Sermons of George Whitefield 6. The Marriage of Cana - John 2,11

Extract

Sermons of George Whitefield
6. The Marriage of Cana

“This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him” John 2:11.

I have more than once had occasion to observe, that the chief end St. John had in view, when he wrote his gospel, was to prove the divinity of Jesus Christ, [that Word, who not only was from everlasting with God, but also was really God blessed for evermore] against those arch-heretics Ebion and Cerinthus, whose pernicious principles too many follow in these last days. For this purpose, you may take notice, that he is more particular than any other Evangelist, in relating our Lord’s divine discourses, and also the glorious miracles which he wrought, not by a power derived from another, like Moses, and other prophets, but from a power inherent in himself.

The words of the text have a reference to a notable miracle which Christ performed, and thereby gave proof of his eternal power and Godhead. “This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.”

The miracle here spoken of, is that of our Lord’s turning water into wine at a marriage feast. I design, at present, by God’s help, to make some observations on the circumstances and certainty of the miracle, and then conclude with some practical instructions; that you, by hearing how Jesus Christ has showed forth his glory, may, by the operation of God’s Spirit upon your hearts, with the disciples mentioned in the text, be brought to believe on him. 1. Then, I would make some observations on the miracle itself. Verse 1 and 2. “And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there. And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.” By our Lord’s being at a feast we may learn, that feasting upon solemn occasions is not …