2 Corinthians 1:20
Verse
Context
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For all the promises of God - Had we been light, fickle, worldly-minded persons; persons who could only be bound by our engagements as far as comported with our secular interest; would God have confirmed our testimony among you? Did we not lay before you the promises of God? And did not God fulfill those promises by us - by our instrumentality, to your salvation and his own glory? God is true; therefore every promise of God is true; and consequently each must have its due fulfillment. God will not make use of trifling, worldly men, as the instruments by which he will fulfill his promises; but he has fulfilled them by us; therefore we are just and spiritual men, else God would not have used us. In him are yea, and in him amen - All the promises which God has made to mankind are yea - true in themselves, and amen - faithfully fulfilled to them who believe in Christ Jesus. The promises are all made in reference to Christ; for it is only on the Gospel system that we can have promises of grace; for it is only on that system that we can have mercy. Therefore, the promise comes originally by Christ, and is yea; and it has its fulfillment through Christ, and is amen; and this is to the glory of God, by the preaching of the apostles. From what the apostle says here, and the serious and solemn manner in which he vindicates himself, it appears that his enemies at Corinth had made a handle of his not coming to Corinth, according to his proposal, to defame his character, and to depreciate his ministry; but he makes use of it as a means of exalting the truth and mercy of God through Christ Jesus; and of showing that the promises of God not only come by him, but are fulfilled through him.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Rather, How many soever be the promises of God, in Him is the "yea" ("faithfulness in His word": contrasted with the "yea and nay," Co2 1:19, that is, inconstancy as to one's word). and in him Amen--The oldest manuscripts read, "Wherefore through Him is the Amen"; that is, In Him is faithfulness ("yea") to His word, "wherefore through Him" is the immutable verification of it ("Amen"). As "yea" is His word, so "Amen" is His oath, which makes our assurance of the fulfilment doubly sure. Compare "two immutable things (namely, His word and His oath) in which it was impossible for God to lie" (Heb 6:18; Rev 3:14). The whole range of Old Testament and New Testament promises are secure in their fulfilment for us in Christ. unto the glory of God by us--Greek, "for glory unto God by us" (compare Co2 4:15), that is, by our ministerial labors; by us His promises, and His unchangeable faithfulness to them, are proclaimed. CONYBEARE takes the "Amen" to be the Amen at the close of thanksgiving: but then "by us" would have to mean what it cannot mean here, "by us and you."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For all the promises of God in him are yea,.... This is a reason or argument proving what is before said, that "in" Christ "was yea", since "all the promises of God in him are yea"; and shows, that God has made many promises to his people: mention is here made of "promises", and of "all" the promises; or, as the words may be rendered, "as many promises of God". There are some which concern the temporal good of the saints; as that they shall not want any good thing; and though they shall be attended with afflictions, these shall work for their good, and they shall be supported under them. Others concern their spiritual good; some of which relate to God himself, that he will be their God, which includes his everlasting love, his gracious presence, and divine protection. Others relate to Christ as their surety and Saviour, by whom they are, and shall be justified and pardoned, in whom they are adopted, and by whom they shall be saved with an everlasting salvation: and others relate to the Spirit of God, as a spirit of illumination, faith, comfort, strength, and assistance, and to supplies of grace by him from Christ: and others concern everlasting life and happiness, and are all of them very ancient, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; are exceeding great and precious, suited to the various cases of God's people; are free and unconditional, immutable and irrevocable, and will all of them have their certain accomplishment. These promises are all "in" Christ; with and in whom could they be but in him, since he only existed when they were made, which was from everlasting? with and in whom should they be of right, but in him with whom the covenant, which contains these promises, were made, and who undertook the accomplishment of them? where could they be safe and secure but in him, in whose hands are the persons, grace, and glory of his people? not in Adam, nor in angels, nor in themselves, only in him. Moreover, these promises are "in him yea", and in him amen; they are like the Gospel which exhibits them, consistent, and all of a piece; like the covenant which contains them, and is ordered in all things, and sure; and like the author of them, whose faithfulness and lovingkindness to his in Christ shall never fail; and like Christ himself, in whom they are, who is "the amen, the true and faithful witness, the same today, yesterday, and for ever"; by whose blood, the covenant, and all the promises of it, are ratified and confirmed, and in whom, who is the truth of them, they are all fulfilled. And these are unto the glory of God by us; these serve to illustrate and advance the glory of God, when they are preached by us, and held forth by us in the Gospel, just as they are in Christ, free, absolute, and unconditional; and when they are received "by us" as believers in Christ; for the stronger we are in the faith of the promises, the more glory we give to God; faith by laying hold on, and embracing the promises, glorifies the veracity, faithfulness, power, and grace of God. The Syriac version puts the "Amen" into this last clause, and reads it thus, "therefore by him we give Amen to the glory of God".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:20 God has put a seal of approval, with a resounding “Yes!” on the Old Testament prophecies as they are fulfilled in Christ. Believers respond with “Amen,” meaning “confirmed and agreed.”
2 Corinthians 1:20
Paul’s Change of Plans
19For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, who was proclaimed among you by me and Silvanus and Timothy, was not “Yes” and “No,” but in Him it has always been “Yes.”20For all the promises of God are “Yes” in Christ. And so through Him, our “Amen” is spoken to the glory of God.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(Poland) Walking in the Spirit
By David Wilkerson9.4K59:05Walking In The Spirit1KI 10:7PSA 37:23ISA 1:18MAT 6:33JHN 16:132CO 1:20GAL 5:16In this sermon, the preacher shares personal anecdotes about his experiences in Broadway and as a preacher. He talks about a show on Broadway that received terrible reviews and only lasted four days. He also shares a story about how he and a businessman were able to rent a theater despite being initially told they couldn't afford it. The preacher then reflects on his own spiritual journey and realization that there was more to Pentecost than just getting blessed and speaking in tongues. He expresses a desire for the Church to go beyond the four walls and proclaim the Gospel to a hungry nation. The sermon ends with a mention of a prophecy that the preacher will share in the next session.
God Answers Man's Suffering: Companionship
By Warren Wiersbe4.8K39:41JOS 1:9JDG 6:12ISA 41:10ISA 43:2ACT 18:9ACT 27:232CO 1:20In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that when we face difficulties in life, it is because God has a glorious purpose to fulfill. He compares our lack of understanding to Job, who saw the action but didn't know the script. The preacher highlights that we don't live by explanations but by promises, and God promises to be with us and gather us together. He also emphasizes that God sees us as precious, despite our failures and weaknesses.
(2006 Conference) 9. Seven Wonderful Promises
By Zac Poonen4.8K1:00:50MAT 16:18LUK 5:37ROM 6:14ROM 8:282CO 1:20HEB 13:5This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God and highlights the struggle to let go of earthly desires and embrace the promises of the New Covenant. It encourages believers to focus on becoming overcomers in Christ, overcoming sin, the world, the flesh, and the devil. The sermon also stresses the need to trust in God's grace, to keep a clear conscience, and to humbly submit to God's will, allowing Him to build His church and lead us in triumph.
Walking in the Spirit
By David Wilkerson4.8K47:12PRO 3:6MAT 6:33JHN 16:132CO 1:20GAL 5:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the simplicity of understanding the word of God. He shares that many people miss the great truths of the Bible because they overcomplicate it with theological interpretations. The preacher reveals that the key to walking in the Spirit is to simply say "yes" to God and believe in His promises. He references 2 Corinthians 1:20 to support this idea. The preacher also shares personal experiences of obeying God's calling and the blessings and chastening that came with it.
By Faith Believe
By Bill McLeod1.9K43:02BeliefPSA 85:6MAT 7:7ACT 1:8ROM 1:172CO 1:20HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the temporary nature of worldly possessions and the inevitability of death. He highlights the futility of accumulating material wealth, as it cannot be taken with us when we leave this world. The speaker also touches on the importance of music in religious gatherings, noting that it used to play a significant role in worship. However, he suggests that the focus should be on the message of salvation and the transformation of lives. The sermon concludes with a personal anecdote about a powerful meeting where God's presence was felt, leading to a realization of the need for a deeper examination of the heart.
The River of God
By Zac Poonen1.7K54:43Deeper LifeJHN 1:14JHN 4:14ROM 6:142CO 1:202CO 4:6PHP 4:4PHP 4:7In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the power of God to use anyone for His purposes. He shares a story of a young girl who became a catalyst for many people coming to the Lord. The speaker encourages the audience to be open to opportunities to share the gospel, even in unexpected encounters. He also warns about the dangers of being drawn to worldly pleasures and impurity, urging the listeners to find satisfaction in God's Word and living water. The sermon emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit and being mindful of the influences around us.
Reigning in Life - Part 4
By Alan Martin1.6K00:00VictoryJOS 1:9JHN 17:17ROM 6:6ROM 8:22CO 1:202CO 5:171JN 5:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of finding peace and freedom in God. He acknowledges that the enemy can trap believers and steal their joy and relationships, but reassures them that God is present and can provide all they need. The preacher urges listeners to return to God and prioritize spending time with Him, rather than getting caught up in busyness and distractions. He also references the story of Mary and Martha, highlighting the value of choosing to rest in God's presence. The overall message is to seek a deep and experiential relationship with God, allowing His work in our lives to bring honor and glory to Him.
Gift of Eternal Life
By Rolfe Barnard1.3K19:51Eternal LifeJHN 1:13JHN 17:1JHN 17:3ROM 6:232CO 1:20EPH 2:10PHP 2:13In this sermon, the preacher discusses the threefold work of God in salvation, which is described in the teachings of the apostle Paul. He explains that salvation is a process that occurs in three different tenses: past, present, and future. The preacher emphasizes that the ultimate goal of salvation is for believers to be transformed into the likeness of Jesus Christ. He also highlights the concept of eternal life as a gift from God to sinful humanity, as described in the book of John.
Why Christ Became a Servant of the Jews
By John Piper1.1K31:09Welcoming OthersUnity in ChristMRK 10:45JHN 3:36ROM 14:1ROM 15:72CO 1:20GAL 3:28EPH 2:19PHP 2:3HEB 13:21PE 4:9John Piper emphasizes that Christ became a servant to the Jews to fulfill God's promises and to demonstrate His truthfulness, urging the church to welcome one another across differences, including ethnicity. He highlights the importance of community and hospitality, encouraging believers to open their hearts and homes to each other for the glory of God. Piper connects the welcoming nature of the church to the example set by Christ, who served both Jews and Gentiles, ultimately leading to the glorification of God for His mercy. The sermon calls for unity and acceptance within the church, transcending cultural and personal barriers.
Faith and Feelings
By Roy Daniel1.1K39:30MAT 6:33ROM 8:151CO 2:122CO 1:20EPH 1:3COL 2:62PE 1:4In this sermon, the preacher shares a personal experience of crying out to God for the souls of men. He emphasizes the importance of not relying on feelings but on God's promises. The preacher mentions how Satan can manipulate our feelings but cannot change the word of God. He gives an example of Charles Finney, who preached without preparation and saw God move mightily. The preacher also warns against falling into the trap of seeking feelings or signs before claiming God's promises. He uses the analogy of a child trying to retrieve a ball from the roof without any means to do so, highlighting the need to trust in God's provision.
Book of Acts Series - Part 23 | Courage to Live
By Jim Cymbala1.0K31:24Book Of ActsMAT 6:33ACT 20:24ACT 20:32ROM 15:42CO 1:20EPH 6:10HEB 10:24In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of courage in facing discouragements and disappointments in life. He shares the story of a pastor who faced opposition and criticism while preaching, yet continued to minister with courage. The preacher also highlights the need for encouragement, especially when overwhelmed by guilt from sin. He references the story of Paul and Silas being beaten and imprisoned, but still finding the courage to continue their mission. Overall, the message encourages listeners to have courage, seek encouragement, and trust in God's presence and faithfulness.
The Canadian Revival and Its Effects
By Bill McLeod1.0K41:25Revival HistoryPSA 37:5PRO 22:6ISA 55:11MAT 6:33ACT 1:8ROM 8:282CO 1:20In this sermon, the speaker shares his experience of organizing a group to go out and talk to people about God. Despite having a good enrollment and consistent attendance for eight weeks, only two people showed up when it was time to hit the trail. One of these individuals, named Arnie, had a troubled past and began pouring out his bottled-up wickedness during a prayer session. The speaker also discusses his efforts to encourage the church congregation to engage in cold calling and soul winning, but unfortunately, no one showed up or seemed interested. The main theme of the sermon is the need for believers to step out in faith and actively share the message of God's love with others.
A Serious Battle of Faith
By Basilea Schlink99404:35Radio ShowPSA 107:20ISA 54:17MAT 6:33JHN 8:36ROM 8:372CO 1:201JN 3:8In this sermon, Basilia Schlink emphasizes the importance of having faith in God's promises and the power of Jesus to set us free from sin and bondage. She encourages listeners to stand upon the promise of Jesus' complete redemption and to persistently call upon His name in faith. Schlink shares the example of Pastor Blumhart, who prayed for bound souls and saw them set free through his persistent faith in Jesus. She also suggests writing down and speaking aloud the promises of victory found in the Bible as a way to combat doubt and temptation. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the need to trust in God's promises and to continue in the battle of faith, knowing that Jesus will keep every one of His promises.
Ii Corinthians 12:9
By Hans R. Waldvogel77514:59GracePSA 103:3ISA 53:4MAT 5:3ROM 8:12CO 1:202CO 12:9EPH 2:8In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of denying oneself and seeking a deeper knowledge of Christ Jesus. He highlights that there is a great search among the people of God, but only a few truly have this life that is necessary. The preacher encourages the audience to hold on to Jesus and allow His grace to shine through their negative and upside-down lives. He reminds them that through Jesus, there is no condemnation and that His grace provides strength and righteousness. The sermon concludes with the preacher urging the audience to look to Jesus in the midst of storms and to trust in His all-sufficient grace.
Growing in the Grace of God #22 - a Covenant of Better Promises Part 2
By Bob Hoekstra76251:052CO 1:20EPH 1:17PHP 1:6HEB 3:19HEB 4:4HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of putting our faith in a faithful God rather than relying on our own flashy or forceful actions. He reminds the audience that God is faithful and will establish and guard us. The preacher shares a promise from 1 Peter 2:6 that those who believe in the Lord will not be put to shame. He also highlights the provision that God promises to provide for our physical needs, using personal anecdotes to illustrate this point. The preacher encourages the audience to have faith like branches connected to a vine, producing fruit that reflects the life of the vine. He criticizes the caricatured portrayal of spiritual warfare in American religious culture and emphasizes the simplicity and clarity of the message of faith.
I Have Been Ready for My People, but My People Were Not Ready for Just Jesus
By Hans R. Waldvogel66123:37JesusPSA 36:9PSA 37:4MAT 6:332CO 1:202CO 4:7COL 1:27COL 2:9In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of seeking Jesus and finding true wealth in Him. He shares a personal story about discovering electricity and how it relates to the truth of Jesus. The preacher highlights the significance of learning from Jesus rather than relying on worldly knowledge or achievements. He emphasizes the need for Christ to be formed within us and the joy and enthusiasm that comes from this transformation. The sermon concludes with a reminder that nothing else can satisfy our souls except for the likeness of Christ.
Promise Believers #6 - Exceedingly Great and Precious Promises
By Bob Hoekstra61250:51MAT 4:19ROM 1:172CO 1:20HEB 3:19In this sermon, the speaker expresses their joy and gratitude for the goodness of God and His promises. They highlight the promise of freedom in John 8:36, emphasizing that Jesus can truly set us free from sin and guilt. The speaker also discusses the concept of abiding in Christ as the vine and bearing godly fruit. They use the analogy of a grape vine to illustrate how our life and fruitfulness come from being connected to Jesus. The sermon concludes with a reminder of the importance of believing in and relying on the promises of God, as unbelief can hinder us from experiencing the rest and provision He has for us.
God's Strength & Faithfulness
By Robert B. Thompson6021:05:35MAT 5:18LUK 18:1ROM 16:202CO 1:201TH 5:17JAS 4:2In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taking advantage of the upcoming difficult times to grow spiritually and help others. He believes that American Christians are too comfortable and need to become more serious with God. The preacher also discusses the brutal treatment of captives and how it should serve as a wake-up call for Christians to prioritize prayer and sacrifice for the gospel. He urges the audience to redeem their time and avoid wasting it on trivial pursuits, emphasizing the need to bear fruit in their lives. The sermon concludes with a reminder that God will ultimately crush Satan and that believers should trust in Him for guidance and provision.
Renew Your Pledge to Kill Every Last Giant of Sin
By Sandeep Poonen58432:09NUM 13:32NUM 14:1AMO 5:15MAT 11:282CO 1:20EPH 6:10HEB 10:36HEB 12:1JAS 1:22This sermon delves into the story of the Israelites in Numbers 13 and 14, highlighting their choice between facing the giants in the promised land or returning to slavery in Egypt. It emphasizes the importance of fully believing in Jesus to save us from all our sins, not just some, and the need to have endurance in overcoming the giants of sin in our lives. The message urges a personal faith in Jesus to conquer every sin, emphasizing the new covenant agreement of being saved from all sins.
Foolishness or Reality?
By Basilea Schlink57504:35Radio ShowPSA 27:14PSA 34:3PSA 119:105MAT 9:292CO 1:20HEB 11:6JAS 2:17In this sermon, Basilis Shlink emphasizes the importance of having a strong faith in God's word and promises. He encourages believers to have a daring, mountain-moving faith that is anchored in God's word. Shlink explains that when we have a promise from God, it is like having an IOU that we can hold up to the Lord and claim with childlike faith. He emphasizes the power of praising and worshiping God, especially in difficult and hopeless situations, as it moves the mighty arm of the Lord to bring forth his help. Shlink concludes by reminding listeners that when we look to God in faith, our present needs cannot depress us.
Brake 2
By George Verwer5171:02:50MissionsPSA 119:11MAT 6:332CO 1:20EPH 4:26PHP 4:41TH 5:182TI 2:15In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of survival and relaxation in Christian work. He shares his personal experience of realizing the need to pull back and focus on small tasks instead of constantly striving for big victories. The speaker emphasizes the value of taking time to gather one's thoughts and talk to Jesus, rather than feeling compelled to evangelize every moment. He also mentions the positive impact of delegating responsibilities and finding ways to relax, such as playing golf. Additionally, the speaker vulnerably shares a struggle he faced with infatuation and how he overcame it through perseverance and distance.
Word & Spirit Conference, Session 4
By David Ravenhill181:02:10Christian LifeThe Presence of GodHolistic FaithEXO 33:15JOB 26:14PSA 27:4PSA 42:1JER 9:24MAT 6:332CO 1:20PHP 3:10COL 2:3REV 3:20David Ravenhill emphasizes the necessity of embracing both the Word of God and the Spirit of God in our lives, advocating for a balance that avoids the pitfalls of focusing solely on one aspect. He illustrates the importance of seeking God's presence above all else, using the example of Moses who prioritized God's presence over the promised land. Ravenhill warns against the dangers of fragmenting God's truth into parts, urging believers to pursue a holistic understanding centered on Christ. He encourages a deep longing for God's presence, akin to David's desire, and highlights that true fulfillment comes from knowing God intimately rather than merely seeking His blessings.
Christ Is All, and in All
By Octavius Winslow0The All-in-All of ChristChrist's SufficiencyPSA 73:26ISA 41:10MAT 11:28JHN 14:27ROM 10:42CO 1:20PHP 4:19COL 3:11HEB 10:141PE 5:7Octavius Winslow emphasizes that Christ is the ultimate fulfillment and essence of all aspects of life, stating that He is 'all and in all.' He reflects on how Christ encompasses creation, redemption, and the entirety of the believer's experience, from joy to sorrow. Winslow encourages believers to recognize that every part of their lives is infused with Christ's presence and sufficiency, assuring them that He is their portion in every circumstance. He concludes with a powerful reminder that in times of loss or transition, Christ remains the constant source of strength and hope, ultimately being the all-sufficient Savior in both life and eternity.
The Rainbow in the Clouds
By Henry Law0GEN 9:13PSA 91:1ISA 54:7ROM 8:382CO 1:20COL 3:3HEB 13:81JN 3:2REV 4:3Henry Law preaches on the significance of the rainbow as a symbol of God's covenant with the earth, reflecting His tenderness, compassion, and watchful care towards His people. The rainbow not only signifies God's promise to never again destroy the earth with a flood but also points to Jesus as the ultimate fulfillment of God's covenant of salvation. Believers are encouraged to see the rainbow in every trial and discouragement, finding assurance in the eternal security provided by God and Jesus, symbolized by the unchanging presence of the rainbow in the sky.
On the Eternal Love of God
By Thomas Reade0ROM 8:282CO 1:20EPH 1:3COL 3:121TH 1:4HEB 12:21PE 1:2REV 7:9Thomas Reade preaches on the eternal love of God as the source of the believer's happiness and the final glorification of the saints. He emphasizes the unchangeable promises of God in Christ, the blessings of redemption, and the sovereign will of God in salvation. Reade highlights the importance of ministers preaching the whole counsel of God with sincerity and love, following the example of Paul who sought the salvation of others with fervor. He encourages believers to seek assurance through faith, holiness, and the witness of the Spirit, leading to eternal joy in the presence of God.
- Adam Clarke
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Adam Clarke Bible Commentary
For all the promises of God - Had we been light, fickle, worldly-minded persons; persons who could only be bound by our engagements as far as comported with our secular interest; would God have confirmed our testimony among you? Did we not lay before you the promises of God? And did not God fulfill those promises by us - by our instrumentality, to your salvation and his own glory? God is true; therefore every promise of God is true; and consequently each must have its due fulfillment. God will not make use of trifling, worldly men, as the instruments by which he will fulfill his promises; but he has fulfilled them by us; therefore we are just and spiritual men, else God would not have used us. In him are yea, and in him amen - All the promises which God has made to mankind are yea - true in themselves, and amen - faithfully fulfilled to them who believe in Christ Jesus. The promises are all made in reference to Christ; for it is only on the Gospel system that we can have promises of grace; for it is only on that system that we can have mercy. Therefore, the promise comes originally by Christ, and is yea; and it has its fulfillment through Christ, and is amen; and this is to the glory of God, by the preaching of the apostles. From what the apostle says here, and the serious and solemn manner in which he vindicates himself, it appears that his enemies at Corinth had made a handle of his not coming to Corinth, according to his proposal, to defame his character, and to depreciate his ministry; but he makes use of it as a means of exalting the truth and mercy of God through Christ Jesus; and of showing that the promises of God not only come by him, but are fulfilled through him.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Rather, How many soever be the promises of God, in Him is the "yea" ("faithfulness in His word": contrasted with the "yea and nay," Co2 1:19, that is, inconstancy as to one's word). and in him Amen--The oldest manuscripts read, "Wherefore through Him is the Amen"; that is, In Him is faithfulness ("yea") to His word, "wherefore through Him" is the immutable verification of it ("Amen"). As "yea" is His word, so "Amen" is His oath, which makes our assurance of the fulfilment doubly sure. Compare "two immutable things (namely, His word and His oath) in which it was impossible for God to lie" (Heb 6:18; Rev 3:14). The whole range of Old Testament and New Testament promises are secure in their fulfilment for us in Christ. unto the glory of God by us--Greek, "for glory unto God by us" (compare Co2 4:15), that is, by our ministerial labors; by us His promises, and His unchangeable faithfulness to them, are proclaimed. CONYBEARE takes the "Amen" to be the Amen at the close of thanksgiving: but then "by us" would have to mean what it cannot mean here, "by us and you."
John Gill Bible Commentary
For all the promises of God in him are yea,.... This is a reason or argument proving what is before said, that "in" Christ "was yea", since "all the promises of God in him are yea"; and shows, that God has made many promises to his people: mention is here made of "promises", and of "all" the promises; or, as the words may be rendered, "as many promises of God". There are some which concern the temporal good of the saints; as that they shall not want any good thing; and though they shall be attended with afflictions, these shall work for their good, and they shall be supported under them. Others concern their spiritual good; some of which relate to God himself, that he will be their God, which includes his everlasting love, his gracious presence, and divine protection. Others relate to Christ as their surety and Saviour, by whom they are, and shall be justified and pardoned, in whom they are adopted, and by whom they shall be saved with an everlasting salvation: and others relate to the Spirit of God, as a spirit of illumination, faith, comfort, strength, and assistance, and to supplies of grace by him from Christ: and others concern everlasting life and happiness, and are all of them very ancient, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began; are exceeding great and precious, suited to the various cases of God's people; are free and unconditional, immutable and irrevocable, and will all of them have their certain accomplishment. These promises are all "in" Christ; with and in whom could they be but in him, since he only existed when they were made, which was from everlasting? with and in whom should they be of right, but in him with whom the covenant, which contains these promises, were made, and who undertook the accomplishment of them? where could they be safe and secure but in him, in whose hands are the persons, grace, and glory of his people? not in Adam, nor in angels, nor in themselves, only in him. Moreover, these promises are "in him yea", and in him amen; they are like the Gospel which exhibits them, consistent, and all of a piece; like the covenant which contains them, and is ordered in all things, and sure; and like the author of them, whose faithfulness and lovingkindness to his in Christ shall never fail; and like Christ himself, in whom they are, who is "the amen, the true and faithful witness, the same today, yesterday, and for ever"; by whose blood, the covenant, and all the promises of it, are ratified and confirmed, and in whom, who is the truth of them, they are all fulfilled. And these are unto the glory of God by us; these serve to illustrate and advance the glory of God, when they are preached by us, and held forth by us in the Gospel, just as they are in Christ, free, absolute, and unconditional; and when they are received "by us" as believers in Christ; for the stronger we are in the faith of the promises, the more glory we give to God; faith by laying hold on, and embracing the promises, glorifies the veracity, faithfulness, power, and grace of God. The Syriac version puts the "Amen" into this last clause, and reads it thus, "therefore by him we give Amen to the glory of God".
Tyndale Open Study Notes
1:20 God has put a seal of approval, with a resounding “Yes!” on the Old Testament prophecies as they are fulfilled in Christ. Believers respond with “Amen,” meaning “confirmed and agreed.”