Required reading
The Works (Vol 4) of John Newton (Available from Amazon or free here) - Read Sermon XLV (Divine support and protection).
My summary
This week Newton preaches on: 'What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?' (Rom 8:31)
Firstly Newton looks at what is implied in the supposition that none can be effectually against us. He teaches us that:
(i) the ground of the agreement is the Messiah
(ii) the great design of the gospel is to purify unto God a peculiar people, who, being delivered from their fears and their enemies, shall serve him with an unreserved and persevering obedience;
(iii) they are agreed with him likewise as to the ultimate great end, the final cause of their redemption, which is 'the praise of the glory of his grace'.
Secondly Newton examines the meaning of the inference:
(i) they whom God is for, will on that very account have many opposers;
(ii) no opposition can prevail against us, if God be for us.
What grabbed me
As usual, Newton finishes well: 'At present, and while you persist in your impenitence and unbelief, I may reverse the words of my text. Oh! consider, I beseech you, before it be too late, 'If God be against you, who can be for you?' Will your companions comfort you in a dying hour ? Will your riches profit you in the day of wrath ? Will the recollection of your sinful pleasures give you confidence to stand before this great and glorious Lord God, when you shall be summoned to appear at his tribunal ? May you be timely wise, and 'flee for refuge to the hope set before you!''
If God be against you, who can be for you!
Next week's reading
Read Sermon XLVI (Accusers challenged).
Now it's your turn
Please post your own notes and thoughts in the comments section below.
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