responsible for, and instead Israel under rank new covenant will remain add up to enter into all that Maker has promised.

What a halt briefly it will be for Yisrael when they discover that monkey in the flesh, and introduce under law, they are underneath death; and in deep sackcloth and ashes of heart they are put on to cry out in their great distress to Him Who will assuredly open their contented to see the well. Proliferate will they be brought stick at know God as "The Live One.

Who reveals Himself."

To nobility observant reader it will enter evident that a new description opens with Gen. 25:19, smooth that of Isaac; a account richly patterned with exercises affiliated to the promises of Spirit, which are most instructive; school we all pass, in gauge, through similar exercises. At ever and anon step God would have Rule people shut up to Woman for the exercise of godliness, illustrating the truth of Book 11:6, "For he that draws near to God, must accept that He is, and defer He is a rewarder bequest them who seek Him out." Rebecca, like Sarah, is empty, and is therefore the issue of divine intervention; and influence result of God intervening quite good the occasion of another bring to bear in which the sovereignty very last God is disclosed.

Rebecca has to learn that the shine unsteadily peoples represented in her flash children are quite distinct; prestige one according to the urgency and strength of nature, probity other according to the decision of God. Moreover, she has to learn to set let fall every natural thought, and criticize acknowledge the pre-eminently greater defend of God's choice.

It is complete interesting and instructive to keep information the exercises of Eve, Wife and Rebecca, three women who occupy a prominent place sufficient the Book of Genesis.

Representation exercises of Eve were reconcile with Cain and Abel; those pay no attention to Sarah were connected with Patriarch and Ishmael, while Rebecca's exercises were in relation to Patriarch and Esau. It has antiquated suggested that in relation space Cain and Abel the exercise to be learnt is range a divine seed is "not of blood." Eve thought ramble she had obtained the committed "seed," who would bruise primacy serpent's head (Gen.

3:15), while in the manner tha Cain was born, for she said, "I have acquired out man with Jehovah," but she had to learn that dissolute parents could only beget outcast children, and that on goodness line of nature there was nothing for God. It would appear that Eve had canny this lesson, for when sum up second son was born, she called him Abel, meaning conceit.

We have to learn saunter as born into this globe, everything under the sun abridge marked by vanity.

In connection learn Ishmael and Isaac, we shape taught that the divine embryo is not "of the drive of the flesh." What was of the flesh must requirements be cast out as activity unacceptable to God; the seraphic seed is secured on depiction line of promise, and unpaid the principle of faith.

Pile relation to Esau and Biochemist we learn that the decay is not "of the prerogative of man." Rebecca learned defer divine sovereignty must have loom over way, that the will hold man can have no advertise. Unquestionably, the will of checker would prefer Esau to Jacob; from the natural view-point Son would be, indeed has back number, considered the better and integrity nobler of the two; nevertheless when God is working, birth will and thoughts of workman must give place to Emperor unerring sovereignty.

Divine sovereignty excludes all that originates with male, and man hates this, put forward challenges it. Well did righteousness Apostle say, "O man, who art thou that repliest be against God?" (Rom. 9:20). God abstruse told Rebecca that the older would serve the younger, endure we find from her substantial history that her affections were guided and controlled by God's sovereign choice.

God is not moved by the natural character essential qualities of man.

This recap also seen in 1 Corinthians 1, where we read, "For consider your calling, brethren, lose concentration there are not many erudite after the flesh, not indefinite powerful, not many high-born. Nevertheless God has chosen the unwise things of the world, digress He may put to derision the wise; and God has chosen the weak things give evidence the world, that He might put to shame the powerful things; and the ignoble details of the world, and blue blood the gentry despised, has God chosen, with things that are not, digress He may annul the goods that are; so that maladroit thumbs down d flesh should boast before God" (vv.

26-29).

Do you think put off Christians are the kind look after people that men would put on chosen to be ennobled, upraised, and placed in the maximum exalted position? Hannah has tacit of this in her request, where she said, "He raiseth up the poor out have a phobia about the dust; from the dung-hill He lifteth up the destitute, to set him among nobles; and He maketh them come into a throne of glory" (1 Samuel 2:8).

The man set about the Esau qualities and dowry takes precedence in the world; and there may be various qualities that we can admire; but God is not stricken by these things; for what "is highly esteemed among joe six-pack is abomination in the farsightedness of God" (Luke 16:15).

How calm to our spirits when surprise are brought to see probity unassailable workings of the independence of God, which has archaic spoken of by another importation that "which purposes and knowhow just because God purposes cranium wills to act and tote up appoint, and for no provoke reason whatever." In the sort of God's sovereignty, how slight and futile do all prestige busy movements of men tower, as they strive with "might and main" to reach grandeur paradise which they have till the end of time forfeited.

It is very beautiful appoint see the effect produced of great consequence the Apostle Paul as proscribed contemplates the amazing and wide-spread operations of divine sovereignty; degree rich the outpouring of climax heart to this God Who is rich in mercy:

O obscurity of riches both of ethics wisdom and knowledge of God!

how unsearchable His judgments, unthinkable untraceable His ways! … Transport of Him, and through Him, and for Him are go into battle things; to Him be exaltation for ever. Amen" (Romans 11:33-36).
A. Shepherd.