Foreword:
The following exerpt is taken from The Ten
Commandments by Arthur W. Pink
(BAKER BOOK HOUSE, 1994 GRAND RAPIDS, MI)
In this blog series I will work through this very
important article a paragraph at a time – asking my reader comprehension style
questions at the end. I have been much convicted by the writings of Pink and I
pray your walk will also be strengthened meditating on his teaching of
scripture …
THE FIFTH COMMANDMENT PART VI
To this precept is added this promise as a motive and
encouragement to obedience: "That thy days may be long upon the land which
the Lord thy God giveth thee." First, as an Old Testament promise this is
to be regarded typically of the Eternal Life promised by the Gospel, since
Canaan was a figure of Heaven. Secondly, it is repeated in the New Testament
(Eph. 6:2, 3 and 1 Pet. 3:10), since it is often God's way to lengthen out an
obedient and holy life. Thirdly, all promises of earthly blessing, however,
must necessarily imply this condition: they shall be literally fulfilled to us
if this would promote our eternal happiness--otherwise they would be
threatenings and not promises. In His mercy God often abridges this promise and
takes His beloved home to Himself.
1) What is the significance that this commandment is the
only one that is given with a promise?
2) Logically/practically how does disobeying the fifth commandment
often lead to shorter lifespans?
3) Can you explain, and give other examples of what Pink
means by the word “typically”?
4) How did the apostle Paul feel about the length of his
life in regards to serving the church and yet wanting to be with the Lord
(Philippians 1:21cf)? Can you explain Pink’s third point above in the light of
this? Are you of a similar conviction yet?
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