THE HELP OF CHRIST
‘Able to succour.’
We are always more or less in need of help, but this passage suggests that there are special times in our lives when that need is felt more than others.
I. Times of trial are very varied in human life.
(a) Sometimes they are seasons of temporal trouble and distress.
(b) There are times of spiritual darkness and perplexity.
(c) There are times of physical weakness when health seems gone, and help is sorely needed.
II. What is the manner of Christ’s help?
(a) By the teaching of His Word.
(b) By the anointing of His Spirit.
III. How can Christ help?—The context supplies the answer. Let me give it you in four words.
(a) The first is conformity. We read in Hebrews 2:17, ‘In all things it behoved Him to be made like unto His brethren.’
(b) Conformity led up to consecration. Here in this verse we have it, He was to be a High Priest.
(c) Further, we have his character as High Priest described. He is merciful and He is faithful.
(d) Lastly, there is His compassion.
—Rev. E. W. Moore.
Illustration
‘Surely if we may venture to imagine the peace of Paradise or glory of heaven being more acceptable to some saved souls than to others, we might, perhaps, picture them as being especially so to such as have been grievously tempted here below, but have fought steadily against their temptations. The trials of Scripture saints seem to point to this belief, and outside the inspired page tradition and legend appear to favour this conclusion. The spiritual trials of St. Bernard or St. Dunstan, or St. Catharine of Sienna, were mediæval repetitions or shapings of the experiences of St. Paul, or of Job or Joseph.’