Jabez Burns Sermons: 039. 1Co 3:22. Christian Prerogatives

Online Resource Library

Commentary Index | Return to PrayerRequest.com | Download

Jabez Burns Sermons: 039. 1Co 3:22. Christian Prerogatives


Subjects in this Topic:

1Co_3:22. Christian Prerogatives

"All are yours."—1Co_3:22.

The Christian's life and character are truly paradoxical. He is dead while he lives; he is full when he is empty; and when weak, then only is he strong. He is a stranger and pilgrim, yet heir of all things; he is poor and lowly, yet his prerogatives include all things, for the apostle says. "All are yours." Then let us notice, I. The Characters, and, II. The High Prerogatives they possess.

I. The Characters.

For the passage does not apply to all men. It will seem from the preceding part of the epistle, that they were,

1. Believers.

They are Christ's disciples. "Ye are Christ's." This is what distinguishes between the children of God, and the children of the wicked one. To those who received him he gave power to become his sons, even to as many as believed on his name. Joh_1:12. They have received Jesus as their only hope and Saviour, and rely upon him for acceptance and eternal life.

2. They were saints. Chap. Joh_1:2.

That is, holy ones. Not. absolutely so, but by regeneration. Called to it. Holy in disposition and desires, in walk and conversation. Christ made to them sanctification. Ch. Joh_1:30. Seeking after it, &c. They were visible saints. Separated from the world. Formed into church order Attending the ordinances of the gospel &c., &c.

3. They were the temples of God. Ch. Joh_3:16.

Consecrated to his service—hallowed by his presence—residence of his Holy Spirit. If any man hath not the Spirit, he is none of his. Rom_8:9. The Spirit testifies to their adoption. Comforts, guides, and strengthens them.

4. They were distinguished for many imperfections.

Divisions among them—strifes, &c. One of Paul, another of Apollos, &c. Best of Christians imperfect: this must not, however, produce carelessness or indifference. Should make us humble, watchful, diligent, &c. May encourage the sincere, yet doubtful Christian. Notice,

II. Their High and Distinguished Prerogatives.

"All are yours."

1. All the good things of this world, as far as they will do them good. See Psa_37:1, &c.

They that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing. Bread shall be given, water be sure. Riches, if necessary, as in Solomon's case. Dignity and power, as in the case of Joseph, Nehemiah, and Daniel.

2. The arrangements of Providence are heirs.

All things work together for their good. The Omnipotent Ruler is their covenanted Saviour, and never-failing Friend. Laws of nature suspended for them if necessary, as in the case of the Israelites—three Hebrew children, &c.

3 Redeeming mercy and grace are theirs.

They have had it exhibited before them—have felt and tasted that the Lord is gracious. Know that Christ has power to forgive sins, &c.

4 The precious promises are theirs.

In all their fulness, variety, richness, and durability. Both those that relate to earth and heaven, to body and soul, to time and eternity.

5. The ministers of the Gospel are theirs.

Their servants for Christ's sake. Their watchmen, shepherds, teachers, &c. Theirs;o warn them, reprove them, exhort them comfort them, build them up, &c.

6. Christian ordinances are theirs.

Baptism; by which they may put on Christ before men. The Lord's Supper; to testify to Christ's lore, and show forth his death till he come. The preaching of the Word; that they may be fed with spiritual milk, and grow thereby. Prayer that they may come to the throne of grace for all needful good. And praise; that they may magnify Him who hath called them from darkness into his marvellous light.

7. Afflictions are theirs.

To wean them from the world, refills their graces, and make them conformable to their suffering Head.

8. Life is theirs.

Their season of golden opportunities—of privileges, &c. Of labor and conflicts. Their race-course—time of stewardship, &c.

9. Death is theirs.

To conclude their trial, labors and warfare; and to introduce them to glory.

10. Heaven is theirs.

Joy of heaven—society of heaven—company of heaven—employments of heaven, &c. Crown—palms—robes, &c.

11. Eternity is theirs.

The date of their happiness—the only boundary of their salvation.

12. God is theirs.

Father, Son, and Spirit. They shall see him, enjoy him, and be with him forever. "Heirs of God." Rom_8:17.

Application

1. How rich, happy, and safe the people of God! 2. What solemn responsibilities do these blessings involve! All belong to God—body, soul, and spirit. 3. Invite sinners to come and enjoy the Christian's portion and reward. 4. How foolish the backslider! What infatuation to abandon "all things!" Return to the Lord thy God, &c.