Calvin writes very observingly: “For words cannot express how much God is vexed by our lack of trust when we ask him for a favor which we do expect to receive.”
(Institutes, 1541, p. 524)
Advent Shock & Surprise
Behind the fall and ruin of man lay Satan in his fall and ruin. Yet out of that rebellion of his, Satan would receive God’s mediate judgment, awaiting that great final conflagration in the fiery lake that burns forever. And then when that first man brought ruin to himself and us, the promise came to redeem some of that ruined humanity because they were loved from everlasting. And so, the Redeemer came. A shocking surprise that we should be loved and sought. But so it was to the praise and glory of God.
Bruised
Richard Sibbes says,
“…there is more mercy in Christ than sin in us…it is better to go bruised to heaven than sound to hell.”
The Bruised Reed, p. 47
The Incarnation
What a mystery is found in the words of John: “And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us…” First, the fact of divine conception. The Lord takes to himself our humanity in all its frailty and weakness. True mortality. Second, He tabernacles with us. he lives his life before us. It is observable, real and complete proof that Immanuel was among us. May we see his glory – full of grace and truth.
The Need For Fruit
“Those who will not be saints on earth will not be saints in heaven.”
Matthew Henry (Philippians)
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