In discussing the subject, we will, first consider the caution or prohibition—­In this rejoice not that the spirits are subject unto you; then the command—­But rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.

I. WE are to consider the caution, or prohibition—­In this rejoice not, &c.

But why not?  Was it not matter of joy that spirits, evil spirits were subject to them?  That they were able to dislodge them from the bodies of men, by commanding them in Christ’s name?  Certainly.  This enabled them to answer the ends of their mission, which had been but very partially answered without it.  Wherefore then the prohibition?

It is rather the excess of their joy, than the joy itself which is here forbidden.  They seem to have placed an undue value on this power; to have exalted it above it’s place, particularly as it concerned themselves.  This was the first thing they mentioned at their return; nothing beside seems to have made so deep an impression upon them, or to have given them equal self importance.

To them there were other things more interesting and important; that they were accepted of God, and numbered among the faithful, and that their names were written in heaven, were to them occasions of much greater joy.  The gift of miracles proved their mission, and drew the attention of those who witnessed their mighty works; but this was not a saving gift.  A person might possess it, yet remain unrenewed, and perish in his sins.

Some appear to have exercised this power, who professed no relation to Christ, but were openly connected with his enemies.  This is evident from his expostulation with those who attributed to infernal agency, the authority with which he extorted obedience from evil spirits—­“If I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your sons cast them out?  Therefore shall they be your judges.” * The same appears from another incident, recorded by St. Mark—­“And John answered, saying, Master, we saw one casting on devils in thy name, and he followed not us, and we forbid him, because he followeth not us.  And Jesus said, Forbid him not:  For there is no man who shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.” +

* Luke xi. 19. + St. Mark ix. 38, 39.

It seems that some who had seen the disciples cast out devils in Christ’s name, though not themselves his disciples, attempted to do the same and succeeded; and that things of this nature were not uncommon after Christ began his ministry; though it did not always, if at all succeed, after his sufferings and exaltation. ++

++ Acts xix. 13.

The gift of miracles, like other gifts, was distinct from sanctifying grace.  This grace was often joined with that gift; but not always.  There was no necessary connexion between them.