Jeremiah 3:16 And it shall come to pass, when you be multiplied and increased in the land, in those days, said the LORD, they shall say no more… I. A MOST ALARMING AND UNWELCOME ANNOUNCEMENT. That the ark would disappear, and another not be made. Israel's safety and prosperity were connected with the ark of covenant. By some regarded with superstitious awe rather than reverential fear; yet by all as of incalculable value to the nations. II. A BITTER AND IRRECONCILABLE LOSS. 1. Prophecy soon fulfilled. 2. Loss deeply lamented. III. A SURPASSING COMPENSATION PREDICTED. 1. Must have seemed incredible at the time; yet after. wards proved consolatory. 2. How was the prediction fulfilled? In the appearing of Christ, the antitype of the ark. IV. THE REALISATION IN CHRIST OF THE ARK SYMBOLISED. 1. The Divine nearness. 2. The Deity bending mercifully over mere 3. The helpful and healing grace of God.Conclusion — 1. Israelites who early became Christians, and enjoyed the presence of Christ on earth, must have readily surrendered and forgotten the ark in the realisation of Jesus and His tender grace. 2. Believers, though now not realising Christ bodily among them, experience His Spirit's indwelling, revealing Christ within. 3. Contrite sinners can rejoice in the tenderness, lowliness, and compassion of Christ. (R. Gordon, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: And it shall come to pass, when ye be multiplied and increased in the land, in those days, saith the LORD, they shall say no more, The ark of the covenant of the LORD: neither shall it come to mind: neither shall they remember it; neither shall they visit it; neither shall that be done any more. |
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