Our study centres upon the substance of the gospel invitation.

Last week we considered the subjects of the invitation.

Now we will consider its substance.

Note that God's reaction to rebellion, at the first, is mercy.

1. Be wise and take instruction.

How vain it is to oppose Christ. How wise to yield to His claims in the gospel. We cannot be wise until we are instructed in the gospel. Man's natural state -- IGNORANCE, Eph 4:18, I Pet 1:14.

2. Serve the Lord in fear and joy.

Service of God is what man is called to, Matt 11:29-30. We must serve the Lord as He directs us in His word. His service must take priority over all other considerations.

3. Reconcile yourself to Him.

Reconciliation is summed up in the words, kiss the Son. The kiss of sincerity. The kiss of surrender. The kiss of adoration. The kiss of loyalty.

4. The invitation is reinforced by the threat of certain wrath.

Rejection angers Christ. Sinner, note that truth today. Just a little of His anger can damn. What a thing it is to perish in the way of your sins!

What will it be like for sinners to feel the full wrath of Christ when just a little can damn! Rev 6:16.