H.J. Vine
Henry James Vine (1857 - 1930). English Bible teacher, author, and Plymouth Brethren leader born in London. Converted in his youth, he joined the Brethren assembly at Fore Street, Exeter, and was mentored by figures like George Müller. A self-educated scholar of Greek and Hebrew, he began preaching in the 1870s, traveling across England, Scotland, and Ireland to teach at conferences and assemblies. Vine authored numerous articles and books, including The Work of Christ and contributions to The Witness magazine, emphasizing dispensationalism and Christ’s preeminence. Known for his gentle demeanor and expository clarity, he influenced thousands within the Brethren movement. Married with children, he lived modestly, often supporting missions. In later years, he focused on writing from Bournemouth, where his home became a hub for Bible study. His teachings, preserved in Brethren archives, remain influential among conservative evangelicals. Vine’s emphasis on scriptural precision and humility shaped a generation of Bible students.
Download
Topic
Sermon Summary
H.J. Vine preaches on the powerful witness of the centurion and his companions who saw the earthquake, the opening of graves, and the miraculous events surrounding Jesus' death and resurrection, leading them to declare, 'Truly this was the Son of God.' The resurrection of the saints at the time of Christ's resurrection serves as a profound testimony to His glory and triumph over death, echoing the resurrection of Lazarus in John 11 and the future resurrection of all from the graves in John 5, affirming His power, triumph, and glory as the Son of God, the Resurrection, and the Life.
The Son of God and Resurrection
When the centurion and his companions who were on guard while our Lord Jesus Christ was in the tomb saw the earthquake which opened the graves, and the things that took place at His death and resurrection, they feared greatly, saying, “Truly this was the Son of God” (Matt. 27:54). It should be noticed that this was said at the time when “many bodies” of the saints arose, and came out of “the graves” after Christ’s own resurrection. What a witness were those raised “bodies” out of “the graves” to the glory of the Son of God, and to His triumph over death. In John 11 His glory is seen in bringing Lazarus forth from “the grave” also; and in John 5 it is written, “Marvel not at this, for the hour is coming in the which all that are in “THE GRAVES” (μνημεîους) shall hear His voice, and shall come forth” (v. 28). The word for “grave” is indisputably the same in each of these scriptures. It unquestionably assures our hearts as to His power to raise the dead, as to His triumph over death, and as to His glory, who is the Son of God, the Resurrection and the Life. What victory! What glory! Blessed be His name for ever. “The Lord is risen indeed: And death has lost its prey: And with Him all the ransomed freed Shall reign in endless day.”
- Bio
- Summary
- Transcript
- Download
Henry James Vine (1857 - 1930). English Bible teacher, author, and Plymouth Brethren leader born in London. Converted in his youth, he joined the Brethren assembly at Fore Street, Exeter, and was mentored by figures like George Müller. A self-educated scholar of Greek and Hebrew, he began preaching in the 1870s, traveling across England, Scotland, and Ireland to teach at conferences and assemblies. Vine authored numerous articles and books, including The Work of Christ and contributions to The Witness magazine, emphasizing dispensationalism and Christ’s preeminence. Known for his gentle demeanor and expository clarity, he influenced thousands within the Brethren movement. Married with children, he lived modestly, often supporting missions. In later years, he focused on writing from Bournemouth, where his home became a hub for Bible study. His teachings, preserved in Brethren archives, remain influential among conservative evangelicals. Vine’s emphasis on scriptural precision and humility shaped a generation of Bible students.