---

I. IT HAS PLEASED GOD TO SUBJECT THE RIGHTEOUS AS WELL AS THE WICKED TO THE DOMINION OF DEATH. In their death we see —

1. The offensive character of sin in the sight of God.

2. The power and sufficiency of Divine grace.

3. Instruction for the righteous in the certainty of their death. They are admonished —

(1)  To be diligent in doing good.

(2)  To be patient in suffering.

(3)  To improve their sacred privileges.

II. SORROW FOR THE DEATH OF THE RIGHTEOUS IS NOT INCONSISTENT WITH PIETY. It is allowable —

1. As an expression of nature and friendship.

2. As a tribute due to excellency of heart.

3. As an acknowledgment of the loss sustained by their removal —

(1)  To society;

(2)  to the Church;

(3)  to the world.

(W. Naylor.)

---

---

KJV: But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.

WEB: But we don't want you to be ignorant, brothers, concerning those who have fallen asleep, so that you don't grieve like the rest, who have no hope.