In the Plain of Jordan Did
We are conformed to the image of Christ by obeying from the heart the teaching of the Apostles, and trusting that all things work together for our good in eternal life.
F.B. Meyer emphasizes the importance of being molded by sound doctrine, comparing it to metal being cast into various forms. He explains that just as different vessels serve unique purposes in the temple, believers are shaped by God for specific roles in His kingdom. Meyer encourages believers to embrace their unique design and to obey God's teachings wholeheartedly, warning that failure to do so may lead to a painful reformation process. He reassures that our earthly struggles are part of a divine preparation for our eternal purpose. Ultimately, he reminds us that all things work together for good for those who love God.
Text
In the plain of Jordan did
the king cast them. 1 Kings vii. 46.
THE Apostle tells us to obey from the heart that mould or form of doctrine to which we were delivered (Rom. vi. 17). What a mould is to the metal which is wrought into various forms of utensils, that the form of sound doctrine is to believers who desire to resemble Christ. When our hearts, melted in contrition and penitence, are poured into the teaching of the Apostles, to ponder it in memory, and to carry it out in life, they are, so to speak, cast into the pattern of Jesus Christ, which they wear for evermore. Thus we are conformed to the image of his Son.
We differ as widely as the vessels named here. Some are lavers, and some bases; some shovels, and some basons. It matters little what shape we bear; so long as we are cleansed and meet for the Master's use. Each vessel in Solomon's temple filled its own niche. The machinery of the whole would have been hindered if one had been missing. Be content with the shape which the Great Designer hath intended for thee. Yield to it. Dare to pour thyself into the dark passages of the mould. Do not ask the intention of this or that. Obey from the heart, otherwise thou mayest have to be broken up, and put back again into the furnace to go through the process once more. This is the Plain of the Jordan for us, the place of death; but soon we shall be remitted to the Palace and Temple of God.
There is no clue to the understanding of the mysteries of our mortal life, save the hypothesis, that we are being prepared for the position which has been prepared for us in the eternal world. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God."
Sermon Outline
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I
- The Mould of Sound Doctrine
- The Heart's Response to Teaching
- Conformed to the Image of Christ
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II
- The Variety of Vessels
- Contentment with One's Shape
- Yielding to God's Design
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III
- The Danger of Resistance
- The Furnace of Refining
- The Promise of Eternal Life
Key Quotes
“What a mould is to the metal which is wrought into various forms of utensils, that the form of sound doctrine is to believers who desire to resemble Christ.” — F.B. Meyer
“Thus we are conformed to the image of his Son.” — F.B. Meyer
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God.” — F.B. Meyer
Application Points
- Obey from the heart the teaching of the Apostles, and trust that it will shape you into the image of Christ.
- Be content with the shape God has intended for you, and yield to it.
- Remember that all things work together for good to those who love God, and trust in His design for your life.