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27.And this word, yet once more, etc. The words of the Prophet are these, “ a little while;” and he means that the calamity of the people would not be perpetual, but that the Lord would succor them. But the Apostle lays no stress on this expression; he only infers from the shaking of the heaven and the earth that the state of the world was to be changed at the coming of Christ; for things created are subject to decay, but Christ’ kingdom is eternal; then all creatures must needs be brought into a better state. (271)
He makes hence a transition to another exhortation, that we are to lay hold on that kingdom which cannot be shaken; for the Lord shakes us for this end, that he may really and forever establish us in himself. At the same time I prefer a different reading, which is given by the ancient Latin version, “ a kingdom, we have grace,” etc. When read affirmatively, the passage runs best, — “ in embracing the Gospel, have the gift of the Spirit of Christ, that we may reverently and devoutly worship God.” If it be read as an exhortation, “ us have,” it is a strained and obscure mode of speaking. The Apostle means in short, as I think, that provided we enter by faith into Christ’ kingdom, we shall enjoy constant grace, which will effectually retain us in the service of God; for as the kingdom of Christ is above the world, so is the gift of regeneration. (272)
By saying that God is to be served acceptably, εὐαρέστως with reverence and fear, he intimates that though he requires us to serve with promptitude and delight, there is yet no service approved by him except it be united with humility and due reverence. Thus he condemns froward confidence of the flesh, as well as the sloth which also proceeds from it. (273)
(271) See Appendix Y 2.
(272) See Appendix Z 2.
(273) The Vulgate is, “ fear and reverence;” Beza’ “ modesty and reverence and religious fear;” Schleusner’ “ reverence and devotion.” Stuart has adopted our version. See Appendix A 3. — Ed.