DEVOTIONAL COMMENTARY ON THE GOSPELS

[nChrist]

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Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
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February 14

The spiritual harvest
John 4:25-38

The ignorant Samaritan woman was much struck with the conversation of the stranger sitting by the well. It put her in mind of the promise she had heard of a Messiah, who would come into the world and instruct men. She seems at length to have desired instruction. She said, "When he has come, he will tell us all things." He has come already, and has told us all things. Are there not some here who love his words, and desire to keep them?

What a joyful moment that was when the Lord revealed himself unto the woman, and said, "I who talk unto you am he." In her joy, it is probable, she did not remember that she had refused him a cup of cold water. She was now anxious that others would hear the heavenly stranger, and she ran with haste into the city. She told her countrymen how she had been convinced that Jesus was the Christ. She said, "Come see a man who told me all the things that ever I did. Is not this the Christ?" Now one great proof that the Bible is the word of God, is, that it tells us all things that ever we did - not that it can tell each person his own life in particular, but it describes such men as we are, shows us the secrets of our hearts, and makes us feel that He who wrote it knew everything concerning us. For this reason some hate the bible; they will not believe that their hearts are deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked. This woman did not turn away from the Savior's word because it exposed the sins of her life. Had she turned away, what infinite blessings she would have lost!

The disciples were astonished when they returned from the town with food, to find their Master talking in a friendly manner to a Samaritan woman. They thought that he was as prejudiced as themselves; but He who has made of one blood all the nations upon earth, is no respecter of people. There are white people in some countries at the present day, who treat the poor blacks with as much contempt as if they had no souls to be saved; but these people have not the mind of Christ - "He who despises his neighbor sins." When we look down upon another on account of the circumstances of his birth, we sin against God.

The disciples showed both respect and affection for their Master in their conduct on this occasion. They had too much respect to ask him why he talked with the woman; and they had so much affection, that they could not bear to see him refuse the food they brought him. But Jesus was too intent upon the souls he was now going to save, to be able to eat. When we are going to enjoy a great delight, our appetite is taken away, and so it was with Jesus; his food was to do his Father's will, and to finish his work. What was that will? What was that work? To seek and to save those who were lost; to glorify his Father by the salvation of sinners. John 17:4. O what love Christ had, to take delight in saving us, his enemies! Did He thus spend his life in willing labors for us, seeking no other pleasure than that of doing good; and shall we spend ours in doing our own will, and seeking our own glory?

Jesus directed his disciples' attention to the people who were thronging to hear him from the town. He compared their conversion to a harvest he was going to reap. Then he explained to his disciples that God often appointed one person to sow and another to reap. A minister who enters a place where the gospel has never been heard, may be compared to one who sows the good seed. Sometimes he is removed without seeing any fruit of his labor. Another follows him, and meets with great success in converting souls; and this last minister may be compared to a reaper.

Thus it was in Greenland. When Hans Egede first visited that land of ice and snow, he met with neglect and scorn; and though he remained there fifteen years, he could not make an impression upon a single person. Other missionaries from Germany followed in his steps, and they reaped an abundant harvest of souls; and Greenland is now a Christian country. Shall not Hans Egede who sowed the seed rejoice in heaven with the blessed men who reaped the sheaves? Jesus promised his apostles that they would reap many souls when they preached; his prophets had sown good seed long before, and had not reaped. Would God forget those poor persecuted prophets?

It is a great delight to be permitted to reap; but it is a great comfort to think, that if we only sow, and even shed tears because we meet with no success, yet that our labor is not in vain in the Lord; and that at the last day we shall doubtless come again, bringing our sheaves with us. There have been parents who have died fearing that their instructions had made no impression on the hearts of their children, and yet after their death some friend or minister has reaped those children's souls. Will not the parent rejoice with that friend when they all appear before God? He who sows and he who reaps shall rejoice together.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 15

The conversion of the Samaritans, and the healing of the nobleman's son
John 4:39-54

Some of the Samaritans were longer in believing than others. Some believed on account of the woman's testimony, others - not until they had heard him themselves. We know it is best to believe without hesitation, for Jesus once said, "Blessed are those who have not seen, and yet have believed." You remember how readily Mary believed the angel's message; and Elizabeth said to her, "Blessed is she who believes, for there shall be a performance of the things told her of the Lord." But though some of the Samaritans were slow in believing - after they believed, they were bold in confessing their faith. They said, "We know that this is indeed the Christ, the Savior of the world." O what a title that is! The Savior of the "world;" not of Jews only, but of SAMARITANS also, of some of every kindred and of every nation. May we all know him as our Savior. We shall never truly love him until we know him, not only from report, but from experience. How different is the state of that person who only knows Jesus from what others have said of him - from his state who has received answers to his own prayers, and felt that his own sins are forgiven!

Jesus could not stay more than two days with these Samaritans! We perhaps have heard a thousand sermons, and have read the Bible through many times. Is it possible that any one among us does not love the Savior? Would not these Samaritans rise up in judgment against one so much favored and yet so unfeeling!

Jesus did not return to Nazareth, which was his own country. There he was more despised than in any other place, because the people were accustomed to him. Though they had heard his blessed conversation year after year, and beheld his lovely example, they esteemed him not. It often happens that the gospel is most neglected where it has been longest preached. The excellent Baxter said, "I wish to be the minister of a place, either where the people have heartily embraced the gospel or where they have never heard it; but I dread being the minister of a place where the people have heard in vain." Those who have heard without profit become hardened, and are more rarely converted than others.

We find in this chapter an instance of a nobleman coming to Jesus. Not many noble are called, yet some are called. This man was brought to Jesus by his afflictions. In his sorrowful circumstances this nobleman found himself as dependent upon God as a beggar. There was none but Jesus who could relieve his sorrow. The Lord did not favor him more than others, but treated him with the greatest plainness. Had this nobleman been proud, like Naaman, the Syrian, he might have gone away in anger; but he stood the trial of his faith. It was to try him, Jesus said, "Except you see signs and wonders, you will not believe." The nobleman showed by his answer he believed already, for he replied, "Sir, come down before my child dies." Yet he had not such faith as the Centurion had, of whom we afterwards read; for this nobleman did not believe that Jesus could save his child unless he came down to the spot where he lay. But the Lord is compassionate to weak faith, when it is real. Jesus gave a greater proof of his power than the afflicted father had ever thought of - for "he is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or THINK," (Ephesians 3:20.) "Go your way," said the Lord, "your son lives." The nobleman's faith was grown so strong, that he believed the declaration. Nor was that faith disappointed - for, while returning home, he learned that his child had recovered at the very hour that Jesus spoke the word.

He now acquaints his family with this great display of the power and love of Jesus. What is the result? The whole family, wife, children, servants, believe. What a happy family they must have become! The master's journey was blessed to his whole household. It is the fervent wish of every master who loves God, to bring his whole household to the knowledge of him. May this family and this household be joined to the household of faith, and to the family in heaven and earth who are named after Jesus the Lord!

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 16

Christ preaches at Nazareth
Luke 4:14-32

The people of Nazareth were much offended with the Lord for not visiting them immediately after his return from Jerusalem. They thought they had the best right to his presence. What a temper of mind was this! Had they any right to Jesus, because he had condescended to be brought up among them? What pride there was in the thought!

And what was their reason for desiring to have him among them? Were they thirsting for spiritual blessings, the forgiveness of sins, the renewal of the heart? No! the Nazarenes were only anxious to partake of temporal benefits; they wished Jesus to heal their sick, as he had healed the sick of other cities. When, at length, He came to Nazareth, he was invited to read. It was usual for seven people in succession to read a portion of the Scriptures; one of them was a priest, another a Levite, but the other five might belong to any tribe. There was a minister of the synagogue, but his office was not like the office of ministers in our churches. It was his part to appoint which of the readers he pleased to read the lessons for the day. One of the lessons was taken from the law, and one from the prophets. The various books of the Scriptures were written on rolls of parchment. The roll containing the prophecy of Isaiah was presented to Jesus. The words he read were probably the lesson for the day, and they applied most forcibly to himself. Did the Nazarenes understand the meaning of the sublime passage which the Savior read on that day? Perhaps some thought that Isaiah spoke of himself when he said, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor." But it was Jesus who really came to preach glad tidings, or "the gospel," to the poor in spirit. In that passage poor lost man is compared to a miserable prisoner, whose eyes had been put out, and who had been thrust into a dark dungeon. One of our Christian poets describes our condition by nature in the following stanza -

"Plunged in a gulf of deep despair,
We wretched sinners lay,
Without one beam of cheerful hope,
Or spark of glimmering day."

Jesus came to deliver the poor blind captive, bruised, or galled by the chains of sin. He came to preach the "acceptable year of the Lord." There was a year of deliverance among the Jews - it occurred every fiftieth year, and was called the year of Jubilee. That year was a figure of Christ's great salvation from death and hell. Let each of us ask himself, "What do I know of this deliverance? Am I still tied and bound with the chain of my sins; or have I been set free from the power of Satan?"

The readers in the synagogue were permitted to explain the lesson they had read. Our Lord availed himself of this permission, and said, "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears." For a moment the people were astonished at his words; but the next their pride rose. They remembered that he was considered to be the son of a carpenter, and they made this an excuse for despising him. It is pride which causes numbers to reject God's salvation; they think to themselves, "Who is that man that I should listen to him? Why should he know more than I do?" Thus the Nazarenes reasoned. Jesus knew well that rage was working in their hearts - he knew that they were angry with him for having healed the sick of other cities before he had healed theirs; and he answered their thoughts by showing them that God had always chosen whom he would. Elijah in time of famine had sustained with oil and meal a widow of a heathen city; and Elisha had cured a leper of a heathen country, and not of his own. Jesus would not encourage those earthly-minded people to expect any benefits from him - while they rejected the greatest, he would not give them the least.

We see how hateful a worldly mind is to Jesus. If we are more anxious to possess an earthly portion than a heavenly inheritance, we are not His people. Yet you know well that the desire of the heart by nature is only for health, riches, pleasures, for worldly honor, or domestic comforts. If Christ would bestow these on all who asked, what constant fervent prayers would be offered at his throne! The heathen imagine that their idols will bestow earthly blessings upon them, and that is one reason they pray to them so earnestly.

Behold with wonder the madness of the Nazarenes! They cast out the Savior of the world, and forfeit their part in all his blessings! His Father preserved his life, for his hour was not yet come, and it has been well observed, "His children are all immortal until their work is done."

Can we behold without dismay such treatment of the Lord of heaven and earth? If He who was so lovely and so gracious was thus treated, ought not we to be prepared for similar usage? Had he been less faithful, the gentle Savior might have avoided persecution; but he sought not to please men, but God; he desired not to get honor, but to save souls. We may often escape persecution by acting insincerely and unfaithfully. But what, if we should also lose our peace of mind, and the approbation of God!

[nChrist]

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Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 17

Christ takes up his abode at Capernaum
Matthew 4:12-17

The Lord Jesus chose to reside principally in the most ignorant part of Canaan; he selected the part at the greatest distance from Jerusalem, and which bordered on the wicked cities of Tyre and Sidon. And what led him to do this? Was it not pity for the ignorant and neglected? There are some who are now employed in visiting the courts and alleys of great cities, and some who are going into desolate villages, and some who are leaving their country to dwell among the heathen. Are they not walking in the steps of their Master?

Jesus fulfilled a prophecy of Isaiah, by preaching in Zebulon and Naphtali. The words in the prophecy are difficult to understand, but learned men have offered a satisfactory explanation. Let us first read the prophecy in Isaiah 9:1 – "Nevertheless, that time of darkness and despair will not go on forever. The land of Zebulun and Naphtali will soon be humbled, but there will be a time in the future when Galilee of the Gentiles, which lies along the road that runs between the Jordan and the sea, will be filled with glory." What is the sense of the passage? It is this - Once the tribes of Zebulon and Naphtali were afflicted, (because, being situated on the borders of Canaan, they were exposed to the invasions of the enemy,) but afterwards they were "filled with glory." How? By the preaching of the Gospel. Yes, the Savior by his presence and preaching bestowed glory on those sequestered spots.

How great a blessing is the Gospel! it may well be compared to a great light, for it sheds peace and joy around it. How melancholy is the condition of those who do not hear the Gospel! Well may they be said "to sit in darkness and the shadow of death." They sit on the very brink of hell. We sometimes see a smiling village, seated on the side of a verdant hill, full of neat cottages and blooming gardens. We feel disposed to exclaim, "O! what a lovely spot!" But if the Gospel is not known there, it is, in the sight of God and of angels, a dismal place; while on the gloomiest, darkest alley, where Christ's word is heard, they look with joy.

In vain, however, the great light shone upon the people of Zebulon and Naphtali; for the light did not shine into their hearts. Christ afterwards pronounced a woe upon some of their cities, Capernaum, Chorazin, and Bethsaida, because they repented not.

Let us take warning from this. If God does not shine into our hearts, in vain for us are the splendors of the noonday sun; in vain the clearest, most affecting preaching; even the preaching of Christ himself.

And about what did Jesus preach? Repentance. And why did he preach "repentance?" Because sorrow for sin and turning from it is the beginning of true religion; but though it is the beginning, it must never cease upon earth. As Philip Henry said, "Repentance shall follow me to the gates of heaven." Rowland Hill also observed, that if he could regret anything when he entered heaven, it would be that he would no more shed the penitential tear. There is no true religion without repentance. "A broken and a contrite heart, O God, you will not despise." May God bestow it upon each of us!

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 18

Christ calls Peter, Andrew, James, and John
Matthew 4:18-22

Was it not a high honor to follow the Lord Jesus from place to place, to hear his word both in private and public, and to behold his works of power and love? Whom did he call to enjoy this honor? Poor ignorant fishermen; these became his intimate companions, his bosom friends, and his holy apostles. Thus, our glorious Lord stained the pride of all human glory; as he had done before, by lying in a manger, and as he did afterwards, by dying on a cross between two thieves. How ill pride befits us, when the Lord of glory was so lowly! Ought we to look down upon anyone as beneath our notice, when the Son of God was so condescending? It is true that there are different stations in society, and some stations are counted high, and others low. It is well that this difference should exist; it is God's own wise appointment. But it is not his will that the rich should despise the poor; no, he has made us all of one blood, and he has commanded us to love each other as brethren.

Jesus might have chosen princes for his companions, or even angels, and sent them out as ministers of his Gospel; but he preferred to prepare poor fishermen for the glorious work. Before he sent them out, he taught them for three years, and afterwards the Spirit caused them to know in a moment various languages. Education is now an important preparation for the work of the ministry, as the wonderful gifts the apostles enjoyed are no longer bestowed.

These men were employed in an industrious manner when Jesus called them. When God called Moses, he was keeping sheep; Gideon, he was thrashing; Elisha, he was guiding the plough. Industry in our common callings is pleasing in God's sight; a Christian should not be slothful in business. Yet these men were not so fond of their trade, or of their gains, as to prefer them to the service of Jesus. When he called, they left all and followed him. He did not bribe or entice them to come by promising them temporal rewards; he told them plainly that his design in calling them was to make them fishers of men. The net they would hereafter use would be the Word of God; the fish they would catch, the souls of men; and the reward they would obtain, a heavenly crown. They had often toiled in fishing, but they would toil more arduously in preaching; they would find men more hard to catch than fish, and the hatred of the world more terrible to bear than the winds and the waves. Christ has now many faithful fishermen, who, for his name's sake, are laboring to convert souls. Has their labor for us been in vain? Have we yet been caught in the Gospel net - willing captives? The poor fish, indeed, finds death in the net, but we find life in it. Well may the fish struggle and strive to escape; but it would be in us the height of folly; for the day in which a perishing sinner is caught in the heavenly net, is the first happy day of his existence; even the tears of the penitent are sweeter than the laughter of the world.

[nChrist]

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Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 19

The miraculous catch of fish
Luke 5:1-11

As these disciples had toiled all night and had caught nothing, it is probable they were in need of food when Jesus bid them launch into the deep. Was it only to supply their temporal wants that He caused them to enclose so large a multitude of fish? No! for though he delighted in relieving their bodies, he delighted more in helping their souls. By this wonderful catch of fish, he taught them many great truths - he taught them something of the greatness of his power; he taught them something of the blessedness of obedience. Peter had said, "At your word I will let down the net." How richly was his obedience rewarded! The apostles were to become fishers of men. Who could enable them to catch men, that is, to convert souls? None but Jesus. Though ministers preach - until God pours down his Spirit, no souls are converted; yet ministers, like Peter, should be obedient, and continue patiently to let down the net of the Gospel.

And should ministers only act thus? All Christians ought to exhort each other daily, and their common conversation should minister grace to the hearers. We ought to distribute tracts and Bibles, to teach children, to contribute our property to the support of missionaries, and to do whatever we can to benefit the souls of our fellow-creatures; yet our exertions will be vain, unless God adds his blessing. Let us then entreat God to put forth his great power and to prosper the feeble efforts which we make in obedience to his command.

The remembrance of this miracle should encourage us; and still more the remembrance of the sermon Peter afterwards preached, recorded in Acts 2, when three thousand were converted. Probably there were not three thousand fish in the net. Lately God has done wonders in America, and in India, and in the islands of the South Seas; thousands have been converted. We must pray for the outpouring of the Spirit, and then sinners will be awakened, and will cry out earnestly, "What shall we do to be saved?"

What do you think of Peter's prayer after the miracle? "Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord." It was a good prayer, and yet it was a mistaken prayer. It was a good prayer, because it contained confession of sin. Peter was overwhelmed with a sense of his unworthiness; (that is the right spirit in which to make a prayer;) his heart was broken and contrite.

Perhaps he had indulged unbelieving, murmuring thoughts when toiling all night without success, and now he was overcome by the mercies of the Lord. This is true repentance - when we are grieved the more for our sins, on account of the Lord's goodness to us. Would not a person feel cut to the heart who had been suspecting another, and speaking against him; if suddenly he discovered that the man whom he counted an enemy had labored to serve him, and contrived schemes for his good. The discovery would fill him with remorse; he never could forgive himself for his ungenerous suspicions. Thus, "The goodness of God leads us to repentance." It leads us to feel our unworthiness and ingratitude.

But why did Peter desire so gracious a Lord to depart from him? Jesus knew the spirit in which he made this prayer, and he would not take him at his word. Though Peter said, "Depart from me," Jesus knew he sincerely loved him.

When the wicked say to God, "Depart from me, for I desire not the knowledge of your ways," He often takes them at their word; but He does not deal thus with the trembling penitent, but receives him in his arms, and bids him abide with him forever. "Fear not," answers the blessed Savior, "from henceforth you shall catch men." Instead of departing from Peter, the Lord never permitted Peter to depart from him.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 20

Christ casts out a devil in the synagogue
Mark 1:21-28

Though the Lord was continually working miracles, yet the miracle here related seems to have caused unusual amazement. And it might well do so, for in it Christ's power over the devil was displayed. One of the most mysterious subjects in the Bible is the manner in which devils possessed men in former times. It is so mysterious, that some have chosen not to believe it; but if we were to believe nothing that we could not clearly understand, how little we would believe! We would not believe in our own existence, for we cannot tell how we live, or what life is; yet we know that we do live. It is very reasonable to suppose, that when Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil, that wicked spirit would make great efforts to resist him. Some have thought that the people possessed with devils were in a state of insanity; but we find that the insane or lunatic are mentioned by Matthew, separately from those possessed with devils; therefore insanity is a different calamity from being possessed of devils. (Matthew 4:24.)

It is true that Satan even now enters into men's hearts, to fill them with wickedness; but it was not in this way that he had entered into the man in the synagogue; for had this man been filled with Satan, as Judas afterwards was, Jesus would have spoken to him as to a wicked man; but He did not rebuke the man, He only rebuked the devil.

The evil spirit had permitted the man to go to the synagogue. Had he known whom he would meet there, surely he would not have allowed him to go; for he seemed full of fear when he saw Christ. He cried out, "Let us alone; what have we to do with you, Jesus of Nazareth? Are you come to destroy us?" We know that devils believe and tremble. They cannot feel hope, but they can feel fear. They have no hope of growing happy, but they have a fear of becoming more miserable. Nor do they fear without cause; for their continual wickedness must render them more and more miserable throughout the ages of eternity, and must bring down upon them larger measures of God's wrath.

Even the praises of devils are abominable to Christ. When the evil spirit said, "I know you who you are, the Holy One of God," Jesus replied, "Hold your peace." He cannot bear the praises of those who hate him.

Let none think that while engaged in the service of Satan, the Lord accepts their praises. Though they may join in the responses at church, and say, "You are the king of glory, O Christ;" or repeat daily upon their knees, "Hallowed be your name," yet while they are living in sin, their services are displeasing to God. He is ready to silence their tongues with "Hold your peace." To the wicked, God says, "What have you to do to declare my statutes, or that you should take my covenant in your mouth, seeing you hate instruction and cast my words behind you?" (Psalms 50:16-17.) Such is the dreadful condition of the children of the devil - of the unconverted, even now. What will it be hereafter? Judge what it will be from the malice the devils displayed towards this poor man. When commanded to come out of him, the devil first tore him, and (as Luke informs us) "threw him in the midst." Though obliged to obey the Lord of all, with what reluctance he left his victim! He made him feel his malice before he left him.

It is to the malice of such devils that the wicked are to be forever given up! These are to be their companions through eternity; no Savior's voice will penetrate the gates of hell to bid the raging fiends cease from tormenting. Let us consider the horrors of the future, and remember that these spirits now fill the air, and that Satan is called, "the prince of the power of the air." (Ephesians 2:2.) This prince seeks now to deceive the soul, in order that it may be cast into hell forever. There will be no escape for us, if not washed in the blood of Christ, and sanctified by his Spirit. What do we know of pardon and holiness? Have we obtained these precious gifts from Christ? He died that we might obtain them. Are there any of us, of whom it may be said, that "they are taken captive by the devil at his will?"

Jesus can command the devil to let us go, and he will do so, if we implore his help. But the devil will not let go his captives, unless he is compelled; he diligently watches over them, lest they would believe and be saved, accompanies them to church and follows them home. Yes, he follows them close, for he has a numerous train of servants at his command. But there is a place where he cannot come; the shadow of the Almighty's wings. O enter into the secret place of the Most High, and there you shall be safe; for He shall cover you with his feathers, and under his wings shall you trust; the young lion and the dragon shall you trample under foot. (Psalms 91)

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 21

The scene at sunset and sunrise
Mark 1:29-39

It is our privilege to possess an account of the chief events of one whole day that our Savior passed upon earth. It was a Sabbath-day. In what labors of love was that Sabbath spent! In the morning Jesus was at the synagogue, where he cast out a devil. After the service he returned to Simon Peter's house, which was in the city of Capernaum. There he healed Peter's wife's mother of a fever. How much tenderness there was in the manner in which the miracle was performed - "He took her by the hand and lifted her up." At his touch the fever fled, and strength returned. After a fever, a person is always exceedingly weak; but this woman arose, and waited upon her deliverer. How gladly must she have waited on him by whom she had been restored! Has Jesus done nothing for us? Has he never healed us when we were sick? Are we anxious to serve him?

When the sun was set, the Sabbath was ended; for the Jewish Sabbath began on Friday evening, and ended on Saturday evening. Then numbers flocked to Jesus, and he healed them all. This was a painful and laborious service. Could Jesus behold unmoved the diseased creatures that were brought to him? Could he hear the ravings of those possessed with devils, and the cries of those in pain, without anguish of spirit? Impossible; for his heart was full of compassion. Some people turn away from the view of misery, because it gives them uneasiness; but such conduct is selfish. Our blessed Savior felt far more at the sight of suffering than we can feel; yet he was willing to bear the pangs of sympathy. In this self-denying compassionate behavior, he fulfilled Isaiah's prophecy. "Surely he has borne our griefs and carried our sorrows," (Isaiah 56:3;) or as Matthew expresses it, "Himself took our infirmities, and bore our sicknesses." -  (Matthew 8:17.) He did this, not only by partaking of them, but by relieving them. He left us an example that we should follow his steps. We are not to give ourselves up to selfish enjoyment, while our fellow-creatures are groaning. No! we are to lay ourselves out for their good; to visit the sick, to give them food and medicine, and kind words of sympathy, and to be ready, if needful, to nurse them. Thus shall we follow Christ, who bore our sicknesses.

The Lord Jesus rested when his day of labor was over, but he rose a long while before the dawn to pray. He thirsted for communion with his Father. We always find time to do those things in which we much delight. Those who say they have no time to pray, show that they do not love to pray. A Christian finds prayer as necessary for his soul, as food for his body.

The Savior's retirement was interrupted by his disciples, (and by the people of the city, as Luke tells us,) who said, "All men seek you." Was this addressed to him who was despised and rejected of men? But how few of those who sought him truly loved him! Thus it is now. Multitudes will flock to hear an earnest, interesting preacher; but only a few receive into their hearts the blessed Gospel he proclaims.

Jesus, however, could not stay in Capernaum; and he said, "Let us go into the next towns, that I may preach there also; for that is why I have come." He ever remembered the purpose for which he came into the world - not his own pleasure, but the glory of God in the salvation of sinners. For what purpose were we sent into the world? Our own amusement? O no! yet many live as if they were born merely to live in pleasure, and then to die like the beasts. We were born that God might be glorified by us and in us. A young lady was once converted by meditating on the first answer in the Assembly's Catechism. The first question is, "What is the chief end of man?" The answer, "To glorify God, and enjoy him forever." She felt that she was not fulfilling this end while spending her time in vain and worldly pleasures. By the grace of God she gave them up, and became an eminent Christian.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 22

The cure of the leper and of multitudes with diverse diseases and torments
Matthew 4:23-25; Mark 1:40-45

How full of labors of love was our Savior's life below! His principal object was to preach the Gospel, but he confirmed his word by various miraculous cures. These bodily cures represented the spiritual blessings he came to bestow. As he healed all manner of diseases without any exception, so he could forgive all manner of sins; for his blood cleanses from all sin. No disease was too bad for him to cure, no devil too strong for him to cast out; neither was any sin, if repented of, too great for him to forgive. He declared, "All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men."

We cannot wonder that crowds followed Him, when He bestowed such abundant temporal benefits. We know how men value the health of the body. But Jesus was far more anxious to save the souls than to heal the bodies of men, and therefore he sought for opportunities to preach his holy word. Probably one reason for his charging the leper not to mention the means of his recovery was, that he foresaw that if the miracle were made known, a still greater throng of diseased people would be collected, and that by this means his preaching would be interrupted. Disease of body must have appeared to him very light, compared to that disease of the soul which leads to destruction. We judge of diseases by their end, and not by their beginning. If we have seen a man die in torments from any disease, when we see the beginning of that disease in another we are filled with horror. Jesus had seen souls tormented in burning flames, and he knew that sin was the beginning of hell.

Of all diseases, none represents sin in a more striking manner than leprosy. In the first place leprosy was a POLLUTING disease. It rendered a man unfit to enter the temple, or even to associate with his fellows; as by God's law anyone who touched him became unclean. Thus sin unfits man from entering heaven, and for the society of spotless saints and angels.

Leprosy was also a SPREADING disorder. It covered a man with white scales from the crown of the head to the sole of the foot. Thus sin has defiled all our powers. It has disordered our affections, blinded our understandings, hardened our consciences, and perverted our wills.

Leprosy was a PAINFUL disease. The hands and feet of the poor leper are often eaten away, and in this crippled state he drags out a miserable existence. But what disease is as painful as sin - the swellings of pride, the tumults of passion, the anxieties of covetousness, the gnawings of envy, the gloom of unbelief? Some have been induced to pray for a new heart, not from fear of the wrath to come, but on account of the present misery of their unconverted state.

Leprosy also was INCURABLE. When the king of Syria in former times asked the king of Israel to cure Naaman his captain, the terrified monarch rent his clothes, saying, "Am I God, to kill and make alive, that this man does send unto me to cure a man of his leprosy?" (2Ki_5:7.) Sin also is incurable by MAN. None can forgive sins but God alone; none can overcome sins but God alone. Tears cannot wash out our past sins, nor can good resolutions keep us from committing them in time to come.

Having then a leprosy in our souls, let us imitate the poor leper of whom we read. Behold him falling at the feet of Jesus, beseeching his help. Are our prayers earnest like his? or do we ask for eternal blessings with less earnestness than a beggar asks for an alms?

The leper's prayer is remarkable - "If you will you can make me clean." He doubted, not the power of Jesus, but his mercy. Yet his mercy is as great as his power. It is true that by his power he stretched out the heavens, and laid the foundation of the earth. But it is also true that, "High as the heaven is above the earth, so great is his mercy towards them that fear him." Had this leper known the compassion of the Savior's heart, he would not have said, "If you will!"

Observe how tenderly Jesus felt for him - "Moved with compassion, he put forth his hand and touched him." He showed his condescension by touching the loathsome leper, from whom all others fled. Thus he encourages polluted sinners to approach him. He will not repel them, and say, "Stand by yourself, for I am holier than you;" He invites them to come near, and he offers by his holy touch to heal them. Fear not, penitent sinner; stay not until you are better; believe that Jesus will welcome you as you are. His blood is a fountain for sin and uncleanness; he himself stands by to wash you in it. Come to him to be healed; your cure shall be perfect; all your sins shall be forgiven and cast into the depths of the sea, and you shall be restored to the favor of God, and admitted into the heavenly Jerusalem.

[nChrist]

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Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 23

The paralytic let down through the house-top
Luke 5:16-26

The Lord Jesus, being prevented for a time from entering the towns by the immense crowds that collected wherever he went, retired into the wilderness. How blessed was the use which he made of his retirement! He gave himself unto prayer. And shall we venture to live without prayer - without much prayer - without fervent prayer! How can we hope for any peace of mind without prayer to the God of peace?

Soon, however, our Savior came into the towns again. It was in Capernaum that he healed the man sick of the palsy. He was then preaching in a house, and many of the wise and great were present, watching maliciously his words and actions.

It was on this occasion that four men, bearing a poor paralytic, unable to get in at the door, ascended to the top of the house, (probably by some stairs outside,) and let down their sick friend through the roof. Great surprise must have been felt by the crowd below when the bed descended in the midst. Our Savior was not annoyed by the interruption; he was always ready to help the afflicted, and rejoiced at beholding any proof of faith in his power. In this instance he seems to have perceived some spiritual desire in the man; for, instead of healing him immediately, he said, "Your sins are forgiven;" and, as Matthew relates, he said also, "Son, be of good cheer;" as if he regarded him with especial tenderness, as a son, who mourned more for his sins than for his sufferings. This man was surely one of the broken-hearted ones that Jesus came to bind up.

But what do you think of the conduct of the friends of the paralytic? If they had not been very anxious about the recovery of the sufferer, they would have retired when they saw the crowd around the door; but they had set their hearts upon bringing him to Jesus, and they were ingenious in finding out a way. If we are as anxious to obtain spiritual blessings, as they were to benefit the sick man, we shall be ingenious too. We shall find time in almost any circumstances for prayer, and for reading the Scriptures.

Some pious prisoners were once confined in a dark dungeon, and only had light allowed for a few minutes at meal-time. How could they read the Bible? They used the light to read it, and they ate in the dark. What holy ingenuity they displayed! There are others who have used a like ingenuity in contriving means to bring sinners to Jesus. The last day will reveal how abundantly their pious plans have been blessed.

Jesus knew that his power to forgive sins was doubted by the enemies who surrounded him; therefore he inquired which was easier, to forgive sins, or to heal the man. He knew which they thought the easier - to forgive sins. Mistaken idea! It was so hard, that Jesus shed his blood, that he might procure this forgiveness. Little did his enemies know what it would cost him to be able to say, "Your sins be forgiven you."

The pardon He bestows is valued only by those who groan beneath the burden of sin. The great reformer, Martin Luther, soon after he had become a monk, fell dangerously ill. Though he had long sought for pardon, he was filled with terror at the prospect of eternity. It was then that an aged monk visited his cell, and reminded him of those words in the creed, "I believe in the forgiveness of sins." - "Believe," said the old man, "not only that the sins of David or Peter are forgiven, but that your own are pardoned." These words were a balm to Luther's wounded heart. He thought no more of gaining heaven by his own righteousness, but looked with confidence to the mercy of God in Christ.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 24

The miracle at the pool of Bethesda
John 5:1-9

Can we hear of this pool without being reminded of that fountain for sin which Jesus has provided in his Gospel? This pool was called Bethesda, which signifies "House of mercy." And has not Jesus opened a house of mercy in his Word? The poor sick people who sat near the water's side represent diseased souls, such as we all have by nature; only our souls are far more diseased than their bodies were - for some of them were blind, and others halt, and others withered, but our souls are diseased in all their powers. Neither had they all been afflicted many years. Even the man who had been thirty-eight years sick had not been sick from his birth - but our souls have been diseased by sin ever since we were born!

The pool of Bethesda is not an exact image of salvation - for only the first one who stepped in it was cured. But what would become of sinners, if Christ's salvation were thus straitened? Blessed be God, the fountain of Christ's blood is opened to all sinners unto the end of the world. How much selfishness must have been displayed at the borders of this pool! how each man must have viewed his neighbor with an evil eye, fearing lest by another stepping in before him he would himself be deprived of a cure! How differently ought we to view our fellow-sinners! Their salvation will not hinder ours.

Yet in one respect we ought to imitate the sick people around the pool - in their earnestness. As they knew the first only would be cured, how patiently they watched around the pool, how eagerly they rushed in after the troubling of the water! We ought to seek God as earnestly as IF only one could obtain salvation; then not one would fail to obtain it.

It appears that Jesus was not known by these sick people. Had they known the great Physician was so near, what a cry would have been raised from a multitude of suffering lips! Jesus approached one of these pitiable objects. It was one who had been very long afflicted, who had been anxiously seeking a cure, and who had no friend to help him into the pool. Some person indeed had brought him to the edge of the pool; but not one had watched by him to plunge him in at the critical moment.

Jesus knew his desolate condition, and the bitter disappointments he had suffered. He selected him as a fit object on whom to display his power and mercy. The poor paralytic was not accustomed to the voice of kindness. It must have refreshed his weary spirit to hear Jesus inquire, "Will you be made whole?" Immediately he began to pour out his complaints into the ear of the compassionate stranger, hoping perhaps that he would obtain his help the next time the water was troubled. But there was richer mercy in store for him, than any man or angel could bestow; for by a word, Jesus restored him - suddenly, and perfectly.

That Savior knows the circumstances of all his creatures now scattered over the world; and we know that he pities those who have no friends to teach them the way of salvation, especially when they themselves are concerned about their own souls. He may let them remain for a time in distress and perplexity; but He will not let them perish in their ignorance.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 25

Christ's interview with the restored paralytic
John 5:10-16

We have in this history an instance of the bitter hatred of men to the truth. Why did the Jews accuse Jesus of having broken the Sabbath? Was it because they reverenced that day? By no means. We may judge of their respect for the Sabbath by their regard for the temple; and we know that they made it a den of thieves, and filled it with sheep, and oxen, and money-changers. They did not care in their hearts for the service of God. And had Jesus caused the paralytic to break the Sabbath? No! for though God had forbidden men to bear burdens on the Sabbath-days, He never intended that a sick man suddenly healed would not carry home his bed.

The reason the Jews objected to the action was, that they suspected who had cured the paralytic; and they were offended with the rebukes that Jesus had often given them in his sermons, and in his conversation. Holy men are generally watched in this way. Why have faithful preachers in later days been insulted? Because they interfere with the vices of men.

The restored cripple was unable to gratify the malice of the Jews, by informing them of the name of his deliverer. He knew it not. Must he not have longed to discover it? Soon Jesus afforded him the opportunity. He found him in the temple. We are glad to hear that the poor man went there. For thirty-eight years he had been unable to tread God's courts, and perhaps before that period he may have been unwilling; for, from the words of the Lord addressed to him, we have reason to fear he had been an ungodly youth.

This was the warning he received. "Behold you are made whole, sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you." It appears that his affliction had been sent as a punishment for early sins. All afflictions are not sent as punishments. Those of Job were trials of his faith. But they are often sent to those who know not God, that they may remember their sins and turn from them.

It was a heavy chastening that the paralytic had endured - an illness of thirty-eight years. At length he was delivered. What, if he should return to sin! how many have acted thus! - After vows and tears they have risen from their sick beds, to requite their God with black ingratitude. What must be the consequence of such conduct? - a worse thing will come upon them. Is there anything worse than a palsy of thirty-eight years' continuance? Let the lost spirits speak, who have spent but one hour in the flames of hell. How gladly would they exchange their place for the most suffering bed to be found on earth!

He who gave this warning was soon to taste the punishment of sin himself, and to know by experience that worse thing of which he spoke. In two or three short years Jesus would be extended on a cross, and nailed there for our sins, and would bear the weight of God's infinite wrath. By the blood he then shed, he is able to save us from eternal woe. But those who go on in sin shall taste something worse than anything they have known on earth.

Are there any here who still love sin? Remember these words - "Sin no more, lest a worse thing come upon you." It is Jesus who utters them; He who has delivered sinners by his own death; HE, even He, entreats them not to continue in sin.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 26

Christ's defense of himself before the Sanhedrin
John 5:17-30

This is part of our Lord's defense of himself against the Jews. We know not in what place he made this defense. Some think he made it before the great council of seventy people, called the Sanhedrin; and others think He made it in the temple. But all must allow that he made it publicly to the great and learned Jews, who were his deadly enemies, and who even then sought to kill him. They wanted to find an accusation against him, and the accusation they now made was that of Sabbath-breaking.

The first sentence our Savior uttered in his defense is difficult to understand - Ver. 17. "My Father works hitherto, and I work."

What works did his Father work? He had made the world in six days, and had then rested. He had rested from creating, but not from preserving. God preserves man and beast continually. He is working in this manner on every side continually. Were he to cease from this work on the Sabbath-day, or on any other day, all creatures would sink into death; for it is God that preserves even the angels of heaven from death every moment. It is in Him we live, and move, and have our being. Jesus, in curing the paralytic, had done a work of this kind - he had renewed his life by imparting new strength to him. Thus the Jews were accusing him of sin for doing works which the Father was always doing, and which he also was always doing; for his Father and he were joined together in every work. Jesus, as well as the Father, had created the world, and he, as well as the Father, upheld all things by the word of his power; therefore he said, "My Father works hitherto, and I work." And why are the Father and the Son always thus united in their works? Because they are one God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are one God.

The defense Jesus made of his work only brought fresh matter of accusation against him; because he had called God his Father, and thus had made himself equal with God. Now they not only accused him of breaking the Sabbath, but of the greater crime of blasphemy. And how did Jesus defend himself from the charge? Not by denying that He had said that He was equal with God, but by speaking of those great works which He would do, and which would show who He was. Those great works are to give life, and to execute judgment. Who could do such works but God himself! Even at the moment Jesus was speaking, He was able to give spiritual life to dead souls; for he said, (verse 25,) "The hour is coming, and now is, when the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear shall live." He has been doing this work ever since that hour. We do not see the dead souls arise, but Jesus does. He knows when he quickens a sinner who was dead in trespasses and sins. A time is approaching when his power will be publicly displayed as the Life, and as the Judge of the world, (verse 28.) "The hour is coming, in the which all that are in the graves shall hear his voice, and shall come forth - those who have done good unto the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil unto the resurrection of damnation."

This is a dreadful declaration. It once awakened an aged sinner from the sleep of death. He went to the church where Joseph Milner preached, and heard this passage given out as the text. He heard no more, for the words took possession of his mind, and filled him with anguish. He sought the Lord, obtained forgiveness, and became as eminent for holiness as he had before been for iniquity. God alone knows all the conquests of his own word. Verses of Scripture which are heard by many with indifference, have, through the power of the Holy Spirit, given life to souls now rejoicing in the presence of God.

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 27

The defense continued
John 5:31-39

It is supposed that Jesus at this time was standing in the presence of the great council of the Jews, called the Sanhedrin. He had been accused of having healed the paralytic on the Sabbath-day; and then of having made himself equal with God. Did he deny either charge? By no means; but he more fully declared his own glory as the Son of God. He brought forth his witnesses. His first, a great witness, was his Father who sent him. (See ver. 32.) "There is another that bears witness of me."

Yet He condescended to appeal to a human witness also, even to John the Baptist. He said, "You sent unto John, and he bore witness unto the truth." You have not forgotten what is recorded in John 1:19-23. "The Jews (that is, the chief men) sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask John, Who are you?" They came to him in the wilderness where he was preaching; and he took that opportunity of bearing witness to Jesus. He said, "There stands one among you whom you know not; he it is who coming after me is preferred before me, whose shoe's latchet I am not worthy to unloose." (Ver. 26, 27.)

How could the Jews resist this testimony? For a season they had rejoiced in his light; that is, for a time they had admired his preaching; yet they would not believe. John had now ceased to preach, for he was shut up in prison.

Jesus next described the different ways in which his Father witnessed to him. There were three ways - First, By enabling him to do miracles, such as healing the poor paralytic - those were "the works which his Father had given him to finish," mentioned in verse 42.

Secondly, (see verse 37.) His Father himself had borne witness of him, by speaking from heaven at his baptism, saying, "This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased." Such a voice had never been heard at ANY TIME before, witnessing for the old prophets, nor had such a display of glory been seen. It was the excellent glory, as Peter calls the brightness of the Father. (2 Peter 1:17.)

Thirdly, The Father had borne witness to his Son, in the Scriptures, that is, in the prophecies. Jesus bade the Jews search the Scriptures; saying, "They are they which testify of me." (See ver. 39.)

Had not the Jews of old sufficient proofs that Jesus was the Son of God? And we also have abundant evidence of this important truth.

We have not heard John the Baptist preach, that burning and shining light, but we have heard other preachers speak of Christ with devoted affection.

We have seen no miracles wrought, no blind eyes nor lame feet restored; but we have seen greater works than these. We have seen miracles done upon the SOUL. Have we never known a person, who lived a wicked life, changed by the power of the Gospel into a holy creature? Is it not far more wonderful to see a man's mind changed than his body? None can make such a change but God. "Can the Ethiopian change his skin, or the leopard his spots? then can they who are accustomed to do evil learn to do good." Had we seen a black man changed into a white man, we would not have seen so great a wonder as if we had seen a child of the devil changed into a child of God.

We have another witness - the Old Testament Scripture. It is filled with prophecies concerning Christ. Have you read them? See how Isaiah declares, that he shall be brought like a lamb to the slaughter - how Zechariah says he shall ride on a donkey, and be sold for thirty pieces of silver - how Micah foretells, he shall be born in Bethlehem; and how David in the Psalms predicts, that vinegar shall be given to him in his thirst, that his garments shall be parted, and his hands and feet pierced. The Jews, though they will not believe in Jesus, regard these prophecies as the word of God, and have kept them sacred for many ages. How can we disbelieve such proofs? And if Jesus be the Son of God indeed, and in truth, let us consider whether we are prepared to stand before his judgment-seat? Have we believed in him with our hearts?

[nChrist]

___________________________________
Devotional Commentary On The Gospels
by Favell Lee Mortimer ( 1802 - 1878 )
Free From Grace Gems
http://www.gracegems.org/
___________________________________

February 28

The defense concluded
John 5:40-47

Thus ended the Savior's defense of himself before the chief Jews. These last verses we may call the application of the sermon. How forcibly could He speak to the conscience, who is himself like a two-edged sword, piercing to the dividing asunder of the soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow! (Heb. 4.) He knew that those to whom he spoke would not come unto Him. "You will not come unto me, that you might have life." And He knew why they would not. It was because they had not the love of God in their hearts. He said, (ver. 42,) "I know you that you have not the love of God in you." As Jesus was one with the Father, if men did not love God, they could not love Him. He was not such a Savior as they liked; he cared not for the pomps and vanities of the world, and he did not promise them as rewards to his followers - therefore men did not desire him for their Savior.

It is very important for us to consider this subject, because the same reasons cause men now to despise Christ. Why are they so careless about religion? Why do they treat the Bible as if it were not true? Is it because there is not proof enough? No! but because Jesus is too holy to suit the taste of sinners.

If we were to visit heathen countries we would find the people devoted to their idols - as the Scripture says, "mad upon their idols." (Jer_50:38.) You have heard of the car of Juggernaut, in India. When it came forth, with what transports of joy it was viewed! Thousands traveled over sultry plains to attend it on its way; hundreds pressed forward to drag it along; some even threw themselves beneath its wheels, ready to be crushed in honor of the frightful idol that sat enthroned upon the ponderous machine. Why are people so fervent in the worship of idols? Because they imagine that these idols will indulge them in sin. The Roman Catholics show the same zeal in their religion of forms and ceremonies. They are ready to spend their money in decking images with flowers, and in illuminating the pictures of saints with candles. Men are willing to do anything to please God - but to give up their sins.

And why is it that they have no taste for a holy and spiritual Savior? Because they have a taste for the world. Why is it they do not love God? Because they love the world. Jesus pointed out this reason to his enemies. He said, "How can you believe, which receive honor one of another?" They cared for the opinion of their fellow men; therefore they would not come to a despised Savior.

But, O how foolish were they to prefer the honor that mortal man could give, above the honor that the everlasting God could bestow! What shame will overwhelm them at the last day, when even Moses, the prophet in whom they professed to trust, will disown them! Had they believed his writings they would have believed the Savior's words; for Moses had plainly declared, in Deuteronomy 18, that God would raise up a prophet like himself to be the teacher of the Jews; and such a prophet was Christ. When they shall see the Lord appear in all his glory surrounded by his saints, and among them Moses and all the prophets, they will feel ashamed of their treatment of that blessed Savior. Would we enjoy true honor hereafter, we must now faithfully cleave to His despised name, and to His despised people. We must not inquire, "What will the world think of me, if I follow this command of the Lord Jesus?" but we must only ask, "Will God approve my conduct?"