In James 1:23, we learn that the
word of Truth is for "obeying". And if anyone hears the Word and does
not obey it, he is like a man who looks at his own face in a mirror, and after
that mirror is removed, he forgets what kind of person he really is.
The notion here is we
frequently take notice of ourselves in a mirrors reflection. When we do, we can see all the blemishes and even our countenance. Some will identify the need for improvement and/or things they should to do to change. And we are affected by our own appearance; positive or
negative.
After the mirror is removed, we soon
forget what manner of person we really are, because we no longer see our
face reflected. We don't recollect how disagreeable we appeared, and our own
resolutions of improving our countenance.
The doctrines of God, faithfully
preached, are such a mirror; he who hears cannot help discovering his own
character, and being affected with his own deformity. He sorrows, and purposes
amendment; but when the preaching is over, the mirror is removed. Not being
careful to examine the records of his salvation, the perfect law of liberty
(James 1:25) or not continuing to look therein, he soon forgets what
manner of man he was; or, reposing some unscriptural trust in God's mercy, he
reasons himself out of the necessity of repentance and amendment of life, and
thus deceives his soul. Adam Clarke's
Commentary.
Be careful to examine!
So
everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts upon them [obeying them] will be
like a sensible (prudent, practical, wise) man who built his house upon the
rock. Matthew 7:24
So everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts upon them [obeying them] will be like a sensible (prudent, practical, wise) man who built his house upon the rock. Matthew 7:24
That is so true. I imagine being hearers of the word and not doers of the Word is probably a greater sin than not knowing the Word at all. For how can you hold One accountable if they don’t know the way. But those of us that know the way and simply turn away, well that is sin.
ReplyDelete