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Psalms 133:1
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Summary
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- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is,.... Aben Ezra thinks the word thing should be supplied; the thing is what follows; for brethren to dwell together in unity: which the Targum interprets of Zion and Jerusalem, as two brethren; Aben Ezra of the priests; Kimchi of the King Messiah and the priest; and Jarchi, and Kimchi's father, of the Israelites; which is best of all, especially of those who are Israelites indeed; for this is not to be understood of all mankind, who are in some sense brethren, being all of one blood, and among whom peace is to be cultivated; nor merely of those of the same nation, under one and the same government, who should endeavour to live peaceably and quietly; nor of brethren in a strict natural state, who belong to the same family, and are of the same parents, and should be kindly affectioned one to another; but rather of such who are so in a spiritual sense, who have God for their fatherly adoption and regeneration, are related to Christ the firstborn among many brethren, and are members one of another, in the same church state; all which are a reason why they should love as brethren, and endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, Mat 23:8, Pe1 2:17; and "to dwell together in unity"; even as one man, as if one soul actuated them all; it is not only to dwell and abide in the house of God, where they have all a name and a place; but to associate together there, to go up to the house of God in company, and with delight to join together in acts of religious worship; to serve the Lord with one consent, with one mind and mouth to glorify God, and to be of one accord, having the same love; and to do all kind and good offices one to another in the most hearty and cordial manner; serving each other in love, bearing one another's burdens, sympathizing with each other in all circumstances, forgiving each other offences committed, praying with one another, and building up each other in their most holy faith, stirring up one another to love and to good works: now this is both "good" and "pleasant"; it is good, as being according to the will of God, the new command of Christ; what evidences the truth of regeneration, and of being the disciples of Christ; what makes the communion of saints comfortable and edifying, and without which a profession of religion is good for nothing: and it is pleasant to God and Christ, to angels and men, to the ministers of the Gospel, and to all about them and in a connection with them; and it is this which makes any particular dispensation in time delightful and agreeable; as the first times of the Gospel, and the latter day glory, the Philadelphian church state, which has its name from brotherly love; yea, it will be the glory and delight of heaven. Now this is ushered in with a note of attention and admiration, "behold", and with a note of exclamation, "how"; the psalmist pointing at some instance or instances of this kind, which were very amiable, and worthy of imitation; and suggesting that such a case is rare and wonderful, and inexpressibly good, profitable, and pleasant. Gussetius (z) renders it, "how good is the sabbatism of brethren, even gathered together"; for the exercise of religion, prayer, praise, &c. (z) Ebr. Comment. p. 829.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here see, I. What it is that is commended - brethren's dwelling together in unity, not only not quarrelling, and devouring one another, but delighting in each other with mutual endearments, and promoting each other's welfare with mutual services. Sometimes it is chosen, as the best expedient for preserving peace, that brethren should live asunder and at a distance from each other; that indeed may prevent enmity and strife (Gen 13:9), but the goodness and pleasantness are for brethren to dwell together and so to dwell in unity, to dwell even as one (so some read it), as having one heart, one soul, one interest. David had many sons by many wives; probably he penned this psalm for their instruction, to engage them to love another, and, if they had done this, much of the mischief that arose in his family would have been happily prevented. The tribes of Israel had long had separate interests during the government of the Judges, and it was often of bad consequence; but now that they were united under one common head he would have them sensible how much it was likely to be for their advantage, especially since now the ark was fixed, and with it the place of their rendezvous for public worship and the centre of their unity. Now let them live in love. II. How commendable it is: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is! It is good in itself, agreeable to the will of God, the conformity of earth to heaven. It is good for us, for our honour and comfort. It is pleasant and pleasing to God and all good men; it brings constant delight to those who do thus live in unity. Behold, how good! We cannot conceive or express the goodness and pleasantness of it. Behold it is a rare thing, and therefore admirable. Behold and wonder that there should be so much goodness and pleasantness among men, so much of heaven on this earth! Behold it is an amiable thing, which will attract our hearts. Behold it is an exemplary thing, which, where it is, is to be imitated by us with a holy emulation. III. How the pleasantness of it is illustrated. 1. It is fragrant as the holy anointing oil, which was strongly perfumed, and diffused its odours, to the great delight of all the bystanders, when it was poured upon the head of Aaron, or his successor the high priest, so plentifully that it ran down the face, even to the collar or binding of the garment, Psa 133:2. (1.) This ointment was holy. So must our brotherly love be, with a pure heart, devoted to God. We must love those that are begotten for his sake that begat, Jo1 5:1. (2.) This ointment was a composition made up by a divine dispensatory; God appointed the ingredients and the quantities. Thus believers are taught of God to love one another; it is a grace of his working in us. (3.) It was very precious, and the like to it was not to be made for any common use. Thus holy love is, in the sight of God, of great price; and that is precious indeed which is so in God's sight. (4.) It was grateful both to Aaron himself and to all about him. So is holy love; it is like ointment and perfume which rejoice the heart. Christ's love to mankind was part of that oil of gladness with which he was anointed above his fellows. (5.) Aaron and his sons were not admitted to minister unto the Lord till they were anointed with this ointment, nor are our services acceptable to God without this holy love; if we have it not we are nothing, Co1 13:1, Co1 13:2. 2. It is fructifying. It is profitable as well as pleasing; it is as the dew; it brings abundance of blessings along with it, as numerous as the drops of dew. It cools the scorching heat of men's passions, as the evening dews cool the air and refresh the earth. It contributes very much to our fruitfulness in every thing that is good; it moistens the heart, and makes it tender and fit to receive the good seed of the word; as, on the contrary, malice and bitterness unfit us to receive it, Pe1 2:1. It is as the dew of Hermon, a common hill (for brotherly love is the beauty and benefit of civil societies), and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion, a holy hill, for it contributes greatly to the fruitfulness of sacred societies. Both Hermon and Zion will wither without this dew. It is said of the dew that it tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men, Mic 5:7. Nor should our love to our brethren stay for theirs to us (that is publican's love), but should go before it - that is divine love. IV. The proof of the excellency of brotherly love. Loving people are blessed people. For, 1. They are blessed of God, and therefore blessed indeed: There, where brethren dwell together in unity, the Lord commands the blessing, a complicated blessing, including all blessings. It is God's prerogative to command the blessing, man can but beg a blessing. Blessings according to the promise are commanded blessings, for he has commanded his covenant for ever. Blessings that take effect are commanded blessings, for he speaks and it is done. 2. They are everlastingly blessed. The blessing which God commands on those that dwell in love is life for evermore; that is the blessing of blessings. Those that dwell in love not only dwell in God, but do already dwell in heaven. As the perfection of love is the blessedness of heaven, so the sincerity of love is the earnest of that blessedness. Those that live in love and peace shall have the God of love and peace with them now, and they shall be with him shortly, with him for ever, in the world of endless love and peace. How good then is it, and how pleasant!
Psalms 133:1
How Pleasant to Live in Harmony!
1Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in harmony! 2It is like fine oil on the head, running down on the beard, running down Aaron’s beard over the collar of his robes.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Getting Ready for the End of All Things
By David Wilkerson38K43:19PSA 133:1HAG 2:5ZEC 10:1MAT 18:151PE 4:72PE 1:14REV 14:14This sermon emphasizes the importance of preparing for the end times by focusing on spiritual readiness rather than physical provisions. It highlights the need for forgiveness, love, and unity within the body of Christ to remove hindrances and welcome the outpouring of the Holy Spirit for a great harvest. The speaker encourages humility, prayer, and faith in God's promises, emphasizing the imminent glory and presence of Jesus Christ.
Unity That Brings Revival
By A.W. Tozer5.4K34:50RevivalGEN 12:1EXO 30:30PSA 133:1PSA 133:3MAT 5:6JHN 4:14ACT 1:12In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of being absorbed in Christ and His Word. He believes that God cannot bless or bring revival to a church unless its members are fully dedicated to Him. The speaker gives examples of great achievements in history, such as the invention of the electric light and composing musical scores, where individuals had to be fully committed and dedicated to their work. He also highlights the need for unity among believers, focusing on the fundamental truths of Christianity rather than superficial differences. Ultimately, the speaker encourages the audience to have a determination to glorify the Lord alone.
A Guiding Voice in the Storm
By Carter Conlon4.3K42:16PSA 24:7PSA 133:1DAN 5:18JON 2:2LUK 14:23ACT 27:23ROM 12:1The sermon titled 'A Guiding Voice in the Storm' based on Acts chapter 27 emphasizes the importance of seeking God's direction and being a guiding voice in the midst of societal storms. It calls for a national spiritual awakening and a return to prayer, unity, and obedience to God's will. The message highlights the need for courage, surrender to God's plan, and a focus on glorifying Christ and saving the lost, even at personal cost.
(Europe 2008) Session 6 - the Revelation of God in Man
By B.H. Clendennen3.7K1:04:55Revelation Of GodPSA 133:1ACT 2:1ACT 2:41ACT 4:311CO 6:19GAL 2:20EPH 4:3In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of being dependent on Christ and having a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ. He uses the example of Paul's life to illustrate the contradiction of being dead yet alive in Christ. The preacher warns against compromising the message of the gospel, as it is the power that holds the moral universe together. He also shares a personal experience of God speaking to him and emphasizes the significance of resurrection over birth in understanding God's message.
He Is Love
By George Warnock2.4K50:12Love Of GodPSA 133:1MAT 6:33MAT 22:37JHN 17:151CO 3:12PHP 1:91TI 4:13In this sermon, the speaker shares a story about a man named Dunmighty who was told by God to set his house in order because all that he produced was wood, hay, and stubble. The speaker then references Paul's letter to the Philippians, where he prays for their love to abound more and more. The speaker recounts a conversation with a man who suggested that love is all that is needed and that doctrine and other things should be forgotten. The speaker introduces George, who has the gift of exhortation, and emphasizes the importance of both reading and exhortation in Timothy's letter from Paul. The speaker also highlights the need for unity among believers and the importance of seeking God's glory in reaching the world. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the highest form of relationship with God is when one lays down everything for His sake, and that only what proceeds from His Spirit and anointing is important in the sight of God. The speaker warns against being deceived by a mighty ministry or gifts, as all works will be judged by God on the day of judgment.
From Simon to Peter #27 - the Holy Spirit and Peter's Mind - Part 2
By J. Glyn Owen2.3K40:57Simon to PeterPSA 133:1MAT 6:33MAT 28:18ACT 2:36In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of understanding Scripture and how it is the product of the Holy Spirit. He highlights the significance of Peter's realization that the experience of Pentecost was a fulfillment of God's promises in Christ. The preacher then focuses on Acts 2:36, which declares that God exalted Jesus as Lord. He explores the depths of Jesus' humiliation through his crucifixion and death at the hands of lawless men. The sermon concludes with a prayer for forgiveness and a hymn that exalts Jesus as the victorious Savior.
04 Building Fellowship as Husband & Wife
By Zac Poonen2.1K59:07GEN 3:9JOB 1:5PSA 133:1PRO 15:4PRO 18:21EPH 4:32COL 4:6JAS 3:21PE 3:7This sermon emphasizes the importance of God's order in earthly families as a foundation for building the church. It contrasts the focus on family in the New Testament with the lack of emphasis in the Old Testament, highlighting the significance of relationships within the family unit. The message encourages acknowledging mistakes, seeking forgiveness, and fostering fellowship between spouses and children, with a focus on speaking graciously and building a home filled with love and unity.
The Year That We Flourish
By Carter Conlon1.9K45:16PSA 133:1MRK 9:241CO 1:31CO 6:181CO 8:91CO 9:141CO 10:121CO 13:13This sermon emphasizes the importance of unity, faith, purity, forgiveness, and selflessness in the church community. It calls for a commitment to flourishing in God's way, walking in the power of the Holy Spirit, and living for the benefit of others. The speaker urges the congregation to learn from past mistakes, embrace God's promises, and be faithful in prayer and service.
Salvation Army Marches and Evangelism
By William Booth1.8K02:25PSA 133:1ACT 1:8EPH 4:3COL 3:14REV 7:9This sermon reflects on Salvationist meetings and the International Congress in London in 1904, showcasing the growth and expansion of the Army's activities over the years. It highlights the unity of different races in a common religious enthusiasm, as seen in the great march past at the Crystal Palace led by General William Bull.
House of Prayer - Part 10
By Jim Cymbala1.8K00:55PSA 133:1EPH 5:19COL 3:16This sermon emphasizes the power of collective worship and unity in praising God, encouraging everyone to close their eyes and join in singing together as a symbol of harmony and spiritual connection.
The Beard, Its Historical and Biblical Significance
By John Weaver1.5K1:12:00LEV 21:1PSA 133:1MAT 6:33In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the significance of unity among brethren. He urges the audience to judge righteous judgment, emphasizing the importance of looking beyond outward appearances and instead focusing on the heart. The preacher then addresses the topic of beards, stating that they are not prohibited in the Word of God but are actually encouraged. He argues that the taboo against beards, especially among pastors, is man-made and not from God. The sermon concludes with a reference to Isaiah 50:6, where Jesus willingly endured the humiliation of having his beard plucked off, highlighting the importance of respecting and valuing one's beard.
The Canadian Revival - Part 8
By Bill McLeod1.4K08:572CH 7:14PSA 85:6PSA 133:1PRO 3:5ZEC 4:6MAT 18:19ACT 2:1ROM 12:2EPH 5:18JAS 4:10This sermon emphasizes the need for true revival in the church, highlighting past experiences where external efforts did not bring about lasting change until a genuine revival took place. It shares stories of God's providence and intervention in bringing about revival, emphasizing the importance of humility, transparency, and prayer in seeking revival. The speaker encourages believers to take chances for God, trust in His guidance, and seek revival through united prayer and a reliance on the Holy Spirit.
Prayer and Unity in Revival
By Bill McLeod1.3K52:46Revival PrayingPSA 133:1ACT 1:14ACT 5:12ROM 15:51CO 1:102CO 13:11In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of having a heart that is open to others, regardless of their background or circumstances. He shares a story about a Christian man who never explicitly explained the way of salvation, but through his actions and kindness, he led someone to accept Jesus as their Savior. The speaker also highlights the need to be patient and faithful in sowing seeds of the Gospel, even when there seems to be no immediate results. He encourages listeners to receive and accept one another, just as Paul did, and to treat every person as a child of God.
Resting and Wrestling for the Cause of Christ—together
By John Piper1.3K43:30PSA 133:1MAT 11:28LUK 13:24JHN 12:25ACT 20:28ROM 15:30EPH 4:12HEB 10:24This sermon emphasizes the importance of healthy biblical doctrine and loving relationships within the body of Christ. It highlights the significance of small groups in fostering these relationships and the need for believers to strive together in prayer, wrestle against spiritual battles, and find rest and refreshment in community. The message encourages participation in small groups for mutual encouragement, sharing burdens, and multiplying joys in the journey of faith.
Prayer Meeting - When the Weak Are Made Strong
By Carter Conlon1.1K1:17:24WeaknessPSA 133:1ISA 65:24MAT 6:33MAT 18:20ACT 1:141TH 5:17JAS 5:16The video shown during the sermon provided an overview of the events and activities that have taken place at Times Square Church during the recent storm. The church staff and leadership, including pastors and elders, have shown incredible dedication and have been sleeping at the church to ensure the needs of the community are met. The video showcased the unity, cooperation, and joy among the church members as they worked together to serve and pray for the city. The speaker emphasized the importance of not hiding from human need and the belief that profound answers to prayer will be experienced.
Know Jesus, and Make the Exchange: Himself for Your Self
By Hans R. Waldvogel1.1K17:46Great ExchangePSA 133:1MAT 6:33ROM 8:91CO 6:19GAL 2:201TH 4:7REV 2:4In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of intimacy with Jesus and being joined to Him in spirit. He laments how people often run after worldly things instead of seeking the living water that Jesus offers. The preacher shares a personal experience at a convention where he witnessed a lack of true spirituality and a focus on self-promotion. He emphasizes that revival is not about flashy displays or speaking in tongues, but about hearts and bodies being filled with the power of Jesus' resurrection. The preacher urges listeners to know Jesus and open the door of their hearts to Him.
The Lord Can Present Us Perfect (Tamil)
By Zac Poonen1.1K56:31GEN 3:1JOS 21:45PSA 133:1ISA 43:25MAT 6:331CO 13:12EPH 4:3PHP 2:14JUD 1:24REV 22:21This sermon emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God, trusting in His promises, and maintaining unity in the body of Christ. It highlights the need to overcome doubt, grumbling, and complaining by believing in God's faithfulness and seeking unity in fellowship. The speaker encourages humility, love, and faith in God's ability to keep us from falling, presenting us blameless before Him.
Relationships Eng to German
By George Verwer99127:54RelationshipsPSA 133:1MAT 6:33ACT 15:39ROM 12:5EPH 4:3JAS 5:16In this sermon, the speaker addresses the indifference and lack of vision for world missions, as well as the unbelief and materialism that hinder it. He emphasizes the importance of unity and fellowship among believers, highlighting the relationships formed during a leaders conference. The speaker acknowledges the challenges and attacks from the devil, including the manipulation of emotions, the destructive power of pride, and the lack of time for maintaining relationships. He encourages repentance and reliance on God's power to overcome these obstacles. The sermon also mentions the impact of exo-Mers (former OM members) in strategic positions within mission organizations worldwide.
How to Get Along With God's Family
By Jack Hyles98456:00PSA 133:1JHN 10:27ROM 12:101CO 4:6EPH 4:2JAS 5:91JN 4:7In this sermon, the preacher tells a story about a boy named Johnny who struggles to understand basic math concepts. Through this story, the preacher highlights the lack of cooperation and understanding in the world. The sermon then shifts to a personal anecdote about the preacher's friend, Bob Keyes, who suffered a heart attack and needed open heart surgery. The preacher emphasizes the importance of loyalty and friendship, urging the congregation to support and help those in need. The sermon concludes with a call for unity and a prayer for the congregation to learn to dwell together in harmony.
Returning to Divine Purpose
By Carter Conlon74055:00PSA 133:1This sermon from 1 Kings chapter 18 focuses on the theme of returning to divine purpose. The speaker emphasizes the need for surrendering to God, seeking His mercy, and empowering through the Holy Spirit. The story of Elijah challenging the prophets of Baal highlights the importance of true worship and unity in the body of Christ. The call is to come close to God, allow Him to consume our weaknesses, and be filled with His Spirit to impact our generation for His glory.
Bafc Rally
By Kevin Turner68047:58PSA 133:1DAN 11:32MAT 6:33JHN 7:37ACT 2:47ACT 15:81CO 6:20In this sermon, the speaker shares a personal experience of witnessing extreme violence and questioning God's judgment, justice, and love. After going through a period of darkness and despair, the speaker witnesses a powerful moment of transformation as women from their team are baptized in a swimming pool on the roof of their house, despite the surrounding mosques calling for prayer. This event signifies the triumph of Jesus invading people's hearts and the power of the church. The speaker also mentions the opportunity to seal the commitment of 12 more seekers who have decided to commit their lives to Christ.
I Remember When the Church Prayed
By Shane Idleman66049:25PSA 133:1MAT 6:6MRK 11:24LUK 15:20EPH 6:18JAS 5:16This sermon emphasizes the importance of prayer, worship, and the Word of God in the life of believers. It highlights the power of persistent, passionate, and powerful prayer, contrasting it with dead, ritualistic prayers. The speaker urges the congregation to prioritize prayer, worship, and unity, pointing out that a divided church cannot stand. The message stresses the need for personal revival through prayer and surrender to God, inviting both unbelievers and drifting believers to come back to a vibrant prayer life.
God's Plan for the Jerusalem of the East
By Ben Torrey61445:35PSA 133:1ISA 62:1JHN 17:21This sermon delves into the history of ancient Israel, highlighting their journey, blessings, straying, and eventual restoration. It emphasizes the need for prayer, intercession, and preparation for the future, focusing on the potential restoration of North Korea and the unity of the Korean nation. The speaker shares personal experiences, insights, and a vision for a transformed Korea that will impact the world through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Camp Spalding - Part 1
By George Warnock56249:25Christian LifeGEN 30:22EXO 30:72CH 20:17PSA 133:1ISA 43:18EPH 5:13HEB 4:12In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of unity and worshiping God together. He highlights the need for reconciliation and redemption within the family of God. The preacher uses the story of Joseph and his brothers to illustrate the consequences of their past actions catching up with them. He also references the story of Jehoshaphat and the victory march to show that sometimes God's solution may not align with traditional methods. The sermon concludes with a call for individuals to examine their hearts and allow God to reveal any hidden sins or divisions.
Unreached Peoples: The Tribes of Myanmar Burma Shan State
By Paul Hattaway50600:00GEN 11:6PSA 133:1ECC 3:1ACT 17:26REV 7:9This sermon explores the diverse ethnic minorities in Shan State, focusing on the Balaon tribe living peacefully in the high western Shan mountains, their unique customs, and the bonfire ceremony marking the end of the dry season. It delves into the marketplace where various tribes like Bo'o, Taungyo, and Tanu come together to trade, highlighting the unity among the Shans, including the Inna tribe living on Inle Lake.
- John Gill
- Matthew Henry
- Tyndale
John Gill Bible Commentary
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is,.... Aben Ezra thinks the word thing should be supplied; the thing is what follows; for brethren to dwell together in unity: which the Targum interprets of Zion and Jerusalem, as two brethren; Aben Ezra of the priests; Kimchi of the King Messiah and the priest; and Jarchi, and Kimchi's father, of the Israelites; which is best of all, especially of those who are Israelites indeed; for this is not to be understood of all mankind, who are in some sense brethren, being all of one blood, and among whom peace is to be cultivated; nor merely of those of the same nation, under one and the same government, who should endeavour to live peaceably and quietly; nor of brethren in a strict natural state, who belong to the same family, and are of the same parents, and should be kindly affectioned one to another; but rather of such who are so in a spiritual sense, who have God for their fatherly adoption and regeneration, are related to Christ the firstborn among many brethren, and are members one of another, in the same church state; all which are a reason why they should love as brethren, and endeavour to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace, Mat 23:8, Pe1 2:17; and "to dwell together in unity"; even as one man, as if one soul actuated them all; it is not only to dwell and abide in the house of God, where they have all a name and a place; but to associate together there, to go up to the house of God in company, and with delight to join together in acts of religious worship; to serve the Lord with one consent, with one mind and mouth to glorify God, and to be of one accord, having the same love; and to do all kind and good offices one to another in the most hearty and cordial manner; serving each other in love, bearing one another's burdens, sympathizing with each other in all circumstances, forgiving each other offences committed, praying with one another, and building up each other in their most holy faith, stirring up one another to love and to good works: now this is both "good" and "pleasant"; it is good, as being according to the will of God, the new command of Christ; what evidences the truth of regeneration, and of being the disciples of Christ; what makes the communion of saints comfortable and edifying, and without which a profession of religion is good for nothing: and it is pleasant to God and Christ, to angels and men, to the ministers of the Gospel, and to all about them and in a connection with them; and it is this which makes any particular dispensation in time delightful and agreeable; as the first times of the Gospel, and the latter day glory, the Philadelphian church state, which has its name from brotherly love; yea, it will be the glory and delight of heaven. Now this is ushered in with a note of attention and admiration, "behold", and with a note of exclamation, "how"; the psalmist pointing at some instance or instances of this kind, which were very amiable, and worthy of imitation; and suggesting that such a case is rare and wonderful, and inexpressibly good, profitable, and pleasant. Gussetius (z) renders it, "how good is the sabbatism of brethren, even gathered together"; for the exercise of religion, prayer, praise, &c. (z) Ebr. Comment. p. 829.
Matthew Henry Bible Commentary
Here see, I. What it is that is commended - brethren's dwelling together in unity, not only not quarrelling, and devouring one another, but delighting in each other with mutual endearments, and promoting each other's welfare with mutual services. Sometimes it is chosen, as the best expedient for preserving peace, that brethren should live asunder and at a distance from each other; that indeed may prevent enmity and strife (Gen 13:9), but the goodness and pleasantness are for brethren to dwell together and so to dwell in unity, to dwell even as one (so some read it), as having one heart, one soul, one interest. David had many sons by many wives; probably he penned this psalm for their instruction, to engage them to love another, and, if they had done this, much of the mischief that arose in his family would have been happily prevented. The tribes of Israel had long had separate interests during the government of the Judges, and it was often of bad consequence; but now that they were united under one common head he would have them sensible how much it was likely to be for their advantage, especially since now the ark was fixed, and with it the place of their rendezvous for public worship and the centre of their unity. Now let them live in love. II. How commendable it is: Behold, how good and how pleasant it is! It is good in itself, agreeable to the will of God, the conformity of earth to heaven. It is good for us, for our honour and comfort. It is pleasant and pleasing to God and all good men; it brings constant delight to those who do thus live in unity. Behold, how good! We cannot conceive or express the goodness and pleasantness of it. Behold it is a rare thing, and therefore admirable. Behold and wonder that there should be so much goodness and pleasantness among men, so much of heaven on this earth! Behold it is an amiable thing, which will attract our hearts. Behold it is an exemplary thing, which, where it is, is to be imitated by us with a holy emulation. III. How the pleasantness of it is illustrated. 1. It is fragrant as the holy anointing oil, which was strongly perfumed, and diffused its odours, to the great delight of all the bystanders, when it was poured upon the head of Aaron, or his successor the high priest, so plentifully that it ran down the face, even to the collar or binding of the garment, Psa 133:2. (1.) This ointment was holy. So must our brotherly love be, with a pure heart, devoted to God. We must love those that are begotten for his sake that begat, Jo1 5:1. (2.) This ointment was a composition made up by a divine dispensatory; God appointed the ingredients and the quantities. Thus believers are taught of God to love one another; it is a grace of his working in us. (3.) It was very precious, and the like to it was not to be made for any common use. Thus holy love is, in the sight of God, of great price; and that is precious indeed which is so in God's sight. (4.) It was grateful both to Aaron himself and to all about him. So is holy love; it is like ointment and perfume which rejoice the heart. Christ's love to mankind was part of that oil of gladness with which he was anointed above his fellows. (5.) Aaron and his sons were not admitted to minister unto the Lord till they were anointed with this ointment, nor are our services acceptable to God without this holy love; if we have it not we are nothing, Co1 13:1, Co1 13:2. 2. It is fructifying. It is profitable as well as pleasing; it is as the dew; it brings abundance of blessings along with it, as numerous as the drops of dew. It cools the scorching heat of men's passions, as the evening dews cool the air and refresh the earth. It contributes very much to our fruitfulness in every thing that is good; it moistens the heart, and makes it tender and fit to receive the good seed of the word; as, on the contrary, malice and bitterness unfit us to receive it, Pe1 2:1. It is as the dew of Hermon, a common hill (for brotherly love is the beauty and benefit of civil societies), and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion, a holy hill, for it contributes greatly to the fruitfulness of sacred societies. Both Hermon and Zion will wither without this dew. It is said of the dew that it tarrieth not for man, nor waiteth for the sons of men, Mic 5:7. Nor should our love to our brethren stay for theirs to us (that is publican's love), but should go before it - that is divine love. IV. The proof of the excellency of brotherly love. Loving people are blessed people. For, 1. They are blessed of God, and therefore blessed indeed: There, where brethren dwell together in unity, the Lord commands the blessing, a complicated blessing, including all blessings. It is God's prerogative to command the blessing, man can but beg a blessing. Blessings according to the promise are commanded blessings, for he has commanded his covenant for ever. Blessings that take effect are commanded blessings, for he speaks and it is done. 2. They are everlastingly blessed. The blessing which God commands on those that dwell in love is life for evermore; that is the blessing of blessings. Those that dwell in love not only dwell in God, but do already dwell in heaven. As the perfection of love is the blessedness of heaven, so the sincerity of love is the earnest of that blessedness. Those that live in love and peace shall have the God of love and peace with them now, and they shall be with him shortly, with him for ever, in the world of endless love and peace. How good then is it, and how pleasant!