Verses 27–39
It was a wonder of Christ's grace, that he would call a publican to be his disciple and follower.
It was a wonder of his grace, that the call was made so effectual. It was a wonder of his grace, that
he came to call sinners to repentance, and to assure them of pardon. It was a wonder of his grace,
that he so patiently bore the contradiction of sinners against himself and his disciples. It was a
wonder of his grace, that he fixed the services of his disciples according to their strength and
standing. The Lord trains up his people gradually for the trials allotted them; we should copy his
example in dealing with the weak in faith, or the tempted believer.
Chapter 6
Chapter Outline
The disciples pluck corn on the sabbath. (1–5)
Works of mercy suitable to the sabbath day. (6–11)
The apostles chosen. (12–19)
Blessings and woes declared. (20–26)
Christ exhorts to mercy. (27–36)
And to justice and sincerity. (37–49)Verses 1–5
Christ justifies his disciples in a work of necessity for themselves on the sabbath day, and that
was plucking the ears of corn when they were hungry. But we must take heed that we mistake not
this liberty for leave to commit sin. Christ will have us to know and remember that it is his day,
therefore to be spent in his service, and to his honour.
Verses 6–11
Christ was neither ashamed nor afraid to own the purposes of his grace. He healed the poor
man, though he knew that his enemies would take advantage against him for it. Let us not be drawn
either from our duty or from our usefulness by any opposition. We may well be amazed, that the
sons of men should be so wicked.
Verses 12–19
We often think one half hour a great deal to spend in meditation and secret prayer, but Christ
was whole nights engaged in these duties. In serving God, our great care should be not to lose time,
but to make the end of one good duty the beginning of another. The twelve apostles are here named;