steem for Jerusalem. (1-5) Concern for its welfare. (6-9)
Verses 1-5: The pleasure and profit from means of grace, should make us
disregard trouble and fatigue in going to them; and we should
quicken one another to what is good. We should desire our
Christian friends, when they have any good work in hand, to call
for us, and take us with them. With what readiness should we
think of the heavenly Jerusalem! How cheerfully should we bear
the cross and welcome death, in hopes of a crown of glory!
Jerusalem is called the beautiful city. It was a type of the
gospel church, which is compact together in holy love and
Christian communion, so that it is all as one city. If all the
disciples of Christ were of one mind, and kept the unity of the
Spirit in the bond of peace, their enemies would be deprived of
their chief advantages against them. But Satan's maxim always
has been, to divide that he may conquer; and few Christians are
sufficiently aware of his designs.
Verses 6-9: Those who can do nothing else for the peace of Jerusalem,
may pray for it. Let us consider all who seek the glory of the
Redeemer, as our brethren and fellow-travellers, without
regarding differences which do not affect our eternal welfare.
Blessed Spirit of peace and love, who didst dwell in the soul of
the holy Jesus, descend into his church, and fill those who
compose it with his heavenly tempers; cause bitter contentions
to cease, and make us to be of one mind. Love of the brethren
and love to God, ought to stir us up to seek to be like the Lord
Jesus in fervent prayer and unwearied labour, for the salvation
of men, and the Divine glory.
steem for Jerusalem. (1-5) Concern for its welfare. (6-9)