Verse
Context
A Living Hope
7so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.8Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy,9now that you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whom having not seen, ye love - Those to whom the apostle wrote had never seen Christ in the flesh; and yet, such is the realizing nature of faith, they loved him as strongly as any of his disciples could, to whom he was personally known. For faith in the Lord Jesus brings him into the heart; and by his indwelling all his virtues are proved, and an excellence discovered beyond even that which his disciples beheld, when conversant with him upon earth. In short, there is an equality between believers in the present time, and those who lived in the time of the incarnation; for Christ, to a believing soul, is the same to-day that he was yesterday and will be for ever. Ye rejoice with joy unspeakable - Ye have unutterable happiness through believing; and ye have the fullest, clearest, strongest evidence of eternal glory. Though they did not see him on earth, and men could not see him in glory, yet by that faith which is the evidence of things not seen, and the subsistence of things hoped for, they had the very highest persuasion of their acceptance with God, their relation to him as their Father, and their sonship with Christ Jesus.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not having seen, ye love--though in other cases it is knowledge of the person that produces love to him. They are more "blessed that have not seen and yet have believed," than they who believed because they have seen. On Peter's own love to Jesus, compare Joh 21:15-17. Though the apostles had seen Him, they now ceased to know Him merely after the flesh. in whom--connected with "believing": the result of which is "ye rejoice" (Greek, "exult"). now--in the present state, as contrasted with the future state when believers "shall see His face." unspeakable-- (Co1 2:9). full of glory--Greek, "glorified." A joy now already encompassed with glory. The "glory" is partly in present possession, through the presence of Christ, "the Lord of glory," in the soul; partly in assured anticipation. "The Christian's joy is bound up with love to Jesus: its ground is faith; it is not therefore either self-seeking or self-sufficient" [STEIGER].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whom having not seen, ye love,.... That is, Jesus Christ, whom they had never seen with their bodily eyes, being Jews, who dwelt not in Judea, when Christ was upon earth, but were scattered about in several parts of the Gentile world; and yet Christ being made known to them, through the preaching of the Gospel, they received and embraced him, and their affections were strongly set upon him: they loved him because of his excellencies and perfections, because of the loveliness of his person, and because he first loved them; they loved him because of the fulness of grace that was in him, because of what he had done for them, and was unto them, and because of the offices he sustained on their account, and the relations he stood in to them; they loved him above all creatures and things, and all of him, and that belong unto him, his people, truths, ordinances, ways, and worship; they loved him with all their hearts, and in the sincerity of their souls, though they had never seen his face in the flesh; whereas sight often begets and increases love: their love was not carnal, but spiritual; it was a fruit of the Spirit of God in their souls; was accompanied with faith in Christ, and proceeded upon the report the Gospel made of him: in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing; the Arabic version adds, "in him": that is, in Christ, who was then received up into heaven, and must be retained there until the time of the restitution of all things; and therefore not now to be beheld with corporeal sight: and yet these regenerate ones, and lovers of Christ, believed in him; see Joh 20:29 not with a notional, historical, and temporary faith, believing not merely what he said, or did, or does, or will do; but looking on him, and to him, for life and salvation; going out of themselves to him, embracing of him, leaning upon him as their Saviour and Redeemer; venturing their souls upon him, committing their all unto him, expecting all from him, both grace and glory: and so rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory; with a joy in believing on him, which is better experienced than expressed; a joy that not only strangers intermeddle not with, know nothing of, which entirely passes their understanding, but is such as saints themselves cannot speak out, or give a full and distinct account of; they want words to express it, and convey proper ideas of it to others: and it is a joy that is glorious; there is a rejoicing that is evil and scandalous; but this is honourable, and of which none need be ashamed; it is solid and substantial, and the matter of it always abiding, when the joy of the hypocrite is but for a moment; it is a joy on account of the glory of God, which the believer lives in the hope and faith of; and it is a beginning, a presage and pledge of it; it is a glory begun here; it is the firstfruits, and a part also of it; and by it saints may know a little what heaven itself will be.
A Living Hope
7so that the proven character of your faith—more precious than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.8Though you have not seen Him, you love Him; and though you do not see Him now, you believe in Him and rejoice with an inexpressible and glorious joy,9now that you are receiving the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(1 Peter - Part 8): Whom Having Not Seen, Ye Love
By A.W. Tozer10K37:20Loving JesusPSA 148:9MAL 4:2MAT 6:33MAT 17:1JHN 20:291PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher discusses the revelation of God's glory through the creation of all things. He refers to the vision described in the book of Ezekiel, where the prophet sees a whirlwind, a great cloud, and fire enfolding itself. Out of this fire, four living creatures appear, each with the likeness of a man, a lion, an ox, and an eagle. These creatures represent a heavenly and visible representation of God's creation. The preacher emphasizes that all things were created to set forth the glory of Jesus Christ, who is described in the Bible as the Star of the Shulun on Jacob, the one who comes down as rain upon the earth, and who is likened to a great sea and a strong cedar.
The Greatest Prayer
By Leonard Ravenhill4.5K1:05:14PrayerISA 12:3MAT 12:36JHN 7:38JHN 17:9JHN 17:161PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the high priestly prayer of Jesus in John 17. He emphasizes the need for believers to prioritize their anger and concern for things that align with God's will. The speaker also highlights the importance of living a spirit-filled life, which is characterized by fruitfulness and beauty. He mentions that the Gospel of John provides a unique perspective on Jesus' ministry, with a focus on miracles and the deeper meaning behind them. The speaker concludes by sharing a personal story of a man who experienced the joy and transformation of salvation.
Hinderances to Beholding Him
By Alan Martin2.5K00:00HinderancesPSA 27:8PRO 29:182CO 3:182CO 4:4GAL 5:22HEB 12:11PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of having a clear vision of Jesus in order to avoid perishing and living a purposeless life. The story of Mary and Martha in Luke chapter 10 is used as an example of how distractions and worldly concerns can hinder our vision of Christ. The preacher urges the audience to lay aside anything that belongs to the sinful nature and to run in the Spirit. The sermon also highlights the failure of the Israelites in the wilderness, despite being delivered from Egypt and experiencing God's provision, due to their aimless wandering and lack of vision.
Joy in God
By C.H. Spurgeon2.5K36:12EXO 15:1PSA 16:11MAT 6:33ROM 5:2ROM 5:111TH 4:171PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of remembering and acknowledging God as our creator and the keeper of His laws. He contrasts the troubled state of those who have forgotten God with the joy and peace experienced by those who have been regenerated and feel a kinship with Him. The preacher highlights the unique joys and blessings that come from knowing and being in relationship with God, which cannot be found in worldly pleasures. He encourages listeners to turn away from the temporary joys of the world and find true joy in God through Jesus Christ, emphasizing the need to approach God through the sacrifice of Jesus.
Abounding Hope
By Alan Martin1.8K00:00HopePSA 78:22PRO 13:12ROM 8:241TH 1:3HEB 6:11HEB 6:181PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of holding fast to hope in order to strengthen one's soul. He compares the value of a diamond to the value of a mature, consistent, and complete walk with God. The speaker also shares personal experiences of overcoming challenges and finding victory through God's power. He highlights the unchangeable nature of God's oath and His inability to lie as the foundation of our hope, serving as an anchor for our souls.
Desiring God - Lesson 2
By John Piper1.6K44:17NEH 8:10PSA 16:11PSA 34:8PSA 37:4PSA 100:2PSA 119:14ISA 61:10JHN 15:11ROM 15:13PHP 4:41TH 5:161PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of pursuing joy in God. He believes that God desires for us to have a worldview that centers around His glory and our joy. The preacher mentions that there are twelve points that support the biblical basis for pursuing joy in God, but only briefly touches on them. He also mentions that the first point is the existence of biblical commands to pursue joy in God. The sermon encourages listeners to embrace the offer of infinite joy in God rather than settling for temporary pleasures.
Yosemite Bible Conference 1991-13 Heaven
By William MacDonald1.5K47:14HeavenMAT 6:331CO 2:9EPH 2:72TI 3:16JAS 1:21PE 1:31PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker discusses the wonders of God's creation and how everything in the universe reflects His glory. He mentions a specific example of a medication derived from a fungus in Japan, highlighting the intricate and unexpected ways in which God's creation can benefit us. The sermon then transitions to the topic of heaven and the common belief that we don't know much about it. The speaker emphasizes that while there may be some things we don't know, God has given us glimpses of heaven through scripture and promises to reveal even more in eternity. The sermon concludes by mentioning that Jesus is in heaven with a physical body and speculates on the possibility of embracing and expressing love for Him in that realm.
Founders Week Conference 1974 - 02
By Vance Havner1.4K38:30ConferenceGEN 15:1JOS 1:9PSA 46:10PSA 48:14PSA 73:25PSA 127:2PRO 3:5MAT 6:33ROM 8:281CO 7:29PHP 4:61TH 4:13HEB 11:6HEB 12:61PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking God above all else, while still acknowledging the need to fulfill our earthly responsibilities. He references the words of Paul in 1 Corinthians 7:29-31, where Paul encourages believers to live as though they have no wives, no sorrows, no joys, no possessions, and to use the world without abusing it. The preacher explains that living "as though" helps believers navigate difficult situations. He also highlights the paradox of having nothing yet possessing all things, which frustrates the devil. The sermon concludes with a reminder to focus on seeking God's kingdom and will, rather than being consumed by material desires.
Courage in Christian Ministry
By Josef Tson1.4K1:28:51PersecutionNEH 8:10JHN 15:111TH 1:61PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker shares his personal experience of being interrogated and beaten by a general in Romania. Despite the physical abuse, he learns to rely on the Holy Spirit to speak through him during these interrogations. The speaker also discusses the connection between liberal theology and communism, and his mission to draw people back to the scriptures. After the revolution in Romania, the speaker gives away all his books as proof of his faith, and experiences a profound transformation when he realizes the joy and glory of the Lord. This transformation leads to a period of fruitful ministry, where he baptizes 850 new converts in just four years.
Believe His Offer of Love
By Basilea Schlink67104:35Radio ShowPSA 24:7MAT 22:37JHN 21:151CO 2:9EPH 3:191PE 1:8REV 3:20In this sermon, Basil E. Shlink emphasizes the importance of believing in God's love and accepting His offer of love. He references Revelation 3:20, where Jesus is portrayed as standing at the door of our hearts, seeking admission and desiring to be loved. Shlink highlights that Jesus' desire for our love is the most precious thing to Him, and it is the question He asks all believers. He explains that loving Jesus is not just about obedience, but about fervent love and a deep relationship with Him. Shlink encourages listeners to understand that Jesus' love is more wonderful and real than any human relationship, and that by accepting His love, we can enter into a covenant of love with Him for eternity.
The Christian Walk
By Charles Anderson57200:00Christian Life1PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker begins by introducing the letter of 1 Peter as a practical guide for living a holy and loving Christian life. He emphasizes the importance of reflecting on the facts of salvation and remembering who we are as sons and daughters of the King of Kings. The speaker then highlights the temporary nature of trials and encourages listeners to recognize the purpose and result of these trials, which is the perfection and purification of their faith. Finally, he mentions the reward of a victorious faith, which is being found to the praise, honor, and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
My Joy, My Peace and My Victory - Part 3
By Bakht Singh4261:10:41VictoryLUK 2:10JHN 14:27JHN 15:11JHN 16:331PE 1:21PE 1:8In this sermon, the preacher focuses on three chapters in the book of John, specifically John 14-16, which contain the last message Jesus gave to his disciples before his crucifixion. The preacher highlights that every word in these chapters holds deep meaning and can provide inspiration to believers. The sermon emphasizes three key themes: peace, joy, and victory, which sum up the Christian life. The preacher also references biblical passages that speak of peace and joy, emphasizing that God desires for believers to experience these blessings in their lives.
The Easter Miracle
By Thaddeus Barnum36434:22EasterMAT 4:4ACT 1:8ACT 8:4ROM 10:171CO 1:21HEB 4:121PE 1:8In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of the common testimony and witness of believers in spreading the word of God. He shares a personal story of a man who initially lived a double life but was convicted of his sins and gave his life to Christ through the testimony of his daughter. The speaker encourages believers not to be hindered by fear or feelings of inadequacy in sharing the gospel, as God uses ordinary people to proclaim His word. He also highlights the importance of being knowledgeable about the Bible and being filled with the Holy Spirit to effectively share the gospel.
Exultant Joy
By Joy Dawson381:23:21Knowing GodExultant JoyNEH 8:10PSA 16:11PSA 43:4ISA 41:16LUK 6:22JHN 15:11ROM 14:17PHP 4:4JAS 1:21PE 1:8Joy Dawson emphasizes the significance of exultant joy in the life of a Christian, highlighting that true joy comes from knowing God intimately and fulfilling His conditions for joy. She encourages believers to seek God diligently, maintain a clean heart, and express their joy through praise, regardless of circumstances. Dawson asserts that joy is not dependent on external situations but is rooted in the character of God and our relationship with Him. She calls for a deeper understanding of God's nature, urging the congregation to rejoice in the Lord and to let His joy overflow in their lives. Ultimately, she reminds them that the joy of the Lord is their strength and a powerful witness to the world.
He and He Alone
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones7Passion for GodLiving For ChristMAT 6:21JHN 10:10ROM 14:82CO 5:15GAL 2:20EPH 3:19PHP 1:21PHP 3:8COL 3:41PE 1:8Martyn-Lloyd Jones emphasizes the profound statement made by the Apostle Paul, 'To me, to live is Christ, and to die is gain.' He explores the essence of true living, which is centered on Christ, contrasting it with various worldly views of life. The preacher challenges the congregation to reflect on their own lives and whether they can genuinely say that Christ is the center of their existence. He warns against the dangers of living for anything other than Christ, urging believers to cultivate a passionate relationship with Him. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a revival of this passion for Christ in the hearts of Christians.
Hindrances to Obtaining the Blessing
By Samuel Logan Brengle2Consecration and FaithHolinessMAT 11:29ACT 26:18ROM 12:1GAL 6:7PHP 2:71TH 5:231TI 1:5HEB 10:22HEB 12:11PE 1:8Samuel Logan Brengle emphasizes that the path to holiness is obstructed by personal hindrances rather than external circumstances or God. He identifies imperfect consecration and imperfect faith as the two main barriers to achieving holiness, urging believers to fully surrender their will to God and to cultivate a strong, unwavering faith. Brengle illustrates that true holiness involves a complete transformation of the heart, leading to a life characterized by love, humility, and obedience to Christ. He encourages believers to actively seek this experience through diligent prayer, self-examination, and a commitment to God's word. Ultimately, he reassures that with genuine faith and surrender, the blessings of holiness will follow.
Faith's View of Christ
By Robert Murray M'Cheyne1Joy in ChristTrue FulfillmentISA 61:1MAT 8:19LUK 16:24JHN 14:19JHN 16:24JHN 16:332CO 6:10HEB 4:31PE 1:8REV 1:7Robert Murray M'Cheyne emphasizes that Christ came to bring joy and peace to humanity, contrasting true joy with the fleeting pleasures of the world. He explains that the disciples' joy stemmed not from riches, friends, or their own righteousness, but from the realization of Christ's completed work and His living presence. M'Cheyne urges listeners to seek joy in Jesus alone, as it is a joy that transcends earthly sorrows and lasts for eternity. He warns against self-righteousness and encourages believers to look to Christ for true fulfillment and gladness. Ultimately, he calls everyone to experience the joy that comes from recognizing Jesus as their Savior and living Head.
Jonathan Edwards and the Crucial Importance of Revival
By Martyn-Lloyd Jones1RevivalThe Holy Spirit2CH 7:14PSA 85:6ISA 57:15EZK 36:26MAT 5:6JHN 3:8ACT 3:19ROM 8:16JAS 5:161PE 1:8Dr. Martyn Lloyd-Jones emphasizes the life and ministry of Jonathan Edwards, highlighting his pivotal role in the revival movements of the 18th century and the essence of Puritanism. Edwards, known for his profound intellect and deep spirituality, faced significant opposition yet remained committed to the truth of Scripture and the necessity of the Holy Spirit in revival. His teachings on the nature of true religion, the importance of heartfelt affections, and the dynamics of revival are presented as crucial for contemporary Christianity. Lloyd-Jones calls for a return to Edwards' emphasis on the glory of God and the need for genuine revival in today's church, urging both preachers and congregants to seek a deeper understanding of their faith. The sermon serves as a reminder of the lasting impact of Edwards' work and the relevance of his teachings in addressing the spiritual needs of the modern church.
Inferences
By Jonathan Edwards1PSA 42:1PSA 63:1MAT 22:37ROM 12:11PHP 3:8COL 3:2HEB 12:281PE 1:81JN 4:19REV 2:4Jonathan Edwards preaches about the importance of religious affections, highlighting the error in discarding all religious affections and the subtlety of Satan in sowing false affections among true ones. He emphasizes that true religion consists significantly in the affections and that lack of religious affections leads to spiritual death. Edwards urges believers to desire means that move the affections towards God and to be ashamed of their lack of affection for the great things of religion, especially the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The Deeper Spiritual Life #4 "Our Relationships to God"
By A.W. Tozer1Relationship with GodDeeper Spiritual LifeMAT 22:37JHN 15:5ROM 5:11CO 3:1EPH 1:3PHP 2:5COL 3:2HEB 6:11PE 1:81JN 4:19A.W. Tozer emphasizes the importance of cultivating a deeper relationship with God, moving beyond mere legal and vital connections to include volitional, intellectual, and emotional dimensions. He argues that true Christianity is not defined by rituals or heritage but by a genuine, loving relationship with Jesus Christ. Tozer challenges believers to align their will with God's, think as Christ thinks, and develop a heartfelt love for Him that transcends earthly attachments. He asserts that freedom from earthly loves and fears is essential for a fulfilling spiritual life, encouraging Christians to seek a deeper, more intimate connection with God. Ultimately, Tozer calls for a commitment to pursue spiritual perfection and a deeper understanding of one's relationship with Christ.
Jesus, the Source of All Joy
By David Wilkerson1Hope in AdversityJoy in ChristNEH 8:10PSA 45:7ISA 16:6ISA 51:11JHN 15:11JHN 16:24ROM 15:13GAL 5:22PHP 4:41PE 1:8David Wilkerson emphasizes that Jesus is the ultimate source of joy, contrasting the prideful nation of Moab, which fell under God's judgment and lost all joy, with the hope found in Christ. He draws parallels to modern America, highlighting the loss of innocence and joy following tragic events, and reminds believers that true joy comes from a close relationship with Jesus, who is anointed with the oil of gladness. Wilkerson encourages Christians to return to God with trust and faith, assuring them that they can regain their joy despite surrounding calamities.
Rejoiced With You in Our Lord Jesus Christ
By St. Polycarp of Smyrna1ROM 6:4EPH 2:81PE 1:81PE 4:13St. Polycarp of Smyrna rejoices with the believers for following the example of true love displayed by God, especially in caring for those in chains. He commends their strong faith that endures and bears fruit for Jesus Christ, who suffered for their sins and was raised from the dead by God. Despite not seeing Jesus, they believe and rejoice with unspeakable joy, understanding that salvation is by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
The Old Time Pathway to Power
By Victor Maxwell1JHN 14:16ACT 1:8ACT 2:36ROM 10:9EPH 1:22PHP 3:21HEB 6:191PE 1:8Victor Maxwell preaches on 'The Old Time Pathway to Power' using the illustration of the Crystal Palace Exhibition to highlight the importance of churches being both energetic and effective, unlike the Prize-winner that did not do anything. He emphasizes the need for churches to look back at the early church in Acts to discover the founding principles of effectiveness and accomplishment, focusing on the equipment, enduement, and excitement of Christ's ascension. Maxwell stresses the significance of being witnesses for Christ, the power of the Holy Spirit, and the urgency of fulfilling the great commission.
That Your Joy May Be Full
By Andrew Murray0Abiding in ChristJoy in ChristNEH 8:10PSA 16:11JHN 15:11JHN 16:22JHN 16:24JHN 17:13ROM 15:13GAL 5:22PHP 4:41PE 1:8Andrew Murray emphasizes that abiding fully in Christ leads to a life filled with exquisite joy, as believers partake in the joy of the Lord. He explains that true joy is a reflection of the believer's relationship with Christ, which transcends earthly trials and sorrows. Murray highlights that this joy is not only a personal experience but also a powerful testimony to others of God's love and blessings. He encourages believers to seek and claim this joy as part of their identity in Christ, reminding them that joy is a vital aspect of their spiritual life. Ultimately, he calls for a full surrender to Christ to experience the fullness of joy that He promises.
Looking to God
By Mary Wilder Tileston0PSA 16:11PRO 16:20ROM 15:13PHP 4:41PE 1:8Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the happiness found in trusting the Lord, emphasizing that when God is our ultimate focus and we can declare Him as our God, everything in life takes on new meaning and joy. Daily comforts become opportunities for thanksgiving, challenges are seen as tenderly designed by God for our growth, and even the simplest tasks hold deep significance when done in acknowledgment of God's love. The earth, the air we breathe, and the sun shining above all become reminders of God's encompassing love. Through faith, hope, and love, we experience a foretaste of the eternal joy awaiting us in the presence of our Almighty God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
Whom having not seen, ye love - Those to whom the apostle wrote had never seen Christ in the flesh; and yet, such is the realizing nature of faith, they loved him as strongly as any of his disciples could, to whom he was personally known. For faith in the Lord Jesus brings him into the heart; and by his indwelling all his virtues are proved, and an excellence discovered beyond even that which his disciples beheld, when conversant with him upon earth. In short, there is an equality between believers in the present time, and those who lived in the time of the incarnation; for Christ, to a believing soul, is the same to-day that he was yesterday and will be for ever. Ye rejoice with joy unspeakable - Ye have unutterable happiness through believing; and ye have the fullest, clearest, strongest evidence of eternal glory. Though they did not see him on earth, and men could not see him in glory, yet by that faith which is the evidence of things not seen, and the subsistence of things hoped for, they had the very highest persuasion of their acceptance with God, their relation to him as their Father, and their sonship with Christ Jesus.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
not having seen, ye love--though in other cases it is knowledge of the person that produces love to him. They are more "blessed that have not seen and yet have believed," than they who believed because they have seen. On Peter's own love to Jesus, compare Joh 21:15-17. Though the apostles had seen Him, they now ceased to know Him merely after the flesh. in whom--connected with "believing": the result of which is "ye rejoice" (Greek, "exult"). now--in the present state, as contrasted with the future state when believers "shall see His face." unspeakable-- (Co1 2:9). full of glory--Greek, "glorified." A joy now already encompassed with glory. The "glory" is partly in present possession, through the presence of Christ, "the Lord of glory," in the soul; partly in assured anticipation. "The Christian's joy is bound up with love to Jesus: its ground is faith; it is not therefore either self-seeking or self-sufficient" [STEIGER].
John Gill Bible Commentary
Whom having not seen, ye love,.... That is, Jesus Christ, whom they had never seen with their bodily eyes, being Jews, who dwelt not in Judea, when Christ was upon earth, but were scattered about in several parts of the Gentile world; and yet Christ being made known to them, through the preaching of the Gospel, they received and embraced him, and their affections were strongly set upon him: they loved him because of his excellencies and perfections, because of the loveliness of his person, and because he first loved them; they loved him because of the fulness of grace that was in him, because of what he had done for them, and was unto them, and because of the offices he sustained on their account, and the relations he stood in to them; they loved him above all creatures and things, and all of him, and that belong unto him, his people, truths, ordinances, ways, and worship; they loved him with all their hearts, and in the sincerity of their souls, though they had never seen his face in the flesh; whereas sight often begets and increases love: their love was not carnal, but spiritual; it was a fruit of the Spirit of God in their souls; was accompanied with faith in Christ, and proceeded upon the report the Gospel made of him: in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing; the Arabic version adds, "in him": that is, in Christ, who was then received up into heaven, and must be retained there until the time of the restitution of all things; and therefore not now to be beheld with corporeal sight: and yet these regenerate ones, and lovers of Christ, believed in him; see Joh 20:29 not with a notional, historical, and temporary faith, believing not merely what he said, or did, or does, or will do; but looking on him, and to him, for life and salvation; going out of themselves to him, embracing of him, leaning upon him as their Saviour and Redeemer; venturing their souls upon him, committing their all unto him, expecting all from him, both grace and glory: and so rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory; with a joy in believing on him, which is better experienced than expressed; a joy that not only strangers intermeddle not with, know nothing of, which entirely passes their understanding, but is such as saints themselves cannot speak out, or give a full and distinct account of; they want words to express it, and convey proper ideas of it to others: and it is a joy that is glorious; there is a rejoicing that is evil and scandalous; but this is honourable, and of which none need be ashamed; it is solid and substantial, and the matter of it always abiding, when the joy of the hypocrite is but for a moment; it is a joy on account of the glory of God, which the believer lives in the hope and faith of; and it is a beginning, a presage and pledge of it; it is a glory begun here; it is the firstfruits, and a part also of it; and by it saints may know a little what heaven itself will be.