Whence discouragements arise, and how to handle them, by the author of the -Bruised Reed-, a commentary on Isaiah's well-known prophecy of Jesus.

God is good. God is severe. God can cast branches out. God can graft branches in. Let us know God for Who He really is. And fear.

Three works of the Holy Spirit spelled out by this 17th century scholar-minister of God's Word.

Chapter 7 of the -Bruised Reed- classic. Sibbes speaks of the temptations that hinder our comfort in Christ, and of the fact that weakness in the flesh should not hinder us from persevering.

Gentiles beware. Don't look down on fallen Jews. "Do not be haughty, but fear!" He may not spare you either. Are you sure you are in the faith?

Sibbes reminds us of the presence of heavenly fire in us, however small it may be. We are often the smoking flax of which Isaiah speaks. Christ will not extinguish us, but blow the smoke into a flame.

The tree. The branches. Some Jews. Some Gentiles. Some on. Some off. Some back on again. What does it mean? Israel, that's what it means. Clear picture of God's plan for Israel.

A word to those in leadership. Dealing with young believers as young believers, not seasoned saints. Mercy- Compassion-

Paul's ministry to the Gentiles is God's way of making his people Israel jealous. Incredible wisdom of God that has brought us into the fold!

Chapters 3 & 4 of Sibbes' commentary on Isaiah's classic description of the coming Servant. Supporting the weak ones is the theme here.