March 19

"My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand." — John 10:29.

JESUS the good Shepherd is here speaking of the safety of his people, who are the sheep of his pasture. Note

A PLEASING TRUTH STATED. The gift of a people to Christ. They are given to be redeemed by his power, washed in his blood, sanctified by his Spirit, enriched by his grace, and conformed to his image — given to him as his reward, his triumph, and his joy — given to him as jewels to deck his crown, as subjects to people his empire, as children to obey his commands. They have many marks belonging to them, by which they are distinguished from the world.

A PAINFUL FACT IMPLIED. Attempts are made to deprive Christ of his people. Our enemies are numerous and powerful. There is a deceitful heart within, and a wicked world without.

"How oft have sin and Satan strove To rend my soul from thee my God."

AN ENCOURAGING ASSURANCE GIVEN. "No man is able to pluck them out of my Father's hand." Their safety is insured from

The power of God. "My Father, which gave them me, is greater than all;" greater than all the friends or enemies of the Church. For man to strive with God, is weakness itself contending with Omnipotence. The hearts of all men, as well as the elements of nature, are under his control.

The love of God. The power of the Almighty proves he can defend his people, and his love assures us that he will.

The purpose of God. As a mighty rock in the midst of the ocean, surrounded by the tumultuous waters and the foaming billows, remains unmoved, so the purposes of God are fixed and unalterable; and his glorious designs shall be fulfilled, notwithstanding the rage and fury, pride and passion, of those who oppose him. Let the friends of the Redeemer rejoice in their safety, and live near to God; but let his enemies tremble, and turn from their evil ways.