All Things Work For Good 2 of 2

Many popular misconceptions surround Romans 8:28: 'And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose' -- and Manton explodes them all in classic Puritan style. He shows that sin does not do good as sin, but as it is repented of. He gives many reasons why the word 'all' in Romans 8:28 must be limited by the analogy of faith (as Calvinists rightly limit the word 'all' in regard to soteriology when it is warranted -- or as when a conductor shouts 'all aboard,' but only lets those who have tickets on the train). Furthermore, Manton deals with the misuse of providence and shows why suffering is good for those who are soft-hearted (or who are softened by it); but he also notes how suffering can be a curse to those who harden their hearts in such situations. He speaks of pleasure as 'the great sorcerer enchanting mankind' and shows why God gives some over to their lusts. At one point he counters the reprobate's view of the problem of evil, answering the question 'If there is an all-powerful God how is there evil?' with 'If there is no God how is there good?' There is much to ponder and meditate upon in these notably outstanding and practical sermons taken from Manton's Works (Sermon 37). Manton's preaching always has much which all the lovers of the Lord Jesus Christ will find very heartening and encouraging.

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