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  LETTERS: A SERVANT IN HIS CONGREGATION (1)
  by Andrew Bonar
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Summary: The sermon offers comfort and blessing in the midst of
suffering, reminding us that we can think of loved ones as 'with Christ'
in Paradise and that the Lord intends a peculiar blessing for us.

Topics: "Hope in Christ", "Comfort in Grief"
Scripture References: 2 Corinthians 1:3

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DESCRIPTION
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Andrew Bonar reflects on the comfort found in Christ during times of
loss, emphasizing that even in bereavement, believers can find hope in
the promise of eternal life and the holiness that comes through
affliction. He encourages Margaret to remember that her loved one is
with Christ, experiencing a joy beyond earthly understanding. Bonar
reassures her that this sorrow may lead to a unique blessing from the
Lord, reminding her of the purpose behind suffering as outlined in
Hebrews.

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CONTENT
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CRAIGNURE, ISLE OF MULL, 6th August 1884. DEAR MARGARET, -- I was
greatly surprised on receiving your letter. But I suppose you were
yourself taken altogether unawares. This comfort, however, you have,
sure and full, viz., that E. has only gone to 'the mountain of myrrh and
hill of frankincense' for a season, and then shall come back with Christ
in immortal health, soul and body.

You can think of her every day as 'with Christ' in the Paradise above,
enjoying blessedness to which we here are strangers, and you may be sure
that the Lord intends for you some peculiar blessing by this sore
bereavement.

What a word that is in Heb. 12:10: affliction sent not only that we may
get some profit by it, but 'that we may be partakers of His holiness.' I
shall try to remember your afflicted parents as well as yourself When
you return to town will you let me know, that I may call ? --Believe me,
your affectionate pastor, ANDREW A. BONAR.

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Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/andrew-bonar/letters-a-servant-in-his-congregation-1/
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