In Rowland Wheatley's sermon titled "Shew me a token for good," the main theological topic addressed is the nature and significance of seeking a "token for good" from God in times of trouble, particularly through the lens of Psalm 86:17 and Joshua 2. Wheatley argues that these tokens serve as evidence of God's help and compassion towards His people amidst opposition. He highlights examples from Scripture, such as Moses seeking God's presence (Exodus 33), Gideon's request for assurance (Judges 6), and David's covenant with Jonathan (1 Samuel 20), illustrating that these tokens are not merely signs but affirmations of God's faithful covenant and charitable intentions. The practical significance of this doctrine lies in its encouragement for believers to seek and recognize these tokens of divine mercy, which can strengthen faith and provide assurance of God's ongoing support in their spiritual journey.
Key Quotes
“Show me a token for good, that they which hate me may see it, and be ashamed, because thou, Lord, hast opened me and comforted me.”
“A token is something that assures us of our title. It's not the actual thing, but it is that which is vital to the receiving of that thing.”
“The chastening hand of the Lord really is a mark of sunshine, a reminder of whose he was.”
“Heaven assures eternal comfort to the soul that has it.”
The Bible encourages believers to seek God's tokens for good as signs of His help and presence.
In Psalm 86:17, David seeks a 'token for good' from the Lord, asking for a visible sign that He is with him and willing to help against those who oppose him. This reflects a deeply rooted desire in Scripture for God to demonstrate His presence and favor in tangible ways, showing that He is a God of compassion, mercy, and truth (Psalm 86:15). David’s request emphasizes the importance of divine assurance in moments of distress, symbolizing both God's love and the comfort He provides.
Psalm 86:17, Psalm 86:15
God's help can be recognized through blessings, tokens of mercy, and His providential guidance.
Throughout the Bible, God's people often seek reassurance of His presence and help through various 'tokens'—signs of His ongoing work in their lives. For example, David reflects on past experiences where God's help was evident, indicating that such tokens can come through various means such as providential events, answered prayers, or the peace of His presence. Psalm 126 celebrates the joy that comes when the Lord restores His people, reminding us that observing God's works can bring encouragement and strengthen our faith in His promises.
Psalm 126:1-3
Tokens symbolize God's assurance and His faithfulness in the lives of His people.
In the Christian life, tokens serve as reminders of God's faithfulness and promises. They provide assurance in our spiritual journey and foster trust that God is actively involved in our circumstances. For instance, the tokens that Gideon requested were not mere signs of doubt; rather, they were vital for bolstering his faith as he faced overwhelming odds against the Midianites. The Lord graciously responded by providing him with the encouragement he needed. This showcases the importance of recognizing and valuing the tokens of God's guidance and care, which can strengthen our relationship with Him and enhance our understanding of His grace.
Judges 6:36-40, Psalm 86:17
True tokens from God affirm His promises and are rooted in Scripture, reflecting His character.
Identifying true tokens involves discerning their alignment with God's Word and character. For example, in Hebrews 12, God's chastening of His children serves as a token of their sonship, emphasizing that discipline is a sign of His love and care. Moreover, tokens can include instances of guidance, mercy, and protection that align with biblical principles. The believer should assess whether these tokens lead them closer to the promises of God and instill faith and assurance. Thus, true tokens resonate with Scripture and serve to remind us of God’s unwavering faithfulness and love in our lives.
Hebrews 12:5-8
Examples of tokens include answered prayers, providential events, and the assurance of the Spirit.
Tokens manifest in various forms throughout the believer's journey. They might be answered prayers, such as Hezekiah's request for healing and extended life (2 Kings 20), where God honored his plea with tangible mercy. Additionally, tokens can be the providential arrangements in our lives that demonstrate God's care, such as when unexpected events lead to blessings or protection. The Spirit's assurance is another significant token, as Romans 8 describes the Spirit bearing witness with our spirit that we are children of God. These elements are powerful reminders of God's presence and involvement in the lives of His people, strengthening their faith.
2 Kings 20:1-6, Romans 8:16
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