Chapter 24
Chapter Outline
Concerning the kingdom of Christ, and the (1–6)
subjects of that kingdom.
Concerning the King of that kingdom. (7–10)Verses 1–6
We ourselves are not our own; our bodies, our souls, are not. Even those of the children of men
are God's, who know him not, nor own their relation to him. A soul that knows and considers its
own nature, and that it must live for ever, when it has viewed the earth and the fulness thereof, will
sit down unsatisfied. It will think of ascending toward God, and will ask, What shall I do, that I
may abide in that happy, holy place, where he makes his people holy and happy? We make nothing
of religion, if we do not make heart-work of it. We can only be cleansed from our sins, and renewed
unto holiness, by the blood of Christ and the washing of the Holy Ghost. Thus we become his
people; thus we receive blessing from the Lord, and righteousness from the God of our salvation.
God's peculiar people shall be made truly and for ever happy. Where God gives righteousness, he
designs salvation. Those that are made meet for heaven, shall be brought safe to heaven, and will
find what they have been seeking.
Verses 7–10
The splendid entry here described, refers to the solemn bringing in of the ark into the tent David
pitched for it, or the temple Solomon built for it. We may also apply it to the ascension of Christ
into heaven, and the welcome given to him there. Our Redeemer found the gates of heaven shut,
but having by his blood made atonement for sin, as one having authority, he demanded entrance.
The angels were to worship him, Heb 1:6: they ask with wonder, Who is he? It is answered, that
he is strong and mighty; mighty in battle to save his people, and to subdue his and their enemies.
We may apply it to Christ's entrance into the souls of men by his word and Spirit, that they may
be his temples. Behold, he stands at the door, and knocks, Rev 3:20. The gates and doors of the
heart are to be opened to him, as possession is delivered to the rightful owner. We may apply it to
his second coming with glorious power. Lord, open the everlasting door of our souls by thy grace,
that we may now receive thee, and be wholly thine; and that, at length, we may be numbered with
thy saints in glory.
Chapter 25
Chapter Outline