Spurgeon Morning and Evening February 2 PM

Biblical Context

The book of 1 Chronicles, along with 2 Chronicles, offers a unique historical narrative, traditionally attributed to Ezra the Scribe, written during the post-exilic period (after the Jews returned from Babylon). Unlike Samuel and Kings, which often focus on the failures and political history of the kings, Chronicles emphasizes the spiritual lineage, the purity of worship, and God’s covenant faithfulness through David’s line and the Temple. It served to remind a discouraged and scattered people of their heritage, their divine election, and the enduring promises of God, particularly concerning the Davidic covenant and the importance of proper worship. The genealogies, such as the one in chapter 4, highlight the continuity of God’s people and His providential care, even through difficult times. When 1 Chronicles 4:22 speaks of “ancient things,” it refers to historical records and events, perhaps specific decrees or traditions among the descendants of Judah and Simeon, linking them back to their foundational identity as God’s chosen people. Spurgeon, however, skillfully uses this earthly reference as a springboard to discuss an even deeper, more profound sense of “ancient things” – the eternal decrees and purposes of God that predate creation itself.

Key Word Study

The concept of “Antiquity” is central to Spurgeon’s message, especially when referring to God’s eternal actions. While 1 Chronicles 4:22 uses the Hebrew term `עַתִּיק` (attiq), meaning ‘old’ or ‘ancient’ in a historical sense, Spurgeon’s profound theological expansion points us to a deeper, more comprehensive understanding of antiquity. For this, the Hebrew word `עוֹלָם` (olam) is exceptionally fitting. `Olam` carries the meaning of ‘eternity,’ ‘everlasting,’ ‘forever,’ ‘ancient time,’ or ‘perpetual duration.’ It denotes a boundless duration, reaching into both the infinitely distant past and the unending future. When Spurgeon speaks of God’s sovereign choice existing “or ever the earth was” and of an eternal purpose “of infinite antiquity,” he is describing actions rooted in God’s `olam` nature—timeless, uncreated, and without beginning or end. This word helps us grasp that God’s love and plan for us are not merely old, but truly eternal, predating all created time and space.

The Precious Ancient Things of God

Spurgeon begins by drawing a stark contrast: while 1 Chronicles 4:22 speaks of ancient earthly records, our souls delight in things far more ancient and precious—the eternal truths of God. He invites us to be like misers counting their gold, carefully recounting these spiritual treasures. This imagery immediately elevates the subject, urging us to hold these doctrines in the highest esteem, not as dry theology, but as the very gold of our spiritual inheritance.

The Sovereign Choice of the Father

The first and perhaps most staggering of these ancient things is “The sovereign choice of the Father, by which He elected us unto eternal life, or ever the earth was.” This is not a recent decision, but a timeless act that predates all creation. Spurgeon emphasizes its “vast antiquity,” declaring that “no date can be conceived for it by the mind of man.” We were chosen from before the foundations of the world. This truth serves as a powerful antidote to any sense of accidental faith or merit-based salvation. Our election is rooted solely in God’s uninfluenced, sovereign will, a mystery so profound it transcends human comprehension, yet so glorious it demands our worship.

Everlasting Love and Divine Affections

Crucially, this sovereign choice was not a “bare act of divine will.” It was steeped in “Everlasting love.” Spurgeon beautifully articulates that “the divine affections were concerned.” It wasn’t an impersonal decree but a decision born from the deepest recesses of God’s heart. “The Father loved us in and from the beginning.” This transforms the doctrine of election from a potentially cold, deterministic concept into a warm embrace of eternal, personal affection. It assures us that our salvation is not an afterthought, but a deliberate, loving intention woven into the very fabric of God’s being from eternity past. This, he proclaims, “is a theme for daily contemplation,” a constant source of wonder and assurance.

The Eternal Purpose of Redemption and Glorification

Flowing directly from this eternal choice and love is “The eternal purpose to redeem us from our foreseen ruin, to cleanse and sanctify us, and at last to glorify us.” God’s plan wasn’t reactive; it was proactive. He foresaw humanity’s fall and, in His infinite wisdom and love, established a plan for our restoration long before sin entered the world. This purpose, too, was “of infinite antiquity,” running parallel with His “immutable love and absolute sovereignty.” It means that every step of our spiritual journey—from conviction of sin to ultimate glorification in heaven—is part of a divinely orchestrated, unchangeable blueprint. This provides immense comfort, knowing that the God who began a good work in us will surely carry it on to completion, just as He purposed from eternity.

The Everlasting Covenant and Christ’s Suretyship

Central to this eternal plan is “The covenant.” Spurgeon highlights that it “is always described as being everlasting.” And at the heart of this covenant is Jesus Christ. He is not merely a historical figure, but “the second party in it,” one “who had His goings forth of old.” This alludes to Christ’s pre-existence and His active role in the eternal plan. He “struck hands in sacred suretyship long ere the first of the stars began to shine.” This vivid imagery portrays Christ as our eternal guarantor, pledging Himself on our behalf even before creation. It was in Him, the eternal Son, “that the elect were ordained unto eternal life.” Our salvation is therefore not just a promise but a secure covenant, sealed by the Son of God Himself in eternity past.

A Blessed Covenant Union: The Foundation of Safety

Thus, in the divine purpose, “a most blessed covenant union was established between the Son of God and His elect people.” This union is not merely theoretical; it is the absolute “foundation of their safety when time shall be no more.” Our security in Christ is not contingent on our fluctuating faith or performance, but on this eternal, unbreakable bond. This truth should fill us with unwavering confidence and peace, knowing that our standing before God is established on an unshakeable, eternal rock.

A Call to Adoration and Repentance for Neglect

Spurgeon then challenges his readers with poignant questions: “Is it not well to be conversant with these ancient things? Is it not shameful that they should be so much neglected and even rejected by the bulk of professors?” He laments the widespread ignorance and even hostility towards these foundational doctrines. He connects this neglect to a lack of self-awareness: “If they knew more of their own sin, would they not be more ready to adore distinguishing grace?” The profound realization of our utter sinfulness highlights the staggering nature of God’s unmerited, eternal grace. When we grasp the depths of our need and the infinite provision of God’s eternal love, we cannot help but be moved to profound worship. He calls us to action: “Let us both admire and adore tonight.”

A Monument of Grace

The devotional concludes with a stanza from a hymn, encapsulating the core message:

“A monument of grace,
A sinner saved by blood;
The streams of love I trace
Up to the Fountain, God;
And in His sacred bosom see
Eternal thoughts of Love to me.”

This hymn beautifully summarizes the journey of understanding: from our present experience as “a sinner saved by blood,” we trace the “streams of love” back to their ultimate origin, “the Fountain, God.” And there, in the very heart of God, we behold the wondrous truth: “Eternal thoughts of Love to me.” This is the ultimate “ancient thing”—God’s eternal, unwavering love for His chosen ones, a truth that should inspire unending praise and devotion.