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Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | DownloadJabez Burns Sermons: 033. Eph 3:15. The Divine Family
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Eph_3:15. The Divine Family
"Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named."—Eph_3:15.
The church of Christ is represented under a variety of interesting similitudes. It is a flock—a vineyard or garden—an army—a family. There cannot be a more beautiful emblem than the last mentioned and it is one frequently employed by the sacred writers. It is necessarily implied in those passages where God represents himself as the Father of his people, and where believers are represented as brethren; thus God says, "And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty;" 2Co_6:18. Let us observe, I. Of whom the divine family is composed. II. In what respects the two parts iii heaven and earth are one. III. Make some remarks on its future union and consummation. Let us observe,
I. Of whom the Divine Family is composed.
It must be observed that the text represents it as existing both in heaven and earth. God's family embraces all his saints or holy ones; part of whom are in heaven, and part on earth. Let us notice the two branches distinctly.
1. The family in heaven embraces,
(1) An innumerable host of spiritual intelligences, denominated angels—seraphim—cherubim—thrones—principalities, &c., also called sons, saints, &c. See Deu_33:2; Jdg_1:14; Job_38:7.
(2) The souls of all who have died in the faith. From the righteous Abel to the present hour. "For to be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord."
(3) All the spirits of those who have died in infancy. We feel satisfied of the happiness of these; (1) Because accountability implies trust, capacity, &c.; these never entered upon this trust, never possessed this capacity; therefore, do not fall under the penalty of the wicked. (2) Because for all original guilt, there is an ample remedy in Christ's all-sufficient sacrifice. (3) Because Jesus received such, and blessed them, and declared that "of such is the kingdom of heaven;" Mat_19:14. (4) Because the divine mercy is over all his works; but if infants perish, this declaration is not correct.
2. The divine family on earth is composed of all true believers. They may differ materially in knowledge, talents, gracious attainments, &c.; "but to as many as received him, gave he power to become the sons of God," &c.; Joh_1:12
II. In what Respects the two Branches in Heaven and Earth are but one Family.
1. They have only one head.
Jesus is the head of the body, the church. So he is the head of principalities and powers; he is Lord of all; see Eph_1:22; Col_2:10.
2. They have one distinguishing nature And that is holiness; with this difference, that those in heaven are made perfect, while those on earth are advancing towards it; Rev_7:13.
3. They have one employment.
To bless and adore him who sitteth on the throne, and the Lamb forever. To obey the divine commands, and to exhibit his spirit, whose they are and whom they serve; Rev_5:11.
4. They are one in interest and affection.
There is no hostility between them, the branch on earth hold intercourse with them by holy desires and devout meditations, and anticipate a final indissoluble union The branch in heaven minister to the saints on earth, rejoice in their happiness, encamp round about them in danger, and when they die, bear them on their wings to glory; Heb_1:14; Heb_12:22. Let us,
III. Make some Remarks on its future Union and Consummation.
Both branches shall be joined, and in one holy place they shall spend an eternity together. Notice,
1. The time of this union and consummation.
After the termination of Christ's reign upon earth; the judgment, &c. See whole of Revelation 21 and Revelation 22.
2. The great number of this family.
How innumerable, &c.! Of every age, country, and dispensation; patriarchs—prophets—apostles—martyrs—confessors—Jews and Gentiles—bond and free; of every color, and nation, and people, and kindred; Rev_7:9; Mat_8:1.
3. The moral and intellectual character of this family.
All bright and unerring in knowledge, burning with love—without spot or wrinkle, &c.; Rev_21:27. Notice,
4. Its perfect happiness.
Every cause of grief and misery removed—presence of all good—pleasures for evermore; Rev_22:1-5. Notice,
5. Its eternal permanence.
No divisions, breaches, changes, nor death—life eternal—unfading crown—incorruptible inheritance—pleasures forevermore.
Application
(1) How desirable to be members of this divine family! What privileges here, what glory hereafter! (2) How easy the mode! by believing on the name of the Son of God. (3) If the church is one family, how love and peace should be promoted; the unity of the spirit kept in the bonds of peace! (4) Let us invite poor aliens to the joys and blessings of gospel adoption.