was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels,
SERMON I.
I TIMOTHY, Chap. iii. verse 16.
16. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness; God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.
We noticed in the morning how St. Paul exhorted Timothy to behave himself in his office; showing him to what honour God had advanced him, in that he had placed him to govern his house. He showed him also that the office itself was honourable; because the church upholdeth the truth of God in this world, and that there is nothing more precious, or more to be sought after, than to know God, and to worship and serve him, and be certain of his truth, that we might thereby obtain salvation. All this is kept safe for us: and thus, so great a treasure is committed to our care by means of the church; according to the words of St. Paul. This truth is well worthy to be more highly esteemed than it is.
What a hidden thing is this, and how wonderful a matter; that God was manifest in the flesh, and became man does it not so far surpass our understanding, that when we are told of it, we are astonished? Yet notwithstanding, we have a full and sufficient proof, that Jesus Christ being made man, and subject to death, is likewise the true God, who made the world, and liveth forever. Of this, his heavenly power beareth us witness. Again, we have other proofs: to wit, he was preached unto the Gentiles; who before were banished from the kingdom of God: and that faith hath had its course throughout the whole world, which at that time was shut up among the Jews; and likewise Christ Jesus was lifted up on high, and entered into glory, and sitteth on the right hand of God the Father.