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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadJabez Burns Sermons: 191. Pro 4:18. The Path of the Just
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Pro_4:18. The Path of the Just
"But the path of the just is as the shining light; that sinneth more and more unto the perfect day."—Pro_4:18.
In the text we have two things: the Character, and the Path, of the good map.
I. The Character of the good Man.
"The just." The good man is,
1. Just in state.
No longer guilty and condemned before God. All charges erased—all sins blotted out—all his debts forgiven. Justified freely and fully by faith in Christ Jesus.
2. Just in principle.
Heart disposed to what is equitable and right. Renewed in the likeness of Christ. Delight in the law of the Lord. Led by the Spirit of God. Holy to the Lord.
3. Just in practice.
Is of God, and therefore doeth righteousness. Fruit unto holiness. Faith productive of good works. A holy devotedness to God; and an unblameable conduct towards men. Notice,
II. The good Man's Path.
"The path," &c. The good man has a path; a marked, specified, and appointed path. This path is clearly stated in the Holy Scriptures; and has been beautifully exhibited in the example of the blessed Redeemer. Now this path is likened to the shining light. It is so,
1. As it is a divine path.
He created the orb of day, and appoint ed the path which his beams should illuminate. So God has not left us to follow our own devices; but has opened before us a clear course, leading to immortality and eternal life.
2. As it is a visible path.
The shining light is visible and manifest. So, the Christian's course is not hidden and concealed; but public and manifest,—lights of the world—cities set on hills—living epistles.
3. As it is a beautiful path.
Nothing more beautiful than light. Beautiful in itself, and that which unfolds the beauty of every thing else. Holiness is the beauty of the soul—the lovely adorning of the heart—yea, it is the beauty of the divine mind—brightest gem in the crown of Deity.
4. As it is a benevolent path.
Light is not only beautiful, but a useful source of fruitfulness. In some respects, it is the life of the world. So, the Christian's path is one of universal goodness. Salt of the earth—pillars of creation—con-servators of the world. They are so by their prayers, spirit, influence, and example.
5. As it is a progressive path.
"Sinneth more and more." Constant advancement in knowledge, love, and holiness. More peace, more joy, more purity. Going from strength to strength, &c.
6. As it is glorious in its termination.
"Unto the perfect day." Meridian noontide splendor. Perfect knowledge—perfect holiness—perfect felicity—day of eternal glory.
Application
(1) Is this character yours? Are you just in state, principle, and practice? (2) If not, the reverse of this description is yours. Your path is darkness; the darkness of ignorance—the darkness of guilt—the darkness of wretchedness. And it is progressive and increasing darkness; and will terminate in the remediless and eternal darkness of anguish and despair. (3) How happy and cheering the state of the just! "Like the shining light," &c.