1887 240 We have here three stages. First, the prophetic Spirit is foretelling the sufferings of Christ, and the glories that should follow; next is the accomplishment of Christ's sufferings; and then comes the Holy Ghost down from heaven to report the things that are now ministered unto us, and this according to the hope, and the power of communion with the love that gives us this hope.
Fragment.
1887 334 1 Cor. 14:26 is a witness of the principle, but of the principle abused. In the denominations from Romanism to the Ranters there might be irregularities of all kinds, but they never take such a shape as this at Corinth, because the true principle is ignored in all the religious societies.
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1887 335 1 Cor. 14:16-17. There is a difference between blessing and giving thanks. Blessing goes out toward, and is swallowed up with, the object of praise; while giving of thanks refers rather to the motives for gratitude in him who utters the thanks. Blessing is unlimited; while giving of thanks is measured by the feelings of the one who offers them. Nevertheless they are both necessary and essential parts of worship.