Luke 10:8-16

Luke 10:8-16

1. The simplicity of the tidings which our Lord commanded some of His first messengers to proclaim.
2. The great sinfulness of those who reject the offers of Christ's Gospel.
3. The honor which the Lord Jesus is pleased to put upon His faithful ministers.

"Simple plain statements, boldly and solemnly made, and made in such a manner that they are evidently felt and believed by him who makes them, seem to have the most effect on hearts and consciences."

"Those who reject the Gospel, and remain impenitent and unbelieving, are not merely objects of pity and compassion, but deeply guilty and blameworthy in God's sight."

"The rich may trample on him. The wicked may hate him. The pleasure-lover may be annoyed at him. The covetous may be vexed by him. But he may take comfort daily in His Master's words, "He that despises you despises me." The last day will prove that these words were not spoken in vain."

Questions:

1. Ryle’s opening thought suggests that simple open statements of the truth of God’s word is more powerful that much reasoning and the like. How does that hit you? Do you agree or disagree? Why?

2. Does it strike our ears as strange to hear that the most damning sin is not those that come as mind as obvious that of unbelief? Are we on guard to hear and believe what God says in His Word?

3. Ryle points out the two-sided danger of superstitious respect or contempt for ministers. Do we respect ministers only for their office, or for their being faithful to God’s Word while serving in that office?