All Hail
Christ's message of 'hail' is a prayer for our health, a promise, and a command.
A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound meaning behind the greeting 'All Hail' spoken by Jesus to His disciples on the resurrection morning. This greeting is not just a simple salutation but a prayer for health and well-being, reflecting Christ's desire for His followers to prosper in both body and spirit. Simpson connects this message to the idea that true health encompasses more than physical wellness, resonating with the apostle John's wish for Gaius. The sermon encourages believers to embrace this promise of health and wholeness as part of their faith journey. Ultimately, it serves as a reminder of Christ's compassionate care for His children.
Text
It was a stirring greeting which the Lord of Life spoke to His first disciples on the morning of the resurrection. It is a bright and radiant word which, in His Name, we would speak to His beloved children at the commencement of another day. it means a good deal more than appears on the surface. It is really a prayer for our health, but which none but those who believe in the healing of the body can fully understand. A thoughtful friend suggested once that the word "hail" really means health, and it is just the old Saxon form of the word.
We all know that a hale person is a healthy person.
Our Lord's message, therefore, was substantially that greeting which from time immemorial we give to one another when we meet: "How is your health?" "How are you?" or, better still, "I wish you health." Christ's wish is equal to a promise and command. It is very similar to the apostle John's benediction to his dear friend Gaius, and we would re-echo it to our beloved friends according to the fullness of the Master's will. I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth (3 John 2).
Sermon Outline
- The Meaning of 'Hail' points: - A prayer for our health - Understood by those who believe in healing
- The Origin of 'Hail' points: - Old Saxon form of the word 'health' - Similar to 'how is your health?' or 'I wish you health'
- Christ's Wish as a Promise and Command points: - Similar to John's benediction to Gaius - Echoing it to friends according to the Master's will
Key Quotes
“It means a good deal more than appears on the surface.” — A.B. Simpson
“Christ's wish is equal to a promise and command.” — A.B. Simpson
“I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth (3 John 2).” — A.B. Simpson
Application Points
- We should wish for the health and well-being of those around us.
- Christ's promise of health is available to believers who trust in His healing power.
- We should strive to prosper in both body and soul.