The Friendship of Christ
We wonder how many of our readers have ever heard a sermon or read an article on this precious subject. We wonder how many of His people are accustomed to think of Christ in this blessed relationship. If the answer be, "Few," that is indeed pathetic and tragic! Christ is the best Friend that the Christian has, and it is both his unspeakable privilege and bounden duty - to regard Him as such and to treat Him accordingly!
Our Scriptural support for those statements is found in the following passages, among others. "There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24). That can refer to none other than the Lord Jesus, the Lover of our souls. "This is my beloved, and this is my friend, O daughters of Jerusalem" (Song 5:16). That is the language of His Spouse, the testimony of the Church, avowing this most intimate and blissful relationship.
Add to these the witness of the New Testament when in the days of the flesh, Christ was termed "a friend of publicans and sinners!" (Luke 7:34), and our warrant is clearly established.
There are many and varied relations in which Christ stands to a believer, and he is greatly the loser if He be ignored in any of them.
Christ is the God, Lord, Head, Saviour of the Church.
Officially - He is our Prophet, Priest, and King.
Personally - He is our Kinsman-Redeemer, our Intercessor, our "Friend." That title expresses the close union there is between the Lord Jesus and believers:
They are as if but one soul actuated them - indeed, one and the same Spirit does, for "he who is joined unto the Lord is one Spirit" (1 Cor. 6:17). "Christ stands in a nearer relation than a brother to the Church: He is her Husband, her Bosom-friend." "For we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones" (Ephesians 5:30).
But even those relations fall short of fully expressing the nearness, spiritual oneness, and indissolubleness of the union which exists between Christ and His people. There should - then, be the freest approaches unto Him and the most intimate fellowship with Him. To deny Christ, that is to ignore the fact that He is our best "Friend."
"There is a friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24). That endearing title not only expresses the close relation there is between Him and His redeemed - but the affection which He ever bears them. Nothing has, does, or can, dampen - much less quench - the outflow of His love for His friends! "Having loved His own who were in the world - He loved them unto the end" (John 13:1). That blessed title of Christ's tells of the sympathy He bears to His people in all their sufferings and sorrows, their temptations and infirmities.
Let us consider more definitely the EXCELLENCIES of our best Friend.
Christ is an ancient Friend. We fell in Adam - but Christ ceased not to love us; nay, He became the last Adam to redeem us and laid down His life for His friends!" (John 15:13).
Christ is a constant Friend, One who "loves at all times" (Prov. 17:17). He continues to be our Friend through all the vicissitudes of life. He is no "fair-weather friend" who fails us when we need Him the most.
Christ is a faithful Friend. His grace is not shown at the expense of righteousness; nor do His mercies ignore the requirements of holiness. Christ ever has in view both the glory of God and the highest good of His people.
Christ is a powerful Friend. He is not only willing - but able to help us! No situation can possibly arise with us, which would be beyond the resources of Christ.
Christ is an everlasting Friend. He does not desert us in the hour of our supreme crisis: "Though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil - for you are with me" (Psalm 23:4). Nor does death itself sever us from this Friend who "sticks closer than a brother" - for so far from calling upon us to sojourn in a popish purgatory, we are with Him that very day in Paradise. Death will have separated us from those on earth - but "absent from the body" we shall be "present with the Lord" in heaven (2 Corinthians 5:8).
And in the future Day of judgment, Christ will manifest Himself as our Friend, saying, "Enter into the joy of your Lord" (Matt. 25:21, 23).
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, August 31, 2019
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of this Nation # 4
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of this Nation # 4
Where are now the mighty empires, which were once thought as rooted and established as the everlasting mountains? They have disappeared like the mists upon the mountain tops. Nothing of them remains but their names. They perished, and their memorials have almost perished with them (Psalm 9:6). The patience of God bore with them for a time - until the purposes for which He raised them up were answered. But, when the measure of their iniquity was full - they passed away, and were dispersed, like foam upon the waters! What security have we - against such a catastrophe? Or, what could we answer, if God should put that question to us, "Should I not punish them for this?" asks the Lord. "Should I not avenge Myself against a nation such as this?" (Jere. 5:9).
Where are now the churches which once flourished in Greece and in Asia? When the apostle Paul wrote to the Gentile churches, and when our Lord wrote His epistles to the seven churches in Asia (Rev. 1-3) most of them were in a prosperous state. If there ever was a time when the commendations given to them were applicable to professors of the Gospel in our land, I fear we can hardly claim them at present. Can it be justly said of us, that our faith and love are everywhere spoken of us, and that we are examples to all who believe? That our works and service, and faith and patience, are known, and the last works, to be more than the first? (Romans 1:8; 1 Tim. 1:7; Rev. 2:1, 18, 19).
Or rather, may it not be truly said of too many, that while they profess to believe God - that in works they deny Him? that they are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold? that they have a name to live, and are dead? that they have forgotten their first love? (Titus 1:16; Rev. 3:1-15, 2:4). When these defects and declensions began to prevail in the first churches, the Lord admonished and warned them; but, instead of watching and repenting, they gradually became more remiss! At length their glory departed, and their candlesticks were removed out of their places. Many regions, which once rejoiced in the light of the Gospel, have been long overspread with Mohammedan darkness, and the inhabitants are wretched, ignorant, slaves!
Let us not trust in outward privileges, nor rest in a form of godliness destitute of the power. It will be in vain to say, "The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lore are we!" (Jer. 7:4) if the Lord of the temple should depart from us! When the Israelites were afraid of the Philistines, they carried the ark of the Lord with them to battle. But God disappointed their vain confidence. He delivered the ark of His glory into the hands of their enemies, (1 Sam. 4:5-11) to teach them, and to teach us, that formal hypocritical worshipers have no good ground to hope for His protection.
Alas! then, who can tell? Appearances are very dark at present. Besides what we may expect or fear from the rage and madness of our foreign enemies, we have much to be apprehensive of at home! A spirit of discord has gone forth. "Israel grew fat - and rebelled; the people grew heavy, plump, and stuffed! Then they abandoned the God who had made them; they made light of the Rock of their salvation!" (Deut. 32:15). Many people seem weary of liberty, peace, and order. Our happy constitution, our mild government, our many privileges, admired by other nations - are despised and depreciated among ourselves; and that not only by the thoughtless and licentious, by those who, having little to lose, may promise themselves a possibility of gain in a time of national disturbance and confusion; but they are abetted and instigated by people of sense, character, and even of religion! I would be quite at a loss to account for this, if I did not consider it as a token of the Lord's displeasure. When He withdraws His blessing, no unity or peace can long exist.
"Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joy and a cheerful heart, even though you had an abundance of everything, you will serve your enemies the Lord will send against you, in famine, thirst, nakedness, and a lack of everything. He will place an iron yoke on your neck until He has destroyed you!"
III. But though we have much cause to mourn for our sins, and humbly to confess our deserved judgments, let us not despond. The Lord our God is a merciful God. "Who can tell? Perhaps even yet God will have pity on us and hold back His fierce anger from destroying us!"
~John Newton~
(continued with # 5)
Where are now the mighty empires, which were once thought as rooted and established as the everlasting mountains? They have disappeared like the mists upon the mountain tops. Nothing of them remains but their names. They perished, and their memorials have almost perished with them (Psalm 9:6). The patience of God bore with them for a time - until the purposes for which He raised them up were answered. But, when the measure of their iniquity was full - they passed away, and were dispersed, like foam upon the waters! What security have we - against such a catastrophe? Or, what could we answer, if God should put that question to us, "Should I not punish them for this?" asks the Lord. "Should I not avenge Myself against a nation such as this?" (Jere. 5:9).
Where are now the churches which once flourished in Greece and in Asia? When the apostle Paul wrote to the Gentile churches, and when our Lord wrote His epistles to the seven churches in Asia (Rev. 1-3) most of them were in a prosperous state. If there ever was a time when the commendations given to them were applicable to professors of the Gospel in our land, I fear we can hardly claim them at present. Can it be justly said of us, that our faith and love are everywhere spoken of us, and that we are examples to all who believe? That our works and service, and faith and patience, are known, and the last works, to be more than the first? (Romans 1:8; 1 Tim. 1:7; Rev. 2:1, 18, 19).
Or rather, may it not be truly said of too many, that while they profess to believe God - that in works they deny Him? that they are lukewarm, and neither hot nor cold? that they have a name to live, and are dead? that they have forgotten their first love? (Titus 1:16; Rev. 3:1-15, 2:4). When these defects and declensions began to prevail in the first churches, the Lord admonished and warned them; but, instead of watching and repenting, they gradually became more remiss! At length their glory departed, and their candlesticks were removed out of their places. Many regions, which once rejoiced in the light of the Gospel, have been long overspread with Mohammedan darkness, and the inhabitants are wretched, ignorant, slaves!
Let us not trust in outward privileges, nor rest in a form of godliness destitute of the power. It will be in vain to say, "The temple of the Lord, the temple of the Lore are we!" (Jer. 7:4) if the Lord of the temple should depart from us! When the Israelites were afraid of the Philistines, they carried the ark of the Lord with them to battle. But God disappointed their vain confidence. He delivered the ark of His glory into the hands of their enemies, (1 Sam. 4:5-11) to teach them, and to teach us, that formal hypocritical worshipers have no good ground to hope for His protection.
Alas! then, who can tell? Appearances are very dark at present. Besides what we may expect or fear from the rage and madness of our foreign enemies, we have much to be apprehensive of at home! A spirit of discord has gone forth. "Israel grew fat - and rebelled; the people grew heavy, plump, and stuffed! Then they abandoned the God who had made them; they made light of the Rock of their salvation!" (Deut. 32:15). Many people seem weary of liberty, peace, and order. Our happy constitution, our mild government, our many privileges, admired by other nations - are despised and depreciated among ourselves; and that not only by the thoughtless and licentious, by those who, having little to lose, may promise themselves a possibility of gain in a time of national disturbance and confusion; but they are abetted and instigated by people of sense, character, and even of religion! I would be quite at a loss to account for this, if I did not consider it as a token of the Lord's displeasure. When He withdraws His blessing, no unity or peace can long exist.
"Because you did not serve the Lord your God with joy and a cheerful heart, even though you had an abundance of everything, you will serve your enemies the Lord will send against you, in famine, thirst, nakedness, and a lack of everything. He will place an iron yoke on your neck until He has destroyed you!"
III. But though we have much cause to mourn for our sins, and humbly to confess our deserved judgments, let us not despond. The Lord our God is a merciful God. "Who can tell? Perhaps even yet God will have pity on us and hold back His fierce anger from destroying us!"
~John Newton~
(continued with # 5)
Saturday, August 24, 2019
Oil In The Vessel # 2
Oil In The Vessel # 2
The key passage for the significance of this Scriptural figure is, "Your God has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows" (Psalm 45:7), where the reference is to the Mediator, for God "gives not the Spirit by measure unto Him" (John 3:34); in consequence thereof, He is "fairer than the children of men - grace is poured into Your lips" (Psalm 45:2). The holy "oil
was first poured upon the anti-typical Aaron, and then it runs down to all the "skirts of His garments" (Psalm 133:2), that is, to the lowest and feeblest Christians. Just as the little finger or toe is animated by the same life and vitality as actuates the head and heart of a person - so every Christian is vitalized by the same Spirit as was given to Christ, the Head. As the Spirit sanctified the human nature of Christ by fitting and enriching it with all grace, so His grace is communicated to all His members.
The "oil," then, in the vessels of the wise virgins - refers to the life of the Spirit in the soul of a Christian. It is the presence of Divine grace in the heart - in contrast from knowledge in the head, or correctness of outward deportment; which distinguishes the actual possessor from the empty professor. How important then is it that we spare no efforts to ascertain whether or not that Divine grace resides in us! Yet at this very point Christians encounter a real difficulty - as they honestly and diligently look within, they perceive such a sea of corruption, ever casting up mire and dirt, they are greatly distressed, and ready to conclude that Divine grace surely cannot be present in such evil hearts as theirs. But this is a serious mistake; as genuine oil is distinguishable from counterfeits by its properties, so grace in the soul may be known by its characteristics and effects.
But the exercised soul should begin his search for indwelling grace with it definitely settled in his mind, that, in every heart where grace resides there is also an ocean of sin; and just as oil and water will not mix - but continue to preserve their distinct properties even when placed together in the same vessel, so the flesh and spirit will not combine in the Christian - but remain in opposition to each other unto the end. Admitting, then, a sea of depravity within, my object is to find out if there is any "oil" at all which the surgings of sin are unable to destroy. When I see smoke, I must infer fire (however flickering), and if I can discern in my heart any spiritual grace (however feeble) I must infer the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Be not unduly discouraged, then, dear Christian friend, because you discover so much filthy water in your "vessel" - but rather confine your attention unto searching for the "oil" within you, and remember that the presence of the same is to be determined by its properties and effects. Let us name a few of these.
First, oil illumines, therefore are the blinded Laodiceans bidden to go to Christ for eye-salve (anointing oil) that they may see (Rev. 3:18). Now where Divine grace has been bestowed, that soul is enlightened. True, says a serious reader - but the point which exercises me so much is - Is my enlightenment a spiritual and supernatural one, or merely a natural and intellectual one, acquired by the mind being instructed through sitting under sound teaching? Those mentioned in Hebrews 6:4 were "once enlightened," yet no saving work of grace had been wrought in them!
Some of our readers may be total strangers to all such distressing experiences, and wonder why any real Christian should call into question the exact character of his or her illumination, troubling themselves not at all whether their enlightenment is natural or supernatural. Poor souls, it is greatly to be feared that a crude awakening is awaiting them from their satan-induced sleep. But what shall we say to those who are awake and deeply concerned about their eternal interests? How are such to determine the matter? We answer, test the point.
Was there not a time when you "saw no beauty in Christ that you should desire Him?" Is it so with you now? Or has He become in your eyes, the "altogether lovely" One? You may be afraid to call Him yours, yet if your heart truly yearns for Him, then you must have been spiritually enlightened, the "oil" is in your vessel.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
The key passage for the significance of this Scriptural figure is, "Your God has anointed you with the oil of gladness above your fellows" (Psalm 45:7), where the reference is to the Mediator, for God "gives not the Spirit by measure unto Him" (John 3:34); in consequence thereof, He is "fairer than the children of men - grace is poured into Your lips" (Psalm 45:2). The holy "oil
was first poured upon the anti-typical Aaron, and then it runs down to all the "skirts of His garments" (Psalm 133:2), that is, to the lowest and feeblest Christians. Just as the little finger or toe is animated by the same life and vitality as actuates the head and heart of a person - so every Christian is vitalized by the same Spirit as was given to Christ, the Head. As the Spirit sanctified the human nature of Christ by fitting and enriching it with all grace, so His grace is communicated to all His members.
The "oil," then, in the vessels of the wise virgins - refers to the life of the Spirit in the soul of a Christian. It is the presence of Divine grace in the heart - in contrast from knowledge in the head, or correctness of outward deportment; which distinguishes the actual possessor from the empty professor. How important then is it that we spare no efforts to ascertain whether or not that Divine grace resides in us! Yet at this very point Christians encounter a real difficulty - as they honestly and diligently look within, they perceive such a sea of corruption, ever casting up mire and dirt, they are greatly distressed, and ready to conclude that Divine grace surely cannot be present in such evil hearts as theirs. But this is a serious mistake; as genuine oil is distinguishable from counterfeits by its properties, so grace in the soul may be known by its characteristics and effects.
But the exercised soul should begin his search for indwelling grace with it definitely settled in his mind, that, in every heart where grace resides there is also an ocean of sin; and just as oil and water will not mix - but continue to preserve their distinct properties even when placed together in the same vessel, so the flesh and spirit will not combine in the Christian - but remain in opposition to each other unto the end. Admitting, then, a sea of depravity within, my object is to find out if there is any "oil" at all which the surgings of sin are unable to destroy. When I see smoke, I must infer fire (however flickering), and if I can discern in my heart any spiritual grace (however feeble) I must infer the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
Be not unduly discouraged, then, dear Christian friend, because you discover so much filthy water in your "vessel" - but rather confine your attention unto searching for the "oil" within you, and remember that the presence of the same is to be determined by its properties and effects. Let us name a few of these.
First, oil illumines, therefore are the blinded Laodiceans bidden to go to Christ for eye-salve (anointing oil) that they may see (Rev. 3:18). Now where Divine grace has been bestowed, that soul is enlightened. True, says a serious reader - but the point which exercises me so much is - Is my enlightenment a spiritual and supernatural one, or merely a natural and intellectual one, acquired by the mind being instructed through sitting under sound teaching? Those mentioned in Hebrews 6:4 were "once enlightened," yet no saving work of grace had been wrought in them!
Some of our readers may be total strangers to all such distressing experiences, and wonder why any real Christian should call into question the exact character of his or her illumination, troubling themselves not at all whether their enlightenment is natural or supernatural. Poor souls, it is greatly to be feared that a crude awakening is awaiting them from their satan-induced sleep. But what shall we say to those who are awake and deeply concerned about their eternal interests? How are such to determine the matter? We answer, test the point.
Was there not a time when you "saw no beauty in Christ that you should desire Him?" Is it so with you now? Or has He become in your eyes, the "altogether lovely" One? You may be afraid to call Him yours, yet if your heart truly yearns for Him, then you must have been spiritually enlightened, the "oil" is in your vessel.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of This nation # 3
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of This Nation # 3
Oh, for a glance of what Isaiah saw, and has described! "In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord! He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of His robe filled the Temple. Hovering around Him were mighty seraphim, each with six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two wings they covered their feet, and with the remaining two they flow. In a great chorus they sang, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty! The whole earth is filled with His glory!" The glorious singing shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire sanctuary will filled with smoke! Then I said, "Woe is me, for I am ruined, because I am a man of unclean lips and live among a people of unclean lips, because my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty!" (Isaiah 6:1-5).
Oh! that we, by the power of that faith, could behold the glory of the Lord filling this house; that we could realize the presence and the attitude of His attendant angels! They cover their faces and their feet with their wings, as overpowered by the beams of His majesty; and conscious, if not of defilement like us, yet of unavoidable inability as creatures, to render Him the whole of that praise and homage which are justly due to Him!
Oh! that, by faith, we could enter into the spirit of their ascription - "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord Almighty, the whole earth is filled with His glory!" If we were all thus affected, as the prophet was, surely each one for himself would adopt the prophet's language. Or, if a comfortable hope in the Gospel prevented us from crying out, "Woe is me, for I am ruined!" we should, at least, say, (the Hebrew so rendered,) "I am silenced, I am struck dumb! I am overwhelmed with confusion and shame; for I am a man of unclean lips myself, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips, for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty!"
If we have a degrees of this impression, we shall not perplex ourselves concerning the second cause, or immediate instruments of our calamities. The evil of sin, contrasted with the holiness and glory of God, will engross our thoughts! And we shall ascribe all the troubles we either feel or fear - to our own sins, and the sins of those among whom we dwell.
1. Let us first look to OURSELVES. "I am a man of unclean lips! I am a sinner!" This confession suits us all, and is readily made all who know themselves. A person approaching London from the neighboring hills, usually sees it obscured by a cloud of smoke. This cloud of smoke is the aggregate of the smoke, to which every house furnishes its respective quota. This cloud of smoke is a fit emblem of the sin and the misery which abound in this great metropolis! The Lord said of the Amorites, at a certain period, "Their iniquity is not yet full." (Genesis 15:16). I hope the measure of our iniquity is not yet full; but it is filling more every day, and we are all daily contributing to fill it.
True believers, though, by grace, delivered from the reigning power of sin, are still sinners. (Romans 6:14). In many things, we are all in thought, word, and deed. We are now called upon to humble ourselves before God, for the sins of our ignorance, and for the more aggravated sins we have committed against light and experience; for those personal sins, the record of which is known only to God and our consciences; for the defects and defilements of our best services; for our relative duties as parents, as children, husbands, wives, masters, or servants, and as members of the community. Our dullness in the ways of God, our alertness in the pursuit of our own will and way; our indifference to what concerns His glory, as compared with the quickness of our concerns, when our own temporal interests are affected, are so many proofs of our ingratitude and depravity! The sins of the Lord's own people are so many, and so heightened by the consideration of His own goodness, that, if He was to enter into judgment with them alone, they could offer no other plea than that which He has mercifully provided for them, "If you, O Lord, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with You there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared!" (Psalm 130:3-4).
2. It is easy to declaim against the wickedness of the times. But only they who are duly affected with the multitude and magnitude of their own sins can be competent judges of what the prophet meant or felt, when he said, "I live among a people of unclean lips." We ought to be no less concerned (though in a different manner) for the sins of those among whom we dwell, than for our own. We shall be so, if, with the eyes of our mind - we behold the King, the Lord Almighty; because His glory, which should be the dearest object to our hearts, is dishonored by them.
II. Have we not, therefore, cause to say, with the Ninevites, "Who can tell?" Is there not at least, "a perhaps?" Is there at least a possibility - that we may yet obtain mercy?
If our sins are no less numerous, no less of a scarlet dye, than those of other nations; and exceedingly aggravated beyond theirs, by being committed against clearer light, and the distinguished advantages we have long enjoyed; if we have not only transgressed the laws of God in common with others - but daringly trampled upon the gracious offers of His forgiveness, which He has long continued to propose to us, with a frequency and energy almost peculiar to ourselves; if "All day long I have spread out My hands to a disobedient and defiant people," (Romans 10:21) and, hitherto, almost in vain; if neither tokens of His displeasure, nor the declarations of His love, have made a suitable impression upon our minds - who can tell if He will yet be entreated? May we not fear, lest He should say, "My Spirit shall strive with them no more!" "They are joined to their idols - let them alone!" "When you lift up your hands in prayer - I will refuse to look. Even though you offer countless prayers - I will not listen!" (Hos. 4:17; Isaiah 1:15).
~John Newton~
(continued with # 4)
Oh, for a glance of what Isaiah saw, and has described! "In the year King Uzziah died, I saw the Lord! He was sitting on a lofty throne, and the train of His robe filled the Temple. Hovering around Him were mighty seraphim, each with six wings. With two wings they covered their faces, with two wings they covered their feet, and with the remaining two they flow. In a great chorus they sang, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty! The whole earth is filled with His glory!" The glorious singing shook the Temple to its foundations, and the entire sanctuary will filled with smoke! Then I said, "Woe is me, for I am ruined, because I am a man of unclean lips and live among a people of unclean lips, because my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty!" (Isaiah 6:1-5).
Oh! that we, by the power of that faith, could behold the glory of the Lord filling this house; that we could realize the presence and the attitude of His attendant angels! They cover their faces and their feet with their wings, as overpowered by the beams of His majesty; and conscious, if not of defilement like us, yet of unavoidable inability as creatures, to render Him the whole of that praise and homage which are justly due to Him!
Oh! that, by faith, we could enter into the spirit of their ascription - "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord Almighty, the whole earth is filled with His glory!" If we were all thus affected, as the prophet was, surely each one for himself would adopt the prophet's language. Or, if a comfortable hope in the Gospel prevented us from crying out, "Woe is me, for I am ruined!" we should, at least, say, (the Hebrew so rendered,) "I am silenced, I am struck dumb! I am overwhelmed with confusion and shame; for I am a man of unclean lips myself, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips, for my eyes have seen the King, the Lord Almighty!"
If we have a degrees of this impression, we shall not perplex ourselves concerning the second cause, or immediate instruments of our calamities. The evil of sin, contrasted with the holiness and glory of God, will engross our thoughts! And we shall ascribe all the troubles we either feel or fear - to our own sins, and the sins of those among whom we dwell.
1. Let us first look to OURSELVES. "I am a man of unclean lips! I am a sinner!" This confession suits us all, and is readily made all who know themselves. A person approaching London from the neighboring hills, usually sees it obscured by a cloud of smoke. This cloud of smoke is the aggregate of the smoke, to which every house furnishes its respective quota. This cloud of smoke is a fit emblem of the sin and the misery which abound in this great metropolis! The Lord said of the Amorites, at a certain period, "Their iniquity is not yet full." (Genesis 15:16). I hope the measure of our iniquity is not yet full; but it is filling more every day, and we are all daily contributing to fill it.
True believers, though, by grace, delivered from the reigning power of sin, are still sinners. (Romans 6:14). In many things, we are all in thought, word, and deed. We are now called upon to humble ourselves before God, for the sins of our ignorance, and for the more aggravated sins we have committed against light and experience; for those personal sins, the record of which is known only to God and our consciences; for the defects and defilements of our best services; for our relative duties as parents, as children, husbands, wives, masters, or servants, and as members of the community. Our dullness in the ways of God, our alertness in the pursuit of our own will and way; our indifference to what concerns His glory, as compared with the quickness of our concerns, when our own temporal interests are affected, are so many proofs of our ingratitude and depravity! The sins of the Lord's own people are so many, and so heightened by the consideration of His own goodness, that, if He was to enter into judgment with them alone, they could offer no other plea than that which He has mercifully provided for them, "If you, O Lord, kept a record of sins, O Lord, who could stand? But with You there is forgiveness; therefore you are feared!" (Psalm 130:3-4).
2. It is easy to declaim against the wickedness of the times. But only they who are duly affected with the multitude and magnitude of their own sins can be competent judges of what the prophet meant or felt, when he said, "I live among a people of unclean lips." We ought to be no less concerned (though in a different manner) for the sins of those among whom we dwell, than for our own. We shall be so, if, with the eyes of our mind - we behold the King, the Lord Almighty; because His glory, which should be the dearest object to our hearts, is dishonored by them.
II. Have we not, therefore, cause to say, with the Ninevites, "Who can tell?" Is there not at least, "a perhaps?" Is there at least a possibility - that we may yet obtain mercy?
If our sins are no less numerous, no less of a scarlet dye, than those of other nations; and exceedingly aggravated beyond theirs, by being committed against clearer light, and the distinguished advantages we have long enjoyed; if we have not only transgressed the laws of God in common with others - but daringly trampled upon the gracious offers of His forgiveness, which He has long continued to propose to us, with a frequency and energy almost peculiar to ourselves; if "All day long I have spread out My hands to a disobedient and defiant people," (Romans 10:21) and, hitherto, almost in vain; if neither tokens of His displeasure, nor the declarations of His love, have made a suitable impression upon our minds - who can tell if He will yet be entreated? May we not fear, lest He should say, "My Spirit shall strive with them no more!" "They are joined to their idols - let them alone!" "When you lift up your hands in prayer - I will refuse to look. Even though you offer countless prayers - I will not listen!" (Hos. 4:17; Isaiah 1:15).
~John Newton~
(continued with # 4)
Saturday, August 17, 2019
Oil In The Vessel # 1
Oil In The Vessel # 1
Recently a brother in the Lord wrote calling our attention to the comparisons and contrasts between the wise and foolish virgins of Matthew 25. The substance of his remarks was as follows.
They have seven things in common.
First, all the virgins were in "the kingdom of heaven" - by which we understand, the sphere of Christian profession.
Second, they were all of them "virgins" - not five virgins and five harlots - by which we understand, they all claimed to belong to Christ.
Third, they all "went forth to meet the Bridegroom" - they were one in purpose, having a single end in view.
Fourth, they all had "lamps," the same sort of lamps.
Fifth, they all "slumbered and slept."
Sixth, they all heard the cry "Behold, the Bridegroom comes."
Seventh, they all "arose and trimmed their lamps."
There are six points of difference between them.
First, five of them were "wise" and five of them were "foolish."
Second, the wise "took oil in their vessels with their lamps" - but the foolish ones did not do so.
Third, at the crucial moment the foolish virgins had to acknowledge "our lamps are (slowly but surely) gone out".
Fourth, the foolish virgins "went to buy" oil, the wise ones had no need to do so.
Fifth, the wise were shut in with the Bridegroom - but the foolish were shut out.
Sixth, the foolish virgins were disowned by the Lord.
Commenting upon the above our friend pointed out that, "There is a certain class today who differ not from the children of God as to their testimony - its purity, its orthodoxy, its sincerity. These are not Spiritists, Russellites, or the daughters of the Mother of Harlots - but "virgins". Doctrinally they are pure. They are pictured as going forth "to meet the Bridegroom," not one to the desert and another to the secret to the "secret chambers" (Matt. 24:26), seeking a false Christ. The Object of their service was the same Person which the wise virgins were occupied with.
The vital point in their "foolishness" was not that they "slumbered and slept" but that they had no oil in their VESSELS. Their was oil in their lamps - their testimony or doctrine - but none in their vessels or souls."
The above has deeply impressed the editor once more with the great importance of making sure individually whether there be oil in my vessel - the "vessel" is the soul, the "oil" is Divine grace in it. Whatever may be the precise signification of "behold the Bridegroom comes" - whether it refers to the hour of death, the "premillennial return of Christ," or the Day of Judgment - one thing is clear - it points to the crucial testing time.
As our friend further points out - Balaam had oil in his "lamp," as also had Judas when Christ sent him forth with the other Apostles to "preach" (Matt. 10:5-7) - yet their hearts were destitute of the saving grace of God! What a terrible discovery for the foolish virgins to make, "our lamps are gone out" - a discovery too late to do them any good.
This parable of the "virgins" is indeed a searching and solemn one. It has deeply exercised many a sincere soul. It has caused not a few genuine saints to wonder if, after all, the "root of the matter" were in them. It has given real point to that exhortation "Examine yourselves, whether you are in the faith; prove your own selves" (2 Cor. 13:5). On the other hand, vast numbers of professing Christians are quite unmoved by its pointed message, complacently assuming that they are numbered among the "wise" virgins, and taking no trouble to seek proof that the oil is in their vessels. Strangest of all, perhaps, some of the Lord's own people scarcely know how to set about the task of ascertaining their state, and are so suspicious of themselves, that they readily conclude that their vessels are devoid of the vital oil.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Recently a brother in the Lord wrote calling our attention to the comparisons and contrasts between the wise and foolish virgins of Matthew 25. The substance of his remarks was as follows.
They have seven things in common.
First, all the virgins were in "the kingdom of heaven" - by which we understand, the sphere of Christian profession.
Second, they were all of them "virgins" - not five virgins and five harlots - by which we understand, they all claimed to belong to Christ.
Third, they all "went forth to meet the Bridegroom" - they were one in purpose, having a single end in view.
Fourth, they all had "lamps," the same sort of lamps.
Fifth, they all "slumbered and slept."
Sixth, they all heard the cry "Behold, the Bridegroom comes."
Seventh, they all "arose and trimmed their lamps."
There are six points of difference between them.
First, five of them were "wise" and five of them were "foolish."
Second, the wise "took oil in their vessels with their lamps" - but the foolish ones did not do so.
Third, at the crucial moment the foolish virgins had to acknowledge "our lamps are (slowly but surely) gone out".
Fourth, the foolish virgins "went to buy" oil, the wise ones had no need to do so.
Fifth, the wise were shut in with the Bridegroom - but the foolish were shut out.
Sixth, the foolish virgins were disowned by the Lord.
Commenting upon the above our friend pointed out that, "There is a certain class today who differ not from the children of God as to their testimony - its purity, its orthodoxy, its sincerity. These are not Spiritists, Russellites, or the daughters of the Mother of Harlots - but "virgins". Doctrinally they are pure. They are pictured as going forth "to meet the Bridegroom," not one to the desert and another to the secret to the "secret chambers" (Matt. 24:26), seeking a false Christ. The Object of their service was the same Person which the wise virgins were occupied with.
The vital point in their "foolishness" was not that they "slumbered and slept" but that they had no oil in their VESSELS. Their was oil in their lamps - their testimony or doctrine - but none in their vessels or souls."
The above has deeply impressed the editor once more with the great importance of making sure individually whether there be oil in my vessel - the "vessel" is the soul, the "oil" is Divine grace in it. Whatever may be the precise signification of "behold the Bridegroom comes" - whether it refers to the hour of death, the "premillennial return of Christ," or the Day of Judgment - one thing is clear - it points to the crucial testing time.
As our friend further points out - Balaam had oil in his "lamp," as also had Judas when Christ sent him forth with the other Apostles to "preach" (Matt. 10:5-7) - yet their hearts were destitute of the saving grace of God! What a terrible discovery for the foolish virgins to make, "our lamps are gone out" - a discovery too late to do them any good.
This parable of the "virgins" is indeed a searching and solemn one. It has deeply exercised many a sincere soul. It has caused not a few genuine saints to wonder if, after all, the "root of the matter" were in them. It has given real point to that exhortation "Examine yourselves, whether you are in the faith; prove your own selves" (2 Cor. 13:5). On the other hand, vast numbers of professing Christians are quite unmoved by its pointed message, complacently assuming that they are numbered among the "wise" virgins, and taking no trouble to seek proof that the oil is in their vessels. Strangest of all, perhaps, some of the Lord's own people scarcely know how to set about the task of ascertaining their state, and are so suspicious of themselves, that they readily conclude that their vessels are devoid of the vital oil.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of This Nation # 2
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of This Nation # 2
The rivers of human blood, and all the calamities and horrors which overspread a great part of the Continent, the distant report of which is sufficient to make our ear tingle, are all to be ascribed to this cause. God is not acknowledged; yes, in some places, He has been formally disowned and renounced. Therefore, God sometimes leaves men left to themselves - their furious passions are unchained, and they are given up, without restraint, to the lusts of their own evil hearts! A more dreadful judgment than this, cannot be inflicted on this side of hell. "Ephraim is joined to idols leave him alone" (Hosea 4:17).
And, though we are still favored with peace at home, the dreadful storm is at no great distance; it seems to be moving our way, and we have reason to fear that it may burst upon us. But I would be thankful for the appointment of this day; for I should think the prospect dark indeed, if I did not rely on the Lord's gracious attention to the united prayers of those who fear and trust Him, and who know it is equally easy to Him either to save or to destroy, by many or by few. (1 Sam. 14:6). Our fleets and armies may be well appointed and well commanded; but, without His blessing to defend us. He can take wisdom from the wise, and courage from the bold, in the moment when they are most needful. He can disable our forces by sickness or dissension; and, by His mighty wind, He can dash our ships to pieces against the rocks, against each other, or sink them like lead in the mighty waters! "Who is there who speaks and it happens - unless the Lord has ordained it?" (Lam. 3:37).
Our Lord and Saviour, when speaking of the eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell and slew them, said to the Jews, "Those 18 that the tower in Siloam fell on and killed - do you think they were more sinful than all the peoples who live in Jerusalem? No, I tell you! But unless you repent, you will all perish as will!" (Luke 13:4-5). May the application of these words sink deeply into our hearts! It will not befit us to say, either to God or man, that "we have indeed sinned - but there are greater sinners than ourselves." It is true, the French Convention, and many others who are infatuated by the same spirit, have exceeded the ordinary standard of human impiety and cruelty. But I hope there are multitudes in that nation, who, though they are overawed by their oppressors, and dare not speak their sentiments, yet are mourning in secrecy and silence, for the abominations which they cannot prevent. But the French have not sinned against such advantages as we possess. They were long the slaves of despotic power, and the dupes of superstition; and of late they have been the dupes of fools, assuming the name of philosophers.
We, on the contrary, were born and educated in a land distinguished from all the nations of the earth, by the eminent degree in which we enjoy civil and religious liberty, and the light of gospel truth. These privileges exceedingly aggravate our sins; and no comparison, in this respect, can be formed between us and other nations, until we can find a people who have been equally favored, for an equal length of time, by the providence of God - and have likewise equaled us in disobedience and ingratitude!
The most dreadful enormities committed in France, are no more than specimens of what human depravity is capable of - when circumstances admit of its full exertion, and when the usual boundaries and restrictions necessary to the peace and welfare of civil society, are judicially removed. The influence of daring infidelity and profligate example, aided by the peculiar state of their public affairs, have broken, in many instances, the strongest ties of social and relative life, and extinguished the common feelings of humanity!
Yet the unhappy French, though our inveterate enemies, are not the proper objects of our hatred or our scorn - but rather of our pity. They know not what they do! Let us pray for them. Who can tell But God, to whom all things are possible, and whose mercies are higher than the heavens, may grant also them repentance! And let us pray for ourselves, that we may be instructed and warned by their history - for, by nature, we are no better than they!
1. But it is time to attend more immediately to our own concerns. The professed purpose of our meeting today, is to "humble ourselves before Almighty God, and to send up our prayers and supplications to the Divine Majesty, for obtaining pardon of our sins, and for averting those heavy judgments which our manifold sins have most justly deserved; and imploring His blessing and assistance on our military, and for restoring and perpetuating peace, safety, and prosperity to Himself and to His kingdoms." I hope these expressions accord with the language and desire of our hearts.
~John Newton~
(continued with # 3)
The rivers of human blood, and all the calamities and horrors which overspread a great part of the Continent, the distant report of which is sufficient to make our ear tingle, are all to be ascribed to this cause. God is not acknowledged; yes, in some places, He has been formally disowned and renounced. Therefore, God sometimes leaves men left to themselves - their furious passions are unchained, and they are given up, without restraint, to the lusts of their own evil hearts! A more dreadful judgment than this, cannot be inflicted on this side of hell. "Ephraim is joined to idols leave him alone" (Hosea 4:17).
And, though we are still favored with peace at home, the dreadful storm is at no great distance; it seems to be moving our way, and we have reason to fear that it may burst upon us. But I would be thankful for the appointment of this day; for I should think the prospect dark indeed, if I did not rely on the Lord's gracious attention to the united prayers of those who fear and trust Him, and who know it is equally easy to Him either to save or to destroy, by many or by few. (1 Sam. 14:6). Our fleets and armies may be well appointed and well commanded; but, without His blessing to defend us. He can take wisdom from the wise, and courage from the bold, in the moment when they are most needful. He can disable our forces by sickness or dissension; and, by His mighty wind, He can dash our ships to pieces against the rocks, against each other, or sink them like lead in the mighty waters! "Who is there who speaks and it happens - unless the Lord has ordained it?" (Lam. 3:37).
Our Lord and Saviour, when speaking of the eighteen upon whom the tower of Siloam fell and slew them, said to the Jews, "Those 18 that the tower in Siloam fell on and killed - do you think they were more sinful than all the peoples who live in Jerusalem? No, I tell you! But unless you repent, you will all perish as will!" (Luke 13:4-5). May the application of these words sink deeply into our hearts! It will not befit us to say, either to God or man, that "we have indeed sinned - but there are greater sinners than ourselves." It is true, the French Convention, and many others who are infatuated by the same spirit, have exceeded the ordinary standard of human impiety and cruelty. But I hope there are multitudes in that nation, who, though they are overawed by their oppressors, and dare not speak their sentiments, yet are mourning in secrecy and silence, for the abominations which they cannot prevent. But the French have not sinned against such advantages as we possess. They were long the slaves of despotic power, and the dupes of superstition; and of late they have been the dupes of fools, assuming the name of philosophers.
We, on the contrary, were born and educated in a land distinguished from all the nations of the earth, by the eminent degree in which we enjoy civil and religious liberty, and the light of gospel truth. These privileges exceedingly aggravate our sins; and no comparison, in this respect, can be formed between us and other nations, until we can find a people who have been equally favored, for an equal length of time, by the providence of God - and have likewise equaled us in disobedience and ingratitude!
The most dreadful enormities committed in France, are no more than specimens of what human depravity is capable of - when circumstances admit of its full exertion, and when the usual boundaries and restrictions necessary to the peace and welfare of civil society, are judicially removed. The influence of daring infidelity and profligate example, aided by the peculiar state of their public affairs, have broken, in many instances, the strongest ties of social and relative life, and extinguished the common feelings of humanity!
Yet the unhappy French, though our inveterate enemies, are not the proper objects of our hatred or our scorn - but rather of our pity. They know not what they do! Let us pray for them. Who can tell But God, to whom all things are possible, and whose mercies are higher than the heavens, may grant also them repentance! And let us pray for ourselves, that we may be instructed and warned by their history - for, by nature, we are no better than they!
1. But it is time to attend more immediately to our own concerns. The professed purpose of our meeting today, is to "humble ourselves before Almighty God, and to send up our prayers and supplications to the Divine Majesty, for obtaining pardon of our sins, and for averting those heavy judgments which our manifold sins have most justly deserved; and imploring His blessing and assistance on our military, and for restoring and perpetuating peace, safety, and prosperity to Himself and to His kingdoms." I hope these expressions accord with the language and desire of our hearts.
~John Newton~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, August 10, 2019
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of this Nation # 1
The Imminent Danger and the Only Sure Resource of this Nation # 1
"Come, let us return to the Lord! He has torn us in pieces; now He will heal us. He has injured us; now He will bandage our wounds" (Hosea 6:1).
"Who can tell? God may turn and relent; He may turn from His burning anger so that we will not perish" (Jonah 3:9).
How great is the power of God over the hearts of men! Nineveh was the capital of a powerful empire. The inhabitants were heathen. The many prophets who, during a long series of years, had spoken in the name of the Lord to His professed people of Judah and Israel, had spoken almost in vain. The messengers were often mocked, it is probable, had never seen a true prophet until Jonah was sent to them. If they had reasoned on his prediction, they might have thought it very improbable, that a great city, the head of a great kingdom, and in a time of peace, could be in danger of an overthrow within forty days. But it is said, "they believed God." The awful denunciation made a general, a universal impression. The king arose from his throne, laid aside his robes, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. A sudden cessation of business and of pleasure took place; he proclaimed a strict fast, the rigor of which was extended even to the cattle. His subjects readily complied, and unanimously concurred in crying for mercy: though they had no encouragement but a "perhaps", "Who can tell? God may turn and relent; He may turn from His burning anger so that we will not perish."
It appears from this, and other passages of Scripture, that the most express declarations of God's displeasure against sinners, still afford ground and room for repentance. Thus, in the prophecy of Ezekiel, "So when I tell the wicked person: You will surely die, but he repents of his sin and does what is just and right - he will certainly live; he will not die" (Ezekiel 33:14-15) and again, in the prophecy of Jeremiah, "At one moment I might announce concerning a nation or a kingdom that I will uproot, tear down, and destroy it. However, if that nation I have made an announcement about, turns from its evil, I will not bring the disaster on it I had planned" (Jer. 18:7-8).
The Lord God speaks to us by His Word, in plain and popular language. He condescends to our feeble apprehensions. God cannot repent, He is of one mind who can turn him? Yet, when afflictive providences lead men to a sense of their sins, to an acknowledgement of their demerits, and excite a spirit of humiliation, repentance, and prayer - He often mercifully changes His dispensations, and averts from them the impending evil. Such was the effect of Jonah's message to the Ninevites. The people humbled themselves, and repented of their wickedness; and God suspended the execution of the sentence which He had pronounced against them.
My brethren, may we not fear, that the men of Nineveh will rise up in judgment against us, and condemn us, (Matt. 12:41) if we do not imitate their example, and humble ourselves before God? They repented at the preaching of Jonah, and immediately, on their first hearing him; and they sought for mercy upon a perhaps, when they could say no more, then, Who can tell, whether there may be the least room to hope for it, after what the prophet has so solemnly declared?
God does not speak to us by the audible voice of an inspired prophet; nor is it necessary. We know, or may know, from His written Word, that it shall be well with the righteous, and ill with the wicked (Isaiah 3:10-11). The appearance of an angel from heaven could add nothing to the certainty of the declarations he has already put into our hands. He has likewise raised up, and perpetuated a succession of His ministers, to enforce the warnings He has given us in the Scripture; to remind us of our sins, and the sure and dreadful consequences, if we persist in them. Nor are we left at an uncertainty as to the outcome, if we humbly confess them, and implore forgiveness, in the way which He has prescribed. The Gospel, the glorious Gospel of the blessed God, is preached unto us. Jesus Christ, as crucified, is set forth among us (Gal. 3:; 1 Jo 1:7; Romans 8:1; Acts 13:39) His blood cleanses from all sin; and those who believe in Him are freed from condemnation, and completely justified. They have also free access to a throne of grace, and, like Israel, they have power, by prayer, to prevail with God and with man (Gen. 32:29). And shall it be said of any of us, that the Lord gave us space to repent, and invited us to repentance, and we repented not? (Rev. 2:21). May His mercy forbid it!
He now speaks to us by His providence. His judgments are abroad in the earth; and it behooves us to learn righteousness. (Isaiah 25:9-11). His hand is lifted up, and if any are so careless, or obstinate, that they will not see, yet sooner or later, they must, they shall see. The great God has a controversy with the potsherds of the earth. The point to be decided between Him and many abroad, and, I fear, too many at home is, whether He is the Governor of the earth or not? His own people, to whom His name and glory are dear, will hold all inferior concernment in subordination to this. If there is no other alternative, misery and havoc must spread, men must perish by millions, yes, the frame of nature must be dissolved, rather than God be dishonored and defied with impunity. But He will surely plead and gain his own cause, and, either in a way of judgment or of mercy, all men shall know that He is the Lord. I believe there is no expression in the Old Testament so frequently as this, "You," or they, "shall know that I am the Lord! Has He said it, and shall He not make it good?"
~John Newton~
(continued with # 2)
"Come, let us return to the Lord! He has torn us in pieces; now He will heal us. He has injured us; now He will bandage our wounds" (Hosea 6:1).
"Who can tell? God may turn and relent; He may turn from His burning anger so that we will not perish" (Jonah 3:9).
How great is the power of God over the hearts of men! Nineveh was the capital of a powerful empire. The inhabitants were heathen. The many prophets who, during a long series of years, had spoken in the name of the Lord to His professed people of Judah and Israel, had spoken almost in vain. The messengers were often mocked, it is probable, had never seen a true prophet until Jonah was sent to them. If they had reasoned on his prediction, they might have thought it very improbable, that a great city, the head of a great kingdom, and in a time of peace, could be in danger of an overthrow within forty days. But it is said, "they believed God." The awful denunciation made a general, a universal impression. The king arose from his throne, laid aside his robes, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat in ashes. A sudden cessation of business and of pleasure took place; he proclaimed a strict fast, the rigor of which was extended even to the cattle. His subjects readily complied, and unanimously concurred in crying for mercy: though they had no encouragement but a "perhaps", "Who can tell? God may turn and relent; He may turn from His burning anger so that we will not perish."
It appears from this, and other passages of Scripture, that the most express declarations of God's displeasure against sinners, still afford ground and room for repentance. Thus, in the prophecy of Ezekiel, "So when I tell the wicked person: You will surely die, but he repents of his sin and does what is just and right - he will certainly live; he will not die" (Ezekiel 33:14-15) and again, in the prophecy of Jeremiah, "At one moment I might announce concerning a nation or a kingdom that I will uproot, tear down, and destroy it. However, if that nation I have made an announcement about, turns from its evil, I will not bring the disaster on it I had planned" (Jer. 18:7-8).
The Lord God speaks to us by His Word, in plain and popular language. He condescends to our feeble apprehensions. God cannot repent, He is of one mind who can turn him? Yet, when afflictive providences lead men to a sense of their sins, to an acknowledgement of their demerits, and excite a spirit of humiliation, repentance, and prayer - He often mercifully changes His dispensations, and averts from them the impending evil. Such was the effect of Jonah's message to the Ninevites. The people humbled themselves, and repented of their wickedness; and God suspended the execution of the sentence which He had pronounced against them.
My brethren, may we not fear, that the men of Nineveh will rise up in judgment against us, and condemn us, (Matt. 12:41) if we do not imitate their example, and humble ourselves before God? They repented at the preaching of Jonah, and immediately, on their first hearing him; and they sought for mercy upon a perhaps, when they could say no more, then, Who can tell, whether there may be the least room to hope for it, after what the prophet has so solemnly declared?
God does not speak to us by the audible voice of an inspired prophet; nor is it necessary. We know, or may know, from His written Word, that it shall be well with the righteous, and ill with the wicked (Isaiah 3:10-11). The appearance of an angel from heaven could add nothing to the certainty of the declarations he has already put into our hands. He has likewise raised up, and perpetuated a succession of His ministers, to enforce the warnings He has given us in the Scripture; to remind us of our sins, and the sure and dreadful consequences, if we persist in them. Nor are we left at an uncertainty as to the outcome, if we humbly confess them, and implore forgiveness, in the way which He has prescribed. The Gospel, the glorious Gospel of the blessed God, is preached unto us. Jesus Christ, as crucified, is set forth among us (Gal. 3:; 1 Jo 1:7; Romans 8:1; Acts 13:39) His blood cleanses from all sin; and those who believe in Him are freed from condemnation, and completely justified. They have also free access to a throne of grace, and, like Israel, they have power, by prayer, to prevail with God and with man (Gen. 32:29). And shall it be said of any of us, that the Lord gave us space to repent, and invited us to repentance, and we repented not? (Rev. 2:21). May His mercy forbid it!
He now speaks to us by His providence. His judgments are abroad in the earth; and it behooves us to learn righteousness. (Isaiah 25:9-11). His hand is lifted up, and if any are so careless, or obstinate, that they will not see, yet sooner or later, they must, they shall see. The great God has a controversy with the potsherds of the earth. The point to be decided between Him and many abroad, and, I fear, too many at home is, whether He is the Governor of the earth or not? His own people, to whom His name and glory are dear, will hold all inferior concernment in subordination to this. If there is no other alternative, misery and havoc must spread, men must perish by millions, yes, the frame of nature must be dissolved, rather than God be dishonored and defied with impunity. But He will surely plead and gain his own cause, and, either in a way of judgment or of mercy, all men shall know that He is the Lord. I believe there is no expression in the Old Testament so frequently as this, "You," or they, "shall know that I am the Lord! Has He said it, and shall He not make it good?"
~John Newton~
(continued with # 2)
Personal Holiness
Personal Holiness
"Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).
"That opinion that personal holiness is unnecessary to final glorification, is in direct opposition to every dictate of reason; and to every declaration of Scripture" (Augustus Toplady)
By our fall in Adam we not only lost the favor of God - but also the purity of our nature, and therefore we need to be both reconciled to God and renewed in our inner man, for without personal holiness "no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). "As He who called you is holy - so be holy in all you do; for it is written - "Be holy, because I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15, 16). God's nature is such that unless we are sanctified, there can be no communion between Him and us.
But can people be sinful and holy at one and the same time? Genuine Christians discover so much carnality, filth, and vileness in themselves, that they find it almost impossible to be assured they are holy. Nor is this difficulty solved, as in justification, by recognizing that though completely unholy in ourselves - we are holy in Christ; for Scripture teaches that those who are sanctified by God are holy in themselves, though the evil nature has not been removed from them.
None but "the pure in heart" will ever "see God" (Matt. 5:8). There must be that renovation of soul whereby our minds, affections and wills are brought into harmony with God. There must be that impartial compliance with the revealed will of God, and abstinence from evil - which issues from faith and love. There must be that directing of all our actions to the glory of God, by Jesus Christ, according to the Gospel. There must be a spirit of holiness working within the believer's heart - so as to sanctify his outward actions - if they are be acceptable unto Him in whom "there is no darkness."
True, there is perfect holiness in Christ for the believer - but there must also be a holy nature received from Him. There are some who appear to delight in the imputed obedience of Christ - who make little or no concern about personal holiness. They have much to say about being arrayed in "the garments of salvation and covered with the robe of righteousness" (Isaiah 61:10), who give no evidence that they are "clothed with humility" (1 Peter 5:5) or that they have any interest in obeying this command of God, "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Colossians 3:12, 13).
How many there are today who suppose that if they have trusted in Christ, all is sure to be well with them at the last - even though they are not personally holy. Under the pretense of honoring faith, satan as an angel of light, has deceived and is now deceiving multitudes of souls! When their "faith" is examined and tested, what is it worth? Nothing at all - so far as insuring an entrance into heaven is concerned: it is a powerless, lifeless, fruitless thing. The faith of God's elect, is unto "the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness" (Titus 1:1). It is a faith which purifies the heart (Acts 15:9), and it grieves over all impurity. It is a faith which produces an unquestioning obedience (Heb. 11:8). They therefore do but delude themselves, who suppose they are daily drawing nearer to heaven - while they are following those courses which lead only to hell. He who thinks to come to the enjoyment of God without being personally holy, makes Him out to be an unholy God, and puts the highest indignity upon Him. The genuineness of saving faith is only proved as it bears the blossoms of experimental godliness and the fruits of true piety.
In Christ, God has set before His people that standard of moral excellence - which He requires them to aim and strive after. In his life - we behold a glorious representation in our own nature, of the walk of obedience which He demands of us. Christ conformed Himself to us by His abasing incarnation; how reasonable therefore it is that we should conform ourselves to Him in the way of obedience and sanctification. "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 2:5). He came as near to us as was possible for Him to do; how reasonable then is it that we should endeavor to come as near as it is possible for us to do. "Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me" (Matt. 11:29). If "even Christ pleased not Himself" (Romans 15:3), how reasonable is it, that we should be required to deny ourselves and take up our cross and follow Him (Matt. 16:24), for without so doing we cannot be His disciples (Luke 14:27). If we are to be conformed to Christ in glory, how necessary that we first be conformed to Him in holiness: "He who says he abides in Him - ought himself so to walk even as He walked" (1 John 2:6). "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity" (2 Tim. 2:19). Let him either put on the life of Christ - or drop the name of Christ!
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
"Make every effort to live in peace with all men and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14).
"That opinion that personal holiness is unnecessary to final glorification, is in direct opposition to every dictate of reason; and to every declaration of Scripture" (Augustus Toplady)
By our fall in Adam we not only lost the favor of God - but also the purity of our nature, and therefore we need to be both reconciled to God and renewed in our inner man, for without personal holiness "no man shall see the Lord" (Hebrews 12:14). "As He who called you is holy - so be holy in all you do; for it is written - "Be holy, because I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15, 16). God's nature is such that unless we are sanctified, there can be no communion between Him and us.
But can people be sinful and holy at one and the same time? Genuine Christians discover so much carnality, filth, and vileness in themselves, that they find it almost impossible to be assured they are holy. Nor is this difficulty solved, as in justification, by recognizing that though completely unholy in ourselves - we are holy in Christ; for Scripture teaches that those who are sanctified by God are holy in themselves, though the evil nature has not been removed from them.
None but "the pure in heart" will ever "see God" (Matt. 5:8). There must be that renovation of soul whereby our minds, affections and wills are brought into harmony with God. There must be that impartial compliance with the revealed will of God, and abstinence from evil - which issues from faith and love. There must be that directing of all our actions to the glory of God, by Jesus Christ, according to the Gospel. There must be a spirit of holiness working within the believer's heart - so as to sanctify his outward actions - if they are be acceptable unto Him in whom "there is no darkness."
True, there is perfect holiness in Christ for the believer - but there must also be a holy nature received from Him. There are some who appear to delight in the imputed obedience of Christ - who make little or no concern about personal holiness. They have much to say about being arrayed in "the garments of salvation and covered with the robe of righteousness" (Isaiah 61:10), who give no evidence that they are "clothed with humility" (1 Peter 5:5) or that they have any interest in obeying this command of God, "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you" (Colossians 3:12, 13).
How many there are today who suppose that if they have trusted in Christ, all is sure to be well with them at the last - even though they are not personally holy. Under the pretense of honoring faith, satan as an angel of light, has deceived and is now deceiving multitudes of souls! When their "faith" is examined and tested, what is it worth? Nothing at all - so far as insuring an entrance into heaven is concerned: it is a powerless, lifeless, fruitless thing. The faith of God's elect, is unto "the knowledge of the truth that leads to godliness" (Titus 1:1). It is a faith which purifies the heart (Acts 15:9), and it grieves over all impurity. It is a faith which produces an unquestioning obedience (Heb. 11:8). They therefore do but delude themselves, who suppose they are daily drawing nearer to heaven - while they are following those courses which lead only to hell. He who thinks to come to the enjoyment of God without being personally holy, makes Him out to be an unholy God, and puts the highest indignity upon Him. The genuineness of saving faith is only proved as it bears the blossoms of experimental godliness and the fruits of true piety.
In Christ, God has set before His people that standard of moral excellence - which He requires them to aim and strive after. In his life - we behold a glorious representation in our own nature, of the walk of obedience which He demands of us. Christ conformed Himself to us by His abasing incarnation; how reasonable therefore it is that we should conform ourselves to Him in the way of obedience and sanctification. "Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 2:5). He came as near to us as was possible for Him to do; how reasonable then is it that we should endeavor to come as near as it is possible for us to do. "Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me" (Matt. 11:29). If "even Christ pleased not Himself" (Romans 15:3), how reasonable is it, that we should be required to deny ourselves and take up our cross and follow Him (Matt. 16:24), for without so doing we cannot be His disciples (Luke 14:27). If we are to be conformed to Christ in glory, how necessary that we first be conformed to Him in holiness: "He who says he abides in Him - ought himself so to walk even as He walked" (1 John 2:6). "Let everyone who names the name of Christ depart from iniquity" (2 Tim. 2:19). Let him either put on the life of Christ - or drop the name of Christ!
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, August 3, 2019
Trials # 7
Trials # 7
The Value of Trials
Peter tells us that the trial of our faith is "much more precious than gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire" (1 Peter 1:7). The question which now confronts us is whether we place such a value as that upon our trials.
What will men undergo to get gold? They will scale lofty mountains and wade through deep snows. They will face piercing winds and all sorts of perils, if they may but have the hope of getting gold.
Our trials are still more precious than gold, and it seems that we ought to be willing to bear them when we view them from that standpoint. However, there are a great many Christians who shrink from trials. Why do they? if they believe that trials are so valuable - then why do they shrink from them? Ah, that is the trouble - they do not believe what Peter said. They can see no gold in their trials. They see no value in them whatever. They are something to be gotten away from.
The trouble is that we often look at the wrong thing. If a man goes after gold and looks at the hardships instead of the gold - then he will not get any gold. But the gold-hunter does not look at the things that lie between him and the precious metal. He looks at the gold. He keeps his mind and his heart upon that. He presses forward through everything to gain that gold. There is gold for the believer in every trial. The trial lies between us and the gold.
If we look at the trial, we may forget the gold, and that is just what is the trouble with so many. They can see nothing but the trials. Beyond these lies the gold, yes, something far more precious than gold. Get your eyes off the trial. Look beyond it to the gold. Keep your mind and your heart set upon the gold, and you will find that you can face the trial a great deal easier than if you saw nothing beyond it. The gold of Christian character comes only through stress and storm. Fair-weather Christians never amount to much - nor do they develop stellar Christian character. They are always contented with little fruit.
Results of Trials
God always works out something worth while from our trials, if we are true in them. He does not try us, merely to be trying us. He has a definite purpose to accomplish. Of Israel He said, "He gave you manna to eat in the desert, something your fathers had never known, to humble and to test you so that in the end it might go well with you" (Deut. 8:16). The humbling and the proving were only that He might do them good at the latter end. So it is with us: God humbles us and tries us just to do us good later.
God's purpose is also made very plain in the parable of the figs in the twenty-fourth chapter of Jeremiah: "This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Like the good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with all their heart." (Jere. 24:5-7).
God did not permit them to be carried into captivity simply as a punishment. It was that, to be sure; but His purpose was greater and more kindly than that. It was that He might do them good - that they should turn to Him with their whole heart, and that He should bring them back to their own land and make them a holier and more trusting people than before.
Job knew the good that was going to come out of his trial, and he said, "He knows the way that I take - and when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold!" (Job 23:10).
The Psalmist learned this same lesson. He says: "Praise our God, O peoples, let the sound of His praise be heard; He has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. For you, O God, tested us; You refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance" (Psalm 66:8-12).
This is the way the Bible speaks throughout when it speaks of trials well borne. Affliction may be laid upon us; men may ride over our heads; we may go through fire and through water; but the outcome of it will be that we shall come out into a place of abundance. And then, like the Psalmist, we can say, "Oh, bless our God!" Take your Bible and read also James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:7; and 4:12-13).
There is another text that we shall do well to study over and over: "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." (Romans 5:3-5). "Suffering produces perseverance." Is not perseverance that which we desire? Let us, then, bear suffering. Perseverance brings character. Character in turn brings hope. Suffering well borne, therefore, works out in all these things.
~Charles Naylor~
(The End)
The Value of Trials
Peter tells us that the trial of our faith is "much more precious than gold that perishes, though it be tried with fire" (1 Peter 1:7). The question which now confronts us is whether we place such a value as that upon our trials.
What will men undergo to get gold? They will scale lofty mountains and wade through deep snows. They will face piercing winds and all sorts of perils, if they may but have the hope of getting gold.
Our trials are still more precious than gold, and it seems that we ought to be willing to bear them when we view them from that standpoint. However, there are a great many Christians who shrink from trials. Why do they? if they believe that trials are so valuable - then why do they shrink from them? Ah, that is the trouble - they do not believe what Peter said. They can see no gold in their trials. They see no value in them whatever. They are something to be gotten away from.
The trouble is that we often look at the wrong thing. If a man goes after gold and looks at the hardships instead of the gold - then he will not get any gold. But the gold-hunter does not look at the things that lie between him and the precious metal. He looks at the gold. He keeps his mind and his heart upon that. He presses forward through everything to gain that gold. There is gold for the believer in every trial. The trial lies between us and the gold.
If we look at the trial, we may forget the gold, and that is just what is the trouble with so many. They can see nothing but the trials. Beyond these lies the gold, yes, something far more precious than gold. Get your eyes off the trial. Look beyond it to the gold. Keep your mind and your heart set upon the gold, and you will find that you can face the trial a great deal easier than if you saw nothing beyond it. The gold of Christian character comes only through stress and storm. Fair-weather Christians never amount to much - nor do they develop stellar Christian character. They are always contented with little fruit.
Results of Trials
God always works out something worth while from our trials, if we are true in them. He does not try us, merely to be trying us. He has a definite purpose to accomplish. Of Israel He said, "He gave you manna to eat in the desert, something your fathers had never known, to humble and to test you so that in the end it might go well with you" (Deut. 8:16). The humbling and the proving were only that He might do them good at the latter end. So it is with us: God humbles us and tries us just to do us good later.
God's purpose is also made very plain in the parable of the figs in the twenty-fourth chapter of Jeremiah: "This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: Like the good figs, I regard as good the exiles from Judah, whom I sent away from this place to the land of the Babylonians. My eyes will watch over them for their good, and I will bring them back to this land. I will build them up and not tear them down; I will plant them and not uproot them. I will give them a heart to know me, that I am the Lord. They will be My people, and I will be their God, for they will return to Me with all their heart." (Jere. 24:5-7).
God did not permit them to be carried into captivity simply as a punishment. It was that, to be sure; but His purpose was greater and more kindly than that. It was that He might do them good - that they should turn to Him with their whole heart, and that He should bring them back to their own land and make them a holier and more trusting people than before.
Job knew the good that was going to come out of his trial, and he said, "He knows the way that I take - and when He has tried me, I shall come forth as gold!" (Job 23:10).
The Psalmist learned this same lesson. He says: "Praise our God, O peoples, let the sound of His praise be heard; He has preserved our lives and kept our feet from slipping. For you, O God, tested us; You refined us like silver. You brought us into prison and laid burdens on our backs. You let men ride over our heads; we went through fire and water, but you brought us to a place of abundance" (Psalm 66:8-12).
This is the way the Bible speaks throughout when it speaks of trials well borne. Affliction may be laid upon us; men may ride over our heads; we may go through fire and through water; but the outcome of it will be that we shall come out into a place of abundance. And then, like the Psalmist, we can say, "Oh, bless our God!" Take your Bible and read also James 1:12; 1 Peter 1:7; and 4:12-13).
There is another text that we shall do well to study over and over: "Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; character; and character, hope. And hope does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has given us." (Romans 5:3-5). "Suffering produces perseverance." Is not perseverance that which we desire? Let us, then, bear suffering. Perseverance brings character. Character in turn brings hope. Suffering well borne, therefore, works out in all these things.
~Charles Naylor~
(The End)
Trials # 6
Trials # 6
Different Kinds of Trials
Some trials test us in one way and some in another.
Some test our COURAGE. satan sometimes tries to frighten us by making a great show of threatening. Sometimes he makes things look very dark. He whispers to us that we shall surely be overwhelmed. If we but have courage to meet these - then we shall be able to overcome them. Often we have but to face them boldly, in order to chase them off the ground and to stand victorious on the field of battle.
Other trials test our FAITH. When sickness or disease take hold of us - it is then that faith is tested. When the adversary tries to bring doubts in our minds about God's faithfulness or the truth of His Word, and the faithfulness of His people - then faith is the weapon that we need to use to overcome him.
There are trials that test our LOYALTY. We are brought face to face with the question whether we will be loyal to God and His truth - or whether we will take some seemingly easier way and compromise His truth for the sake of getting off easier ourselves. We are often put in a position where our loyalty is tested, where we have to stand by the truth without deviating from it in the slightest degree, no matter what comes.
Sometimes we must make a choice between Christ and our friends. The question is then one of loyalty. To whom we be true - Christ or our friends? To whom shall we submit ourselves, and whom shall we obey? He has said, "Be faithful unto death." Shall we do it? Shall we do it, no matter what it means nor how long a struggle it means? The battle is half won, when we fully decided to stand loyal whatever comes.
Battles of this sort may be decided before we enter into them, and then we have only the fighting to do. The result is certain. The old saying, "Well begun, is half done," is certainly true in the Christian life, especially when it comes to the matter of being decided to do the right and stand loyally by the truth whatever comes.
There are things that test our HUMILITY. There are plenty of people who for their own purposes, will flatter us and try to make us think that we are great people, or that we have done some great thing. They will praise us and flatter us for some selfish purpose. If we need what they say - then we may become puffed up over it, and come to esteem ourselves more highly than we ought.
If we do something that is praise-worthy - we very often find within ourselves a feeling of having done so well, that we become elated over it. This also is a test of our humility. Let us keep our heart humble, no matter how much God blesses us. No matter how much praise comes to us, no matter how many things are said in our favor - let us keep balanced, and let not our humility be turned into pride.
There are things that test our LOVE. Can we love God just as much after He has let us pass through a hard trial, as we did before? If our brethren do something to wound us - can we still love them? If people misunderstand us and attribute wrong motives to us - can we still love them? These are the test that count. These are the tests that test love. These are the things that prove whether it is genuine or not. If we are despised and persecuted, misrepresented and abused - can we still love? If people are our enemies, can we still love them?
There are trials that test our STEADFASTNESS - whether or not we will be patient and endure until God sees that it is enough, and takes us out of the fire. Other things test our patience. These are often very small things, and the smaller they are, the more they test our patience. Sometimes we need to keep a good hold upon ourselves and "let patience have her perfect work," that we may be "perfect and entire, lacking nothing." No matter in what way we are tested, if we have a will to be true, God will see to it that we have grace to trust Him, so that we may overcome and be " more than conquerors through Him that loved us" (Romans 8:37).
~Charles Naylor~
(continued with # 7)
Different Kinds of Trials
Some trials test us in one way and some in another.
Some test our COURAGE. satan sometimes tries to frighten us by making a great show of threatening. Sometimes he makes things look very dark. He whispers to us that we shall surely be overwhelmed. If we but have courage to meet these - then we shall be able to overcome them. Often we have but to face them boldly, in order to chase them off the ground and to stand victorious on the field of battle.
Other trials test our FAITH. When sickness or disease take hold of us - it is then that faith is tested. When the adversary tries to bring doubts in our minds about God's faithfulness or the truth of His Word, and the faithfulness of His people - then faith is the weapon that we need to use to overcome him.
There are trials that test our LOYALTY. We are brought face to face with the question whether we will be loyal to God and His truth - or whether we will take some seemingly easier way and compromise His truth for the sake of getting off easier ourselves. We are often put in a position where our loyalty is tested, where we have to stand by the truth without deviating from it in the slightest degree, no matter what comes.
Sometimes we must make a choice between Christ and our friends. The question is then one of loyalty. To whom we be true - Christ or our friends? To whom shall we submit ourselves, and whom shall we obey? He has said, "Be faithful unto death." Shall we do it? Shall we do it, no matter what it means nor how long a struggle it means? The battle is half won, when we fully decided to stand loyal whatever comes.
Battles of this sort may be decided before we enter into them, and then we have only the fighting to do. The result is certain. The old saying, "Well begun, is half done," is certainly true in the Christian life, especially when it comes to the matter of being decided to do the right and stand loyally by the truth whatever comes.
There are things that test our HUMILITY. There are plenty of people who for their own purposes, will flatter us and try to make us think that we are great people, or that we have done some great thing. They will praise us and flatter us for some selfish purpose. If we need what they say - then we may become puffed up over it, and come to esteem ourselves more highly than we ought.
If we do something that is praise-worthy - we very often find within ourselves a feeling of having done so well, that we become elated over it. This also is a test of our humility. Let us keep our heart humble, no matter how much God blesses us. No matter how much praise comes to us, no matter how many things are said in our favor - let us keep balanced, and let not our humility be turned into pride.
There are things that test our LOVE. Can we love God just as much after He has let us pass through a hard trial, as we did before? If our brethren do something to wound us - can we still love them? If people misunderstand us and attribute wrong motives to us - can we still love them? These are the test that count. These are the tests that test love. These are the things that prove whether it is genuine or not. If we are despised and persecuted, misrepresented and abused - can we still love? If people are our enemies, can we still love them?
There are trials that test our STEADFASTNESS - whether or not we will be patient and endure until God sees that it is enough, and takes us out of the fire. Other things test our patience. These are often very small things, and the smaller they are, the more they test our patience. Sometimes we need to keep a good hold upon ourselves and "let patience have her perfect work," that we may be "perfect and entire, lacking nothing." No matter in what way we are tested, if we have a will to be true, God will see to it that we have grace to trust Him, so that we may overcome and be " more than conquerors through Him that loved us" (Romans 8:37).
~Charles Naylor~
(continued with # 7)
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