Man in the natural and fallen state. “As ye were a curse among the heathen.” Sinners are under the curse of God. Mankind in general, as transgressors, all whose sins are unpardoned, are under the curse of God. Those who are in their natural and carnal state are a curse to themselves. The dispositions which they cherish, the practices which they adopt, injure their health, blast their reputation, often ruin their circumstances, and lead to sorrow and wretchedness and death. And sinners are a curse to others. They diffuse evil, they propagate mischief, they are corruptors.
II. The gracious purpose of God in reference to man, as made known in the Gospel. “So will I save you, and ye shall be a blessing.” This salvation has been procured for man by the atonement and intercession of Christ. This salvation is free to all, without any exception, without any limitation. This salvation can only be experienced by those who exercise “repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.”
III. The gracious and delightful result of this design in connection with the children of men. “Ye shall be a blessing.” Those who are saved inherit the blessing of God. Those who are saved are a blessing to themselves. (J. H. Bumby.)
