Proverbs 29:18<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he who keeps the Law, happy is he!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
[The following brief sketch is given as a useful subject for a Mission Sermon. The contrast between Heathen in an ignorant and in a converted state would be very striking.]<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Throughout the whole Scriptures, we have one unvaried testimony respecting man. We see, in every part:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
I. The deplorable state of those who know not the Gospel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Revelations to the prophets were often made in visions; and hence the subject-matter of the revelation was called their “vision.” Now, where no revelation is, or where, though given, it is not attended to, “the people perish!”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is the unhappy state of the heathen world, who are constantly represented as dead in trespasses and sins, and as under the dominion of Satan! Ephesians 2:1; Ephesians 2:11-13. Romans 3:19. 1 John 5:19. We have no authority to depart from the plain declarations of Holy Writ.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still more is this the state of God’s ancient people, while they reject the Messiah, Isaiah 27:11. Hosea 4:6. John 8:24.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
But far worse is the state of those who hear, without obeying, the Gospel, John 15:22. 2 Corinthians 4:3-4. 2 Thessalonians 1:7-8. Hebrews 2:3. 1 Peter 4:17.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
II. The blessedness of those who hear and obey the Gospel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Our Lord pronounces them supremely blessed, Luke 11:28. And there is somewhat very emphatic in the declaration of it contained in our text.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those who truly believe in Christ, and live altogether by faith in him, “are happy.” They are happy,
as restored to God’s favor, Romans 5:1,
as enjoying his presence, Psalm 89:5,
as inheriting his glory, Revelation 22:14.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Observe from hence.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
1. The importance of missionary exertions. Romans 10:13-15; Romans 10:17.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
2. The importance of improving our present privileges.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the due improvement of them depends both our present and eternal happiness!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Charles Simeon<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Proverbs 29:18 “Where there is no vision, the people perish; but he who keeps the Law, happy is he!” [The following brief sketch is given as a useful subject for a Mission Sermon. The contrast between Heathen in an ignorant … Continue reading