Matthew Henry exhorts his readers to balance the concepts of hope and fear, as in Psalm 147:11. Balance a dread of God with a humble delight in him; a trembling for sin balanced with a triumph in Christ; a vigilance of ourselves balanced with a thankful grace; a caution balanced with a confidence; a holy fear of coming short balanced with sense of grace to persevere. Also discussed are the pitfalls of prosperity and disappointment that throw off this balance.

"Who should be the greatest?" was on the disciples' minds as they walked along the way. In this sermon about disputes, Matthew Henry preaches on Mark 9:33. The topics include disputes about superiority, not judging others, edifying communication, and being accountable. The reason to avoid disputes is that "It is against the law of humility to covet to be great in this world, and against the law of love to strive who shall be greatest." Matthew Henry states that there remains "corruption in the hearts even of good people; and shows that pride, ambition, and affectation of worldly honor, are...

Matthew Henry describes how carrying on family devotions is like having a small church in your house. He answers the questions: What is a church in your house? What are the motives and advantages? What are the practical steps? Henry says that "the way of duty is without doubt the way of safety," because the worship of God in one's house provides protection and is "the best policy of insurance," to keep out evil, malice, and mischief.