Heaven # 2
We presume in Heaven we shall love and delight in some more than others. Special sympathies will link certain souls together. There are men described in the Bible, and in Church history, to whom our affections are peculiarly drawn forth. And why may not their society be ought hereafter above that of others? Is it idle speculation to suppose that fellowship with them may receive the highest zest, from the gratification of curiosity respecting their manner of life, opinions, achievements, trials, and history?
And will not those who have been friends here, be friends there? It is true that "they neither marry nor are given in marriage;" but these words of Christ plainly refer simply to the matrimonial bonds hereafter between those who have sustained the relationship on earth.
I see no reason why those who have been dearest friends on earth should not, when admitted to that happy state, continue to be so, with full knowledge and recollection of their former friendship. If a man is still to continue a social being, and capable of friendship, it seems contrary to all probability, that he should cast off of forget his former friends, who are partakers with him of the same exaltation. He will be changed, and so will they -
"That so before the judgment seat,
Though changed and glorified each face,
Not unremembered we may meet
For endless ages to embrace!"
There are some whom we fully expect to meet in heaven, who have been our fellow-laborers and sufferers in the kingdom and patience of Jesus Christ. What a joy it will be to recognize those dear ones. There are some whom we hope to meet, though at present they give no signs which are decisive of their having the new life of the Spirit of God; but we look for the answer to our prayers, and the crown of our labors when we are gone, in their salvation and union with us in Life's realm of light - and what a joy it will be to meet them there!
There are others, respecting whom we have little or ho hope at all, who are living earthly, sordid, sensual lives, who seem to be rejecting holy influence; but, when the grass shall have grown some summers, and the winds whistled some winters over our grave - a sermon may strike them, a book arrest them a thought penetrate them, and awaken remembrances of truths they now labor to forget - they may turn to God after all. What joy to recognize them hereafter! to find them by our side - to say "And are you here? Thank God, indeed."
To meet in Heaven with friends and relatives who have gone before us, or who may be left behind us; to embrace some on the shores of immortality, like mariners escaped from shipwreck; to meet such as were part of ourselves, our children; "No traveler lost - a family in heaven" - this speaks to the deepest sensibilities of human nature; this brings before us an element of bliss enshrined among our dearest hopes.
The circulation of feelings that constitute on earth the soul of domestic happiness, and the secret of intimate friendship, is sometimes injurious in its influence by drawing away the heart from God. The lovely gourd under whose shadow we repose, may hide from us the beams of the Son of Righteousness. The friends with whom we take sweet counsel, may occasion us to forget our resting place. Sympathy and love may prove a snare. But in Heaven the affections will be balanced. Friends will be loved, but not supremely. God will be the chief object of regard, and gratitude, and praise: "Oh glorious state and coming time, wherein all evil shall be done away, and all good perfected! when the intensity of human affection shall no longer interfere with the bright serenity of holy love, but both be conjoined in one inexplicable bond! where myriads shall be loved as now we love our friends, and friends be loved as now we ought to love our God; and God be loved and admired and worshiped, and understood and delighted in, with a reverence and a rapture, an affinity and a comprehension, with human sentiment purified, and divine capacity superadded, more than ever saints conceived - more than ever angels knew!"
In the Bible the manifestation of the Divine presence and glory is exhibited as the mainspring of celestial bliss. The psalmist in contemplating the subject exclaims, "In Your presence is fullness of joy, and at Your right hand pleasures for evermore!" Paul represents the glory of God as the principal object of the believer's hope. Of the manner in which the Divine Being will reveal Himself to the saints after the resurrection, it is impossible to conceive. Doubtless there will be methods of communication employed suited to their perfect nature, methods at once spiritual, distinct, and impressive. Is it not reasonable to suppose that, introduced to the immediate presence of God - imperfections of the Divine glory will be received, such as even the Bible could never impart? May not the apostle have had this thought in his mind when he says, "We shall know, even as we are known!" And did not John entertain a kindred idea when he employed the astonishing expression, "We shall see Him as He is!"
~John Stoughton~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, July 11, 2020
Saturday, July 4, 2020
Heaven! # 1
Heaven! # 1
Heaven is represented in the New Testament as a social state. Jesus speaks of it as His Father's house, where there "are many mansions." Paul alludes to "the family of Heaven," and to "the innumerable company, the spirits of the just made perfect, and the assembly of the church of the first-born." John brings before us an immense multitude, redeemed out of every nation, kindred, people, and tongue; constituting, with the angelic hosts, the community of the skies.
Man is formed for social life. Unfitted for the solitude of the desert - his energies expand, his character improves, his joys are multiplied and heightened in society. The distinguishing principles of human nature will no doubt be preserved in Heaven, and social tendencies will there find perpetual and undisturbed sources of gratification.
Some people conceive of Heaven as the furthest possible removed from earth - as affording a contrast to it in every respect. But does not the Scripture revelation of the future, under all kinds of images drawn from the present life, rather lead us to believe, that hereafter our condition will resemble what it is now, so far as that can be consistently with perfect holiness and perfect bliss? Is not this, too, most in harmony with the beautiful belief, that the eternal life of the Christian is one only spent in different worlds and under different conditions? Is it not also most rational and probable in itself? And certainly it is a view most calculated to interest our minds, and to attach our thoughts to the subject.
Some have a habit of representing Heaven in a way which, though they may think it very grand and sublime, is very uninviting to human creatures. Vast as must be the difference, in many respects, between the glorified condition of the saints and everything they have experienced here - yet I doubt whether there may not be more resemblance between the two states - the earthly and the heavenly - then some suppose.
Sins and infirmities will, of course, be excluded from the better world - the enjoyments and perfections of sincere Christians will be immensely heightened - but, if we look on the brightest and purest spots of human nature, and human life as it is here, we may be led to form, I think, reasonable conjectures as to some things that will be hereafter.
The society of Heaven will comprehend at least the myriads of the redeemed. All the excellent of the earth will form one family. Bearing in mind the intellectual and moral nature of the redeemed in glory, we see at once that the fellowship of Heaven must be perfect. How sublime and holy will be their converse, wedded to each other in the ties of an indissoluble affection; and freed from those trifling and frivolous affairs which here obtain and even require so much attention, and bring so much annoyance. In Heaven, no obstruction to the enjoyment of friendship will arise from dissimilarity of views or from petulance of temper. Angry controversies can never disturb harmony, nor can indifference try love, nor can suspicion shake confidence.
Extensive as the community will be, no one in his excursions through those happy regions, will ever meet an individual whose heart will not be the mirror of his own holy heart, and whose feelings will not flow in the same direction.
Man here on earth, may be alone in society, cut off from communion when surrounded by a multitude, through his alienation from all their tastes and habits. But there, in whatever circle the redeemed saint may move, whether conversing with fellow-creatures or with angels, he will find them friends and brethren, engaged in kindred employments, and embued with the same spirit.
Looking at what seems an indestructible principle in our social nature - that is, the strong affinity we feel to some in preference to others - we cannot but think there will be special friendships formed and enjoyed hereafter. Surely, in that world of innumerale inhabitants, every one will not be known and loved alike. The idea of a sort of perfected socialism hereafter - a cosmopolitan kind of existence, in which all fellow-beings will seem the same to each - a society on the basis of an indistinguishing universal philanthropy, is certainly very repellant, even to the most loving hearts and the best of men in the present world. And we see no ground for it, either in reason or in Scripture.
~John Stoughton~
(continued with # 2)
Heaven is represented in the New Testament as a social state. Jesus speaks of it as His Father's house, where there "are many mansions." Paul alludes to "the family of Heaven," and to "the innumerable company, the spirits of the just made perfect, and the assembly of the church of the first-born." John brings before us an immense multitude, redeemed out of every nation, kindred, people, and tongue; constituting, with the angelic hosts, the community of the skies.
Man is formed for social life. Unfitted for the solitude of the desert - his energies expand, his character improves, his joys are multiplied and heightened in society. The distinguishing principles of human nature will no doubt be preserved in Heaven, and social tendencies will there find perpetual and undisturbed sources of gratification.
Some people conceive of Heaven as the furthest possible removed from earth - as affording a contrast to it in every respect. But does not the Scripture revelation of the future, under all kinds of images drawn from the present life, rather lead us to believe, that hereafter our condition will resemble what it is now, so far as that can be consistently with perfect holiness and perfect bliss? Is not this, too, most in harmony with the beautiful belief, that the eternal life of the Christian is one only spent in different worlds and under different conditions? Is it not also most rational and probable in itself? And certainly it is a view most calculated to interest our minds, and to attach our thoughts to the subject.
Some have a habit of representing Heaven in a way which, though they may think it very grand and sublime, is very uninviting to human creatures. Vast as must be the difference, in many respects, between the glorified condition of the saints and everything they have experienced here - yet I doubt whether there may not be more resemblance between the two states - the earthly and the heavenly - then some suppose.
Sins and infirmities will, of course, be excluded from the better world - the enjoyments and perfections of sincere Christians will be immensely heightened - but, if we look on the brightest and purest spots of human nature, and human life as it is here, we may be led to form, I think, reasonable conjectures as to some things that will be hereafter.
The society of Heaven will comprehend at least the myriads of the redeemed. All the excellent of the earth will form one family. Bearing in mind the intellectual and moral nature of the redeemed in glory, we see at once that the fellowship of Heaven must be perfect. How sublime and holy will be their converse, wedded to each other in the ties of an indissoluble affection; and freed from those trifling and frivolous affairs which here obtain and even require so much attention, and bring so much annoyance. In Heaven, no obstruction to the enjoyment of friendship will arise from dissimilarity of views or from petulance of temper. Angry controversies can never disturb harmony, nor can indifference try love, nor can suspicion shake confidence.
Extensive as the community will be, no one in his excursions through those happy regions, will ever meet an individual whose heart will not be the mirror of his own holy heart, and whose feelings will not flow in the same direction.
Man here on earth, may be alone in society, cut off from communion when surrounded by a multitude, through his alienation from all their tastes and habits. But there, in whatever circle the redeemed saint may move, whether conversing with fellow-creatures or with angels, he will find them friends and brethren, engaged in kindred employments, and embued with the same spirit.
Looking at what seems an indestructible principle in our social nature - that is, the strong affinity we feel to some in preference to others - we cannot but think there will be special friendships formed and enjoyed hereafter. Surely, in that world of innumerale inhabitants, every one will not be known and loved alike. The idea of a sort of perfected socialism hereafter - a cosmopolitan kind of existence, in which all fellow-beings will seem the same to each - a society on the basis of an indistinguishing universal philanthropy, is certainly very repellant, even to the most loving hearts and the best of men in the present world. And we see no ground for it, either in reason or in Scripture.
~John Stoughton~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, June 27, 2020
The Immensity of The Creator's Dominions!
The Immensity of The Creator's Dominions!
"His dominion is an everlasting dominion!" (Daniel 4:34).
"The Lord has established His throne in Heaven, and His kingdom rules over all!" (Psalm 103:19).
God is a sovereign of absolute and unlimited dominion! Reason and revelation both teach us that God's government and authority are coextensive with His rational creation. His government reaches to the remotest bounds of the habitable universe!
Every angel in Heaven, every inhabitant of earth, the millions of beings that people the worlds that are above and around us - are all subjects of His divine authority.
We speak of God's government as coextensive with His moral kingdom; but this language, obviously, fails to convey to our minds adequate conceptions either of the government or of the kingdom over which it is established; for modern science has thrown open to us an extent of empire that is beyond the grasp of the mightiest and loftiest of human intellects.
With the air of telescopic power, we discover that immensity is crowded with worlds and systems, of which, before, we had no knowledge; and that this earth, instead of being the central portion of God's dominions, to which all that is visible in the heavens is tributary and secondary - is, in fact, but one amid myriads of worlds, which vastly surpass it in magnificence and splendor! We discover that the universe is of such an extent that this earth, with its islands, continents and oceans, is but a speck - a speak, the loss of which would be no more felt than the removal of a single grain of sand from the seashore!
An eloquent writer has said that there may be "an impenetrable barrier, beyond which no power, either of eye or of telescope, shall ever carry us; that, on the other side, there is a height, and depth, and length, and breadth, to which the whole of this concave and visible firmament dwindles into the insignificance of an atom! And though all which the mind of man can take in, or his imagination grasp at, were swept away - there might still remain as ample a field, over which the Divinity might expatiate, and which He might have peopled with innumerable worlds! Though this earth were to be burned up, though the trumpet of its dissolution were sounded, though yon sky were to pass away as a scroll, and every visible glory which the finger of Divinity has inscribed on it were to be put out forever - an event so awful to us, and to every world in our vicinity, by which so many suns would be extinguished, and so many varied scenes of life and of population would rush into forgetfulness - what is it in the high scale of the Almighty's workmanship? - a mere shred, which, though scattered into nothing, would leave the universe of God one entire scene of greatness and of majesty!"
Such is the immensity of the Creator's dominions - an immensity so vast that the solitude created by the destruction of all that is visible would be but a minuscule point, to the infinite mind of God!
What must be the attributes of that monarch, who, while presiding over such a kingdom, and taking within His comprehensive grasp the interests of various ranks of intelligences, as numerous, perhaps, as the worlds around us - and at the same time can notice every thought that enters my mind, every motive that influences my conduct, and every circumstance that contributes to form my character, and decide my destiny! An administration thus universal, and embodying the eternal principles of right, justice, and benevolence, must be in the highest degree powerful and glorious!
But who can describe, or even conceive of the glory of this divine government - that throws its luster upon every world, and fills immensity with its splendors!
When its grand purposes shall have been accomplished - the sublime spectacle will be presented of a universe crowded with loyal and adoring subjects. From every world will ascend, to the infinite Sovereign,anthems of praise, and the incense of holy worship. Every planet will glitter with temples, whose lofty architecture, and splendid proportions, and costly decorations, will indicate the prevalence of devotion, and the homage that is rendered to the supreme divine Governor!
"Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns!" (Rev. 19:6).
~Rufus Wheelwright Clark~
(The End)
"His dominion is an everlasting dominion!" (Daniel 4:34).
"The Lord has established His throne in Heaven, and His kingdom rules over all!" (Psalm 103:19).
God is a sovereign of absolute and unlimited dominion! Reason and revelation both teach us that God's government and authority are coextensive with His rational creation. His government reaches to the remotest bounds of the habitable universe!
Every angel in Heaven, every inhabitant of earth, the millions of beings that people the worlds that are above and around us - are all subjects of His divine authority.
We speak of God's government as coextensive with His moral kingdom; but this language, obviously, fails to convey to our minds adequate conceptions either of the government or of the kingdom over which it is established; for modern science has thrown open to us an extent of empire that is beyond the grasp of the mightiest and loftiest of human intellects.
With the air of telescopic power, we discover that immensity is crowded with worlds and systems, of which, before, we had no knowledge; and that this earth, instead of being the central portion of God's dominions, to which all that is visible in the heavens is tributary and secondary - is, in fact, but one amid myriads of worlds, which vastly surpass it in magnificence and splendor! We discover that the universe is of such an extent that this earth, with its islands, continents and oceans, is but a speck - a speak, the loss of which would be no more felt than the removal of a single grain of sand from the seashore!
An eloquent writer has said that there may be "an impenetrable barrier, beyond which no power, either of eye or of telescope, shall ever carry us; that, on the other side, there is a height, and depth, and length, and breadth, to which the whole of this concave and visible firmament dwindles into the insignificance of an atom! And though all which the mind of man can take in, or his imagination grasp at, were swept away - there might still remain as ample a field, over which the Divinity might expatiate, and which He might have peopled with innumerable worlds! Though this earth were to be burned up, though the trumpet of its dissolution were sounded, though yon sky were to pass away as a scroll, and every visible glory which the finger of Divinity has inscribed on it were to be put out forever - an event so awful to us, and to every world in our vicinity, by which so many suns would be extinguished, and so many varied scenes of life and of population would rush into forgetfulness - what is it in the high scale of the Almighty's workmanship? - a mere shred, which, though scattered into nothing, would leave the universe of God one entire scene of greatness and of majesty!"
Such is the immensity of the Creator's dominions - an immensity so vast that the solitude created by the destruction of all that is visible would be but a minuscule point, to the infinite mind of God!
What must be the attributes of that monarch, who, while presiding over such a kingdom, and taking within His comprehensive grasp the interests of various ranks of intelligences, as numerous, perhaps, as the worlds around us - and at the same time can notice every thought that enters my mind, every motive that influences my conduct, and every circumstance that contributes to form my character, and decide my destiny! An administration thus universal, and embodying the eternal principles of right, justice, and benevolence, must be in the highest degree powerful and glorious!
But who can describe, or even conceive of the glory of this divine government - that throws its luster upon every world, and fills immensity with its splendors!
When its grand purposes shall have been accomplished - the sublime spectacle will be presented of a universe crowded with loyal and adoring subjects. From every world will ascend, to the infinite Sovereign,anthems of praise, and the incense of holy worship. Every planet will glitter with temples, whose lofty architecture, and splendid proportions, and costly decorations, will indicate the prevalence of devotion, and the homage that is rendered to the supreme divine Governor!
"Hallelujah! For our Lord God Almighty reigns!" (Rev. 19:6).
~Rufus Wheelwright Clark~
(The End)
Saturday, June 20, 2020
Thirty Scripture Directions
Thirty Scripture Directions
1. "Never let the world come into God's place" (1 John 2:15).
2. Keep up the same opinion now of things of the world, that you will have when you come to die" (Matthew 16:26).
3. Be not strangers to yourselves, but often commune with your own hearts" (Psalm 4:4).
4. Begin early in the service of God, and give Him the days of your youth" ( Ecclesiastes 12:1).
5. Shun the company that shuns God and keep the company that God keeps" (Psalm 119;63).
6. Put a high value upon precious time, and lose none of it by sloth. (Ehpesians 5:16).
7. Allow a little time every day to think upon eternity. (Matthew 25:46).
8. Throughout your whole life be mindful of the chief business of life. (Philippians 2:12)
9. Let the rational soul govern, and the body be subservient to it. (1 Corinthians 9:27).
10. Study both to live and die in the exercise of repentance and godly mourning for sin. (Matthew 5:4).
11. While you strive to live a holy and righteous life (1 Peter 1:16; 2 Peter 3:11) - let it never take the place of imputed righteousness. (Romans 10:3)
12. Employ Christ as your surety in all cases, and in every strait go to Him for relief. (Hebrews 12:2).
13. As you expect to live with Christ in Heaven, study to live for Christ on earth. (2 Corinthians 5:15).
14. Cleave fast to Christ and the way of holiness, whatever it may cost you. (Acts 11:23; 2 Timothy 3:12).
15. Seek the approval of God, above that of men. (2 Corinthians 10:18).
16. Be much employed in admiring God's redeeming love, and Christ's suretyship for us. (1 John 3:1, 16).
17. Delight much in thinking upon Christ - particularly of His death and sufferings for us. ( 1 Corinthians 2:2; Galatians 6:14)
18. Treat objections raised against the Gospel, as suggestions of the enemy who is seeking the ruin of your souls. (Matt. 16:23).
19. Study much these great Gospel lessons of denying yourselves, and exalting God's free grace. (Matt. 16:24; 1 Cor. 1:31).
20 Draw all your strength for work from Christ, and present all your duties to God in Christ's name. (Isaiah 45:24; Col. 3:17).
21. In all the actions of your life, set the Lord always before you. (Psalm 16:8; 25:15).
22. Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17).
23. Spend as much time as possible in secret prayer and converse with God. (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
24. Make conscience of family religion, as well as the closet duties. (Joshua 24:15).
25. Begin and end every day with God. (Psalm 4:8; Psalm 5:3)
26. Seeing none knows what day may bring forth, spend every day as if it were to be your last. (Proverbs 27:1).
27. Sojourn in this world as pilgrims, keeping so loose from the world as to be able to pack up and be gone from it upon short warning. (1 Peter 1:17; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31).
28. Walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. (1 Thessalonians 2:12; Philippians 3:14).
29. Improve the talents God gives you for His service and glory. (Luke 19:13).
30. Let all believers be thankful to God for His distinguishing favors and mercies to them. (Psalm 116:8, 12).
~John Willison~
1. "Never let the world come into God's place" (1 John 2:15).
2. Keep up the same opinion now of things of the world, that you will have when you come to die" (Matthew 16:26).
3. Be not strangers to yourselves, but often commune with your own hearts" (Psalm 4:4).
4. Begin early in the service of God, and give Him the days of your youth" ( Ecclesiastes 12:1).
5. Shun the company that shuns God and keep the company that God keeps" (Psalm 119;63).
6. Put a high value upon precious time, and lose none of it by sloth. (Ehpesians 5:16).
7. Allow a little time every day to think upon eternity. (Matthew 25:46).
8. Throughout your whole life be mindful of the chief business of life. (Philippians 2:12)
9. Let the rational soul govern, and the body be subservient to it. (1 Corinthians 9:27).
10. Study both to live and die in the exercise of repentance and godly mourning for sin. (Matthew 5:4).
11. While you strive to live a holy and righteous life (1 Peter 1:16; 2 Peter 3:11) - let it never take the place of imputed righteousness. (Romans 10:3)
12. Employ Christ as your surety in all cases, and in every strait go to Him for relief. (Hebrews 12:2).
13. As you expect to live with Christ in Heaven, study to live for Christ on earth. (2 Corinthians 5:15).
14. Cleave fast to Christ and the way of holiness, whatever it may cost you. (Acts 11:23; 2 Timothy 3:12).
15. Seek the approval of God, above that of men. (2 Corinthians 10:18).
16. Be much employed in admiring God's redeeming love, and Christ's suretyship for us. (1 John 3:1, 16).
17. Delight much in thinking upon Christ - particularly of His death and sufferings for us. ( 1 Corinthians 2:2; Galatians 6:14)
18. Treat objections raised against the Gospel, as suggestions of the enemy who is seeking the ruin of your souls. (Matt. 16:23).
19. Study much these great Gospel lessons of denying yourselves, and exalting God's free grace. (Matt. 16:24; 1 Cor. 1:31).
20 Draw all your strength for work from Christ, and present all your duties to God in Christ's name. (Isaiah 45:24; Col. 3:17).
21. In all the actions of your life, set the Lord always before you. (Psalm 16:8; 25:15).
22. Whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (1 Corinthians 10:31; Colossians 3:17).
23. Spend as much time as possible in secret prayer and converse with God. (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
24. Make conscience of family religion, as well as the closet duties. (Joshua 24:15).
25. Begin and end every day with God. (Psalm 4:8; Psalm 5:3)
26. Seeing none knows what day may bring forth, spend every day as if it were to be your last. (Proverbs 27:1).
27. Sojourn in this world as pilgrims, keeping so loose from the world as to be able to pack up and be gone from it upon short warning. (1 Peter 1:17; 1 Corinthians 7:29-31).
28. Walk worthy of God who calls you into His own kingdom and glory. (1 Thessalonians 2:12; Philippians 3:14).
29. Improve the talents God gives you for His service and glory. (Luke 19:13).
30. Let all believers be thankful to God for His distinguishing favors and mercies to them. (Psalm 116:8, 12).
~John Willison~
Saturday, June 13, 2020
The Infernal Dungeon of Hell!
The Infernal Dungeon of Hell!
"Depart from Me, you who are cursed - into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels!" (Matthew 25:4).
Those in the infernal dungeon of hell, will undergo a variety of torments. Those who are most afflicted upon earth, have seldom any more than one malady at a time. But should they have the plague, the gout, the stone, and fever all at one time - how miserable would they think themselves! Yet all that is but like the biting of a flea - compared to those intolerable, pungent pains which those in hell endure! There, they have all the loathed variety of hell to grapple with: the unquenchable fire to burn them; a lake of burning brimstone ever choking them; eternal chains to bind them; utter darkness to affright them, and a worm of conscience which gnaws upon them eternally! Any one of these is worse to bear - than all the torments which mankind ever felt on earth!
But the torments in hell are also universal, afflicting each part of the body and soul - which renders what they suffer, most insufferable! In those illnesses which men are seized with on earth, though some parts are afflicted - other parts are free. But in hell, each member of the soul and body is continually tormented.
The eye is torments with the sight of devils, who appear in all the horrid and black shapes which sin can give them! The ear is tormented with the loud yellings and continual outcries of the damned. The nostrils are smothered with suplhurous flames. The tongue is covered with burning blisters. The whole body is rolled in liquid fire! The imagination is tormented with the thoughts of what a heaven has been lost. The memory is tormented with reflecting on those opportunities they had of being saved. The mind is tormented with considering how vainly precious time has been wasted. The understanding is tormented with the thoughts of the present pains, and future sorrows - which are to last forever! The conscience is tormented with a continual gnawing worm.
Another thing which makes the misery of hell so dreadful, is the extremity of the torments. The fire which burns is so violent that all the water in the sea can never quench it! The pains suffered are so extreme, that it is impossible they should be known by any, but those who feel them!
Another part of hell's misery is the ceaselessness of the torments. As various, as universal, and as extremely violent as they are - they are continual, also. Nor have they the least rest from them. "They will go away into eternal punishment!" (Matt. 25:46).
The company they have there, is another element of their misery. Tormenting devils and tormented souls are all the company! Dreadful shricks and howlings, and fearful blasphemies, is all the conversation!
The place in which they suffer is another thing which increases the sufferings. Hell is the epitome of all misery - a prison, a dungeon, a bottomless pit, a lake of fire and brimstone, a furnace of fire which burns to eternity, the blackness of darkness forever!
The cruelty of our tormentors is another thing which adds to the torments. The tormentors are devils, in whom there is no pity. Being tormented themselves, they take pleasure in tormenting others.
But that which makes these sufferings most grievous - is that they shall always be so - there most intolerable sufferings shall last to all eternity. "Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire!" will perpetually sound in the ears of the damned! The miserable situation they are in, shall be forever!
~John Bunyan~
(The End)
"Depart from Me, you who are cursed - into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels!" (Matthew 25:4).
Those in the infernal dungeon of hell, will undergo a variety of torments. Those who are most afflicted upon earth, have seldom any more than one malady at a time. But should they have the plague, the gout, the stone, and fever all at one time - how miserable would they think themselves! Yet all that is but like the biting of a flea - compared to those intolerable, pungent pains which those in hell endure! There, they have all the loathed variety of hell to grapple with: the unquenchable fire to burn them; a lake of burning brimstone ever choking them; eternal chains to bind them; utter darkness to affright them, and a worm of conscience which gnaws upon them eternally! Any one of these is worse to bear - than all the torments which mankind ever felt on earth!
But the torments in hell are also universal, afflicting each part of the body and soul - which renders what they suffer, most insufferable! In those illnesses which men are seized with on earth, though some parts are afflicted - other parts are free. But in hell, each member of the soul and body is continually tormented.
The eye is torments with the sight of devils, who appear in all the horrid and black shapes which sin can give them! The ear is tormented with the loud yellings and continual outcries of the damned. The nostrils are smothered with suplhurous flames. The tongue is covered with burning blisters. The whole body is rolled in liquid fire! The imagination is tormented with the thoughts of what a heaven has been lost. The memory is tormented with reflecting on those opportunities they had of being saved. The mind is tormented with considering how vainly precious time has been wasted. The understanding is tormented with the thoughts of the present pains, and future sorrows - which are to last forever! The conscience is tormented with a continual gnawing worm.
Another thing which makes the misery of hell so dreadful, is the extremity of the torments. The fire which burns is so violent that all the water in the sea can never quench it! The pains suffered are so extreme, that it is impossible they should be known by any, but those who feel them!
Another part of hell's misery is the ceaselessness of the torments. As various, as universal, and as extremely violent as they are - they are continual, also. Nor have they the least rest from them. "They will go away into eternal punishment!" (Matt. 25:46).
The company they have there, is another element of their misery. Tormenting devils and tormented souls are all the company! Dreadful shricks and howlings, and fearful blasphemies, is all the conversation!
The place in which they suffer is another thing which increases the sufferings. Hell is the epitome of all misery - a prison, a dungeon, a bottomless pit, a lake of fire and brimstone, a furnace of fire which burns to eternity, the blackness of darkness forever!
The cruelty of our tormentors is another thing which adds to the torments. The tormentors are devils, in whom there is no pity. Being tormented themselves, they take pleasure in tormenting others.
But that which makes these sufferings most grievous - is that they shall always be so - there most intolerable sufferings shall last to all eternity. "Depart from Me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire!" will perpetually sound in the ears of the damned! The miserable situation they are in, shall be forever!
~John Bunyan~
(The End)
Saturday, June 6, 2020
The Key Of Death Is In The Savfiour's Hands!
The Key Of Death Is In The Saviour's Hands!
"Do not be afraid! I am the First and the Last, the Ever-living One! I died - but see, I am alive forevermore! And I hold the keys of death, and Hades." (Revelation 1:17-18).
When it is affirmed that Jesus holds "the key of DEATH," it is plainly implied that none can pass out of this present world without His appointment. And, more, generally, that He is Lord of the living not less than of the dead, and has a thorough control over everything that can in any way affect the lives of men. An absolute power over death, necessarily presupposes a corresponding power over life and its affairs. And it is by the exercise of His providence in sustaining life - that He fulfills His purpose as to the time and mode of their departure hence.
Has the Redeemer the keys of death? Then this should mitigate the anxiety which often preys upon the mind when we look forward into futurity, and contemplate the prospect of our own death. We should remember, that as the Redeemer alone has the keys of death - nothing can happen to send us forth from the world before the time which He has appointed for our departure. Neither man nor devils can abridge the term of probation assigned to us by our gracious Master. Nor, until He is pleased to call us away, shall any power on earth or in hell prevail against us. The Redeemer is possessed of absolute power over the course of our lives on earth - and over the time and manner of our departure out of this world.
No accident, no hostile violence, no insidious snare, no dark conspiracy - can touch our life - but by His command. And surely, when we reflect on the numerous dangers to which human life is exposed - the frailty of our frame - the diseases to which it is subject - our constant exposure to fatal accidents - the malice of open or concealed enemies - it must be consolatory to know, that the key of death is in the Saviour's hands, and that, come what may, we cannot be forced out of the world, until He opens the door and bids us to come to Him!
More especially, when we are visited with disease, and threatened with a speedy termination of life - the Saviour's power over the keys of death should repress or assuage those violent anxieties as to the probability of death or of recovery - and those disquieting speculations as to the outcome of disease, and the mode of its treatment. For disease cannot kill, nor can medicine cure - without the appointment of Him who holds in His own hands the keys of life and of death! And if He has fixed the outcome of this disease - then why should we be anxious?
If death is in our cup - that cup has been put into our hands at the time fixed by unerring wisdom and infinite love! And if the door of death is opening for our departure - it is because the tender Saviour, whom we love and trust, is summoning us to be forever with Him!
Shall we, then, rebel against His appointment? Shall we doubt the love and wisdom of His determination? Or, as ignorant as we are of what is before us in this world, and of what really concerns our best interests - can we entertain the wish, that the power of determining the time of our death were wrested out of His hands and placed in our own?
True, we may have many ties that attach us to this world. We may be young, and, with the optimistic hope of youth, may cleave to life. We may be prosperous, and surrounded with many comforts. We may have a young and engaging family, whom we are loath to leave behind us to th cold charities of the world. But do we imagine that these considerations are not known to the Redeemer, or that He has not weighed them all? And if, notwithstanding, it is His will to summon us home - are we not prepared to yield up our faulty judgment to His unerring wisdom?
The duration of each man's existence on earth is determined by the Redeemer. It belongs to Him to appoint a longer or shorter period to each, as He wills. And in doing so, we have reason to be satisfied, that He determines according to the dictates of His infallible wisdom, although the reasons of His procedure must necessarily be to us, for the present, inscrutable.
We cannot tell why one dies in infancy, another in childhood, a third in the prime of manly vigor, and a fourth reserved to the period of old age. But suffice it for us, that this happens not by chance, neither is it the result of caprice of carelessness - but flows from that unerring wisdom, whose counsels are formed on a view of all possible relations and consequences. The power of death being in the hands of the Redeemer - the duration of human life is, in every instance, determined by Him. And none, therefore, ought to entertain the thought, either that death is, in one case, unduly premature, or, in another, unduly delayed. None live, either for a longer or for a shorter period, than infinite wisdom has assigned to them. Reason teaches, that to His appointment we must submit, however unwilling - it being irresistible, and far beyond our control. So, as Christians, we should learn to acquiesce in it cheerfully, as the appointment of One who cannot err.
~James Buchanan~
(The End)
"Do not be afraid! I am the First and the Last, the Ever-living One! I died - but see, I am alive forevermore! And I hold the keys of death, and Hades." (Revelation 1:17-18).
When it is affirmed that Jesus holds "the key of DEATH," it is plainly implied that none can pass out of this present world without His appointment. And, more, generally, that He is Lord of the living not less than of the dead, and has a thorough control over everything that can in any way affect the lives of men. An absolute power over death, necessarily presupposes a corresponding power over life and its affairs. And it is by the exercise of His providence in sustaining life - that He fulfills His purpose as to the time and mode of their departure hence.
Has the Redeemer the keys of death? Then this should mitigate the anxiety which often preys upon the mind when we look forward into futurity, and contemplate the prospect of our own death. We should remember, that as the Redeemer alone has the keys of death - nothing can happen to send us forth from the world before the time which He has appointed for our departure. Neither man nor devils can abridge the term of probation assigned to us by our gracious Master. Nor, until He is pleased to call us away, shall any power on earth or in hell prevail against us. The Redeemer is possessed of absolute power over the course of our lives on earth - and over the time and manner of our departure out of this world.
No accident, no hostile violence, no insidious snare, no dark conspiracy - can touch our life - but by His command. And surely, when we reflect on the numerous dangers to which human life is exposed - the frailty of our frame - the diseases to which it is subject - our constant exposure to fatal accidents - the malice of open or concealed enemies - it must be consolatory to know, that the key of death is in the Saviour's hands, and that, come what may, we cannot be forced out of the world, until He opens the door and bids us to come to Him!
More especially, when we are visited with disease, and threatened with a speedy termination of life - the Saviour's power over the keys of death should repress or assuage those violent anxieties as to the probability of death or of recovery - and those disquieting speculations as to the outcome of disease, and the mode of its treatment. For disease cannot kill, nor can medicine cure - without the appointment of Him who holds in His own hands the keys of life and of death! And if He has fixed the outcome of this disease - then why should we be anxious?
If death is in our cup - that cup has been put into our hands at the time fixed by unerring wisdom and infinite love! And if the door of death is opening for our departure - it is because the tender Saviour, whom we love and trust, is summoning us to be forever with Him!
Shall we, then, rebel against His appointment? Shall we doubt the love and wisdom of His determination? Or, as ignorant as we are of what is before us in this world, and of what really concerns our best interests - can we entertain the wish, that the power of determining the time of our death were wrested out of His hands and placed in our own?
True, we may have many ties that attach us to this world. We may be young, and, with the optimistic hope of youth, may cleave to life. We may be prosperous, and surrounded with many comforts. We may have a young and engaging family, whom we are loath to leave behind us to th cold charities of the world. But do we imagine that these considerations are not known to the Redeemer, or that He has not weighed them all? And if, notwithstanding, it is His will to summon us home - are we not prepared to yield up our faulty judgment to His unerring wisdom?
The duration of each man's existence on earth is determined by the Redeemer. It belongs to Him to appoint a longer or shorter period to each, as He wills. And in doing so, we have reason to be satisfied, that He determines according to the dictates of His infallible wisdom, although the reasons of His procedure must necessarily be to us, for the present, inscrutable.
We cannot tell why one dies in infancy, another in childhood, a third in the prime of manly vigor, and a fourth reserved to the period of old age. But suffice it for us, that this happens not by chance, neither is it the result of caprice of carelessness - but flows from that unerring wisdom, whose counsels are formed on a view of all possible relations and consequences. The power of death being in the hands of the Redeemer - the duration of human life is, in every instance, determined by Him. And none, therefore, ought to entertain the thought, either that death is, in one case, unduly premature, or, in another, unduly delayed. None live, either for a longer or for a shorter period, than infinite wisdom has assigned to them. Reason teaches, that to His appointment we must submit, however unwilling - it being irresistible, and far beyond our control. So, as Christians, we should learn to acquiesce in it cheerfully, as the appointment of One who cannot err.
~James Buchanan~
(The End)
Saturday, May 30, 2020
Joy Imparted
Joy Imparted
"You have put gladness into my heart!" (Psalm 4:7).
I am sad enough at times. I get looking within - and the corruptions that lurk, and work there, make me sad.
I look into the church - and lack of life, union, and love there, makes me sad. I look at the world - and like David, who beheld transgressors and was grieved, I see enough there to make any Christian sad!
But my sadness often arises from my wandering from God, who is the fountain of joy; from my violating God's precepts, in keeping which there is great reward; from a view of my unlikeness to God, and unfitness to enjoy God; and at times from a sinful, slavish, painful fear of God.
At other times, I take my eye off the gospel, and get back under the law - and then a sight of its extensive demands, its fearful threatenings, and its awful curses, makes me sad.
So also, if I look at God as a just lawgiver, and an angry judge, this makes me sad.
Besides which, my repeated failures, when I have endeavored to be more spiritual and consistent; my lack of a suitable frame to love and enjoy God; and my lack of satisfaction with God's providential arrangements - these things make me sad.
But I am not always sad, for if heaviness endures for the night - then joy comes in the morning. And to my gracious God I can say, "You have put gladness into my heart!"
This He does sometimes by showing me the infinite efficacy of the atoning blood; by applying the blood to the conscience; by shedding abroad his sweet, powerful, and everlasting love in my heart; by sending the Holy Spirit to breathe upon my soul, as the Spirit of adoption and liberty; by revealing to me more clearly than heretofore, that I am accepted in the Beloved, and am pleasant in His sight; by showing me my interest in, and title to - the many exceeding great, and precious promises recorded in His Word; by manifesting His divine approbation, and treating me as His friend; by also raising my expectations, and directing my eye upward to the celestial mansions, and forward to the glorious appearing of His beloved Son!
Blessed be God, He has often put gladness in my heart, not only by revealing blessings in His Word - but by presenting them to me by His Spirit. And also by giving me the oil of joy for mourning; a sweet subject for meditation; and a glorious prospect for anticipation.
Blessed be God for a glad heart! A heart made glad by the light of His countenance, the whispers of His love, and the work and witness of the Holy Comforter! This gladness makes one holy - as well as happy; useful - as well as peaceful; and fits us for Heaven - while it makes us ornamental on earth!
Joy is a fruit that will not grow,
In nature's barren soil;
All we can boast, until Christ we know,
Is vanity and toil.
But where the Lord has planted grace,
And made His glories known;
There fruits of Heavenly joy and peace
Are found - and there alone.
A bleeding Saviour seen by faith,
A sense of pardoning love;
A hope that triumphs over death,
Give joys like those above.
To take a glimpse within the veil,
To know that God is mine;
Are springs of joy that never fail,
Unspeakable! Divine!
These are the joys which satisfy,
And sanctity the mind;
Which make the spirit mount on high,
And leave the world behind!
~James Smith~
(The End)
"You have put gladness into my heart!" (Psalm 4:7).
I am sad enough at times. I get looking within - and the corruptions that lurk, and work there, make me sad.
I look into the church - and lack of life, union, and love there, makes me sad. I look at the world - and like David, who beheld transgressors and was grieved, I see enough there to make any Christian sad!
But my sadness often arises from my wandering from God, who is the fountain of joy; from my violating God's precepts, in keeping which there is great reward; from a view of my unlikeness to God, and unfitness to enjoy God; and at times from a sinful, slavish, painful fear of God.
At other times, I take my eye off the gospel, and get back under the law - and then a sight of its extensive demands, its fearful threatenings, and its awful curses, makes me sad.
So also, if I look at God as a just lawgiver, and an angry judge, this makes me sad.
Besides which, my repeated failures, when I have endeavored to be more spiritual and consistent; my lack of a suitable frame to love and enjoy God; and my lack of satisfaction with God's providential arrangements - these things make me sad.
But I am not always sad, for if heaviness endures for the night - then joy comes in the morning. And to my gracious God I can say, "You have put gladness into my heart!"
This He does sometimes by showing me the infinite efficacy of the atoning blood; by applying the blood to the conscience; by shedding abroad his sweet, powerful, and everlasting love in my heart; by sending the Holy Spirit to breathe upon my soul, as the Spirit of adoption and liberty; by revealing to me more clearly than heretofore, that I am accepted in the Beloved, and am pleasant in His sight; by showing me my interest in, and title to - the many exceeding great, and precious promises recorded in His Word; by manifesting His divine approbation, and treating me as His friend; by also raising my expectations, and directing my eye upward to the celestial mansions, and forward to the glorious appearing of His beloved Son!
Blessed be God, He has often put gladness in my heart, not only by revealing blessings in His Word - but by presenting them to me by His Spirit. And also by giving me the oil of joy for mourning; a sweet subject for meditation; and a glorious prospect for anticipation.
Blessed be God for a glad heart! A heart made glad by the light of His countenance, the whispers of His love, and the work and witness of the Holy Comforter! This gladness makes one holy - as well as happy; useful - as well as peaceful; and fits us for Heaven - while it makes us ornamental on earth!
Joy is a fruit that will not grow,
In nature's barren soil;
All we can boast, until Christ we know,
Is vanity and toil.
But where the Lord has planted grace,
And made His glories known;
There fruits of Heavenly joy and peace
Are found - and there alone.
A bleeding Saviour seen by faith,
A sense of pardoning love;
A hope that triumphs over death,
Give joys like those above.
To take a glimpse within the veil,
To know that God is mine;
Are springs of joy that never fail,
Unspeakable! Divine!
These are the joys which satisfy,
And sanctity the mind;
Which make the spirit mount on high,
And leave the world behind!
~James Smith~
(The End)
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