Matthew (Expository Thoughts on the Gospels) E-Book

J. C. Ryle

• Herausgeber: Crossway
• Kategorie: Religion und Spiritualität
• Serie: Crossway Classic Commentaries
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 1993

Seitenzahl: 582

Beschreibung

For hundreds of years Christendom has been blessed with Bible commentaries written by great men of God highly respected for their godly walk and their insight into spiritual truth. The Crossway Classic Commentaries present the very best work on individual Bible books, carefully adapted for maximum understanding and usefulness for today's believers. Matthew is a fascinating treatment of the first Gospel. Well exegeted, accompanied by encouraging practical application, this helpful volume shares the power of God's promises fulfilled in God-become-man, Jesus Christ. Familiar passages come alive in the exposition given by a great man of faith; new gems of understanding and vision fuel heart-felt worship and new commitment for holy living. A remarkable work sure to equip and encourage all modern-day believers!

Leseprobe

Matthew

Matthew

Copyright © 1993 by Watermark.

Published by Crossway

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                     Wheaton, Illinois 60187

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher, except as provided by USA copyright law.

Art Direction: Mark Schramm

First printing 1993

Printed in the United States of America

Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data

Ryle, J. C. (John Charles), 1816-1900

Matthew / J. C. Ryle.

     p.  cm. — (Expository thoughts on the Gospels) (Crossway classic commentaries : v. 1)

ISBN 13: 978-0-89107-726-8

ISBN 10: 0-89107-726-X

Originally published: New York : R. Carter, 1860.

1. Bible. N.T. Matthew—Commentaries. I. Bible. N.T. Matthew.

English. Authorized. 1993. II. Title, m. Series. IV. Series: Ryle, J. C.

(John Charles), 1816-1900. Expository thoughts on the Gospels.

BS2575.3.R955       1993

226.2'07 —dc20                                                  92-47006

Crossway is a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.

CH       19     18     17    16    15    14     13    12    11    10 18   17   16   15    14    13    12    11   10    9    8    7     6

Contents

Series PrefacexiIntroductionxiiiPrefacexvChapter 1The genealogy of Christ (1:1-17)1The incarnation and name of Christ (1:18-25)3Chapter 2The wise men from the East (2:1-12)7The flight into Egypt, and subsequent home in Nazareth (2:13-23)10Chapter 3The ministry of John the Baptist (3:1-12)13The baptism of Christ (3:13-17)15Chapter 4The temptation of Christ (4:1-11)18The beginning of Christ's ministry, and the calling of the first disciples (4:12-25)20Chapter 5The Beatitudes (5:1-12)24Christian character in the world; Christ's teaching and the Old Testament (5:13-20)27The spirituality of the law (5:21-37)30The Christian law of love (5:38-48)32Chapter 6Ostentation in almsgiving and prayer (6:1-8)36The Lord's Prayer and the duty of forgiveness (6:9-15)38Fasting, worldliness and singleness of purpose (6:16-24)42Caring too much for this world (6:25-34)44Chapter 7Censoriousness forbidden (7:1-5)48Discretion in who we talk to about religion (7:6)49The duty of prayer (7:7-11)49Concluding lessons (7:12-20)50Profession without practice (7:21-29)53Chapter 8Miraculous healings (8:1-15)56Christ's wisdom in dealing with followers (8:16-22)58The storm on the lake (8:23-27)60The region of the Gadarenes (8:28-34)60Chapter 9A paralytic healed; the calling of Matthew (9:1-13)63New wine; a ruler's daughter raised to life (9:14-26)65Two blind men healed; Christ's compassion on the crowds; the disciples' duty (9:27-38)68Chapter 10The commissioning of the first Christian preachers (10:1-15)71Instructions to the first Christian preachers (10:16-23)73Warnings to the first Christian preachers (10:24-33)75Cheering words to the first Christian preachers (10:34-42)78Chapter 11Christ's testimony about John the Baptist (11:1-15)81The unreasonableness of unbelievers; the danger of not using the light (11:16-24)83Christ's greatness; the fullness of Gospel invitations (11:25-30)86Chapter 12The true doctrine of the Sabbath (12:1-13)90Wickedness of the Pharisees; Christ's character (12:14-21)92Blasphemy; sins against knowledge; idle words (12:22-37)94The power of unbelief (12:38-42)98The danger of an imperfect religious reformation (12:43-45)100Christ's love of his disciples (12:46-50)102Chapter 13The parable of the sower (13 :l-23)103The parable of the weeds (13:24-43)106The parables of the treasure, the pearl, and the net (13:44-50)109Christ's treatment in his own country; the danger of unbelief (13:51-58)111Chapter 14The martyrdom of John the Baptist (14:1-12)115The miracle of the loaves and fishes (14:13-21)117Christ walking on the sea (14:22-36)120Chapter 15The teachers of the law and Pharisees; the danger of traditions (15:1-9)124False teachers; the heart the source of sin (15:10-20)127The Canaanite woman (15:21-28)130Christ's miracles of healing (15:29-39)133Chapter 16The enmity of the Sadducees and Pharisees (16:1-12)136Peter's noble confession (16:13-20)139Peter rebuked (16:21-23)143The necessity of self-denial and the value of the soul (16:24-28)145Chapter 17The transfiguration (17:1-13)148The healing of a boy with a demon (17:14-21)152The fish and the temple tax (17:22-27)155Chapter 18Conversion and humility; the reality of hell (18:1-14)158Differences among Christians; church discipline (18:15-20)162The parable of the unforgiving servant (18:21-35)164Chapter 19Christ's judgment about divorce (19:1-12)168Christ's tenderness to little children (19:13-15)169The rich young man (19:16-22)171The danger of riches; leaving everything for Christ (19:23-30)173Chapter 20The parable of the workers in the vineyard (20:1-16)177Christ's coming death; ignorance and faith (20:17-23)180The true standard of greatness among Christians (20:24-28)184The healing of two blind men (20:29-34)186Chapter 21Christ's public entry into Jerusalem (21:1-11)190Christ at the temple; the barren fig-tree (21:12-22)193Christ's reply to the Pharisees; the two sons (21:23-32)196The parable of the tenants (21:33-46)198Chapter 22The parable of the great supper (22:1-14)202The Pharisees' question about paying taxes (22:15-22)205The Sadducees' question about the resurrection (22:23-33)208The great commandment; Christ's question (22:34-46)210Chapter 23Warnings against the teachers of the law and the Pharisees (23:1-12)214Eight charges against the teachers of the law and Pharisees (23:13-33)217Christ's last public words to the Jews (23:34-39)221Chapter 24Christ's prophecy on the Mount of Olives (24:1-14)225Miseries to come in Jerusalem (24:15—28)228The second coming of Christ described (24:29-35)231The time just before the second coming (24:36-51)234Chapter 25The parable of the ten virgins (25:1-13)238The parable of the talents (25:14-30)242The last judgment (25:31-46)245Chapter 26The woman who anointed our Lord's head (26:1-13)249The false apostle and his besetting sin (26:14-25)252The Lord's Supper and the first communicants (26:26-35)255The agony in the garden (26:36-46)259The false apostle's kiss; Christ's submission (26:47-56)263Christ before the Sanhedrin (26:57-68)266Peter's denial of his Master (26:69-75)268Chapter 27The end of Judas Iscariot (27:1-10)272Christ condemned before Pilate (27:11-26)276Christ's sufferings and crucifixion (27:27-44)278Christ's death, and the signs accompanying it (27:45-56)282Christ's burial (27:57-66)285Chapter 28Christ's resurrection (28:1-10)289Christ's parting commission to his disciples (28:11-20)292

Series Preface

The purpose of the Crossway Classic Commentaries is to make some of the most valuable commentaries on the books of the Bible, by some of the greatest Bible teachers and theologians in the last five hundred years, available to a new generation. These books will help today's readers learn truth, wisdom, and devotion from such authors as J. C. Ryle, Martin Luther, John Calvin, J. B. Lightfoot, John Owen, Charles Spurgeon, Charles Hodge, and Matthew Henry.

We do not apologize for the age of some of the items chosen. In the realm of practical exposition promoting godliness, the old is often better than the new. Spiritual vision and authority, based on an accurate handling of the biblical text, are the qualities that have been primarily sought in deciding what to include.

So far as is possible, everything is tailored to the needs and enrichment of thoughtful readers — lay Christians, students, and those in the ministry. The originals, some of which were written at a high technical level, have been abridged as needed, simplified stylistically, and unburdened of foreign words. However, the intention of this series is never to change any thoughts of the original authors, but to faithfully convey them in an understandable fashion.

The publishers are grateful to Dr. Alister E. McGrath of Wycliffe Hall, Oxford, Dr. J. I. Packer of Regent College, Vancouver, and Watermark of Norfolk, England, for the work of selecting and editing that now brings this project to fruition.

Introduction

The Right Reverend John Charles Ryle, D.D., "the best man in the Church of England" according to his great Baptist peer, C. H. Spurgeon, was Bishop of Liverpool from 1880 to 1900. Liverpool was a new diocese, and Ryle, a senior evangelical leader of large mind, firm principles, deep spirituality, and great gifts as a communicator, gave it an evangelical stamp that is not yet completely eroded. Prior to his appointment he had become one of the most noted evangelical writers of his day. His tracts ("Home Truths") sold by tens of thousands, as did Spurgeon's weekly printed sermons; his books Knots Untied, Old Paths, Holiness, and Practical Religion, along with his popular historical studies of the leaders of the English Reformation and of the Evangelical Revival, became steady sellers; and the seven-volume series of Expository Thoughts on the Gospels was already in its fifteenth edition by 1883. Of all nineteenth-century Anglican evangelicals, Ryle has unquestionably exercised the most widespread and sustained influence.

Spurgeon's Commenting and Commentaries, written primarily for the guidance of preachers with limited education and resources, contains a catalog of 1,437 Bible commentaries, with all of which he was himself familiar. Of Ryle's Expository Thoughts he wrote: "We prize these volumes. They are diffuse, but not more so than family reading requires. Mr. Ryle had evidently studied all previous writers upon the Gospels, and has given forth his individual utterance of considerable value."

The volume on Matthew, reproduced here, was the first in Ryle's series. He wrote it while he was vicar of Helmingham, Suffolk, and it was published in 1856 — "for family and private use," as the original title page says. Though written in popular sermon style, in units that would take about ten minutes to read aloud, it has learning behind it. Ryle's list of the forty-five commentaries he had consulted (see his Preface) covers all the serious scholarly work on interpreting Matthew that had been done up to his time. The age of the modern "critical" commentary, concentrating on the immediate historical and situational background of the text and the writer's linguistic nuances to the virtual exclusion of all else, had not dawned when Ryle wrote. The commentaries he studied were more concerned with the abiding message of the text as a guide to godliness, and that was his concern too. In a taut, energetic, pithy, down-to-earth, drumbeat style he enforces each passage's practical lessons. What makes this exposition classic? Just the fact that he does this particular job at least as well as, perhaps better than, and certainly more forcefully than anyone else before or since.

The image most people have of Victorian writing is of long-winded, heavy-footed, sluggish, sententious sentimentalism, and they approach Victorian writers with suspicion. Victorian though he is, Ryle, however, does not fit this mold. He is terse and lively, like John Bunyan and William Tyndale; his sentences are short, punchy, man-to-man affairs; his rhetoric consists not of piled-up periods, verbose and wearisome, but of quick, sharp hammer-blows that nail truth to the conscience and break the rocks of self-righteousness and self-sufficiency in fallen human hearts. Massive wisdom about God and life, piercing clarity about sin and error, solid rootage in the realities of redemption, and a consistent, adoring Christ-centeredness make Ryle's expositions edifying and satisfying to the spiritually hungry in this or any age. Ryle is classicl Taste and see.

J. I. PACKER

Preface

by

J. C. Ryle

In sending forth the first volume of a new expository work on the Gospels, I feel it necessary, in order to prevent misapprehension, to offer some explanation of the character and design of the work.

These Expository Thoughts are not a learned critical commentary. I do not profess to expound every verse of the Gospel, to grapple with every difficulty, to attempt the solution of every hard text, and to examine every disputed reading or translation.

The Expository Thoughts are not a continuous and homiletic exposition, containing practical remarks on every verse, like the commentaries of Brentius and Gualter.

The plan I have adopted in drawing up the Expository Thoughts is as follows: I have divided the sacred text into sections or passages, averaging about twelve verses in each. I have then supplied a continuous series of short, plain "expositions" of each of these passages. In each exposition I have generally begun by stating as briefly as possible the main scope and purpose of the passage under consideration. I have then selected two, three, or four prominent points in the passage, singled them out from the rest, dwelt exclusively on them, and endeavored to enforce them plainly and vigorously on the reader's attention. The points selected will be found to be sometimes doctrinal, and sometimes practical. The only rule in selection has been to seize on the really leading points of the passage.

In style and composition I frankly avow that I have studied, as far as possible, to be plain and pointed, and to choose what an old divine calls "picked and packed" words. I have tried to place myself in the position of someone who is reading aloud to others, and must arrest their attention if he can. I have said to myself in writing each exposition, "I am addressing a mixed company, and I have but a short time." Keeping this in view, I have constantly left unsaid many things that might have been said, and have endeavored to dwell chiefly on the things needful to salvation. I have deliberately passed over many subjects of secondary importance, in order to say something that might strike and stick in consciences. I have felt that a few points, well remembered and fastened down, are better than a quantity of truth lying loosely, and thinly scattered over the mind.

A few footnotes, explaining difficult passages, have occasionally been added to the exposition. I have thought it good to add these notes for the information of readers who may feel a wish to know what can be said about the "deep things" of Scripture, and may have no commentary of their own. [These are included in square brackets in the text of this edition. -Ed.]

I cannot, of course, expect that the opinions expressed in these expositions, whether about doctrine, practice or prophecy, will be satisfactory and acceptable to everyone. I can only say, I have spoken out freely, and kept back nothing that seemed to me true. I have set down nothing but what I conscientiously believe to be the real meaning of the inspired writer, and the mind of the Spirit. I have always held that truth is most likely to be reached when men on all sides conceal nothing, but tell out all their minds. Right or wrong, I have endeavored to tell out my own mind. It is my firm conviction that I have said nothing in these expositions which is not in perfect harmony with the Thirty-Nine Articles of my own Church, and does not agree in the main with all the Protestant Confessions of Faith. The words of an old divine will explain the kind of theology to which I ever desire to adhere and conform: "I know no true religion but Christianity; no true Christianity but the doctrine of Christ; of his divine person (Colos-sians 1:15), of his divine office (1 Timothy 2:5), of his divine righteousness (Jeremiah 23:6), and of his divine Spirit, which all that are his receive (Romans 8:9). I know no true ministers of Christ but such as make it their business, in their calling, to commend Jesus Christ, in his saving fullness of grace and glory, to the faith and love of men. I know no true Christian but one united to Christ by faith, and abiding in him by faith and love, to the glorifying of the name of Jesus Christ, in the beauties of Gospel holiness. Ministers and Christians of this spirit have for many years been my brethren and companions, and I hope ever shall be, withersoever the hand of the Lord may lead me." [Traill's Preface to Throne of Grace.]

I am deeply aware of the many imperfections and defects of the volume which is now sent forth. No one perhaps will see them more clearly than I do myself. At the same time I think it only fair to say that no exposition in this volume has been composed without deliberate reflection, and laborious examination of other men's opinions. There are very few passages handled in these expositions concerning which I have not at least looked at the views of the following writers: Chrysostom, Augustine, Theophylact, Euthymius, Calvin, Brentius, Bucer, Musculus, Gualter, Beza, Bullinger, Pellican, Ferus, Calovius, Cocceius, Baxter, Poole, Hammond, Lightfoot, Hall, Du Veil, Piscator, Paraeus, Jansenius, Leigh, Ness, Mayer, Trapp, Henry, Whitby, Gill, Doddridge, Burkitt, Quesnel, Bengel, Scott, A. Clark, Pearce, Adams, Watson, Olshausen, Alford, Barnes, Stier. I can truly say, that I have spent hours, days and weeks in examining the opinions of these writers, and that when I differ from them it is not because I do not know their views.

Commentaries and expositions of Scripture are so numerous in the present day that I feel it necessary to say something about the type of reader whom I have specially had in view in publishing these Expository Thoughts.

In the first place, I indulge the hope that the work may be found suitable for use at family prayers. The supply of works adapted for this purpose has never yet been equal to the demand.

In the next place, I cannot help hoping that the work may prove an aid to those who visit the sick and the poor. The number of persons who visit hospitals, sick-rooms and cottages with an earnest desire to do spiritual good is now very great. There is reason to believe that books suitable for reading on such occasions are much wanted.

Last, but not least, I trust that the work may not be found unprofitable for private reading, as a companion to the Gospels. There are not a few whose callings and engagements make it impossible for them to read large commentaries and expositions of God's Word. I have thought that they may find it helpful to their memories to have a few leading points set before their minds in connection with what they read.

I now send forth the volume with an earnest prayer that it may tend to the promotion of pure and undefiled religion, help to extend the knowledge of Christ, and be a humble instrument in aid of the glorious work of converting and edifying immortal souls.

J. C. RYLE

Matthew Chapter 1

The genealogy of Christ (1:1-17)

These verses begin the New Testament. Let us always read them with serious and solemn feelings. The book before us contains not "the word of men, but. . . the word of God" (1 Thessalonians 2:13). Every verse in it was written by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.

Let us thank God daily for giving us the Scriptures. The poorest Englishman who understands his Bible knows more about religion than the wisest philosophers of Greece and Rome.

Let us never forget the deep responsibility which possession of the Bible places on us. We shall be judged on the last day according to our light. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded.

Let us read the Bible reverently and diligently, with an honest determination to believe and practice all we find in it. It is no light matter how we use this book. Above all, let us never read the Bible without praying for the teaching of the Holy Spirit. He alone can apply truth to our hearts and make us profit from what we read.

The New Testament begins with the history of the life, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. No part of the Bible is so important as this, and no part is so full and complete. Four distinct Gospels tell us the story of Christ's actions and his death. Four times we read the precious account of his works and words. How thankful we ought to be for this! To know Christ is life eternal. To believe in Christ is to have peace with God. To follow Christ is to be a true Christian. To be with Christ will be heaven itself. We can never hear too much about the Lord Jesus Christ.

The Gospel of St. Matthew begins with a long list of names. Sixteen verses are taken up with tracing a pedigree from Abraham to David, and from David to the family in which Jesus was born. Let no one think that these verses are useless. Nothing is useless in creation. The least mosses, and the smallest insects, serve some good end. Nothing is useless in the Bible. Every word of it is inspired. The chapters and verses which seem at first sight unprofitable, are all given for some good reason. The person who looks carefully at these sixteen verses will not fail to see in them useful lessons.

1. God always keeps his word

First, we learn from this list of names that God always keeps his word. He had promised that "all peoples on earth will be blessed through you" (Genesis 12:3). He had promised to raise up a Saviour from the family of David (Isaiah 11:1). These sixteen verses prove that Jesus was the Son of David and the Son of Abraham, and that God's promise was fulfilled. Thoughtless and ungodly people should remember this lesson, and be afraid. Whatever they may think, God will keep his word. If they do not repent they will surely perish. True Christians should remember this lesson, and take comfort. Their Father in heaven will be true to all his promises. He has said that he will save all believers in Christ. If he has said it, he will certainly do it. "God is not a man, that he should lie " (Numbers 23:19)." He will remain faithful, for he cannot disown himself" (2 Timothy 2:13).

2. The sinfulness and corruption of human nature

Second, we learn from this list of names the sinfulness and corruption of human nature. It is instructive to observe how many godly parents in this list had wicked and ungodly sons. The names of Rehoboam, Jehoram, Amon and Jeconiah should teach us humbling lessons. They all had pious fathers. But they were all wicked men. Grace does not run in families. It needs something more than good examples and good advice to make us children of God. Those who are born again are not born "of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband's will, but born of God" (John 1:13). Praying parents should pray night and day that their children may be born of the Spirit.

3. Jesus Christ's mercy and compassion

Third, we learn from this list of names how great is the mercy and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ. Let us think how polluted and unclean human nature is, and then think how he humbled himself to be born of a woman, and made "in human likeness" (Philip-pians 2:7). Some of the names we read in this list remind us of shameful and sad histories. Some of the names are of people never mentioned elsewhere in the Bible. But at the end comes the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Though he is the eternal God, he humbled himself to become man, in order to provide salvation for sinners. "Though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor" (2 Corinthians 8:9).

We should always read this list with thankful hearts. We see here that no human being can be beyond the reach of Christ's sympathy and compassion. Our sins may have been as black and great as those of any whom St. Matthew names. But they cannot shut us out of heaven, if we repent and believe the Gospel. If the Lord Jesus was not ashamed to be born of a woman whose pedigree contained such names as those we have read today, we need not think that he will be ashamed to call us his brothers and sisters, and to give us eternal life.

The incarnation and name of Christ (1:18-25)

These verses begin by telling us two great truths. They tell us how the Lord Jesus Christ took our nature upon him, and became man. They tell us also that his birth was miraculous. His mother Mary was a virgin.

These are very mysterious subjects. We cannot fathom these depths. They are truths which are beyond our understanding. Let us not attempt to explain things which are above our feeble reason. Let us be content to believe with reverence, and let us not speculate about matters which we cannot understand. It is enough for us to know that with him who made the world nothing is impossible. We may safely rest in the words of the Apostles' Creed: "Jesus Christ was conceived by the Holy Spirit, and born of the Virgin Mary."

1. Joseph

First, let us observe the conduct of Joseph described in these verses. It is a beautiful example of godly wisdom and tender consideration for others. He saw the "appearance of evil" in the one who was to be his wife. But he did nothing rashly. He waited patiently to have the line of duty made clear. In all probability he laid the matter before God in prayer. "The one who trusts will never be dismayed" (Isaiah 28:16).

The patience of Joseph was graciously rewarded. He received a direct message from God on the subject of his anxiety, and was at once relieved from all his fears. How good it is to wait upon God! Who has ever cast his cares upon God in sincere prayer, and found him to fail? "In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:6).

2. The two names given to our Lord

Second, let us observe in these verses the two names given to our Lord. One is "Jesus," the other "Emmanuel." One describes his office, the other his nature. Both are deeply interesting.

The name Jesus means "Saviour." It is the same name as "Joshua" in the Old Testament. It is given to our Lord because "he saves his people from their sins." This is his special office. He saves them from the guilt of sin, by washing them in his own atoning blood. He saves them from the dominion of sin, by putting in their hearts the sanctifying Spirit. He saves them from the presence of sin, when he takes them out of this world to rest with him. He will save them from all the consequences of sin, when he gives them a glorious body at the last day. Blessed and holy are Christ's people! From sorrow, cross and conflict they are not saved; but they are "saved from sin" for evermore. They are cleansed from guilt by Christ's blood. They are made fit for heaven by Christ's Spirit. This is salvation! The person who clings to sin is not yet saved.

"Jesus" is a very encouraging name to heavy-laden sinners. He who is King of kings and Lord of lords might lawfully have taken some more high-sounding title. But he did not do so. The rulers of this world have often called themselves Great, Conqueror, Bold, Magnificent, and the like. The Son of God was content to call himself "Saviour." The souls who desire salvation may draw close to the Father with boldness, and have access with confidence through Christ. It is his office and his delight to show mercy. "God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him" (John 3:17).

Jesus is a name which is especially sweet and precious to believers. It has often done them good when the favor of kings and princes would have been disregarded. It has given them what money cannot buy, an inner peace. It has eased their weary consciences, and given rest to their heavy hearts. The Song of Songs speaks of the experience of many, when it says, "Your name is like perfume poured out" (Song of Songs 1:3). Happy is the person who trusts not merely in vague notions of God's mercy and goodness, but in "Jesus."

The name "Emmanuel" is seldom found in the Bible, but it is scarcely less interesting than the name "Jesus." It is the name which is given to our Lord from his nature as God-man, as "God revealed in the body." It means "God with us."

Let us take care that we clearly understand that there was a union of two natures, the divine and human, in the person of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a point of the deepest importance. We should settle it firmly in our minds that our Saviour is perfect man as well as perfect God, and perfect God as well as perfect man. If we once lose sight of this great foundation truth, we may run into fearful heresies. The name Emmanuel takes in the whole mystery. Jesus is "God with us." He had a nature like our own in all things, except for sin. But though Jesus was "with us" in human flesh and blood, he was at the same time truly God.

We shall often find as we read the Gospels that our Saviour could be weary and hungry and thirsty. He could weep and groan and feel pain like one of us. In all this we see the man Christ Jesus. We see the nature he took on him, when he was born of the Virgin Mary. But we shall also find in the same Gospels that our Saviour knew men's hearts and thoughts. He had power over demons. He could work the mightiest miracles with a word. He was ministered to by angels. He allowed a disciple to call him "my God." He said, "Before Abraham was born, I am!" (John 8:58) and "I and the Father are one" (John 10:30). In all this we see the eternal God. We see him "who is God over all, forever praised!" (Romans 9:5).

If we want to have a strong foundation for our faith and hope, we must keep constantly in view our Saviour's divinity. He in whose blood we are invited to trust is the Almighty God. All power is in heaven and earth. No one can snatch us out of his hand. If we are true believers in Jesus, our heart need not be troubled or afraid.

If we want to have sweet comfort in suffering and trial, we must keep constantly in view our Saviour's humanity. He is the man Christ Jesus, who lay in the arms of the Virgin Mary as a little infant, and knows the heart of a man. He can sympathize with our weaknesses. He has himself experienced Satan's temptations. He has endured hunger. He has shed tears. He has felt pain. We may trust him unreservedly with our sorrows. He will not despise us. We may pour out our hearts before him in prayer boldly, and keep nothing back. He can sympathize with his people.

Let these thoughts sink down into our minds. Let us bless God for the encouraging truths which the first chapter of the New Testament contains. It tells us of one who "saves his people from their sins." But this is not all. It tells us that this Saviour is "Emmanuel," God himself, and yet God with us, God revealed in a human body like our own. This is glad tidings. This is indeed good news. Let us feed on these truths in our hearts by faith with thanksgiving.

Matthew Chapter 2

The wise men from the East (2:1-12)

It is not known who these wise men were. Their names and dwelling-place are both kept back from us. We are only told that they came "from the east." Whether they were Babylonians or Arabs we cannot say. Whether they learned to expect Christ from the ten tribes who went into captivity, or from the prophecies of Daniel, we do not know. It matters little who they were. The point which concerns us most is the important lesson which their story gives us.

1. True servants in unexpected places

These verses show us that there may be true servants of God in places where we should not expect to find them. The Lord Jesus has many "hidden ones," like these wise men. Their story on earth may be as little known as that of Melchizedek, Jethro and Job. But their names are in the book of life, and they will be found with Christ on the day of his appearing. It is well to remember this. We must not look round the earth and say hastily, "All is barren." The grace of God is not tied to places and families. The Holy Spirit can lead souls to Christ without the help of any outward means. Men may be born in dark places of the earth, like these wise men, and yet like them be made "wise for salvation." There are some travelling to heaven at this moment, of whom the Church and the world know nothing. They flourish in secret places like the "lily among thorns," and seem to "waste their sweetness on the desert air." But Christ loves them, and they love Christ.

2. Those who give Christ most honor

Second, these verses show that it is not always those who have most religious privileges who give Christ most honor. We might have thought that the scribes and Pharisees would have been the first to hasten to Bethlehem, on the slightest rumor that the Saviour was born. But it was not so. A few unknown strangers from a distant land were the first, except for the shepherds mentioned by St. Luke, to rejoice at his birth. "He came to that which was his own, but his own did not receive him" (John 1:11). What a mournful picture this is of human nature! How often the same kind of thing may be seen among ourselves! How often the very people who live nearest to the means of grace are those who neglect them most! There is only too much truth in the old proverb, "The nearer the church the farther from God." Familiarity with sacred things has an awful tendency to make men despise them. There are many who, from residence and convenience, ought to be first and foremost in the worship of God, and yet are always last. There are many who might well be expected to be last, who are always first.

3. Head knowledge without heart knowledge

Third, these verses show us that there may be knowledge of Scripture in the head, while there is no grace in the heart. We are told that King Herod sent to inquire of the priests and elders "where the Christ was to be born" (verse 4). We are told that they gave him a quick answer, and showed an accurate acquaintance with the letter of Scripture. But they never went to Bethlehem to seek the coming Saviour. They would not believe in him when he ministered among them. Their heads were better than their hearts. Let us beware of resting satisfied with head knowledge. It is an excellent thing when rightly used. But a person may have much of it, and still perish everlastingly. What is the state of our hearts? This is the great question. A little grace is better than many gifts. Gifts alone save no one; but grace leads on to glory.

4. Spiritual diligence

Fourth, these verses show us a splendid example of spiritual diligence. What trouble it must have cost these wise men to travel from their homes to the house where Jesus was born! How many weary miles they must have journeyed! The fatigues of an Eastern traveler are far greater than we can at all understand. The time that such a journey would occupy must have been very great. The dangers to be encountered were neither few nor small. But none of these things moved them. They had set their hearts on seeing him "who has been born king of the Jews" (verse 2), and they never rested till they saw him. They prove to us the truth of the old saying, "Where there is a will there is a way."

It would be well for all professing Christians if they were more ready to follow the example of these good men. Where is our self-denial? What pains do we take about means of grace? What diligence do we show about following Christ? What does our religion cost us? These are serious questions. They deserve serious consideration. The truly "wise," it may be feared, are very few.

5. Faith

Fifth, these verses show us a striking example of faith. These wise men believed in Christ when they had never seen him; but that was not all. They believed in him when the scribes and Pharisees were unbelieving; but that again was not all. They believed in him when they saw him as a little infant on Mary's knees, and worshiped him as a King. This was the crowning point of their faith. They saw no miracles to convince them. They heard no teaching to persuade them. They saw no signs of divinity and greatness to overawe them. They saw nothing but a newborn infant, helpless and weak, and needing a mother's care like any of us. And yet when they saw that infant, they believed that they saw the divine Saviour of the world! "They bowed down and worshiped him" (verse 11).

We read of no greater faith than this in the whole volume of the Bible. It is a faith that deserves to be placed side by side with that of the penitent thief. The thief saw someone dying the death of a criminal, and yet prayed to him, and "called him Lord." The wise men saw a newborn baby on the lap of a poor woman, and yet worshiped him, and confessed that he was Christ. Blessed indeed are those who can believe in this way!

This is the kind of faith that God delights to honor. We see the proof of that to this very day. Wherever the Bible is read the conduct of these wise men is known, and told as a memorial to them. Let us walk in the steps of their faith. Let us not be ashamed to believe in Jesus and confess him, though all around us remain indifferent and unbelieving. Have we not a thousand rimes more evidence than the wise men had, to make us believe that Jesus is the Christ? Beyond doubt we have. Yet where is our faith?

The flight into Egypt, and subsequent home in Nazareth (2:13-23)

1. Rulers are seldom friendly to God's cause

Let us observe in this passage how true it is that the rulers of this world are seldom friendly to the cause of God. The Lord Jesus comes down from heaven to save sinners, and at once we are told that Herod the king seeks to kill him (verse 13).

Greatness and riches are a perilous possession for the soul. Those who seek to have them do not know what they seek. They lead people into many temptations. They are likely to fill the heart with pride, and to chain the affections down to things below. "Not many were influential; not many were of noble birth" (1 Corinthians 1:26). "How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!" (Mark 10:23).

Do we envy the rich and great? Does our heart sometimes say, "Oh, that I had their place, and rank, and wealth?" Let us beware of giving way to such feelings. The very wealth which we admire may be gradually sinking its possessors down into hell. A little more money might be our ruin. Like Herod, we might run into every excess of wickedness and cruelty. "Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed" (Luke 12:15). "Be content with what you have" (Hebrews 13:5).

Do we think that Christ's cause depends on the power and patronage of princes? We are mistaken. They have seldom done much to advance true religion; they have far more frequently been the enemies of the truth. "Do not put your trust in princes" (Psalm 146:3). There are many people like Herod. Those who are like Josiah and Edward VI of England are few.

2. A man of sorrows

Second, let us observe how the Lord Jesus was "a man of sorrows," even from his infancy. Trouble awaits him as soon as he enters into the world. His life is in danger from Herod's hatred. His mother and Joseph are obliged to take him away by night, and "escape to Egypt" (verse 13). It was only a type of all his experience upon earth. The waves of humiliation began to beat over him even when he was at his mother's breast.

The Lord Jesus is just the Savior that the suffering and sorrowful need. He knows well what we mean when we tell him in prayer about our troubles. He can sympathize with us when we cry to him under cruel persecution. Let us keep nothing back from him. Let us make him our close friend. Let us pour out our hearts before him. He has had great experience of affliction.

3. Kings are mortal

Third, let us observe how death can remove the kings of this world like other people. The rulers of millions have no power to hold on to life when the hour of their departure comes. The murderer of helpless infants must himself die. Joseph and Mary hear the news that Herod is dead and at once they return in safety to their own land.

True Christians should never be greatly moved by persecution. Their enemies may be strong, and they may be weak; but still they ought not to be afraid. They should remember that "the mirth of the wicked is brief" (Job 20:5). What has become of the Pharaohs, Neros and Diocletians who at one time fiercely persecuted the people of God ? Where is the enmity of Charles IX of France, and bloody Mary of England? They did their utmost to cast the truth down to the ground. But the truth rose again from the earth, and still lives; and they are dead and moldering in the grave. Let not the heart of any believer fail. Death is a mighty leveler, and can take any mountain out of the way of Christ's church. "The Lord lives" for ever. His enemies are only human. The truth will always prevail.

4. An obscure place

Fourth, let us observe what a lesson in humility is taught us by the place where the Son of God lived when he was on earth. He lived with his mother and Joseph "in a town called Nazareth" (verse 23). Nazareth was a small town in Galilee. It was an obscure place, not mentioned once in the Old Testament. Hebron, Shiloh, Gibeon, Ramah and Bethel were far more important places. But the Lord Jesus passed by them all, and chose Nazareth. This was humility!

In Nazareth the Lord Jesus lived thirty years. It was there he grew up from infancy to childhood, and from childhood to boyhood, and from boyhood to youth, and from youth to manhood. We know little of the manner in which those thirty years were spent. That he was obedient to Mary and Joseph we are expressly told (Luke 2:51). That he worked in the carpenter's shop with Joseph is highly probable. We only know that almost five-sixths of the time that the Saviour of the world was on earth was passed among the poor of this world and in complete obscurity. Truly this was humility!

Let us learn wisdom from our Saviour's example. We are most of us far too ready to "seek great things" in this world: let us "seek them not" (Jeremiah 45:5). To have a place and a title and a position in society is not nearly so important as people think. It is a great sin to be covetous and worldly and proud: but it is no sin to be poor. It matters not so much what money we have, and where we live, as what we are in the sight of God. Where are we going when we die? Shall we live forever in heaven? These are the main things which should concern us.

Above all, let us daily strive to copy our Saviour's humility. Pride is the oldest and commonest of sins; humility is the rarest and most beautiful of graces. For humility let us labor; for humility let us pray. Our knowledge may be scanty, our faith may be weak, our strength may be small; but if we are disciples of him who "dwelt at Nazareth," let us at any rate be humble.

Matthew Chapter 3

The ministry of John the Baptist (3:1-12)

These verses describe the ministry of John the Baptist, the forerunner of our Lord Jesus Christ: it is a ministry that deserves close attention. Few preachers ever produced such effects as John the Baptist: "People went out to him from Jerusalem and all Judea and the whole region of the Jordan" (verse 5). No one ever received such praise from the great head of the church: Jesus called him "a lamp that burned and gave light" (John 5:35); the great bishop of souls himself declared that "among those born of women there has not risen anyone greater than John the Baptist" (Matthew 11:11). Let us then study the leading features of his ministry.

1. Sin and repentance

John the Baptist spoke plainly about sin. He taught the absolute necessity of repentance (verse 2) before anyone can be saved; he preached that repentance must be proved by its "fruit" (verse 8); he warned his hearers not to rest on outward privileges, or outward union with the church.

This is just the teaching that we all need. We are naturally dead, and blind, and asleep in spiritual things; we are ready to content ourselves with a mere formal religion, and to flatter ourselves that if we go to church we shall be saved: we need to be told that, unless we "repent. . . and turn to God" (Acts 3:19), we shall all perish.

2. The Lord Jesus Christ

John spoke plainly about our Lord Jesus Christ. He taught people that one "more powerful" than himself was coming among them (verse 11). He was nothing more than a servant: the coming one was the King. He himself could only baptize with water: the coming one could "baptize . . . with the Holy Spirit" (verse 11), would take away sins, and would one day judge the world.

This again is the very teaching that human nature requires. We need to be sent direct to Christ: we are all ready to stop short of this; we want to rest in our union with the church, our regular use of the sacraments, and our diligent attendance on an established ministry. We need to be told the absolute necessity of union with Christ himself by faith. He is the appointed fountain of mercy, grace, life, and peace. We must each have personal dealings with him about our souls. What do we know about the Lord Jesus ? What have we got from him ? These are the questions on which our salvation hinges.

3. The Holy Spirit

John the Baptist spoke plainly about the Holy Spirit. He preached that there was such a thing as the baptism of the Holy Spirit. He taught that it was the special work of the Lord Jesus to give people this baptism.

This again is a teaching which we greatly require. We need to be told that forgiveness of sin is not the only thing necessary for salvation. There is another thing, and that is the baptizing of our hearts by the Holy Spirit. There must not only be the work of Christ for us but the work of the Holy Spirit in us; there must not only be a title to heaven purchased for us by the blood of Christ, but a readiness for heaven wrought in us by the Spirit of Christ. Let us never rest till we know by experience something of the baptism of the Spirit. Baptism in water is a great privilege, but let us see to it that we are also baptized in the Holy Spirit.

4. The danger of unbelief

John the Baptist spoke plainly about the awful danger of the impenitent and unbelieving. He told his hearers that "wrath" was coming (verse 7); he preached about "unquenchable fire" (verse 12), in which the "chaff" would one day be burned.

This again is a teaching which is deeply important. We need to be warned severely that it is no light matter whether we repent or not; we need to be reminded that there is a hell as well as a heaven, and an everlasting punishment for the wicked as well as everlasting life for the godly. We are fearfully apt to forget this. We talk about the love and mercy of God, and we do not remember sufficiently his justice and holiness. Let us be very careful on this point. It is no real kindness to keep back the terrors of the Lord. It is good for us all to be taught that it is possible to be lost forever, and that all unconverted people are hanging over the brink of the pit.

5. The safety of believers

Lastly, John the Baptist spoke plainly about the safety of true believers. He taught that there was "a barn" for all who are Christ's "wheat" (verse 12), and that they would be gathered together there on the day he appears.

This again is a teaching which human nature greatly requires. The best of believers need much encouragement. They are still in the body; they live in a wicked world; they are often tempted by the devil. They ought to be often reminded that Jesus will never leave them or forsake them (Hebrews 13:5). He will guide them safely through this life, and at length give them eternal glory. They will be hidden on the day of wrath; they will be as safe as Noah was in the ark.

Let these things sink down deeply into our hearts. We live in a day of much false teaching. Let us never forget the leading features of a faithful ministry. Happy would it have been for the church of Christ if all its ministers had been more like John the Baptist!

The baptism of Christ (3:13-17)

We have here the account of our Lord Jesus Christ's baptism. This was his first step when he entered on his ministry. When the Jewish priests took up their office they were washed with water (Exodus 29:4), and when our great High Priest begins the great work he came into the world to accomplish he is publicly baptized.

1. The honor of baptism

First, we should notice in these verses the honor placed on the sacrament of baptism. An ordinance which the Lord Jesus himself took part in is not to be thought of lightly. An ordinance to which the great head of the church submitted should always be held in honor in the eyes of professing Christians.

There are few subjects in religion over which greater mistakes have occurred than baptism. There are few which require so much fencing and guarding. Let us arm our minds with two general cautions.

Let us beware, on the one hand, that we do not attach a superstitious importance to the water of baptism. We must not expect that water to act as a charm. We must not suppose that all baptized people, as a matter of course, receive the grace of God at the moment that they are baptized. To say that all who come to baptism receive the same benefit, and that it does not matter a jot whether they come with faith and prayer or in utter indifference - to say such things appears to contradict the plainest lessons of Scripture.

Let us beware, on the other hand, that we do not dishonor the sacrament of baptism. It is dishonored when it is hastily passed over as a mere form, or thrust out of sight and never publicly noticed in the congregation. A sacrament ordained by Christ himself should not be treated in this way. The admission of every new member into the visible church, whether young or grown up, is an event which ought to excite a keen interest in a Christian congregation. It is an event that ought to call forth the fervent prayers of all praying people. The more deeply we are convinced that baptism and grace are not inseparably tied together, the more we ought to feel bound to join in prayer for a blessing whenever anyone is baptized.

2. The solemnity of Jesus' baptism

Second, we should notice in these verses the particularly solemn circumstances which occurred at the baptism of our Lord Jesus Christ. Such a baptism will never happen again as long as the world stands.

We are told about the presence of all three persons of the blessed Trinity. God the Son, revealed in the body, is baptized; God the Spirit descends like a dove, and rests upon him; God the Father speaks from heaven with a voice. In a word, we have the presence of Father, Son and Holy Spirit revealed. We may regard this as a public announcement that the work of Christ was the result of the eternal wills of all three persons of the blessed Trinity. It was the whole Trinity which, at the beginning of the creation, said, "Let us make man" (Genesis 1:26); it was the whole Trinity again which, at the beginning of the Gospel, seemed to say, "Let us save man."

We are told of "a voice from heaven" at our Lord's baptism; "heaven was opened," and words were heard (verses 16-17). This was a most significant miracle. We read of no voice from heaven before this, except at the giving of the law on Sinai. Both occasions were of particular importance. It therefore seemed good to our Father in heaven to mark both with particular honor. At the introduction both of the Law and Gospel he himself spoke. "God spoke all these words" (Exodus 20:1).

How striking and deeply instructive are the Father's words: "This is my Son, whom I love" (verse 17). He declares, in these words, that Jesus is the divine Saviour, sealed and appointed from all eternity to carry out the work of redemption. He proclaims that he accepts him as the mediator between God and man. He publishes to the world that he is satisfied with him as the propitiation, the substitute, the ransom-payer for the lost family of Adam, and the head of a redeemed people. In him he sees his holy "law great and glorious" (Isaiah 42:21). Through him he can "be just and the one who justifies those who have faith in Jesus" (Romans 3:26).

Let us carefully ponder these words. They are full of rich food for thought; they are full of peace, joy, comfort, and consolation for all who have fled for refuge to the Lord Jesus Christ and committed their souls to him for salvation. Such people may rejoice in the thought that, though in themselves sinful, yet in God's sight they are counted righteous. The Father regards them as members of his beloved Son. He sees in them no blemish, and for his Son's sake is "well pleased" (verse 17; see also Ephesians 1:6).

Matthew Chapter 4

The temptation of Christ (4:1-11)

The first event in our Lord's ministry which St. Matthew records after his baptism is his temptation. This is a deep and mysterious subject. There are many things about these temptations which we cannot explain; but in them there are plain practical lessons, which we do well to learn.

1. A real and powerful enemy

First, let us learn what a real and powerful enemy we have in the devil. He is not afraid to assault even the Lord Jesus himself. Three times he attacks God's own Son: our Saviour was "tempted by the devil" (verse 1).

It was the devil who brought sin into the world at the beginning. He vexed Job, deceived David, and caused Peter to fall heavily; the Bible calls him a "murderer" and a "liar" (John 8:44) and a "roaring lion" (1 Peter 5:8). His enmity to our souls neither slumbers nor sleeps. For nearly 6,000 years he has been doing the same work, ruining men and women and drawing them to hell. His cunning and subtlety pass human understanding, and he often "masquerades as an angel of light" (2 Corinthians 11:14).

Let us keep alert and pray daily against his schemes. There is no enemy worse than an enemy who is never seen and never dies, who is near us wherever we live, and goes with us wherever we go. Not least, we must beware of that habit of foolish talking and jesting about the devil which is unhappily so common. Let us remember that if we want to be saved we must not only crucify the flesh and overcome the world, but also "resist the devil" (James 4:7).

2. No strange thing

Second, let us learn that we must not think temptation a strange thing. "No servant is greater than his master" (John 13:16). If Satan came to Christ, he will also come to Christians.

It would be good for believers if they would remember this. They are too apt to forget it. They often find evil thoughts arising in their minds, which they can truly say they hate. Doubts, questions, and sinful thoughts are suggested to them, against which their whole inner being revolts; but let not these things destroy their peace and rob them of their comfort. Let them remember there is a devil, and so not be surprised to find him near them. To be tempted is in itself no sin: it is the yielding to temptation, and the giving it a place in our hearts, which we must fear.

3. The chief weapon

Third, let us learn that the chief weapon we ought to use in resisting Satan is the Bible. Three times the great enemy offered temptations to our Lord. Three times his offer was refused with a text of Scripture as the reason: "It is written ..." (verses 6, 7 and 10).