Christ is, there the kingdom of glory is situated. This kingdom is so
been wearied, and tired out in battle with sin and Satan, will not a crown be seasonable?
[3] The kingdom of heaven infinitely EXCELS all the kingdoms of the earth.
(1) It excels in its ARCHITECT. Other kingdoms have men to raise their structures—but God himself laid the first stone in this kingdom. Heb 11:10. This kingdom is of the greatest antiquity. God was the first King and founder of it; no angel was worthy to lay a stone in this building.
(2) This heavenly kingdom excels in ALTITUDE. It is higher than any kingdom. The higher anything is, the more excellent it is. Fire being the most sublime element, is most noble. The kingdom of heaven is seated above all the visible orbs. There is—
1. The airy heaven, which is the space from the earth to the sphere of the moon.
2. The starry heaven, the place where the planets are, of a higher elevation, as Saturn, Jupiter, and Mars.
3. The empyrean heaven, which Paul calls the third heaven; where Christ is, there the kingdom of glory is situated. This kingdom is so high that no scaling ladders of enemies can reach it; so high that the old serpent cannot shoot up his fiery darts to it. If wicked men could build their nests among the stars, the least believer would be vastly above them.
(3) The kingdom of heaven excels all others in SPLENDOR and RICHES. It is described by precious stones. Rev 21:19. What
are all the rarities of the earth, compared to this kingdom — coasts of pearl, rocks of diamonds, islands of spices? What are the wonders of the world to it — the Egyptian pyramids, or the temple of Diana? What a rich kingdom is that, where God will lay out all his cost! Those who are poor in the world, soon as they come into this kingdom, grow rich—as rich as the angels. Other kingdoms are enriched with gold, this is enriched with the Deity.
(4) The kingdom of heaven excels all other kingdoms in HOLINESS. Kingdoms on earth are for the most part unholy; there is a common sore of luxury and uncleanness running in them. Kingdoms are stages for sin to be acted on. "All the tables are covered with vomit and there is not a spot without filth." (Isaiah 28:8); but the kingdom of heaven is so holy, that it will not mix with any corruption. "Nothing impure will ever enter it, nor will anyone who does what is shameful or deceitful." Rev 21:27. It is so pure a soil, that no serpent of sin will breed there. There beauty is not stained with lust, and honor is not swelled with pride. Holiness is the brightest jewel of the crown of heaven.
(5) The kingdom of heaven excels all other kingdoms in its PEACEFUL nature. It is a kingdom of peace. Peace is the glory of a kingdom. One peace is better than countless victories. A king's crown is more adorned with the white lily of peace, than when beset with the red roses of a bloody war. But where shall we find an uninterrupted peace upon earth? Either there are home-bred divisions, or foreign invasions. "There was no peace to him who went out, nor to him who came in." 2 Chron 15:5. But the kingdom of heaven is a kingdom of peace; there are no enemies to conflict with; for all Christ's enemies shall be under his feet. Psalm 110:1. The gates of that kingdom always stand open: "The gates shall not be shut at all;" to show that there is no fear of an assault of an enemy. Rev
21:25. When the saints die they are said to enter into peace. Isaiah 57:2. There is no beating of drums or roaring of cannons; but the voice of harpers harping, in token of peace. Rev 14:2. In heaven, "righteousness and peace kiss each other."
(6) The kingdom of heaven excels all other kingdoms in MAGNITUDE; it is of vast dimensions. Though the gate of the kingdom is narrow, and we must pass into it through the narrow gate of mortification—yet, when once we are in it, it is very large. Though there are an innumerable company of saints and angels—yet there is room enough for them all. The kingdom of heaven may be called by the name of that well in Gen 26:22, Isaac "called the name of it Rehoboth; and he said, For now the Lord has made room for us." You who are now confined to a small cottage, when you come into the celestial kingdom, shall not be straitened for room. As every star has a large orb to move in, so it shall be with the saints, when they shall shine as stars in the kingdom of heaven.
(7) The kingdom of heaven excels in UNITY. All the inhabitants agree together in love. Love will be the perfume and music of heaven. As love to God will be intense—so to the saints. As perfect love casts out fear—so it casts out envy and discord. Those Christians who could not live quietly together on earth (which was the blemish of their profession) in the heaven shall be all love; the fire of strife shall cease; there shall be no vilifying, or censuring one another, or raking into one another's sores—but all shall be tied together with the heart-strings of love. There Luther and Zwingli are agreed. Satan cannot put in his cloven foot in there, to make divisions. There shall be perfect harmony and concord, and not one jarring string in the saints' music. It were worth dying—to be in that kingdom!
(8) This kingdom exceeds all earthly kingdoms in JOY and PLEASURE, and is therefore called paradise. 2 Cor 12:4. For delight, there are all things to cause pleasure; there is the water of life clear as crystal; there is the honeycomb of God's love dropping. It is called "entering into the joy of our Lord." Matthew 25:23. There are two things which cause joy.
[1] Separation from sin shall be complete—and then joy follows. There can be no more sorrow in heaven—than there is joy in hell.
[2] Perfect union with Christ. Joy flows from union with the object. When our union with Christ shall be perfect—our joy shall be full. If the joy of faith is so great, what will the joy of sight be? 1 Peter 1:8. Joseph gave his brethren provision for the way—but the full sacks of corn were kept until they came to their father's house. God gives the saints a taste of joy here—but the full sacks are kept until they come to heaven. Not only the physical parts, the outward senses, the eye, ear, taste—but the heart of a glorified saint shall be filled with joy. The understanding, will, and affections, are such a triangle as none can fill but the Trinity. There must needs be infinite joy, where nothing is seen but beauty; nothing is tasted but love. "You will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." Psalm 16:11
(9) This kingdom of heaven excels all earthly kingdoms in PERFECTION. Other kingdoms are defective, they have not all provision within themselves—but must traffic abroad to supply their needs at home, as King Solomon sent to Ophir for gold. 2 Chron 8:18. But there is no defect in the kingdom of heaven; it has all commodities naturally supplied. Rev 22:2. There is the pearl of great price, the morning star, the mountains of spices, the bed of love;
there are those sacred rarities, wherewith God and angels are delighted!
(10) This kingdom of heaven excels all others in HONOR and nobility. It not only equals them in the ensigns of royalty, the throne and white robes—but it far transcends them. Other kings are of royal blood—but they in this heavenly kingdom, are born of God. Other kings converse with nobles; the saints glorified are fellow commoners with angels! They have a more noble crown; it is made of the flowers of paradise, and is a crown which can never fade away. 1 Peter 5:4. They sit on a better throne. King Solomon sat on a throne of ivory overlaid with gold (1 Kings 10:18); but the saints in heaven are higher advanced, they sit with Christ upon his throne! Rev 3:21. They shall judge the princes and great ones of the earth. 1 Cor 6:2. This honor have all the glorified saints.
(11) This kingdom of heaven excels all others in HEALTHFULNESS. Death is a worm which is ever feeding at the root of our gourd! Earthly kingdoms are often hospitals of sick people; but the kingdom of heaven is a most healthful climate. There are no physicians there—for there is no sickness there. There is no passing death-bell. "Neither can they die any more." Luke 20:36. In the heavenly climate, there are no ill vapors to breed diseases—but a sweet, aromatic healing fragrance coming from Christ; all his garments smell of myrrh, aloes, and cassia.
(12) This kingdom of heaven excels in DURATION, it abides forever. Suppose earthly kingdoms to be more glorious than they are, their foundations of gold, their walls of pearl, their windows of sapphire; yet they are corruptible and fleeting. "I will cause to cease the kingdom." Hos 1:4. Troy and Athens now lie buried in their ruins; corn now grows where Troy once stood. Mortality is the
disgrace of all earthly kingdoms; but the kingdom of heaven has eternity written upon it—it is an everlasting kingdom. 2 Peter 1:11. It is founded upon the strong pillar of God's omnipotence. The saints shall never be turned out of this kingdom, or be deposed from their throne, as some kings have been—but shall reign forever and ever! Rev 22:5.
How should all this affect our hearts! What should we mind but this kingdom of heaven, which more outshines all the kingdoms of the earth than the sun outshines the light of a candle!
[4] WHEN shall this kingdom of heaven begin? This glory in the kingdom of heaven shall be begun at death—but not be perfected until the resurrection.
(1) The saints shall enter upon the kingdom of glory immediately after death.
Before their bodies are buried, their souls shall be crowned. "Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ." Phil 1:23. From this connection, departing, and being with Christ, we see clearly that there is a speedy passage from death to glory; no sooner is the soul of a believer divorced from the body—but it immediately goes to Christ! "Absent from the body, present with the Lord." 2 Cor 5:8. It would be better for believers to stay here on earth—if immediately after death they were not with Christ in glory; for here the saints are daily increasing their grace; here they may have many foretastes, sweet tastes of God's love: so that it would be better to stay here, if their soul should sleep in their body, and they should not have a speedy sight of God in glory.
But the consolation of believers, is that they shall not stay long from their kingdom. Quick as a wink—and they shall see God. It will not only be a blessed change to a believer, from a desert to a paradise, from a bloody battle to a victorious crown—but a sudden change. No sooner did Lazarus die—but he had a convoy of angels to conduct his soul to the kingdom of glory. You who now are full of bodily diseases, with scarcely a pain free day, saying, "My life is spent with grief!" (Psalm 31:10); be of good comfort, you may be eternally happy before you are aware! Before another week or month is over, you may be in the kingdom of glory, and then all tears shall be wiped away! "I assure you: Today you will be with Me in paradise!" Luke 23:43.
(2) The glory in the kingdom of heaven will be fully perfected at the resurrection and general day of judgment. Then the bodies and souls of believers will be reunited. What joy will there be at the reunion and meeting together of the soul and body of a saint! Oh, what a welcome will the soul give to the body! "O my dear body, you often joined with me in prayer, and now you shall join with me in praise; you were willing to suffer with me, and now you shall reign with me; you were sown a vile body—but now you are made like Christ's glorious body; we were once for a time divorced— but now we are married, and crowned together in a kingdom, and shall mutually congratulate each other's felicity."
[5] The certainty and infallibility of this kingdom of glory.
That this blessed kingdom shall be bestowed on the saints—is beyond all dispute.
(1) God has promised it. "It is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom." Luke 12:32. "I appoint unto you a kingdom." Luke
22:29. "I bequeath it as my last will and testament." Has God promised a kingdom—and will he not make his promise good? God's promise is better than any bond. "In hope of eternal life which God, who cannot lie, promised." Titus 1:2. The whole earth hangs upon the word of God's power; and cannot our faith hang upon the word of his promise?
(2) There is a price laid down for this kingdom. Heaven is not only a kingdom which God has promised—but which Christ has purchased; it is called a purchased possession. Eph 1:14. Though this kingdom is given us freely—yet Christ bought it with the price of his blood; which is a heaven procuring blood. "Having boldness to enter into the holiest (that is, into heaven) by the blood of Jesus." Heb 10:19. The cross of Christ is the key of paradise! Christ's blood is the key which opens the gates of heaven! Should the saints not obtain this kingdom—then Christ should lose his purchase. Christ on the cross was in hard travail. Isaiah 53:11. He travailed to bring forth salvation to the elect: should not they possess the kingdom when they die—Christ would lose his travail; all his pangs and agonies of soul upon the cross would be in vain.
(3) Christ prays that the saints may have this kingdom settled upon them. "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my glory." That is, in heaven. John 17:24. This is Christ's prayer, that the saints may be with him in his kingdom, and be bespangled with some of the beams of his glory. Now, if they should not go into this heavenly kingdom, then Christ's prayer would be frustrated; but that cannot be, for he is God's favorite. "I know that you hear me always;" and besides, what Christ prays for, he has power to give. John 11:42. Observe the manner of Christ's prayer, "Father, I will;" Father, there he prays as man; "I will," there he gives as God.
(4) The saints must have this blessed kingdom by virtue of Christ's ascension. "I ascend unto my Father and your Father, to my God and your God." John 20:17. Where lies the comfort of this? Jesus Christ ascended to take possession of heaven for all believers. As a husband takes up land in another country in behalf of his wife, so Christ went to take possession of heaven in behalf of all believers. "I go to prepare a place for you." John 14:2. My ascension is to make all things ready against your coming: I go to prepare the heavenly mansions for you.
The flesh that Christ has taken into heaven, is a sure pledge that our flesh and bodies shall be where he is before long. Christ did not ascend to heaven as a private person—but as a public person, for the good of all believers; his ascension was a certain forerunner of the saints ascending into heaven.
(5) The elect must have this blessed kingdom, in regard of the previous work of the Spirit in their hearts. They have the beginning of the kingdom of heaven in them here. Grace is heaven begun in the soul. Besides, God gives them the first-fruits of the Spirit. Romans 8:23. The first-fruits are the comforts of the Spirit. These first-fruits under the law were a certain sign to the Jews of the full crop of vintage which they would after receive. The first-fruits of the Spirit, consisting of joy and peace, assure the saints of the full vintage of glory they shall be ever reaping in the kingdom of God. The saints in this life are said to have the pledge of the Spirit in their hearts. 2 Cor 5:5. As a pledge is part of payment, and an assurance of payment in full to be made in due time—so God's Spirit in the hearts of believers, giving them his comforts, bestows on them a pledge, or taste of glory, which further assures them of that full reward which they shall have in the kingdom of heaven. "Believing, you rejoice;"
there is the pledge of heaven. 1 Peter 1:8. "Receiving the end of your faith," salvation; there is the full payment; ver 9.
(6) The elect must have this blessed kingdom by virtue of their union with Jesus Christ; they are members of Christ, therefore they must be where their head is. Indeed, the Arminians hold, that a justified person may fall from grace, and so his union with Christ may be dissolved and the kingdom lost. But I ask them—can Christ lose a member of his body? Then he is not perfect; and if Christ may lose one member of his body, why not as well all, by the same reason? He will then be a head without a body; but be assured a believer's union with Christ cannot be broken, and so long he cannot be hindered of the kingdom. John 17:12. What was said of Christ's natural body, is as true of his mystical. "A bone of him shall not be broken." John 19:36. Look how every bone and limb of Christ's natural body was raised up out of the grave, and carried into heaven; so shall every member of his mystical body be carried up into glory.
(7) We read of some who have been translated into this kingdom. Paul had a sight of it, for he was caught up into the third heaven. 2 Cor 12:2. And the converted thief on the cross was translated into glory. "Today shall you be with me in paradise." Luke 23:43. By all that has been said, it is most evident that believers have a glorious kingdom laid up for them in heaven, and that they shall go to this kingdom when they die. None doubt the certainty of the heavenly kingdom—but such as doubt the verity of Scripture.
[6] We should pray earnestly, "Your kingdom come."
(1) Because it is a kingdom worth praying for. It exceeds the glory of all earthly kingdoms, it has gates of pearl. Rev 21:21. We
have heard of a cabinet of pearl—but when did we hear of gates of pearl? In that kingdom is the bed of love, the mountains of spices; there are the cherubim, not to keep us out—but to welcome us into the kingdom. Heaven is a kingdom worth praying for; nothing is lacking in that kingdom which may complete the saints' happiness; for, wherein does happiness consist? Is it in knowledge? We "shall know as we are known." Is it in royal fare? We shall be at the "marriage supper of the Lamb." Is it in rich apparel? We shall be "clothed in long white robes." Is it in exquisite music? We shall hear the choir of angels singing. Is it in dominion? We shall reign as kings, and judge angels. Is it in pleasure? We shall enter into the joy of our Lord. Surely then this kingdom is worth praying for! "Your kingdom come." Would God give us a vision of heaven for a moment, as he did Stephen, who saw "the heavens opened" (Acts 7:56), we would be overwhelmed! "You have made known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand." Psalm 16:11. How importunately would we put up this petition, "Your kingdom come!"
(2) We must pray for this kingdom of glory, because God will not bestow it on any without prayer. "To those who seek for glory and immortality" (Romans 2:7); and how do we seek but by prayer? God has promised a kingdom, and we must by prayer put the bond in suit. God is not so foolish as to throw away a kingdom on those who do not ask for it! And certainly, if Christ himself, who had merited glory, did pray, "Now, O Father, glorify me with your own self" (John 17:5), how much more ought we to pray for the excellent glory who have this kingdom granted as a charter of God's mere grace and favor!
(3) We must pray that the kingdom of glory may come, that by going into it we may make an end of sinning. I think
sometimes, what a blessed time it will be, never more to have a sinful thought! though we must not pray, "Your kingdom come," out of discontent, because we would be rid of the troubles and crosses of this life. This was Jonah's fault; he would die in a fit, because God took away his gourd; "Lord," says he, "take my life from me." Jonah 4:3. But we must pray, "Your kingdom come," out of a holy design that the fetters of corruption may be pulled off, and we may be as the angels, those virgin spirits, who never sin. This made the church pray in Rev 22:20, Veni, Domine Jesus [Come, Lord Jesus].
(4) Because that all Christ's enemies shall be put under his feet. The devil shall have no more power to tempt, nor wicked men to persecute; the anti-christian hierarchy shall be pulled down, and Zion's glory shall shine as a lamp, and the Turkish strength shall be broken.
(5) We must pray earnestly that the kingdom of glory may come, that we may see God "face to face," and have an uninterrupted and eternal communion with him in the empyrean heaven. Moses desired but a glimpse of God's glory. Exod 33:18. How then should we pray to see him in all his embroidered robes of glory—when he shall shine ten thousand times brighter than the sun in its meridian splendor! Here, in this life, we rather desire God than enjoy him; how earnestly therefore should we pray, "Your kingdom of glory come!" The beholding and enjoying God will be the diamond in the ring, the very quintessence of glory! And must we pray, "Your kingdom come"? How then are they ever like to come to heaven who never pray for it? Though God gives some profane people "daily bread" who never pray for it—yet he will not give them the kingdom of heaven—who never pray for it! God may feed them—but he will never crown them.
Use 1. For information.
(1) From all this, you see that nothing within the whole sphere of true religion, is imposed upon unreasonable terms. When God bids us serve him, it is no unreasonable request; out of free grace he will enthrone us in a kingdom. When we hear of repentance—steeping our souls in brinish tears for sin; or of mortification—beheading our king-sin, we are ready to grumble, and think this is hard and unreasonable. "But, do we serve God for nothing?" Is it not infinite bounty to reward us with a glorious kingdom? This kingdom is as far above our thoughts, as it is beyond our deserts. No man can say, without wrong to God, that he is a hard master; for though he sets us about hard work—yet he is no hard master. God gives double pay; he gives great perks in his service— sweet joy and peace; and a great reward after, "an eternal weight of glory!" God gives the spring-flowers, and a crop; he settles upon us such a kingdom as exceeds our faith. Such as mortal eye has not seen, nor can it enter into the heart of man to conceive. 1 Cor 2:9. Alas, what an infinite difference is there between duty enjoined, and the kingdom prepared! What is the shedding of a tear—compared to an eternal crown! So that God's "commandments are not grievous." 1 John 5:3. Our service cannot be so hard—as a kingdom is sweet.
(2) See hence the royal bounty of God to his children, that he has prepared a kingdom for them, a kingdom bespangled with glory; infinitely above the model we can draw of it in our thoughts! The painter going to draw the picture of Helena, as not being able to draw her beauty to the life, drew her face covered with a veil; so, when we speak of the kingdom of heaven, we must draw a veil, we cannot set it forth in all its orient beauty and magnificence; gold and pearl do but faintly shadow it out. Rev 21:21. The glory of this kingdom is better felt—than expressed.
Those who inherit this kingdom are "clothed with white robes." Rev 7:9. White robes denote three things:
[1] Their DIGNITY. The Persian were arrayed in white, in token of honor.
[2] Their PURITY. The magistrates among the Romans were clothed in white—to show their integrity. Thus the queen, the Lamb's wife, is arrayed in fine linen, pure and white, which is "the righteousness of the saints." Rev 19:8.
[3] Their JOY. White is an emblem of joy. "Eat your bread with joy, let your garments be always white." Eccl 9:7, 8.
The dwellers in this kingdom have "palms in their hands," in token of VICTORY. Rev 7:9. They are conquerors over the world: and, being victors, they have now palm-branches. They sit upon the throne with Christ. Rev 3:21. Thus the saints in glory, after their heroic victories, shall sit upon a throne with Christ. It is royal bounty in God, to bestow such an illustrious kingdom upon the saints. It is a mercy to be pardoned—but what is it to be crowned! It is a mercy to be delivered from wrath to come—but what is it to be invested with a glorious kingdom! "Behold, what manner of love is this!" Earthly princes may bestow great gifts and donations upon their subjects— but they keep the kingdom to themselves. Though king Pharaoh advanced Joseph to honor, and took the ring off his finger and gave it to him—yet he would keep the kingdom to himself. Gen 41:40. But God enthrones the saints in a kingdom. He thinks nothing too good for his children. We are ready to think much of a tear, a prayer, or to sacrifice a sin for him; but he does not think much to bestow a kingdom upon us!
(3) See hence, that true religion is no ignominious disgraceful thing. Satan labors to cast all the odium and reproach upon it that he can; that it is devout frenzy, ingrain folly. Acts 28:22. "As concerning this sect, we know that everywhere it is spoken against." But wise men measure things by the outcome. What is the outcome of a pious life? It ends in a kingdom. Would a prince regard the slightings of a few frantics, when he is going to be crowned? You who are beginners, bind their reproaches as a crown about your head; despise their censures as much as their praise: a kingdom is coming.
(4) See what contrary ways the godly and the wicked go at death! The godly go to a glorious kingdom—the wicked go to a foul prison! The devil is the jailer, and they are bound with the chains of darkness. Jude 6. But what are these chains? Not iron chains—but worse; the chain of God's decree, decreeing them to torment; and the chain of God's power, whereby he binds them fast under eternal wrath! The deplorable condition of impenitent sinners, is that they do not go to a kingdom when they die—but to a dreadful prison. Oh, think what horror and despair will possess the wicked, when they see themselves engulfed in misery, and their condition hopeless, helpless, endless! They are in a fiery prison, and there is no possibility of getting out. A servant under the law, who had a hard master—at every seventh year might go free; but in hell there is no year of release when the damned shall go free—the fire, the worm, the prison are eternal! If the whole world, from earth to heaven, were filled with grains of sand, and once in a thousand years an angel should come and fetch away one grain—how many millions of ages would pass before that vast heap of sand would be quite spent! Yet, if after all this time the sinner might come out of hell, there would be some hope: but this word "FOREVER!" breaks the heart with despair!
(5) See that which may make us in love with holy duties; that every duty spiritually performed brings us a step nearer to the kingdom! The end makes the means loveable. He whose heart is set on riches, counts trading pleasant, because it brings him riches. If our hearts are set upon heaven, we shall love duty, because it brings us by degrees to the kingdom; we are going to heaven in the way of duty. Holy duties increase grace; and as grace ripens, so glory hastens. The duties of piety are irksome to flesh and blood—but we should look upon them as spiritual chariots to carry us apace to the heavenly kingdom! The Protestants in France call their church paradise; and well they might, because the ordinances led them to the paradise of God. As every flower has its sweetness, so would every duty, if we would look upon it as giving us a lift nearer heaven!
(6) It shows us what little cause the children of God have to envy the prosperity of the wicked. "Who needs a full purse when he owns a treasury"? Seneca. The wicked have the "waters of a full cup wrung out to them." Psalm 73:10. As if they had a monopoly of happiness: they have all they can desire; nay, they have "more than heart can wish." Psalm 73:7. They steep themselves in pleasure! "They take the timbrel and harp, and rejoice at the sound of the organ." Job 21:12. The wicked are high when God's people are low in the world. The goats scramble up the mountains of prosperity—when Christ's sheep are below in the valley of tears! The wicked are clothed in purple, while the godly are in sackcloth.
The prosperity of the wicked is a great stumbling-block. This made Asaph say, "Truly I have cleansed my heart in vain." Psalm 73:13. But there is no cause of envy at their prosperity, if we consider two things. First, this is all they have! "Son, remember that you in your lifetime received your good things:" you had all your heaven here.
Luke 16:25. Luther calls the whole Turkish empire a bone which God casts to dogs. Secondly, that God has laid up better things for his children. He has prepared a kingdom of glory for them. They shall have the beatific vision: they shall hear the angels sing in concert; they shall be crowned with the pleasures of paradise forever. Oh, then do not envy the flourishing prosperity of the wicked! They go through pleasant way—to execution! The godly go through foul way— to coronation!
(7) Is there a kingdom of glory coming? See how happy all the saints are at death! They go to a kingdom! They shall see God's face, which shines ten thousand times brighter than the sun in its meridian glory. The godly at death shall be installed into their honor, and have the crown royal set upon their head. They have in the kingdom of heaven the quintessence of all delights; they have the water of life clear as crystal; they have all aromatic perfumes; they feed on the manna of angels; they lie in Christ's bosom, that bed of spices. There is such a pleasant variety in the happiness of heaven, that after millions of years it will be as fresh and desirable as the first hour's enjoyment!
In the kingdom of heaven, the saints are crowned with all those perfections which they are capable of. The desires of the glorified saints are infinitely satisfied; there is nothing absent that they could wish might be enjoyed; there is nothing present that they could wish might be removed. Those who are arrived into this kingdom would be opposed to come back to the earth again, for it would be much to their loss. They would not leave the fullness and the sweetness of the olive, to court the bramble; the things which delight us here on earth —they would scorn. What are golden bags—compared to the golden beams of the Sun of Righteousness?
In the kingdom of heaven there is glory in its highest elevation; in that kingdom is knowledge without ignorance, holiness without sin, beauty without blemish, strength without weakness, light without darkness, riches without poverty, ease without pain, liberty without restraint, rest without labor, joy without sorrow, love without hatred, plenty without surfeit, honor without disgrace, health without sickness, peace without war, contentment without cessation! Oh, the happiness of those that die in the Lord! They go into this blessed kingdom! And if they are so happy when they die, then let me make two inferences.
[1] What little cause have the saints to fear death! Are any afraid of going to a glorious kingdom? What is there in this world that should make us desirous to stay here? Do we not see God dishonored—and how can we bear it? Is not this world "a valley of tears"—and do we weep to leave it? Are we not in a wilderness among fiery serpents—and are we afraid to go from these serpents? Our best friends live above. God is ever displaying the banner of his love in heaven, and is there any love like his? Are there any sweeter smiles, or softer embraces than his? What news is so welcome—as leaving the world and going to a kingdom? Christian, your dying day will be your wedding day—and do you fear it? Is a slave afraid to be set free? Is a virgin afraid to be matched into the crown? Death may take away a few worldly comforts—but it gives that which is better; it takes away a flower and gives a jewel! It takes away a short lease and gives land of inheritance. If the saints possess a kingdom when they die, they have no cause to fear death. A prince would not be afraid to cross the sea, though tempestuous—if he were sure to be crowned as soon as he came to shore!
[2] If the godly are so happy when they die, that they go to a kingdom, what cause have we to mourn immoderately for
the death of godly friends? Shall we mourn for their advancement? Why should we shed tears immoderately for those who have all tears wiped from their eyes? Why should we be swallowed up with grief—for those who are swallowed up with joy? They are gone to their kingdom! They are not lost—but gone a little before us! They are not perished—but translated into heaven! They are removed for their advantage; as if one should be removed out of a smoky cottage—to a palace. Elijah was removed in a fiery chariot to heaven. Shall Elisha weep inordinately because he enjoys not the company of Elijah? Shall Jacob weep when he knows his son Joseph is advanced and made chief ruler in Egypt? We should not be excessive in grief when we know our godly friends are advanced to a kingdom.
I confess when any of our relations die in their impenitence, there is just cause of mourning—but not when our friends take their flight to glory. But though we are to weep to think any of our flesh should burn in hell—yet let us not be cast down for those who are so highly advanced at death—as to a kingdom. Our godly friends who die in the Lord, are in that blessed estate, and are crowned with such infinite delights, that if we could hear them speak to us out of heaven, they would say, "Weep not for us—but weep for yourselves!" Luke 23:28. We are in our kingdom, weep not for our advancement, "but weep for yourselves," who are in a sinful sorrowful world. You are tossing on the troublesome waves—but we have got to the haven: you are fighting with temptations, while we are wearing a victorious crown, "Weep not for us—but weep for yourselves."
(8) See the wisdom of the godly. They have the serpent's eye in the dove's head. They are "wise virgins." Matthew 25:2. Their wisdom appears in their choice. They choose that which will bring them to a kingdom; they choose grace, and what is grace but the seed
of glory! They choose Christ with his cross—but this cross leads to a crown! Moses chose "rather to suffer affliction with the people of God." Heb 11:25. It was a wise, rational choice, for he knew that if he suffered, he would reign! At the day of judgment, those whom the world accounted foolish—will appear to be wise. They made a prudent choice—they chose holiness; and what is happiness, but the quintessence of holiness? They chose affliction with the people of God; but, through this purgatory of affliction they pass to paradise! God will proclaim the saints' wisdom before men and angels.
(9) See the folly of those who, for vain pleasures and profits, will lose such a glorious kingdom; like that cardinal of France who said, "He would lose his part in paradise, if he might keep his cardinalship in Paris." I may say (as Eccl 9:3), "Madness is in their heart." Lysimachus, for a draught of water, lost his empire; so, for a draught of sinful pleasure, these fools will lose heaven! We too much resemble our grandfather, Adam, who for an apple lost paradise. Many for trifles, to get a dollar more in the shop or bushel —will venture the loss of heaven. It will be an aggravation of the sinner's torment, to think how foolishly he was undone; for a flash of impure joy—he lost an eternal weight of glory! Would it not vex a king, to think he would lose his kingdom—for a feather! Such are those who let heaven go—for a song. This will make the devil insult at the last day, to think how he has befooled men, and made them lose their souls and their happiness for "lying vanities." If Satan could make good his brag, in giving all the glory and kingdoms of the world, it could not countervail the loss of the celestial kingdom. All the tears in hell are not sufficient to lament the loss of heaven!
Use 2. For reproof.
(1) It reproves such as do not look after this kingdom of glory, and live as if all we say about heaven were but a fiction. That they mind it not appears, because they do not labor to have the kingdom of grace set up in their hearts. If they have some thoughts of this kingdom—yet it is in a dull, careless manner; they serve God as if they served him not; they do not put forth their strength for the heavenly kingdom. How industrious were the saints of old for this kingdom! "Reaching forth unto those things which are before;" the Greek word is epekteinomenos, 'stretching out the neck," a metaphor from racers, that strain every limb, and reach forward to lay hold on the prize. Phil 3:13. Luther spent three hours a day in prayer. Anna, the prophetess, "departed not from the temple—but served God with fasting and prayers night and day." Luke 2:37. How zealous and industrious were the martyrs to get into this heavenly kingdom! They wore their fetters as ornaments, snatched up torments as crowns, and embraced the flames as cheerfully as Elijah did the fiery chariot which came to fetch him to heaven; and do we not think this kingdom worth our labor?
The great pains which the heathens took in their Olympic races, when they ran but for a crown made of olive intermixed with gold, will rise up in judgment against such as take little or no pains in seeking after the kingdom of glory. The dullness of many in seeking after heaven is such, as if they did not believe there was such a kingdom; or as if heaven would not countervail their labor; or as if they thought it were indifferent whether they obtained it or not, which is as much as to say, whether they were saved or not; whether they were crowned in glory, or chained as galley slaves in hell forever.
(2) It reproves those who spend their sweat more in getting the world than the kingdom of heaven. "Their mind is on
earthly things." Philippians 3:19. The world is the great Diana they cry up, as if they would fetch happiness out of the earth—which God has cursed; they labor for honor and riches. Like Korah's household, "The earth swallowed them up!" Numb 16:32. It swallows up their time and thoughts. If they are not pagans, they are infidels. Like the serpent, they lick the dust! Oh, what is there in the world that we should so idolize it, and Christ and heaven are to be disregarded as worthless? What has Christ done for you? Died for your sins! What will the world do for you? Can it pacify an angry conscience? Can it procure God's favor? Can it escape death? Can it bribe the glorious judge? Can it purchase for you a place in the kingdom of heaven? Oh, how are men bewitched with worldly profits and honors—that for these things they will let go paradise! It was a good prayer of Bernard, "Let us so possess temporal things, that we do not lose eternal things."
(3) It reproves such who delay and put off seeking this kingdom until it be too late; like the foolish virgins who came when the door was shut. Delay brings danger. People let the lamp of life blaze out, and when the symptoms of death are upon them, and they know not what else to do, will look up to the kingdom of heaven. Christ bids them seek God's kingdom first, and they will seek it last; they put off the kingdom of heaven to a death-bed, as if it were as easy to make their peace with God—as to make their will. How many have lost the heavenly kingdom through delays and procrastinations! Plutarch reports of Archias, the Lacedemonian, that when, being among his cups, one delivered him a letter and desired him to read it immediately, being of serious business, he replied, "I will mind serious things tomorrow;" and that night he was slain. You who say that you will look after the kingdom of heaven tomorrow—you know not but that you may be in hell before tomorrow! Sometimes death comes suddenly: it strikes without giving warning. What folly is it to
put off seeking the kingdom of heaven until the day of grace expires; until the whole life is spent. As if a man should begin to run a race when his last breath is in his mouth.
(4) It reproves such as were once great zealots in religion, and seemed to be touched with a coal from God's altar—but have since cooled in their devotion, and left off pursuing the celestial kingdom. "Israel has cast off the thing that is good." They have left off the house of prayer, and gone to play-houses; they have left off pursuing the heavenly kingdom. Hos 8:3.
Whence is this?
[1] For lack of a supernatural principle of grace. That branch must needs die—which has no root to grow upon. That which moves from a principle of life endures—as the beating of the pulse. But that which moves from an artificial spring only, when the spring is down, the motion ceases. The hypocrite's religion is artificial, not vital; he acts from the outward spring of applause or gain, and if that is down, his motion towards heaven ceases.
[2] From unbelief. "An evil heart of unbelief—in departing from the living God." Heb 3:12. "They believed not in God." Psalm 78:22. "They turned back;" 5:41. Sinners have hard thoughts of God: they think they may pray and hear; yet be never the better. Mal 3:14. They question whether God will give them the kingdom at last; then they turn back, and throw away Christ's colors; they distrust God's love, and no wonder they desert his service. Unbelief is the root of apostasy!
[3] Men leave off pursuing the heavenly kingdom, from some secret lust nourished in the soul, perhaps a wanton or a covetous lust. Demas, for love of the world, forsook true