Zechariah 3:7 - Homilies By D. Thomas

The Bible and true greatness.

"Thus saith the Lard of hosts; If thou wilt walk in my ways, and if thou wilt keep my charge, then thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by." The words direct us to the Bible and true greatness.

I. THE BIBLE DIRECTS US TO THE SPHERE OF TRUE GREATNESS . The promise made to Joshua here is, "Thou shalt also judge my house, and shalt also keep my courts." The words convey this idea: Great authority. By the house of God is here probably meant the people of Israel; and the keeping of God's courts, the regulation of the temple. The literal meaning here is that Joshua's piety should be rewarded by the long continuance of his exalted office of. High Priest. Godliness raises:

II. THE BIBLE PRESENTS TO US THE PATH OF TRUE GREATNESS . "If thou wilt walk in my ways," etc. Two things are stated here as the conditions of elevation.

1 . Obedience. "If thou wilt walk in my ways." God has ways for men to walk in. His ways are his laws. "Blessed are they who walk in the Law of the Lord." Walking in his ways implies:

2 . Fidelity. "Keep my charge." We have all a trust committed to us. Our time, talents, and possessions are all given in trust. We are not owners of them, but stewards. "It is required of a steward that he be found faithful." Paul felt, as he was leaving the world, that he had finished his course, and kept the faith. Such is the path to greatness—the only path, the sure path.

III. THE BIBLE GIVES US A GUARANTEE FOR TRUE GREATNESS . "Thus saith the Lord of hosts." The word of God is the pledge.

1 . His word has been fulfilled in the experience of the good in all ages. All who have walked in God's ways and kept his charge have reached this sublime elevation. They are the illustrious heroes of the ages; and they have high authority in the empire of God.

2 . His word can never fail of its accomplishment. "Heaven and earth shall pass away," etc.

Brother, art thou walking in the ways of God? If so, grand distinctions await thee. "Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life."—D.T.