Psalms 136:4 - Homilies By S. Conway

The great wonders of God.

I. WHAT ARE THEY ? They are seen in nature; in providence; and especially in grace. The whole purpose, plan, and accomplishment of man's salvation is full of them.

II. GOD IS EVER DOING GREAT WONDERS . It is not that he once did them and has now ceased, but he is ever doing and will continue to do them. Hence we may expect them in regard to others and to ourselves.

III. No ONE ELSE DOES THEM .

1. In Nature we see this plainly . No one thinks that he can do her works.

2. In providence we see this partly . Men are apt to think that they themselves are the authors of the good that comes to them.

3. In grace men are slow to see this at all . They persist in thinking they must bring something, do something, or else they cannot be saved. They haggle over God's free gift.

IV. AND THEY ARE GREAT WONDERS . Not common and ordinary.

1. It was to be expected that they would be . For they are the works of God.

2. It was necessary they should be . For how else was man to be saved?

3. They have all the conditions of greatness . Rarity; transcendent power; wisdom; grace.

V. THEY DESERVE AND DEMAND OUR PRAISE . Of the heart, the lip, the life.—S.C.