The Success of the Gospel
J. Brown. 2 Thessalonians 3:1 Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: I. THE OBJECT PROPOSED. That the Word of the Lord may have free course, etc. 1. By the Word of the Lord we understand that revelation of God's will contained in the Holy Book, a revelation of every doctrine necessary to be believed, and of every duty to be practised. This is the Word of the Lord — (1) For it bears the stamp of Divinity upon it, being authenticated by miracle and fulfilled prophecy. (2) Because the subject matter is what God alone could reveal. Creation, man's nature, the way of salvation through redemption by Christ, and regeneration by the Spirit. 2. This gospel is the great instrument which is intended for human salvation. It is God's instrument for enlightening the mind; His tender of pardon; His directory of the way to heaven. The age prior to the gospel abounded with great men; but the world by wisdom knew not God. The gospel, however, is the power of God unto salvation. 3. The object proposed is that this Word of God may have free course. Some see here a reference to the Greek races. Here is a course to be run, and the glory relates to the crown and the plaudits of the spectators. But the more natural view is that of a river. The gospel is the river of the water of life. Wherever it comes the wilderness and solitary place are made glad. Trees of righteousness laden with fruits of peace overhang its margin. (1) The gospel in its course has met with opposition from high and low, rich and poor, etc. Heathens and infidels have entered the lists against it. Its progress has been impeded by subtle errors. But the greatest obstacle has been the inconsistencies of its professors. (2) The text contemplates this gospel as rising and bearing down every opposing barrier, and rolling the majestic tide of truth to the utmost regions. 4. "And be glorified." It is glorious in itself, but it is the manifestation of this glory that the text has in view. The Word of the Lord is glorified — (1) In its rapid and extensive progress. This was the case when three thousand were converted under the ministry of Peter, when Luther arose, and Wesley, and in modern missions. (2) In its effects on the character of its converts, e.g., Saul of Tarsus. (3) In the happy deaths of Christians. II. THE MEANS INDICATED. Pray for your ministers because — 1. They are instruments of God for the dissemination of the gospel. The gospel is an offer of peace and they are ambassadors of God; it is good news and they are the messengers; it is a mystery for man's benefit and they are the stewards; the world is a field and they are the cultivators; the Church is an edifice and they are the builders. Other powers are auxiliary, e.g., Sunday schools, tract and Bible societies; but preaching leads the way and has the special sanction of Christ. In view of all this, "pray for us." 2. They meet with many discouragements, arising from their weakness, their responsibility, and their failures. 3. The efficacy of their preaching depends upon the unction of the Spirit, and this can be secured only by prayer. 4. It is your duty. It is enjoined by God. They pray, study, preach for you; the least that can be asked is that you should pray for them. 5. It will be beneficial to yourselves. Without prayer you cannot expect to profit by their ministrations.Conclusion: 1. Great is the efficacy of prayer. 2. You cannot be neutral in this work. You are either for the gospel or against it, and prayer or the neglect of it will determine which. (J. Brown.) Parallel Verses KJV: Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: WEB: Finally, brothers, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may spread rapidly and be glorified, even as also with you;