But because even the most needy are apt to turn a deaf ear to the calls of the Gospel, we would direct your attention to,
III. The promise with which the invitation is en- forced—
The terms in which the promise is conveyed, are somewhat obscure —
[The expression of " rendering double" will be best under- stood by comparing it with other passages of the same kindg. From them its import appears to be, that God will give us blessings in rich abundance ; not according to the sufferings we have endured11, but double ; not corresponding to the punish- ment we have deserved, but double; not equal to the blessings enjoyed by our fathers, but double. Or perhaps it may be best explained by the Apostle's declaration, that God will give us " abundantly, exceeding abundantly above all that we can ask or think." Certainly the promise implies, that we shall not only be delivered from prison, but be restored to the favour of our God ; not only have our debt discharged, but be enriched with a glorious inheritance.]
The manner in which it is given is peculiarly solemn and energetic —
[God is desirous that we should give implicit credit to his word : hence he speaks as one who would on no account recede from it : he speaks as in the presence of ten thousand wit- nesses, and pledges all his perfections for the performance of his promise. And as the day of our desponding fears is long remembered by us, and as we, in that day, find a want of all the support which God himself can administer, he dates his promise as made to us in that very day ; not at a time when our difficulties were not foreseen, but when they were at the height, and when nothing but the immediate hand of God could deliver us. Yea, God would have us consider the promise as made to us this day, this very day, this very hour, when we most need the application of it to our souls ; and, that every individual may take it to himself and rely on it as intended for himself alone, the promise is made particular, while the invitation is general.]
Observe —
1. How astonishing are the condescension and compassion of God !
[Behold the Judge offers mercy to the prisoners, and urges them in the most affectionate manner to accept it!
g Isai. xl. 2. and lxi. 7. *' Ps. xc. 15.