Matthew 13:51-52 - Homilies By J.a. Macdonald

The Householder.

This is the last of a connected series of parables. It was intended to emphasize and fix upon the minds of the disciples the lessons of those already spoken. It has also precious lessons of its own.

I. CHRIST IS THE HOUSEHOLDER .

1 . He is the Head of a spiritual family.

2 . He has an ample treasure for their maintenance.

II. HE BRINGETH FORTH OUT OF HIS TREASURE THINGS NEW AND OLD .

1 . He discovers a monarchy, in humility.

2 . He proclaims a spiritual kingdom.

3 . In his gospel he fulfils the Law.

(3) It was new that henceforth the ablutions of Leviticus should be seen in the gift of the Holy Ghost.

III. HE ENCOURAGES THE SONS OF HIS HOUSEHOLD .

1 . He instructs them in his wisdom.

(a) The doctrines of his gospel.

(b) The evidences of his religion.

(c) The practical ends for which it is instituted.

Without Divine illumination no man can attain to this knowledge.

(a) That it is the will of Christ that those who read and hear his Word should understand it. This is an encouragement to study.

(b) That Divine truths must not be lightly passed over.

(c) That he is ready to explain to his disciples what may be obscure. This is an encouragement to prayer.

2 . He commends their proficiency.

(a) He must have a "treasure."

(b) From it he must" bring forth."

He must not bury his talents. A good pastor must not, like a miser, hoard his knowledge. He must not, like a merchant , make gain of it.