Micah 4:2 - Homiletics

Enthusiasm in religion.

I. THE SPIRIT OF ENTHUSIASM IN RELATION TO RELIGION IS EMINENTLY DESIRABLE . It is SO :

1 . As indicating the possession of loving devotion to God.

2 . As prompting to endeavour with a view to the spiritual well being of others. ( Micah 4:2 , "Come, and let us go up," etc.; John 1:41 , John 1:42 , John 1:45 , John 1:46 ; John 4:28 , John 4:29 .)

3 . As being contagious. For, all aglow themselves, they will be the means of inspiring others with the same fervour.

II. THIS SPIRIT , UNLESS UNDER WISE CONTROL , MAY PROVE INJURIOUS . It may seem a very simple matter to invite others to God, to say to them, "Come, let us go up," etc.; but it is possible, by undue familiarity of approach, or by extravagance of language, to alienate those it is desired to win.

III. THIS SPIRIT IS IN SAFE KEEPING IF ITS POSSESSOR CULTIVATES THE DISPOSITIONS HERE EXPRESSED ( Micah 4:2 ), viz.:

1 . Of seeking to understand God ' s truth more dearly . "And he will teach us of his ways." The consciousness of his imperfect attainments will keep him humble, and preserve him from mere dogmatism and self-conceit.

2 . Of endeavouring to be obedient in heart and life to God ' s will. "And we will walk in his paths." His realization of the importance of ethical practical life will preserve him from either thinking or advocating the false notion that piety consists in profuse verbal declarations and mere outward professions.