I have been slowly savoring a book of collected sermons of Jonathan Edwards for the past several months. This morning I finished "The Excellency of Christ," and though not an easy read, like most things in life, it is well worth the effort, just as filet mignon takes more effort to prepare than say, hot dogs. It is, however interesting, that in this case, bookstores seem to sell filet mignon in the discount section, and hot dogs are always at a premium.
This particular sermon is magnificent in its comparison of Christ's diverse and seemingly irreconcilable characteristics--his majesty and yet his humility; his dominion and yet his meekness; his judgment and yet his mercy. He compares and reconciles that Christ is both a Lion of Judah and yet a lamb. He receives poor sinners with all gentleness, then defends them as a roaring lion.
There is an interesting interplay between these diverse characteristics as they pertain to his crucifixion. The lamb is overcome by another lion who prowls about (Satan), and yet though Christ is consumed as it were, Satan is finally overcome. Edwards' presentation masterfully illuminates that this act is both a divine and bottomless mystery.
The apex of the sermon is in its application, both in compelling those who have not yet received Christ, as well as those who already count him Lord and Brother. The final pages, which detail his greatness, goodness, and warmness toward us are very moving, and through them one gains a glimpse into the blessed eternity that awaits those whom he has redeemed. Both the sermon and the Savior are highly recommended.
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