Enoch Walked With God # 3
2. We must pray the prayer of faith and "pray without ceasing." Prayer is the Christian life. It is impossible for the soul to be spiritually alive and active without fervent and believing prayer. Prayer has more influence on the sanctification of the soul than all other ordinances. It is going directly to God to receive the life-giving Spirit according to an absolute and often repeated promise. "Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and you shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For everyone that asks receives, and he that seeks finds, and to him that knocks it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him." This is decisive if any language can be. The promise is absolute, and there must be an unwavering belief in the promise in order to give the application success. "If any of you lack wisdom let him ask of God, who gives to all men liberally and upbraids not, and it shall be given him. But let him ask in faith, nothing wavering; for he that wavers is like a wave of the sea driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord." But the faith inculcated is not a belief in my goodness, but in God's truth. It is a firm unwavering, confident belief that God will "give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him" aright. This strong confidence in God's truth may be exercised whatever doubts we have of our own goodness or election. If we are troubled on these points it ought not to keep us back. We may leave them to be decided afterwards, and go right to God with unlimited confidence in His truth and consequent willingness to hear the cries of all who sincerely seek Him. This was the faith of Enoch - "Before his translation he had this testimony that he pleased God. But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that comes to God must believe what? He must believe that God is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him." The only faith demanded is to "believe" in God, "that he is, and that he is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."
3. We must watch. In that most trying moment when the powers of hell were let loose upon the suffering Saviour, He gave His disciples no other direction than this, "Watch and pray that you enter not into temptation."
Secondly, watch another enemy greater than this - watch your own heart. Keep an attentive eye upon the movements of corruption within you; otherwise some evils will gather too much strength for you to resist; others will work unseen, and go in to form your character unknown to yourselves.
Thirdly, watch the motions of the Spirit upon minds. Sometimes the Spirit whispers an invitation to prayer or divine contemplation. If the suggestion is followed we may find the duties easy and pleasant, and the effect lasting. But perhaps we refuse to attend to the impulse. The consequence is, our hearts grow cold and lifeless; and then though we may attempt to pray or mediate, we find no relish for it. It may be illustrated by a passage from the Song of Solomon - "I sleep, but my heart wakes: it is the voice of my Beloved that knocks, saying Open to me, my sister, my love, my dove, my undefiled; for my head is filled with dew and my locks with the drops of the night. My Beloved put in his hand by the hole of the door, and my affections were moved by him. I rose up to open to my Beloved, and my hands dropped with myrrh and my fingers, upon the handles of the lock. I opened to my Beloved, but my Beloved had withdrawn himself and was gone: my soul failed when I called him but he gave no answer." This is enough to confirm my idea of watching and obeying the first suggestion of the Spirit of Christ.
I have thus shown what it is to walk with God, the blessed consequences, and the means. May I not now urge upon you this delightful duty? It is what you owe to the blessed God, your Father and Saviour, who has astonished heaven by His kindness to you, and whose mercies, if you are not deceived, will hold you entranced to eternity. It is what you owe Him, and it will secure you a happy life, more than all the honors and wealth of the world. It is heaven begun below. Do you wish to be happy? Then place all your cares to walk with God. Enoch walked with God three hundred years. And he has never seen cause to repent it. We are apt to think that we are not expected to aim at the superior piety of ancient saints. But why paralyze every power by which a stuporous mistake? Is not God worthy of obedience now as in the days of old? Have the increased displays of His mercy in the Gospel impaired His claims? Has the affecting scene of Calvary rendered His less lovely in the eyes of sinners? Or are the happy consequences of a walk with God worn out by time? What honor so great as to be the companion and son and favorite of Him who owns all the treasures of the universe? What better society can be found than Enoch had? Does any valuable consideration move us, or any ingenuous motive? O let us never cease to walk with God!
~Edward Griffin~
(The End)
Saturday, August 25, 2018
Enoch Walked With God # 2
Enoch Walked With God # 2
8. Another consequence of walking with God is the enjoyment of His protection. Myriads of enemies and dangers swarm in all the way to heaven; but while God is near He will not allow them to annoy us. When one of Enoch's spirit hears the thunders at a distance, his refuge is nearer than the danger, and he steps in and is safe. He hides himself where no evil or enemy, though searching for him throughout the world, can find him.
9. Another consequence of walking with God is, that we shall always have a faithful monitor at hand, to throw in timely cautions to keep us back from indiscretions and sin or to reclaim us when we have wandered. The consequence of one who walks with God is preserved tender, and God is faithful not to allow a son (or daughter) who cleaves to Him to err by His side without rebuke. To possess such a monitor is one of the greatest blessings of life. Let those who would enjoy this exalted privilege, take care never to depart from the side of their Saviour and their God.
10. Another consequence of walking with God is an enlightened view of His providence and government, a clear discernment of the glories of the heavenly world, and a peaceful assurance of His eternal love. Tell me what is happiness if this is not. What, of all the enjoyments of the world, can be exalted happiness compared with this?
11. Another consequence of walking with God is a peaceful death. In Enoch's case it was not death, but a triumphant translation. And in every other case, in proportion as a man has walked with God, his end, though he leaves his body behind, is still triumphant, or at least serene. How unspeakable a comfort, when one is struggling with the king of terrors and about to enter on eternal and unchangeable scenes, to have the "full assurance of God's love, peace of conscience, and joy in the Holy Spirit." How much better than to sink under awful fears of eternal wrath, or even under doubts which leave the soul to measure over the dark valley alone. Would you enjoy this triumph, or even this serenity in death, you must prepare for it by walking with God now.
12. Finally, another consequence of walking thus closely with God, is an enlarged share of immortal glory. In heaven time blessed inhabitants all walk with God, every day and hour. And they find it no burden but a happiness which they would not exchange for the whole creation. Why was it not then a happiness on earth? And yet for an exemplary march in that happy course, millions have found their blessedness eternally increased. The enhanced joy of a single soul for a few hours, will outweigh all the pleasures of all the wicked on earth. The time will come when that additional blessedness of a single soul, will have out-measured all the happiness enjoyed on earth from Adam to the end of the ages. How infinite the good resulting from one degree of additional faithfulness. I hope you are now prepared to give your whole attention while,
3. I state the means by which such a walk can kept up. Humility and faith, as we have already seen, are not means merely, but are involved in the very idea of a walk with God. Without these we cannot approach God, much less walk with Him. The same may be said of obedience generally. These in the inquiry are not considered so much in the light of means, as a part of the walk which means are to keep up. And yet particular acts of disobedience may be mentioned as things to be avoided and particular acts of faith may be named as means to be employed. The means involve two things, - the guarding against what is injurious and the attending to what is useful.
1. The guarding against what is injurious. It is absolutely impossible to preserve the soul in the habit of conversing with God, without avoiding improper conversation with men; not only everything false and impure or profane or malicious or revengeful or unscandid or vain. It is even said "that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by your words you shall be justified and by your words you shall be condemned.
2. Vain thoughts are another hindrance to an intimate walk with God. There cannot be a great degree of spirituality, unless the mind is habitually employed in spiritual contemplations. People who consume most of their leisure hours in thoughts of vanity, do not walk with God. It betrays a heart full of idolatry. These cold thoughts diffuse chills of death through all the soul, and can no more comport with its spiritual activity, than paralysis can comport with the activity of the body.
3. No known sin must be indulged. One indulged sin is as decisive against us as a hundred. "Whoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
4. Undue worldly affections and cares must be excluded. The cares of this world seduce the heart from God. Every worldly care necessarily draws the attention from God for a season, as we cannot fixedly attend to two things at once. Those affections and cares, are undue, obstruct our communion with God and abate our intimacy with Him. Of course they must be guarded against if we would walk with Him.
1. Let us see to what we most attend. We must punctually and earnestly attend on all the means and ordinances of God. Any neglect or irregularity or carelessness in this will cut the sinews of our spirituality, and diminish our strength to achieve victories and resist temptations. All our light and grace come through the medium of means.
~Edward Griffin~
(continued with # 3)
8. Another consequence of walking with God is the enjoyment of His protection. Myriads of enemies and dangers swarm in all the way to heaven; but while God is near He will not allow them to annoy us. When one of Enoch's spirit hears the thunders at a distance, his refuge is nearer than the danger, and he steps in and is safe. He hides himself where no evil or enemy, though searching for him throughout the world, can find him.
9. Another consequence of walking with God is, that we shall always have a faithful monitor at hand, to throw in timely cautions to keep us back from indiscretions and sin or to reclaim us when we have wandered. The consequence of one who walks with God is preserved tender, and God is faithful not to allow a son (or daughter) who cleaves to Him to err by His side without rebuke. To possess such a monitor is one of the greatest blessings of life. Let those who would enjoy this exalted privilege, take care never to depart from the side of their Saviour and their God.
10. Another consequence of walking with God is an enlightened view of His providence and government, a clear discernment of the glories of the heavenly world, and a peaceful assurance of His eternal love. Tell me what is happiness if this is not. What, of all the enjoyments of the world, can be exalted happiness compared with this?
11. Another consequence of walking with God is a peaceful death. In Enoch's case it was not death, but a triumphant translation. And in every other case, in proportion as a man has walked with God, his end, though he leaves his body behind, is still triumphant, or at least serene. How unspeakable a comfort, when one is struggling with the king of terrors and about to enter on eternal and unchangeable scenes, to have the "full assurance of God's love, peace of conscience, and joy in the Holy Spirit." How much better than to sink under awful fears of eternal wrath, or even under doubts which leave the soul to measure over the dark valley alone. Would you enjoy this triumph, or even this serenity in death, you must prepare for it by walking with God now.
12. Finally, another consequence of walking thus closely with God, is an enlarged share of immortal glory. In heaven time blessed inhabitants all walk with God, every day and hour. And they find it no burden but a happiness which they would not exchange for the whole creation. Why was it not then a happiness on earth? And yet for an exemplary march in that happy course, millions have found their blessedness eternally increased. The enhanced joy of a single soul for a few hours, will outweigh all the pleasures of all the wicked on earth. The time will come when that additional blessedness of a single soul, will have out-measured all the happiness enjoyed on earth from Adam to the end of the ages. How infinite the good resulting from one degree of additional faithfulness. I hope you are now prepared to give your whole attention while,
3. I state the means by which such a walk can kept up. Humility and faith, as we have already seen, are not means merely, but are involved in the very idea of a walk with God. Without these we cannot approach God, much less walk with Him. The same may be said of obedience generally. These in the inquiry are not considered so much in the light of means, as a part of the walk which means are to keep up. And yet particular acts of disobedience may be mentioned as things to be avoided and particular acts of faith may be named as means to be employed. The means involve two things, - the guarding against what is injurious and the attending to what is useful.
1. The guarding against what is injurious. It is absolutely impossible to preserve the soul in the habit of conversing with God, without avoiding improper conversation with men; not only everything false and impure or profane or malicious or revengeful or unscandid or vain. It is even said "that every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by your words you shall be justified and by your words you shall be condemned.
2. Vain thoughts are another hindrance to an intimate walk with God. There cannot be a great degree of spirituality, unless the mind is habitually employed in spiritual contemplations. People who consume most of their leisure hours in thoughts of vanity, do not walk with God. It betrays a heart full of idolatry. These cold thoughts diffuse chills of death through all the soul, and can no more comport with its spiritual activity, than paralysis can comport with the activity of the body.
3. No known sin must be indulged. One indulged sin is as decisive against us as a hundred. "Whoever shall keep the whole law and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all."
4. Undue worldly affections and cares must be excluded. The cares of this world seduce the heart from God. Every worldly care necessarily draws the attention from God for a season, as we cannot fixedly attend to two things at once. Those affections and cares, are undue, obstruct our communion with God and abate our intimacy with Him. Of course they must be guarded against if we would walk with Him.
1. Let us see to what we most attend. We must punctually and earnestly attend on all the means and ordinances of God. Any neglect or irregularity or carelessness in this will cut the sinews of our spirituality, and diminish our strength to achieve victories and resist temptations. All our light and grace come through the medium of means.
~Edward Griffin~
(continued with # 3)
Enoch Walked With God # 1
Enoch Walked With God # 1
"And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him" (Genesis 5:24).
Enoch was the father of the long-lived Methuselah and the great grandfather of Noah. It is said of him that he walked with God after the birth of Methuselah, three hundred years. It was a long time for a man to support a holy life and communion with God without any relapse worthy of notice. It is difficult for Christians now to do this for a single day: how remarkable then that he should have done it for the long space of three hundred years. Such approbation did his extraordinary piety gain him, that when the time came for him to leave the world, God translated him, as he afterwards did Elijah, and allowed him not to taste the bitterness of death; perhaps to show mankind what he would have done for them had they never sinned. We have many strong featured characters drawn in history. Some shine in all the brilliancy of martial achievements, and are renowned for the conquest of kingdoms Others by their counsels have swayed the fate of empires. And the deeds of these have been loudly sounded by the trumpet of fame. But more is said in praise of Enoch - this man of God in the few short words of our text, than is said of them all. A greater character is given him in four words, than is ascribed to the most renowned warriors and statesmen by the whole voice of history and poetry.
There is something very expressive in the phrase, "walked with God." The Christian life is frequently called a walk, and believers are exhorted to "walk wisely, not as fools but as wise." It is called walking before God. "Remember now how I have walked before you in truth." The figure of walking before God was drawn perhaps from the position of those who worshiped in the tabernacle and temple. The Shekinah or visible glory of God sat enthroned on the mercy seat. The worshipers stood in the outer court directly before the Shekinah. Hence the common expression of appearing before God in public worship. To walk before God meant then to lead a life of devotion.
But "Enoch walked with God." I do not find this character ascribed to any but Enoch and Noah. I will explain what is meant by this figure; show the consequences of walking with God; state the prominent means by which such a walk can be kept up.
1. I am to explain the figure. It seems to be expressive of something more intimate than the phrase to walk before God. We all know what it is for two friends to walk together, engaged in close and interesting conversation. And this is the figure by which is represented the relationship of Enoch with his God for three hundred years. The figure is well adapted. The hidden life of the Christian, his retired habit of devotion, his separation from the world, his daily, intimate, unseen communion with God, are very fitly represented by two intimate friends walking together, engrossed with each other, unmindful of all the world besides, unseeing and unseen. This general thought comprehends several particulars.
a. When two friends thus walk together their communion is secret. So is the communion between the Christian and his God. The world wonders what the Christian finds to employ himself about when alone. They wonder what supports him under trials, and renders his countenance cheerful when he has reason to be sad. Let them know then that he draws his comforts from another world; that he lives far away from this, where the changes and trials of the present state do not reach him.
b. When two friends thus walk together; their conversation is kind and sweet. So the man who walks with God pours into his Father's ear all his desires and complaints, and received his kind and comforting answers in return.
c. When two friends thus walk together their wills and governing feelings are the same; for how "can two walk together except they be agreed?" They also keep the same course, and thus are advancing towards the object. So the man who walks with God is conformed to Him in moral character. Benevolence reigns in his heart, and his open arms embrace the universe. He loves righteousness and hates iniquity. His object is the same as God's. The glory of his Father, and the happiness of the universe, constitute the one indivisible object of his pursuit. He is delighted with the government of God, and has no controversy with Him who shall reign. His will is swallowed up in the divine will. He wishes not to select for himself, but in every thing chooses that his heavenly Father should select for him. He is anxious for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, makes his requests known unto God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding, keeps his heart and mind through Christ Jesus. There are two other things implied in walking with God which are not exactly suggested by the figure.
1. The man who walks with God walks humbly. God will not walk with him otherwise; for "proud he knows afar off". The whole of man's duty is summed up in doing justly, in loving mercy, and in walking humbly with his God. The Christian with all his intimacy with his Maker, the more he sees of Him. "I have heard of you," said Job, "by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes."
2. The man who walks with God exercises a living faith. This, according to the apostle, was the main spring of all those graces which gained to Enoch the reputation of walking with God. "By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death, and was not found because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony that he pleased God: but without faith it is impossible to please Him."
2. I am to show the consequences of walking with God.
1. By thus walking with God the soul contracts a holy intimacy with Him.
2. The consequence is that it makes advances in the best of all knowledge, the knowledge of God. An intimate walk with God affords an opportunity to study His character, to see it developed in the free communications he makes, and to listen to His instructions. He is the great instructor of mankind; but his teachings are not extended to those who live estranged from Him.
3. This closer inspection and clearer discernment of God, are the most powerful means to sanctify the soul. Views of God are transforming. While we behold, as in a glass glass of the Lord, we "are changed into the same image from glory to glory."
4. A sure consequence of such an intimacy between God and the soul, is an increased mutual affection. The more the soul knows of Go the more it will love Him, and of course the more it will be beloved. What a most tender friendship did Enoch and Enoch's God contract for each other during their intimate communion for three hundred years. If we would enjoy the same blessedness, we must, like Enoch, walk with God.
5. Such an intimacy between God and the soul cannot fail to establish mutual confidence. The more God is seen the more securely can the soul commit the management of all its interests to Him, and venture its everlasting all upon the truth of His Word. On the other hand the more this confidence is found, the more God can confide in such a soul. He will not trust those to whom he can say, "I know you not;" but of those who are intimate with Him and confide in Him, He will say, "Surely they are my people, children that will not lie." It is the greatest happiness to feel this confidence in God and to know that He has this confidence in us. Let us walk with Him.
6. Such an intimacy with God will preserve us from bad company. A man who is walking with an honorable friend, is not likely to be annoyed by disagreeable intruders or to break away after low society. When the soul is in the immediate presence of God, neither sin nor satan dares to invade; neither the world nor any of its perplexing cares will venture to intrude. Every Christian knows what distressing and dangerous companions these are. If we would avoid them and more fully enjoy the profitable and delightful society of Enoch's God, we must do as Enoch did.
7. Another consequence of such a close walk with God is, that shall find support under the unavoidable trials of life. When we are in distress, very soothing is the company of a prudent and sympathizing friend, who, from the stores of his knowledge, can suggest subjects of consolation. But how much more blissfull the society of God, whose heart is all tenderness, and who can open to the soul the most comforting of all truths. There is no consolation like this. Indeed it is well worth while to be a while in the furnace, for the sake of walking there with one in "the form of the Son of God."
~Edward Griffin~
(continued with # 2)
"And Enoch walked with God; and he was not, for God took him" (Genesis 5:24).
Enoch was the father of the long-lived Methuselah and the great grandfather of Noah. It is said of him that he walked with God after the birth of Methuselah, three hundred years. It was a long time for a man to support a holy life and communion with God without any relapse worthy of notice. It is difficult for Christians now to do this for a single day: how remarkable then that he should have done it for the long space of three hundred years. Such approbation did his extraordinary piety gain him, that when the time came for him to leave the world, God translated him, as he afterwards did Elijah, and allowed him not to taste the bitterness of death; perhaps to show mankind what he would have done for them had they never sinned. We have many strong featured characters drawn in history. Some shine in all the brilliancy of martial achievements, and are renowned for the conquest of kingdoms Others by their counsels have swayed the fate of empires. And the deeds of these have been loudly sounded by the trumpet of fame. But more is said in praise of Enoch - this man of God in the few short words of our text, than is said of them all. A greater character is given him in four words, than is ascribed to the most renowned warriors and statesmen by the whole voice of history and poetry.
There is something very expressive in the phrase, "walked with God." The Christian life is frequently called a walk, and believers are exhorted to "walk wisely, not as fools but as wise." It is called walking before God. "Remember now how I have walked before you in truth." The figure of walking before God was drawn perhaps from the position of those who worshiped in the tabernacle and temple. The Shekinah or visible glory of God sat enthroned on the mercy seat. The worshipers stood in the outer court directly before the Shekinah. Hence the common expression of appearing before God in public worship. To walk before God meant then to lead a life of devotion.
But "Enoch walked with God." I do not find this character ascribed to any but Enoch and Noah. I will explain what is meant by this figure; show the consequences of walking with God; state the prominent means by which such a walk can be kept up.
1. I am to explain the figure. It seems to be expressive of something more intimate than the phrase to walk before God. We all know what it is for two friends to walk together, engaged in close and interesting conversation. And this is the figure by which is represented the relationship of Enoch with his God for three hundred years. The figure is well adapted. The hidden life of the Christian, his retired habit of devotion, his separation from the world, his daily, intimate, unseen communion with God, are very fitly represented by two intimate friends walking together, engrossed with each other, unmindful of all the world besides, unseeing and unseen. This general thought comprehends several particulars.
a. When two friends thus walk together their communion is secret. So is the communion between the Christian and his God. The world wonders what the Christian finds to employ himself about when alone. They wonder what supports him under trials, and renders his countenance cheerful when he has reason to be sad. Let them know then that he draws his comforts from another world; that he lives far away from this, where the changes and trials of the present state do not reach him.
b. When two friends thus walk together; their conversation is kind and sweet. So the man who walks with God pours into his Father's ear all his desires and complaints, and received his kind and comforting answers in return.
c. When two friends thus walk together their wills and governing feelings are the same; for how "can two walk together except they be agreed?" They also keep the same course, and thus are advancing towards the object. So the man who walks with God is conformed to Him in moral character. Benevolence reigns in his heart, and his open arms embrace the universe. He loves righteousness and hates iniquity. His object is the same as God's. The glory of his Father, and the happiness of the universe, constitute the one indivisible object of his pursuit. He is delighted with the government of God, and has no controversy with Him who shall reign. His will is swallowed up in the divine will. He wishes not to select for himself, but in every thing chooses that his heavenly Father should select for him. He is anxious for nothing, but in every thing by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, makes his requests known unto God. And the peace of God which passes all understanding, keeps his heart and mind through Christ Jesus. There are two other things implied in walking with God which are not exactly suggested by the figure.
1. The man who walks with God walks humbly. God will not walk with him otherwise; for "proud he knows afar off". The whole of man's duty is summed up in doing justly, in loving mercy, and in walking humbly with his God. The Christian with all his intimacy with his Maker, the more he sees of Him. "I have heard of you," said Job, "by the hearing of the ear, but now my eye sees you; therefore I abhor myself and repent in dust and ashes."
2. The man who walks with God exercises a living faith. This, according to the apostle, was the main spring of all those graces which gained to Enoch the reputation of walking with God. "By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death, and was not found because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony that he pleased God: but without faith it is impossible to please Him."
2. I am to show the consequences of walking with God.
1. By thus walking with God the soul contracts a holy intimacy with Him.
2. The consequence is that it makes advances in the best of all knowledge, the knowledge of God. An intimate walk with God affords an opportunity to study His character, to see it developed in the free communications he makes, and to listen to His instructions. He is the great instructor of mankind; but his teachings are not extended to those who live estranged from Him.
3. This closer inspection and clearer discernment of God, are the most powerful means to sanctify the soul. Views of God are transforming. While we behold, as in a glass glass of the Lord, we "are changed into the same image from glory to glory."
4. A sure consequence of such an intimacy between God and the soul, is an increased mutual affection. The more the soul knows of Go the more it will love Him, and of course the more it will be beloved. What a most tender friendship did Enoch and Enoch's God contract for each other during their intimate communion for three hundred years. If we would enjoy the same blessedness, we must, like Enoch, walk with God.
5. Such an intimacy between God and the soul cannot fail to establish mutual confidence. The more God is seen the more securely can the soul commit the management of all its interests to Him, and venture its everlasting all upon the truth of His Word. On the other hand the more this confidence is found, the more God can confide in such a soul. He will not trust those to whom he can say, "I know you not;" but of those who are intimate with Him and confide in Him, He will say, "Surely they are my people, children that will not lie." It is the greatest happiness to feel this confidence in God and to know that He has this confidence in us. Let us walk with Him.
6. Such an intimacy with God will preserve us from bad company. A man who is walking with an honorable friend, is not likely to be annoyed by disagreeable intruders or to break away after low society. When the soul is in the immediate presence of God, neither sin nor satan dares to invade; neither the world nor any of its perplexing cares will venture to intrude. Every Christian knows what distressing and dangerous companions these are. If we would avoid them and more fully enjoy the profitable and delightful society of Enoch's God, we must do as Enoch did.
7. Another consequence of such a close walk with God is, that shall find support under the unavoidable trials of life. When we are in distress, very soothing is the company of a prudent and sympathizing friend, who, from the stores of his knowledge, can suggest subjects of consolation. But how much more blissfull the society of God, whose heart is all tenderness, and who can open to the soul the most comforting of all truths. There is no consolation like this. Indeed it is well worth while to be a while in the furnace, for the sake of walking there with one in "the form of the Son of God."
~Edward Griffin~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, August 18, 2018
The Happiness of Being With Christ, Preferable to Continuance on Earth # 1
The Happiness of Being With Christ, Preferable to Continuance on Earth # 1
"We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body - and to be present with the Lord" (2 Cor. 5:8).
When the path of the traveler is very rough and dreary, it is natural that he should ardently long for home. So it is sometimes with the Christian pilgrim on earth. When trials abound, and sorrows press him down - he longs to reach his Father's house above. "Where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest!" This was the case with the Apostle Paul, whose afflictions, trials, and duties were very heavy. (2 Cor. preceding verses).
Sometimes too, faith and hope are in lively exercise; the Christian, like Moses, from the top of Mount Pisgah, beholds the promised land afar off, and then he ardently longs to enter the purchased inheritance.
But the Apostle was governed by the will of his Saviour, "So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it" (2 Cor. 5:9).
1. The Believer's Happiness in Heaven Consists in Being Present with the Lord.
Christ now dwells in Heaven. After His resurrection, He ascended to that magnificent abode. "I ascend to my Father, and your Father.."(John 20:17; Acts 1:11; Eph. 4:8, 9).
There He sits at the right hand of God in a state of glorious exaltation (Acts 2:33; 5:31; Phil. 2:9).
1. To be present with the Lord, implies fitness of association. And what fitness is required? Holiness, purity, similarity of spirit, spiritual relish and desires for holy and heavenly exercises. (Rev. 17:14-17.) Christ effects this by regeneration; and the good work he has begun - He will perform and finish. Hence the Apostle says, (1 John 3:1-3; Eph. 5:25-27).
2. To be with the Lord, implies a consciousness of His presence; "present with the Lord" We shall be with Him in that Heaven - our eyes will behold him there!
Job dwelt upon this truth with pleasure, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes - I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" (Job 19:25-27).
So did David, "And I - in righteousness I will see Your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing Your likeness!" (Psalm 17:15).
"They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads!" (Rev. 22:4).
"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am!" (John 14:3).
In this world, His presence is spiritual; we walk by faith, and not by sight. How different it will be to see Him as He is,and behold Him face to face!
3. To be with the Lord, implies an immediate perception of His glory. "Father, I want those you have given Me to be with me where I am, and to see My glory, the glory you have given Me because you loved Me before the creation of the world!" (John 17:24).
How wonderful, how efficacious, how rich, will His love then appear! His glory will be seen in the magnificence and immortality of His dwelling place; beauty and glory of angelic attendants; salvation of His people, so rich, so complete and eternal; provision He has made for their enjoyment through the countless ages of eternity!
4. To be with the Lord, implies to enjoy His special favor. "For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Rev. 7:17).
Jesus will behold His people through interminable ages, as the travail of His soul, the fulfillment of His sufferings, and the gems in His crown of glory.
"To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God" (Rev. 2:7). He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death" (Rev. 2:11).
5. To be with the Lord, is to praise Him. "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!" (Rev. 19:1).
6. To be present with the Lord, is to dwell with Him forever. "They shall reign forever and ever" (Rev. 22:5).
Christians are present with the Lord immediately after death.
To be present with Christ, is preferable to Continuance in life. The enjoyment of Christ's presence in Heaven will be uninterrupted... no satan to harass us, no sin to tempt us, no evil heart of unbelief to cast us down, no bodily afflictions to sorrow us... The enjoyment of His presence will be eternal.
Application:
1. This preference arises from that confident assurance which saints have of a better state, "to be absent from the body - and to be present with the Lord!"
2. The subject affords great comfort under the loss of relatives and friends. They are present with the Lord. As the faithful, they are not lost, but only gone before us.
3. Is our piety anything like that of the apostles? Are we so weaned from the world as to be willing to be absent from the body - and to be present with the Lord?
~William Nicholson~
(The End)
"We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body - and to be present with the Lord" (2 Cor. 5:8).
When the path of the traveler is very rough and dreary, it is natural that he should ardently long for home. So it is sometimes with the Christian pilgrim on earth. When trials abound, and sorrows press him down - he longs to reach his Father's house above. "Where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest!" This was the case with the Apostle Paul, whose afflictions, trials, and duties were very heavy. (2 Cor. preceding verses).
Sometimes too, faith and hope are in lively exercise; the Christian, like Moses, from the top of Mount Pisgah, beholds the promised land afar off, and then he ardently longs to enter the purchased inheritance.
But the Apostle was governed by the will of his Saviour, "So we make it our goal to please Him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it" (2 Cor. 5:9).
1. The Believer's Happiness in Heaven Consists in Being Present with the Lord.
Christ now dwells in Heaven. After His resurrection, He ascended to that magnificent abode. "I ascend to my Father, and your Father.."(John 20:17; Acts 1:11; Eph. 4:8, 9).
There He sits at the right hand of God in a state of glorious exaltation (Acts 2:33; 5:31; Phil. 2:9).
1. To be present with the Lord, implies fitness of association. And what fitness is required? Holiness, purity, similarity of spirit, spiritual relish and desires for holy and heavenly exercises. (Rev. 17:14-17.) Christ effects this by regeneration; and the good work he has begun - He will perform and finish. Hence the Apostle says, (1 John 3:1-3; Eph. 5:25-27).
2. To be with the Lord, implies a consciousness of His presence; "present with the Lord" We shall be with Him in that Heaven - our eyes will behold him there!
Job dwelt upon this truth with pleasure, "I know that my Redeemer lives, and that in the end He will stand upon the earth. And after my skin has been destroyed, yet in my flesh I will see God; I myself will see Him with my own eyes - I, and not another. How my heart yearns within me!" (Job 19:25-27).
So did David, "And I - in righteousness I will see Your face; when I awake, I will be satisfied with seeing Your likeness!" (Psalm 17:15).
"They will see His face, and His name will be on their foreheads!" (Rev. 22:4).
"And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with Me that you also may be where I am!" (John 14:3).
In this world, His presence is spiritual; we walk by faith, and not by sight. How different it will be to see Him as He is,and behold Him face to face!
3. To be with the Lord, implies an immediate perception of His glory. "Father, I want those you have given Me to be with me where I am, and to see My glory, the glory you have given Me because you loved Me before the creation of the world!" (John 17:24).
How wonderful, how efficacious, how rich, will His love then appear! His glory will be seen in the magnificence and immortality of His dwelling place; beauty and glory of angelic attendants; salvation of His people, so rich, so complete and eternal; provision He has made for their enjoyment through the countless ages of eternity!
4. To be with the Lord, implies to enjoy His special favor. "For the Lamb at the center of the throne will be their shepherd; he will lead them to springs of living water. And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes" (Rev. 7:17).
Jesus will behold His people through interminable ages, as the travail of His soul, the fulfillment of His sufferings, and the gems in His crown of glory.
"To him who overcomes, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God" (Rev. 2:7). He who overcomes will not be hurt at all by the second death" (Rev. 2:11).
5. To be with the Lord, is to praise Him. "Hallelujah! Salvation and glory and power belong to our God!" (Rev. 19:1).
6. To be present with the Lord, is to dwell with Him forever. "They shall reign forever and ever" (Rev. 22:5).
Christians are present with the Lord immediately after death.
To be present with Christ, is preferable to Continuance in life. The enjoyment of Christ's presence in Heaven will be uninterrupted... no satan to harass us, no sin to tempt us, no evil heart of unbelief to cast us down, no bodily afflictions to sorrow us... The enjoyment of His presence will be eternal.
Application:
1. This preference arises from that confident assurance which saints have of a better state, "to be absent from the body - and to be present with the Lord!"
2. The subject affords great comfort under the loss of relatives and friends. They are present with the Lord. As the faithful, they are not lost, but only gone before us.
3. Is our piety anything like that of the apostles? Are we so weaned from the world as to be willing to be absent from the body - and to be present with the Lord?
~William Nicholson~
(The End)
Quotes From Charles Stanley
Finishing Well
In a race, what’s most important isn’t how one begins but how one finishes. Prizes are awarded only for crossing the finish line, not for great starts. And this is also true for the Christian life. Hebrews 12:1 encourages us to “run with endurance the race that is set before us.” In 2 Timothy 4:9-11, we see a contrast between two runners: Mark (also known as John Mark) and Demas.
When Paul and Barnabas left for their first missionary trip, Mark went with them. But early in the journey, he left to return home (Acts 13:5; Acts 13:13). From Paul’s perspective, this seemed like a desertion, so a couple of years after that, he refused to let Mark come on a second missionary trip (Acts 15:36-40).
Although Mark had not begun well, Scripture shows us that the situation changed. On nearing death two decades later, Paul requested Mark’s company because the younger man was “useful to [him] for service” (2 Tim. 4:11). Mark had proven himself faithful by persevering in obedience and service to the Lord, and eventually he wrote the gospel bearing his name.
Demas, on the other hand, though also called a “fellow worker” of Paul’s (Philem. 1:24), deserted the apostle several years later because of love for worldly things (2 Tim. 4:10). It’s so easy to get caught up in the pleasures and pursuits of earthly life and forget that as Christians, we have a higher priority.
That’s why Scripture reminds us to lay aside every encumbrance hindering our race (Heb. 12:1-2). Once we cross the finish line and see Christ face-to-face, all worldly pleasures will fade in comparison to the joy of hearing Him say, “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matt. 25:21 NIV).
~Charles F. Stanley~
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If I was qualified to search out the best Christian in the kingdom(Letters of John Newton)
"This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at My Word." Isaiah 66:2
Indeed, I believe that the most lively graces, and the most solid comfort--are known among the Lord's poor and unlearned people. Every outward advantage has a tendency to nourish the pride of the human heart--and requires a proportionate knowledge of the deceitful selfand the evil of sin to counter-balance them.
It is no less difficult to have great abilities, than great riches--without trusting in them. 1 Timothy 6:17
If I was qualified to search out the best Christian in the kingdom--I would not expect to find him either in a seminary or in a pulpit. I would give the palm to that person who had the lowest thoughts of himself, and the most admiring and loving thoughts of the Savior. And perhaps this person would be some bed-ridden old man or woman--or a pauper in a parish workhouse.
The Lord's regard to us, is not to be measured by our theological knowledge--but rather by the simplicity of our dependence, and the uniform tenor of our obedience to His will.
"Humble yourselves before the Lord--and He will lift you up." James 4:10
"This is the one I esteem: he who is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at My Word." Isaiah 66:2
Indeed, I believe that the most lively graces, and the most solid comfort--are known among the Lord's poor and unlearned people. Every outward advantage has a tendency to nourish the pride of the human heart--and requires a proportionate knowledge of the deceitful selfand the evil of sin to counter-balance them.
It is no less difficult to have great abilities, than great riches--without trusting in them. 1 Timothy 6:17
If I was qualified to search out the best Christian in the kingdom--I would not expect to find him either in a seminary or in a pulpit. I would give the palm to that person who had the lowest thoughts of himself, and the most admiring and loving thoughts of the Savior. And perhaps this person would be some bed-ridden old man or woman--or a pauper in a parish workhouse.
The Lord's regard to us, is not to be measured by our theological knowledge--but rather by the simplicity of our dependence, and the uniform tenor of our obedience to His will.
"Humble yourselves before the Lord--and He will lift you up." James 4:10
______________________________
Maintaining a Quiet Spirit
When conflict arises, we oftentimes want to rush in and defend our position. Perhaps we even feel justified in blaming others. However, James 1:19 gives different advice for dealing with tension and disputes: “Be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.” In other words, more can be accomplished through a calm approach to the situation. Scripture also suggests that we ...
Pray. First, we should ask the Lord to guard our mouth and give us the right words to say (Luke 12:12). Also, we ought to request discernment with regard to the root issue and insight as to whether we might be at fault.
See with divine perspective. Our sovereign Lord works every situation for the believer’s benefit (Rom. 8:28). Not only does God use difficulties to teach us, but He also allows us to demonstrate the life of Christ by the way we respond.
Forgive. Even if someone has hurt us by causing the conflict, we should forgive. Jesus died to pardon all of our sin, and we, in turn, should forgive others. In fact, if we don’t, our lives will become burdened by resentment and broken relationships.
Respond. If we have done something wrong, we must apologize and ask forgiveness. We should express appreciation that the other person took time to share his concern. Then we ought to acknowledge his feelings and carefully consider his comments.
How do you respond to conflict? Pray for the strength to stay calm and do what is right—even during difficult, emotional situations.
~Charles F. Stanley~
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Why are we so apt to be captivated with the gewgaws of the world?
(Letters of John Newton)
The holiness of a saved sinner consists chiefly of low thoughts of self--and high thoughts of the Savior. These will always be in proportion.
(Letters of John Newton)
The holiness of a saved sinner consists chiefly of low thoughts of self--and high thoughts of the Savior. These will always be in proportion.
The lower we appear to ourselves--the more highly we shall esteem Him.
The more we are enthralled with His glory--the more we shall sink in our own eyes.
The more we are enthralled with His glory--the more we shall sink in our own eyes.
Could you find the man who has most of these properties--you would find the most holy man upon earth. And as we advance in these--we shall, in the same degree, attain to everything else that properly belongs to holiness.
Why are we liable to anger, pride, selfishness, and other evil tempers?
Because we think too highly of ourselves, and suppose that we are not treated as we deserve to be.
Why are we so apt to be captivated with the gewgaws of the world?
Because we are so faintly impressed with a real sense of the excellence of Jesus.
We say indeed that His loving-kindness is better than life, but if we really and fully thought so--then hard things would be easy, and bitter things would be sweet, and there would be no room for impatience or discontent in our hearts.
But alas! all within us, and all around us--is defective and polluted!
"Hold me up--and I shall be safe!" Psalm 119:117
Why are we liable to anger, pride, selfishness, and other evil tempers?
Because we think too highly of ourselves, and suppose that we are not treated as we deserve to be.
Why are we so apt to be captivated with the gewgaws of the world?
Because we are so faintly impressed with a real sense of the excellence of Jesus.
We say indeed that His loving-kindness is better than life, but if we really and fully thought so--then hard things would be easy, and bitter things would be sweet, and there would be no room for impatience or discontent in our hearts.
But alas! all within us, and all around us--is defective and polluted!
"Hold me up--and I shall be safe!" Psalm 119:117
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Responding to Conflict
Conflict is a part of life. It may originate from misunderstandings, a difference of opinion, or deep convictions. But that discord often stems from envy, pride, or hunger for power.
We can’t control another person’s response to conflict; we’re accountable only for how we handle it. Many people naturally have unhealthy reactions to disagreement. Some repress any discomfort, ignoring the issue or pretending it doesn’t exist. Others place blame while defending themselves.
These negative responses often indicate one of three underlying scenarios. First, past hurt can leave a person emotionally insecure and unable to handle criticism. Second, perfectionists set such high benchmarks that they can never live up to their own standards—then it’s hard to acknowledge mistakes. Finally, pride makes it hard for some people to admit when they’re wrong or to ask forgiveness.
Unless we respond correctly to conflict, we limit our potential to grow, because we aren’t learning what the Lord is teaching. Also, we develop an unforgiving spirit, which leads to bitterness and resentment. Eventually, such an attitude can destroy relationships.
There is a better way to handle conflict, modeled by our Savior. Luke 23:34 reveals how Jesus responded when He was wrongly accused, unfairly judged, and crucified despite His innocence. Jesus prayed, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.”
How do you deal with accusations and criticism? Forgiveness is the only response that will keep you from becoming a victim of bitterness.
~Charles F. Stanley~
Saturday, August 11, 2018
The Cross of Christ # 6
The Cross of Christ # 6
(a) Are you living in any kind of sin? Are you following the course of this world, and neglecting your soul? "Behold the Cross." See there how Jesus loved you! See there what Jesus suffered to prepare for you a way of salvation. Yes! for you that blood was shed! For you those hands and feet were pierced with nails! For you that body hung in agony on the Cross! You are those whom Jesus loved, and for whom He died! Surely the thought of the Cross should draw you to repentance. Oh, that it might be so this very day! Come, and this very day you shall have eternal life! How will you ever escape if you neglect so great salvation? None surely will be so deep in hell as those who despise the Cross!
(b) Are you inquiring the way toward heaven? Are you seeking salvation - but doubtful whether you can find it? Are you doubting that Christ will receive you? To you also I say this day, "Behold the Cross of Christ." Here is encouragement if you really want it. Draw near to the Lord Jesus with boldness, for nothing need keep you back. His arms are open to receive you - His heart is full of love towards you. He has made a way by which you may approach Him with confidence. Think of the Cross. Draw near, and fear not.
(c) Are you an unlearned man? Are you desirous to get to heaven, and perplexed and brought to a stand-still by difficulties in the Bible which you cannot explain? To you also I say this day, "Behold the Cross of Christ". Read there the Father's love and the Son's compassion. Surely they are written in great plain letters, which none can mistake. What though at present you cannot reconcile your own utter corruption and your own responsibility? Look at the Cross. Does not that Cross tell you that Jesus is a mighty, loving, ready Saviour? Does it not make one thing plain, and that is that it is all your own fault if you are not saved? Oh, get hold of the truth, and hold it fast!
(d) Are you a distressed believer? Is your heart pressed down with sickness, tried with disappointments, overburdened with cares? To you also I say, "Behold the Cross of Christ?" Think whose hand it is that chastens you. It is the hand of Him who was crucified! It is the same hand which in love to your soul was nailed to the accursed tree. Surely that thought should comfort and hearten you. Surely you should say to yourself, "A crucified Saviour will never lay upon me anything that is not for my good. It must be well."
(e) Are you a believer that longs to be more holy? Are you one that finds his heart too ready to love earthly things? To you also I say, "Behold the Cross of Christ." Look at the Cross, think of the Cross, meditate on the Cross, and then go and set your affections on the world if you can. I believe that holiness is nowhere learned so well as on Calvary. I believe you cannot look much at the Cross without feeling your will sanctified, and your tastes made more spiritual. The Cross darkens the false splendor of this world. Keep on every day steadily looking at the Cross of Christ, and you will soon say of the world, as the poet does -
Its pleasures now no longer please,
No more content afford;
Far from my heart be joys like these,
Now I have seen the Lord.
As by the light of opening day
The stars are all concealed,
So earthly pleasures fade away
When Jesus is revealed.
(f) Are you a dying believer? Are you drawing near to that solemn hour, when soul and body must part for a season, and you must launch into a world unknown? Oh, look steadily at the Cross by faith, and you shall be kept in peace! Fix the eyes of your mind firmly on Jesus crucified, and He shall deliver you from all your fears. Though you walk through dark places, He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Sit under the shadow of the Cross to the very last, and its fruit shall be sweet to your taste. "Ah," said a dying missionary, "there is but one thing needful on a death-bed, and that is to feel one's arms around the Cross!"
I lay these thoughts before you. What you think now about the Cross, I cannot tell. But I can wish you nothing better than this - that you may be able to say with the Apostle Paul, before you die or meet the Lord, "God forbid that I should boast - except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ!"
~J. C. Ryle~
(The End)
(a) Are you living in any kind of sin? Are you following the course of this world, and neglecting your soul? "Behold the Cross." See there how Jesus loved you! See there what Jesus suffered to prepare for you a way of salvation. Yes! for you that blood was shed! For you those hands and feet were pierced with nails! For you that body hung in agony on the Cross! You are those whom Jesus loved, and for whom He died! Surely the thought of the Cross should draw you to repentance. Oh, that it might be so this very day! Come, and this very day you shall have eternal life! How will you ever escape if you neglect so great salvation? None surely will be so deep in hell as those who despise the Cross!
(b) Are you inquiring the way toward heaven? Are you seeking salvation - but doubtful whether you can find it? Are you doubting that Christ will receive you? To you also I say this day, "Behold the Cross of Christ." Here is encouragement if you really want it. Draw near to the Lord Jesus with boldness, for nothing need keep you back. His arms are open to receive you - His heart is full of love towards you. He has made a way by which you may approach Him with confidence. Think of the Cross. Draw near, and fear not.
(c) Are you an unlearned man? Are you desirous to get to heaven, and perplexed and brought to a stand-still by difficulties in the Bible which you cannot explain? To you also I say this day, "Behold the Cross of Christ". Read there the Father's love and the Son's compassion. Surely they are written in great plain letters, which none can mistake. What though at present you cannot reconcile your own utter corruption and your own responsibility? Look at the Cross. Does not that Cross tell you that Jesus is a mighty, loving, ready Saviour? Does it not make one thing plain, and that is that it is all your own fault if you are not saved? Oh, get hold of the truth, and hold it fast!
(d) Are you a distressed believer? Is your heart pressed down with sickness, tried with disappointments, overburdened with cares? To you also I say, "Behold the Cross of Christ?" Think whose hand it is that chastens you. It is the hand of Him who was crucified! It is the same hand which in love to your soul was nailed to the accursed tree. Surely that thought should comfort and hearten you. Surely you should say to yourself, "A crucified Saviour will never lay upon me anything that is not for my good. It must be well."
(e) Are you a believer that longs to be more holy? Are you one that finds his heart too ready to love earthly things? To you also I say, "Behold the Cross of Christ." Look at the Cross, think of the Cross, meditate on the Cross, and then go and set your affections on the world if you can. I believe that holiness is nowhere learned so well as on Calvary. I believe you cannot look much at the Cross without feeling your will sanctified, and your tastes made more spiritual. The Cross darkens the false splendor of this world. Keep on every day steadily looking at the Cross of Christ, and you will soon say of the world, as the poet does -
Its pleasures now no longer please,
No more content afford;
Far from my heart be joys like these,
Now I have seen the Lord.
As by the light of opening day
The stars are all concealed,
So earthly pleasures fade away
When Jesus is revealed.
(f) Are you a dying believer? Are you drawing near to that solemn hour, when soul and body must part for a season, and you must launch into a world unknown? Oh, look steadily at the Cross by faith, and you shall be kept in peace! Fix the eyes of your mind firmly on Jesus crucified, and He shall deliver you from all your fears. Though you walk through dark places, He will be with you. He will never leave you nor forsake you. Sit under the shadow of the Cross to the very last, and its fruit shall be sweet to your taste. "Ah," said a dying missionary, "there is but one thing needful on a death-bed, and that is to feel one's arms around the Cross!"
I lay these thoughts before you. What you think now about the Cross, I cannot tell. But I can wish you nothing better than this - that you may be able to say with the Apostle Paul, before you die or meet the Lord, "God forbid that I should boast - except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ!"
~J. C. Ryle~
(The End)
The Cross of Christ # 5
The Cross of Christ # 5
(e) Would I learn how to be contented and cheerful under all the cares and concerns of life? What school shall I go to? How shall I attain this state of mind most easily? Shall I look at the sovereignty of God, the wisdom of God, the providence of God, the love of God? It is well to do so. But I have a better argument still. I will look at the Cross of Christ. I feel that "He who spared not His only be-gotten Son - but delivered Him up to die for me, will surely with Him give me all things" that I really need. (Rom. 8:32). He who endured such agony, sufferings, and pain for my soul, will surely not withhold from me anything that is really good. He who has done the greater things for me, will doubtless do the lesser things also. He who gave His own blood to procure me a home in heaven, will unquestionably supply me with all that is really profitable for me by the way. There is no school for learning contentment that can be compared with the foot of the Cross!
(f) Would I gather arguments for hoping that I shall never be cast away? Where shall I go to find them? Shall I look at my own graces and gifts? Shall I take comfort in my own faith, and love, and penitence, and zeal, and prayer? Shall I turn to my own heart, and say, "this same heart will never be false and cold?" Oh, no! God forbid! I will look at the Cross of Christ. This is my grand argument. This is my main stay. I cannot think that He who went through such sufferings to redeem my soul, will let that soul perish after all, when it has once cast itself on Him. Oh, no! what Jesus paid for, Jesus will surely keep. He paid dearly for it. He will not let it easily be lost. He called me to Himself when I was a dark sinner - He will never forsake me after I have believed. When satan tempts us to doubt whether Christ's people will be kept from falling, we should tell satan to look at the Cross.
And now, will you marvel that I said all Christians ought to boast in the Cross? Will you not wonder that any can hear of the Cross and remain unmoved? I declare I know no greater proof of man's depravity, than the fact that thousands of so-called Christians see nothing in the Cross. Well may our hearts be called stony - well may the eyes of our mind be called blind - well may our whole nature be called diseased - well may we all be called dead, when the Cross of Christ is heard of and yet neglected. Surely we may take up the words of the prophet, and say, "Hear, O heavens, and be astonished O earth; an astounding and a horrible thing is done," - Christ was crucified for sinners, and yet many Christians live as if He was never crucified at all!
(a) The Cross is the grand peculiarity of the Christian religion. Other religions have laws and moral precepts, forms and ceremonies, rewards and punishments. But other religions cannot tell us of a dying Saviour. They cannot show us the Cross. This is the crown and glory of the Gospel. This is that special comfort which belongs to it alone. Miserable indeed is that religious teaching which calls itself Christian, and yet contains nothing of the Cross. A man who teaches in this way, might as well profess to explain the solar system and yet tell his hearers nothing about the sun.
(b) The Cross is the strength of a minister. I for one would not be without it for all the world. Let others, if they will, preach the law and morality; let others hold forth the terrors of hell, and the joys of heaven; let others drench their congregations with teachings about the sacraments and the church; give me the Cross of Christ! This is the only lever which has ever turned the world upside down, and made people forsake their sins. A man may begin preaching with a perfect knowledge of Latin, Greek, and Hebrew; but he will do little or no good among his hearers unless he knows something of the Cross. This is the preaching that the Holy Spirit delights to bless.
(c) The Cross is the secret of all missionary success. Nothing but this has ever moved the hearts of the heathen. This is the weapon which has won victories over hearts of every kind, in every quarter of the globe. Never indeed did the devil triumph so thoroughly, as when he persuaded the Jesuit missionaries in China to keep back the story of the Cross!
(d) The Cross is the foundation of a Church's prosperity. No church will ever be honored in which Christ crucified is not continually lifted up - nothing whatever can make up for the lack of the Cross. Without it all things may be done decently and in order; without it there may be splendid ceremonies, beautiful music, gorgeous churches, learned ministers, crowded communion tables, huge collections for the poor. But without the Cross no good will be done; dark hearts will not be enlightened, proud hearts will not be humbled, mourning hearts will not be comforted, fainting hearts will not be cheered. They may amuse some - they will feed none! Whenever a Church keeps back Christ crucified, or puts anything whatever in that foremost place which Christ crucified should always have, from that moment a Church ceases to be useful! Without Christ crucified, a church is little better than a well without water, a barren fig tree, a sleeping watchman, a silent trumpet, a speechless witness, a messenger without tidings, a lighthouse without light, a stumbling-block to weak believers, a comfort to infidels, a hot-bed for formalism, a joy to the devil, and an offence to God.
(e) The Cross is the grand center of union among true Christians. Our outward differences are many, without doubt. But, after all, what shall we hear about most of these differences in heaven? Nothing, most probably - nothing at all! Does a man really and sincerely boast in the Cross of Christ? That is the grand question. If he does, he is my brother - we are traveling on the same road; we are journeying towards a home where Christ is all, and everything outward in religion will be forgotten. Union on outward points only, is union only for a time - union about the Cross is union for eternity. Error on outward points is only a skin-deep disease - error about the Cross is disease at the heart. Union about outward points is a mere man-made union - union about the Cross of Christ can only be produced by the Holy Spirit.
I know not what you think of all this. I feel as if I had said nothing compared to what might be said. I feel as if the half of what I desire to tell you about the Cross were left untold. But I do hope that I have given you something to think about. I do trust that I have shown you that I have reason for the question with which I began this paper, "What do you think and feel about the Cross of Christ?" I will now, for a few moments, say something to apply this whole subject to your conscience.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 6)
(e) Would I learn how to be contented and cheerful under all the cares and concerns of life? What school shall I go to? How shall I attain this state of mind most easily? Shall I look at the sovereignty of God, the wisdom of God, the providence of God, the love of God? It is well to do so. But I have a better argument still. I will look at the Cross of Christ. I feel that "He who spared not His only be-gotten Son - but delivered Him up to die for me, will surely with Him give me all things" that I really need. (Rom. 8:32). He who endured such agony, sufferings, and pain for my soul, will surely not withhold from me anything that is really good. He who has done the greater things for me, will doubtless do the lesser things also. He who gave His own blood to procure me a home in heaven, will unquestionably supply me with all that is really profitable for me by the way. There is no school for learning contentment that can be compared with the foot of the Cross!
(f) Would I gather arguments for hoping that I shall never be cast away? Where shall I go to find them? Shall I look at my own graces and gifts? Shall I take comfort in my own faith, and love, and penitence, and zeal, and prayer? Shall I turn to my own heart, and say, "this same heart will never be false and cold?" Oh, no! God forbid! I will look at the Cross of Christ. This is my grand argument. This is my main stay. I cannot think that He who went through such sufferings to redeem my soul, will let that soul perish after all, when it has once cast itself on Him. Oh, no! what Jesus paid for, Jesus will surely keep. He paid dearly for it. He will not let it easily be lost. He called me to Himself when I was a dark sinner - He will never forsake me after I have believed. When satan tempts us to doubt whether Christ's people will be kept from falling, we should tell satan to look at the Cross.
And now, will you marvel that I said all Christians ought to boast in the Cross? Will you not wonder that any can hear of the Cross and remain unmoved? I declare I know no greater proof of man's depravity, than the fact that thousands of so-called Christians see nothing in the Cross. Well may our hearts be called stony - well may the eyes of our mind be called blind - well may our whole nature be called diseased - well may we all be called dead, when the Cross of Christ is heard of and yet neglected. Surely we may take up the words of the prophet, and say, "Hear, O heavens, and be astonished O earth; an astounding and a horrible thing is done," - Christ was crucified for sinners, and yet many Christians live as if He was never crucified at all!
(a) The Cross is the grand peculiarity of the Christian religion. Other religions have laws and moral precepts, forms and ceremonies, rewards and punishments. But other religions cannot tell us of a dying Saviour. They cannot show us the Cross. This is the crown and glory of the Gospel. This is that special comfort which belongs to it alone. Miserable indeed is that religious teaching which calls itself Christian, and yet contains nothing of the Cross. A man who teaches in this way, might as well profess to explain the solar system and yet tell his hearers nothing about the sun.
(b) The Cross is the strength of a minister. I for one would not be without it for all the world. Let others, if they will, preach the law and morality; let others hold forth the terrors of hell, and the joys of heaven; let others drench their congregations with teachings about the sacraments and the church; give me the Cross of Christ! This is the only lever which has ever turned the world upside down, and made people forsake their sins. A man may begin preaching with a perfect knowledge of Latin, Greek, and Hebrew; but he will do little or no good among his hearers unless he knows something of the Cross. This is the preaching that the Holy Spirit delights to bless.
(c) The Cross is the secret of all missionary success. Nothing but this has ever moved the hearts of the heathen. This is the weapon which has won victories over hearts of every kind, in every quarter of the globe. Never indeed did the devil triumph so thoroughly, as when he persuaded the Jesuit missionaries in China to keep back the story of the Cross!
(d) The Cross is the foundation of a Church's prosperity. No church will ever be honored in which Christ crucified is not continually lifted up - nothing whatever can make up for the lack of the Cross. Without it all things may be done decently and in order; without it there may be splendid ceremonies, beautiful music, gorgeous churches, learned ministers, crowded communion tables, huge collections for the poor. But without the Cross no good will be done; dark hearts will not be enlightened, proud hearts will not be humbled, mourning hearts will not be comforted, fainting hearts will not be cheered. They may amuse some - they will feed none! Whenever a Church keeps back Christ crucified, or puts anything whatever in that foremost place which Christ crucified should always have, from that moment a Church ceases to be useful! Without Christ crucified, a church is little better than a well without water, a barren fig tree, a sleeping watchman, a silent trumpet, a speechless witness, a messenger without tidings, a lighthouse without light, a stumbling-block to weak believers, a comfort to infidels, a hot-bed for formalism, a joy to the devil, and an offence to God.
(e) The Cross is the grand center of union among true Christians. Our outward differences are many, without doubt. But, after all, what shall we hear about most of these differences in heaven? Nothing, most probably - nothing at all! Does a man really and sincerely boast in the Cross of Christ? That is the grand question. If he does, he is my brother - we are traveling on the same road; we are journeying towards a home where Christ is all, and everything outward in religion will be forgotten. Union on outward points only, is union only for a time - union about the Cross is union for eternity. Error on outward points is only a skin-deep disease - error about the Cross is disease at the heart. Union about outward points is a mere man-made union - union about the Cross of Christ can only be produced by the Holy Spirit.
I know not what you think of all this. I feel as if I had said nothing compared to what might be said. I feel as if the half of what I desire to tell you about the Cross were left untold. But I do hope that I have given you something to think about. I do trust that I have shown you that I have reason for the question with which I began this paper, "What do you think and feel about the Cross of Christ?" I will now, for a few moments, say something to apply this whole subject to your conscience.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 6)
The Cross of Christ # 4
The Cross of Christ # 4
People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings on the Cross were fore-ordained. They did not come on Him by chance or accident - they were all planned, counseled, and determined from all eternity. The Cross was foreseen in all the provisions of the everlasting Trinity for the salvation of sinners. In the purposes of God the Cross was set up from everlasting. Not one throb of pain did Jesus feel, not one precious drop of blood did Jesus shed, which had not been appointed long ago. Infinite wisdom planned that redemption should be by the Cross. Infinite wisdom brought Jesus to the Cross in due time. He was crucified "by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God" (Acts 2:23).
People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings on the Cross were necessary for man's salvation. He had to bear our sins, if ever they were to be born at all. With His stripes alone could we be healed. This was the one payment of our debt that God would accept - this was the great sacrifice on which our eternal life depended. If Christ had not gone to the Cross and suffered in our stead, the just for the unjust, there would not have been a spark of hope for us. There would have been a mighty gulf between ourselves and God, which no man ever could have passed.
"In Christ's humiliation stands our exaltation; in His weakness stands our strength; in His ignominy our glory; in His death our life".
"The eye of faith regards Christ sitting on the summit of the Cross as in a triumphal chariot; the devil bound to the lowest part of the same Cross, and trodden under the feet of Christ."
People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings were endured voluntarily, and of His own free will. He was under no compulsion. Of His own choice He laid down His life - of His own choice He went to the Cross in order to finish the work He came to do. He might easily have summoned legions of angels with a word, and scattered Pilate and Herod, and all their armies, like chaff before the wind. But He was a willing sufferer, His heart was set on the salvation of sinners. He was resolved to open "a fountain for all sin and uncleanness," by shedding His own blood. (Zech. 13:1).
When I think of all this, I see nothing painful or disagreeable in the subject of Christ's Cross. On the contrary, I see in it wisdom and power, peace and hope, joy and gladness, comfort and consolation. The more I keep the Cross in my mind's eye, the more fullness I seem to discern in it. The longer I dwell on the Cross in my thoughts, the more I am satisfied that there is more to be learned at the foot of the Cross than anywhere else in the world.
(a) Would I know the length and breadth of God the Father's love towards a sinful world? Where shall I see it most displayed? Shall I look at His glorious sun, shining down daily on the unthankful and evil? Shall I look at seed-time and harvest, returning in regular yearly succession? Oh, no! I can find a stronger proof of love than anything of this sort. I look at the Cross of Christ. I see in it not the cause of the Father's love - but the effect. There I see that God so loved this wicked world, that He gave His only begotten Son - gave Him to suffer and die - that "whoever believes in Him should not perish - but have eternal life" (John 3:16). I know that the Father loves us, because He did not withhold from us His Son, His only Son. I might sometimes fancy that God the Father is too high and holy to care for such miserable, corrupt creatures as we are! But I cannot, must not, dare not think it, when I look at the Cross of Christ.
"The world we live in would have fallen upon our heads, had it not been upheld by the pillar of the Cross; had not Christ stepped in and promised a satisfaction for the sin of man. By this all things consist - not a blessing we enjoy but may put us in mind of it; they were all forfeited by sin - but merited by His blood. If we study it well we shall be sensible how God hated sin and loved a world" (Charnock).
(b) Would I know how exceedingly sinful and abominable sin is in the sight of God? Where shall I see that most fully brought out? Shall I turn to the history of the flood, and read how sin drowned the world? Shall I go to the shore of the Dead Sea, and mark what sin brought on Sodom and Gomorrah? Shall I turn to the wandering Jews, and observe how sin has scattered them over the face of the earth? No! I can find a clearer proof still! I look at the Cross of Christ. There I see that sin is so black and damnable, that nothing but the blood of God's own Son can wash it away. There I see that sin has so separated me from my holy Maker, that all the angels in heaven could never have made peace between us. Nothing could reconcile us, short of the death of Christ. If I listened to the wretched talk of proud people, I might sometimes fancy sin was not so very sinful! But I cannot think little of sin, when I look at the Cross of Christ.
(c) Would I know the fullness and completeness of the salvation God has provided for sinners? Where shall I see it most distinctly? Shall I go to the general declarations in the Bible about God's mercy? Shall I rest in the general truth that God is a God of love? Oh no! I will look at the Cross of Christ. I find no evidence like that. I find no balm for a sore conscience and a troubled heart, like the sight of Jesus dying for me on the accursed tree. There I see that a full payment has been made for all my enormous debts. The curse of that law which I have broken has come down on One who there suffered in my stead. The demands of that law are all satisfied. Payment has been made for me, even to the uttermost farthing. It will not be required twice over. Ah, I might sometimes imagine I was too bad to be forgiven! My own heart sometimes whispers that I am too wicked to be saved. But I know in my better moments this is all my foolish unbelief. I read an answer to my doubts in the blood shed on Calvary. I feel sure that there is a way to heaven for the very vilest of people, when I look at the Cross.
(d) Would I find strong reasons for being a holy man? Where shall I turn for them? Shall I listen to the ten commandments merely? Shall I study the examples given me in the Bible of what grace can do? Shall I meditate on the reward of heaven, and the punishments of hell? Is there no stronger motive still? Yes! I will look at the Cross of Christ! There I see the love of Christ constraining me to "live not unto myself - but unto Him". There I see that I am not my own now - I am "bought with a price" (2 Cor. 5:15); 1 Cor. 6:20). I am bound by the most solemn obligations to glorify Jesus with body and spirit, which are His. There I see that Jesus gave Himself for me, not only to redeem me from all iniquity - but also to purify me, and to make me one of a "peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14). He bore my sins in His own body on the tree, "that I being dead unto sin should live unto righteousness" (1 Peter 2:24). There is nothing so sanctifying as a clear view of the Cross of Christ! It crucifies the world unto us, and us unto the world. How can we love sin, when we remember that because of our sins Jesus died? Surely none ought to be so holy as the disciples of a crucified Lord.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 5)
People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings on the Cross were fore-ordained. They did not come on Him by chance or accident - they were all planned, counseled, and determined from all eternity. The Cross was foreseen in all the provisions of the everlasting Trinity for the salvation of sinners. In the purposes of God the Cross was set up from everlasting. Not one throb of pain did Jesus feel, not one precious drop of blood did Jesus shed, which had not been appointed long ago. Infinite wisdom planned that redemption should be by the Cross. Infinite wisdom brought Jesus to the Cross in due time. He was crucified "by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God" (Acts 2:23).
People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings on the Cross were necessary for man's salvation. He had to bear our sins, if ever they were to be born at all. With His stripes alone could we be healed. This was the one payment of our debt that God would accept - this was the great sacrifice on which our eternal life depended. If Christ had not gone to the Cross and suffered in our stead, the just for the unjust, there would not have been a spark of hope for us. There would have been a mighty gulf between ourselves and God, which no man ever could have passed.
"In Christ's humiliation stands our exaltation; in His weakness stands our strength; in His ignominy our glory; in His death our life".
"The eye of faith regards Christ sitting on the summit of the Cross as in a triumphal chariot; the devil bound to the lowest part of the same Cross, and trodden under the feet of Christ."
People seem to forget that all Christ's sufferings were endured voluntarily, and of His own free will. He was under no compulsion. Of His own choice He laid down His life - of His own choice He went to the Cross in order to finish the work He came to do. He might easily have summoned legions of angels with a word, and scattered Pilate and Herod, and all their armies, like chaff before the wind. But He was a willing sufferer, His heart was set on the salvation of sinners. He was resolved to open "a fountain for all sin and uncleanness," by shedding His own blood. (Zech. 13:1).
When I think of all this, I see nothing painful or disagreeable in the subject of Christ's Cross. On the contrary, I see in it wisdom and power, peace and hope, joy and gladness, comfort and consolation. The more I keep the Cross in my mind's eye, the more fullness I seem to discern in it. The longer I dwell on the Cross in my thoughts, the more I am satisfied that there is more to be learned at the foot of the Cross than anywhere else in the world.
(a) Would I know the length and breadth of God the Father's love towards a sinful world? Where shall I see it most displayed? Shall I look at His glorious sun, shining down daily on the unthankful and evil? Shall I look at seed-time and harvest, returning in regular yearly succession? Oh, no! I can find a stronger proof of love than anything of this sort. I look at the Cross of Christ. I see in it not the cause of the Father's love - but the effect. There I see that God so loved this wicked world, that He gave His only begotten Son - gave Him to suffer and die - that "whoever believes in Him should not perish - but have eternal life" (John 3:16). I know that the Father loves us, because He did not withhold from us His Son, His only Son. I might sometimes fancy that God the Father is too high and holy to care for such miserable, corrupt creatures as we are! But I cannot, must not, dare not think it, when I look at the Cross of Christ.
"The world we live in would have fallen upon our heads, had it not been upheld by the pillar of the Cross; had not Christ stepped in and promised a satisfaction for the sin of man. By this all things consist - not a blessing we enjoy but may put us in mind of it; they were all forfeited by sin - but merited by His blood. If we study it well we shall be sensible how God hated sin and loved a world" (Charnock).
(b) Would I know how exceedingly sinful and abominable sin is in the sight of God? Where shall I see that most fully brought out? Shall I turn to the history of the flood, and read how sin drowned the world? Shall I go to the shore of the Dead Sea, and mark what sin brought on Sodom and Gomorrah? Shall I turn to the wandering Jews, and observe how sin has scattered them over the face of the earth? No! I can find a clearer proof still! I look at the Cross of Christ. There I see that sin is so black and damnable, that nothing but the blood of God's own Son can wash it away. There I see that sin has so separated me from my holy Maker, that all the angels in heaven could never have made peace between us. Nothing could reconcile us, short of the death of Christ. If I listened to the wretched talk of proud people, I might sometimes fancy sin was not so very sinful! But I cannot think little of sin, when I look at the Cross of Christ.
(c) Would I know the fullness and completeness of the salvation God has provided for sinners? Where shall I see it most distinctly? Shall I go to the general declarations in the Bible about God's mercy? Shall I rest in the general truth that God is a God of love? Oh no! I will look at the Cross of Christ. I find no evidence like that. I find no balm for a sore conscience and a troubled heart, like the sight of Jesus dying for me on the accursed tree. There I see that a full payment has been made for all my enormous debts. The curse of that law which I have broken has come down on One who there suffered in my stead. The demands of that law are all satisfied. Payment has been made for me, even to the uttermost farthing. It will not be required twice over. Ah, I might sometimes imagine I was too bad to be forgiven! My own heart sometimes whispers that I am too wicked to be saved. But I know in my better moments this is all my foolish unbelief. I read an answer to my doubts in the blood shed on Calvary. I feel sure that there is a way to heaven for the very vilest of people, when I look at the Cross.
(d) Would I find strong reasons for being a holy man? Where shall I turn for them? Shall I listen to the ten commandments merely? Shall I study the examples given me in the Bible of what grace can do? Shall I meditate on the reward of heaven, and the punishments of hell? Is there no stronger motive still? Yes! I will look at the Cross of Christ! There I see the love of Christ constraining me to "live not unto myself - but unto Him". There I see that I am not my own now - I am "bought with a price" (2 Cor. 5:15); 1 Cor. 6:20). I am bound by the most solemn obligations to glorify Jesus with body and spirit, which are His. There I see that Jesus gave Himself for me, not only to redeem me from all iniquity - but also to purify me, and to make me one of a "peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14). He bore my sins in His own body on the tree, "that I being dead unto sin should live unto righteousness" (1 Peter 2:24). There is nothing so sanctifying as a clear view of the Cross of Christ! It crucifies the world unto us, and us unto the world. How can we love sin, when we remember that because of our sins Jesus died? Surely none ought to be so holy as the disciples of a crucified Lord.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 5)
Saturday, August 4, 2018
The Cross of Christ # 3
The Cross of Christ # 3
This is the subject Paul loved to dwell upon when he wrote to believers. It is wonderful to observe how full his epistles generally are of the sufferings and death of Christ - how they run over with "thoughts that breathe and words that burn," about Christ's dying love and power. His heart seems full of the subject. He enlarges on it constantly - he returns to it continually. It is the golden thread that runs through all his doctrinal teaching and practical exhortations. He seems to think that the most advanced Christian can never hear too much about the Cross.
"Christ crucified is the sum of the Gospel, and contains all the riches of it. Paul was so much taken with Christ, that nothing sweeter than Jesus could drop from his pen and lips. It is observed that he has the word "Jesus" five hundred times in his Epistles." (Charnock).
This is what he lived upon all his life, from the time of his conversion. He tells the Galatians, "The life that I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." (Gal. 2:20). What made him so strong to labor? What made him so willing to work? What made him so unwearied in endeavoring to save some? What made him so persevering and patient? I will tell you the secret of it all. He was always feeding by faith on Christ's body and Christ's blood. Jesus crucified was the food and drink of his soul!
And we may rest assured that Paul was right. Depend upon it, the Cross of Christ - the death of Christ on the Cross to make atonement for sinners - is the center truth in the whole Bible. This is the truth we begin when we open Genesis. The seed of the woman bruising the serpent's head is nothing else but a prophecy of Christ crucified. This is the truth that shines out, though veiled, all through the law of Moses, and the history of the Jews. The daily sacrifice, the Passover lamb, the continual shedding of blood in the tabernacle and temple, all these were emblems of Christ crucified. This is the truth we see honored in the vision of heaven before we close the book of Revelation. "In the midst of the throne and of the four beasts," we are told, "and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain." (Rev. 5:6). Even in the midst of heavenly glory we get a view of Christ crucified. Take away the Cross of Christ, and the Bible is a dark book. It is like the Egyptian hieroglyphics without a key that interprets their meaning - curious and wonderful - but of no real use.
Let every reader of this paper mark what I say. You may know a good deal about the Bible. You may know the outlines of the histories it contains, and the dates of the events described. You may know of the men and women mentioned in it, and admire them. But if you have not yet found out that Christ crucified is the foundation of the whole volume, you have read your Bible hitherto to very little profit. Your religion is a heaven without a sun, an arch without a key-stone, a compass without a needle, a clock without a spring, a lamp without oil. It will not comfort you. It will not deliver your soul from hell.
Mark what I say again. You may know a good deal about Christ, by a kind of head knowledge. You may know who He was, and where He was born, and what He did. You may know His miracles, His sayings, His prophecies, and His ordinances. You may know how He lived, how He suffered, and how He died. But unless you know the power of Christ's Cross by experience - unless you know and feel within that the blood shed on that Cross has washed away your own particular sins - unless you are willing to confess that your salvation depends entirely on the work that Christ did upon the Cross - unless this be the case, Christ will profit you nothing. The mere knowing Christ's name will never save you. You must know His Cross, and His blood, or else you will die in your sins.
"If our faith stops in Christ's life, and does not fasten upon His blood, it will not be justifying faith. His miracles, which prepared the world for His doctrines, had been insufficient for us without the addition of the Cross." (Charnock).
As long as you live, beware of a religion in which there is not much of the Cross. You live in times when the warning is sadly needful. Beware, I say again, of a religion without the Cross. There are hundreds of places of worship, in this day, in which there is everything almost except the Cross. There is carved oak, and sculptured stone; there is stained glass, and brilliant paintings; there are solemn services, and a constant round of ordinances; but the real Cross of Christ is not there. Jesus is not proclaimed in the pulpit. The Lamb of God is not lifted up, and salvation by faith in Him is not freely proclaimed. And hence all is wrong. Beware of such places of worship! They are not apostolic. They would not have satisfied Paul.
"Paul determined to know nothing else but Jesus Christ and Him crucified. But many manage the ministry as if they had taken up a contrary determination - even to know anything except Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (Traill).
There are thousands of religious books published in our times, in which there is everything except the Cross. They are full of sacraments, and praises of the Church. They abound in exhortations about holy living, and rules for the attainment of perfection. They have plenty of fonts and crosses, both inside and outside. But the real Cross of Christ is left out. The Saviour, and His work of atonement and complete salvation, are either not mentioned, or mentioned in an unscriptural way. And hence they are worse than useless. Beware of such books. They are not apostolic. They would never have satisfied Paul.
Paul boasted in nothing but the Cross. Strive to be like him. Set Jesus crucified fully before the eyes of your soul. Listen not to any teaching which would interpose anything between you and Him. Do not fall into the old Galatian error - think not that anyone in this day is a better guide than the apostles. Do not be ashamed of the "old paths," in which men walked who were inspired by the Holy Spirit. Do not give Christ's honor to another. "He who boasts, let him boast in the Lord" (1 Cor. 1:1)
3. Let me show, lastly, why all Christians ought to boast in the Cross of Christ. I feel I must say something on this point, because of the ignorance that prevails about it. I suspect that many see no peculiar glory and beauty in the subject of Christ's Cross. On the contrary, they think it painful, humbling, and degrading. They do not see much profit in the story of His death and sufferings. They rather turn from it as an unpleasant thing.
Now I believe that such people are quite wrong. I cannot hold with them. I believe it is an excellent thing for us all to be continually dwelling on the Cross of Christ. It is a good thing to be often reminded how Jesus was betrayed into the hands of wicked men - how they condemned Him with most unjust judgment - how they spit on Him, scourged Him, beat Him, and crowned Him with thorns - how they led Him forth as a lamb to the slaughter, without His murmuring or resisting - how they drove the nails through His hands and feet, and set Him up on Calvary between two thieves - how they pierced His side with a spear, mocked Him in His sufferings, and let Him hang there naked and bleeding until He died. Of all these things, I say, it is good to be reminded. It is not for nothing that the crucifixion is descried four times over in the New Testament. There are very few things that all four writers of the Gospel describe. Generally speaking, if Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell a thing in our Lord's history, John does not tell it. But there is one thing is the story of the Cross. This is a telling fact, and not to be overlooked.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 4)
This is the subject Paul loved to dwell upon when he wrote to believers. It is wonderful to observe how full his epistles generally are of the sufferings and death of Christ - how they run over with "thoughts that breathe and words that burn," about Christ's dying love and power. His heart seems full of the subject. He enlarges on it constantly - he returns to it continually. It is the golden thread that runs through all his doctrinal teaching and practical exhortations. He seems to think that the most advanced Christian can never hear too much about the Cross.
"Christ crucified is the sum of the Gospel, and contains all the riches of it. Paul was so much taken with Christ, that nothing sweeter than Jesus could drop from his pen and lips. It is observed that he has the word "Jesus" five hundred times in his Epistles." (Charnock).
This is what he lived upon all his life, from the time of his conversion. He tells the Galatians, "The life that I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me." (Gal. 2:20). What made him so strong to labor? What made him so willing to work? What made him so unwearied in endeavoring to save some? What made him so persevering and patient? I will tell you the secret of it all. He was always feeding by faith on Christ's body and Christ's blood. Jesus crucified was the food and drink of his soul!
And we may rest assured that Paul was right. Depend upon it, the Cross of Christ - the death of Christ on the Cross to make atonement for sinners - is the center truth in the whole Bible. This is the truth we begin when we open Genesis. The seed of the woman bruising the serpent's head is nothing else but a prophecy of Christ crucified. This is the truth that shines out, though veiled, all through the law of Moses, and the history of the Jews. The daily sacrifice, the Passover lamb, the continual shedding of blood in the tabernacle and temple, all these were emblems of Christ crucified. This is the truth we see honored in the vision of heaven before we close the book of Revelation. "In the midst of the throne and of the four beasts," we are told, "and in the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain." (Rev. 5:6). Even in the midst of heavenly glory we get a view of Christ crucified. Take away the Cross of Christ, and the Bible is a dark book. It is like the Egyptian hieroglyphics without a key that interprets their meaning - curious and wonderful - but of no real use.
Let every reader of this paper mark what I say. You may know a good deal about the Bible. You may know the outlines of the histories it contains, and the dates of the events described. You may know of the men and women mentioned in it, and admire them. But if you have not yet found out that Christ crucified is the foundation of the whole volume, you have read your Bible hitherto to very little profit. Your religion is a heaven without a sun, an arch without a key-stone, a compass without a needle, a clock without a spring, a lamp without oil. It will not comfort you. It will not deliver your soul from hell.
Mark what I say again. You may know a good deal about Christ, by a kind of head knowledge. You may know who He was, and where He was born, and what He did. You may know His miracles, His sayings, His prophecies, and His ordinances. You may know how He lived, how He suffered, and how He died. But unless you know the power of Christ's Cross by experience - unless you know and feel within that the blood shed on that Cross has washed away your own particular sins - unless you are willing to confess that your salvation depends entirely on the work that Christ did upon the Cross - unless this be the case, Christ will profit you nothing. The mere knowing Christ's name will never save you. You must know His Cross, and His blood, or else you will die in your sins.
"If our faith stops in Christ's life, and does not fasten upon His blood, it will not be justifying faith. His miracles, which prepared the world for His doctrines, had been insufficient for us without the addition of the Cross." (Charnock).
As long as you live, beware of a religion in which there is not much of the Cross. You live in times when the warning is sadly needful. Beware, I say again, of a religion without the Cross. There are hundreds of places of worship, in this day, in which there is everything almost except the Cross. There is carved oak, and sculptured stone; there is stained glass, and brilliant paintings; there are solemn services, and a constant round of ordinances; but the real Cross of Christ is not there. Jesus is not proclaimed in the pulpit. The Lamb of God is not lifted up, and salvation by faith in Him is not freely proclaimed. And hence all is wrong. Beware of such places of worship! They are not apostolic. They would not have satisfied Paul.
"Paul determined to know nothing else but Jesus Christ and Him crucified. But many manage the ministry as if they had taken up a contrary determination - even to know anything except Jesus Christ and Him crucified" (Traill).
There are thousands of religious books published in our times, in which there is everything except the Cross. They are full of sacraments, and praises of the Church. They abound in exhortations about holy living, and rules for the attainment of perfection. They have plenty of fonts and crosses, both inside and outside. But the real Cross of Christ is left out. The Saviour, and His work of atonement and complete salvation, are either not mentioned, or mentioned in an unscriptural way. And hence they are worse than useless. Beware of such books. They are not apostolic. They would never have satisfied Paul.
Paul boasted in nothing but the Cross. Strive to be like him. Set Jesus crucified fully before the eyes of your soul. Listen not to any teaching which would interpose anything between you and Him. Do not fall into the old Galatian error - think not that anyone in this day is a better guide than the apostles. Do not be ashamed of the "old paths," in which men walked who were inspired by the Holy Spirit. Do not give Christ's honor to another. "He who boasts, let him boast in the Lord" (1 Cor. 1:1)
3. Let me show, lastly, why all Christians ought to boast in the Cross of Christ. I feel I must say something on this point, because of the ignorance that prevails about it. I suspect that many see no peculiar glory and beauty in the subject of Christ's Cross. On the contrary, they think it painful, humbling, and degrading. They do not see much profit in the story of His death and sufferings. They rather turn from it as an unpleasant thing.
Now I believe that such people are quite wrong. I cannot hold with them. I believe it is an excellent thing for us all to be continually dwelling on the Cross of Christ. It is a good thing to be often reminded how Jesus was betrayed into the hands of wicked men - how they condemned Him with most unjust judgment - how they spit on Him, scourged Him, beat Him, and crowned Him with thorns - how they led Him forth as a lamb to the slaughter, without His murmuring or resisting - how they drove the nails through His hands and feet, and set Him up on Calvary between two thieves - how they pierced His side with a spear, mocked Him in His sufferings, and let Him hang there naked and bleeding until He died. Of all these things, I say, it is good to be reminded. It is not for nothing that the crucifixion is descried four times over in the New Testament. There are very few things that all four writers of the Gospel describe. Generally speaking, if Matthew, Mark, and Luke tell a thing in our Lord's history, John does not tell it. But there is one thing is the story of the Cross. This is a telling fact, and not to be overlooked.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 4)
The Cross of Christ # 2
The Cross of Christ # 2
Now if the Apostle Paul never boasted in any of these things, who in all the world, from one end to the other - who has any right to boast in them in our day? If Paul said, "God forbid that I should boast in anything whatever except the Cross," who shall dare to say, "I have something to boast of - I am a better man than Paul"?
Who is there among the readers of this paper that trusts in any goodness of his own? Who is there that is resting on his own amendments - his own morality - his own churchmanship - his own works and performances of any kind whatever? Who is there that is leaning the weight of his soul on anything whatever of his own, in the smallest possible degree? Learn I say, that you very unlike the apostle Paul. Learn that your religion is not apostolic religion.
Who is there among the readers of this paper that trusts in his religious profession for salvation? Who is there that is valuing himself on his baptism, or his attendance at the Lord's table - his church-going on Sundays, or his daily services during the week - and saying to himself, "What more do I lack?" Learn, I say, this day, that you are very unlike Paul. Your Christianity is not the Christianity of the New Testament. Paul would not boast in anything but "the Cross". Neither ought you.
Oh, let us beware of self-righteousness! Open sin kills its thousands of souls. Self-righteousness kills its tens of thousands! Go and study humility with the great apostle of the Gentiles. Go and sit with Paul at the foot of the Cross. Give up your secret pride. Cast away your vain ideas of your own goodness. Be thankful if you have grace - but never boast in it for a moment. Work for God and Christ, with heart and soul and mind and strength - but never dream for a second of placing confidence in any work of your own.
Think, you who take comfort in some fancied ideas of your own goodness - think, you who wrap up yourselves in the notion, "all must be right, if I keep to my Church," think for a moment what a sandy foundation you are building upon! Think how miserably defective your hopes and pleas will look in the hour of death, and in the day of judgment! Whatever people may say of their own goodness while they are strong and healthy, they will find but little to say of it when they are sick and dying. Whatever merit they may see in their own works here in this world, they will discover none in them when they stand before the tribunal of Christ. The light of that great day of judgment will make a wonderful difference in the appearance of all their doings. It will strip off the tinsel, shrivel up the complexion, expose the rottenness of many a deed that is now called good. Their wheat will prove nothing but chaff - their gold will be found nothing but dross. Millions of so-called good works will turn out to have been utterly defective and graceless. They passed current, and were valued among men - they will prove light and worthless in the balance of God. They will be found to have been like the whitened sepulchers of old - fair and beautiful on the outside - but full of corruption on the inside. Alas, for the man who can look forward to the day of judgment, and lean his soul in the smallest degree of his own now!
Once more I say, let us beware of self-righteousness in every possible shape and form. Some people get as much harm from their fancied virtues as others do from their sins. Rest not, rest not until your heart beats in tune with Paul's. Rest not until you can say with him, "far be it from me to boast, except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ!"
2. Let me explain, in the second place, what we are to understand by "the Cross of Christ." The Cross is an expression that is used in more than one meaning in the Bible. What did Paul mean when he said, "I boast in the Cross of Christ," in the Epistle to the Galatians? The Cross sometimes means that wooden cross, on which the Lord Jesus Christ was nailed and put to death on Calvary. This is what Paul had in mind, when he told the Philippians that Christ "became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross." (Phil. 2:8). This is not the Cross in which boasted. He would have shrunk with horror from the idea of boasting in a mere piece of wood. I have no doubt he would have denounced the Roman Catholic adoration of the crucifix, as profane, blasphemous, and idolatrous.
The Cross sometimes means the afflictions and trials which believers in Christ have to go through, if they follow Christ faithfully, for their religion's sake. This is the sense in which our Lord uses the word when He says, "He who takes not his cross and follows Me, cannot be My disciple." (Matt. 10;38). This also is not the sense in which Paul uses the word when he writes to the Galatians. He knew that cross well - he carried it patiently. But he is not speaking of it here.
But the Cross also means, in some places, the doctrine that Christ died for sinners upon the Cross - the atonement that He made for sinners, by His suffering for them on the Cross - the complete and perfect sacrifice for sin which He offered up, when He gave His own body to be crucified. In short, this one word, "the Cross," stands for Christ crucified, the only Saviour. This is the meaning in which Paul uses the expression, when he tells the Corinthians, "the preaching of the Cross is to those who perish foolishness." (1 Cor. 1:18). This is the meaning in which he wrote to the Galatians, "God forbid that I should boast, except in the Cross." He simply meant, "I boast in nothing but Christ crucified, as the salvation of my soul."
By the Cross of Christ the Apostle understands the all-sufficient, expiatory, and satisfactory sacrifice of Christ upon the Cross, with the whole work of our redemption; in the saving knowledge of whereof he professes he will glory and boasts."
"Touching these words, I do not find that any expositor, either ancient or modern, Popish, or Protestant, writing on this place, does expound the Cross here mentioned of the sign of the Cross - but of the profession of faith in Him who was hanged on the Cross."
Jesus Christ crucified was the joy and delight, the comfort and the peace, the hope and the confidence, the food and the medicine of Paul's soul. He did not meditate on his own goodness, and his own righteousness. He loved to think of what Christ had done, and Christ had suffered - of the death of Christ, the righteousness of Christ, the atonement of Christ, the blood of Christ, the finished work of Christ. In this he did boast. This was the sun of his soul.
This is the subject Paul loved to preach about. He was a man who went to and fro on the earth, proclaiming to sinners that the Son of God had shed His own heart's blood to save their souls. He walked up and down the world telling people that Jesus Christ had loved them, and died for their sins upon the Cross. Paul, a blaspheming, persecuting Pharisee, had been washed in Christ's blood. He could not hold his peace about it. He was never weary of telling the story of the Cross.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 3)
Now if the Apostle Paul never boasted in any of these things, who in all the world, from one end to the other - who has any right to boast in them in our day? If Paul said, "God forbid that I should boast in anything whatever except the Cross," who shall dare to say, "I have something to boast of - I am a better man than Paul"?
Who is there among the readers of this paper that trusts in any goodness of his own? Who is there that is resting on his own amendments - his own morality - his own churchmanship - his own works and performances of any kind whatever? Who is there that is leaning the weight of his soul on anything whatever of his own, in the smallest possible degree? Learn I say, that you very unlike the apostle Paul. Learn that your religion is not apostolic religion.
Who is there among the readers of this paper that trusts in his religious profession for salvation? Who is there that is valuing himself on his baptism, or his attendance at the Lord's table - his church-going on Sundays, or his daily services during the week - and saying to himself, "What more do I lack?" Learn, I say, this day, that you are very unlike Paul. Your Christianity is not the Christianity of the New Testament. Paul would not boast in anything but "the Cross". Neither ought you.
Oh, let us beware of self-righteousness! Open sin kills its thousands of souls. Self-righteousness kills its tens of thousands! Go and study humility with the great apostle of the Gentiles. Go and sit with Paul at the foot of the Cross. Give up your secret pride. Cast away your vain ideas of your own goodness. Be thankful if you have grace - but never boast in it for a moment. Work for God and Christ, with heart and soul and mind and strength - but never dream for a second of placing confidence in any work of your own.
Think, you who take comfort in some fancied ideas of your own goodness - think, you who wrap up yourselves in the notion, "all must be right, if I keep to my Church," think for a moment what a sandy foundation you are building upon! Think how miserably defective your hopes and pleas will look in the hour of death, and in the day of judgment! Whatever people may say of their own goodness while they are strong and healthy, they will find but little to say of it when they are sick and dying. Whatever merit they may see in their own works here in this world, they will discover none in them when they stand before the tribunal of Christ. The light of that great day of judgment will make a wonderful difference in the appearance of all their doings. It will strip off the tinsel, shrivel up the complexion, expose the rottenness of many a deed that is now called good. Their wheat will prove nothing but chaff - their gold will be found nothing but dross. Millions of so-called good works will turn out to have been utterly defective and graceless. They passed current, and were valued among men - they will prove light and worthless in the balance of God. They will be found to have been like the whitened sepulchers of old - fair and beautiful on the outside - but full of corruption on the inside. Alas, for the man who can look forward to the day of judgment, and lean his soul in the smallest degree of his own now!
Once more I say, let us beware of self-righteousness in every possible shape and form. Some people get as much harm from their fancied virtues as others do from their sins. Rest not, rest not until your heart beats in tune with Paul's. Rest not until you can say with him, "far be it from me to boast, except in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ!"
2. Let me explain, in the second place, what we are to understand by "the Cross of Christ." The Cross is an expression that is used in more than one meaning in the Bible. What did Paul mean when he said, "I boast in the Cross of Christ," in the Epistle to the Galatians? The Cross sometimes means that wooden cross, on which the Lord Jesus Christ was nailed and put to death on Calvary. This is what Paul had in mind, when he told the Philippians that Christ "became obedient unto death, even the death of the Cross." (Phil. 2:8). This is not the Cross in which boasted. He would have shrunk with horror from the idea of boasting in a mere piece of wood. I have no doubt he would have denounced the Roman Catholic adoration of the crucifix, as profane, blasphemous, and idolatrous.
The Cross sometimes means the afflictions and trials which believers in Christ have to go through, if they follow Christ faithfully, for their religion's sake. This is the sense in which our Lord uses the word when He says, "He who takes not his cross and follows Me, cannot be My disciple." (Matt. 10;38). This also is not the sense in which Paul uses the word when he writes to the Galatians. He knew that cross well - he carried it patiently. But he is not speaking of it here.
But the Cross also means, in some places, the doctrine that Christ died for sinners upon the Cross - the atonement that He made for sinners, by His suffering for them on the Cross - the complete and perfect sacrifice for sin which He offered up, when He gave His own body to be crucified. In short, this one word, "the Cross," stands for Christ crucified, the only Saviour. This is the meaning in which Paul uses the expression, when he tells the Corinthians, "the preaching of the Cross is to those who perish foolishness." (1 Cor. 1:18). This is the meaning in which he wrote to the Galatians, "God forbid that I should boast, except in the Cross." He simply meant, "I boast in nothing but Christ crucified, as the salvation of my soul."
By the Cross of Christ the Apostle understands the all-sufficient, expiatory, and satisfactory sacrifice of Christ upon the Cross, with the whole work of our redemption; in the saving knowledge of whereof he professes he will glory and boasts."
"Touching these words, I do not find that any expositor, either ancient or modern, Popish, or Protestant, writing on this place, does expound the Cross here mentioned of the sign of the Cross - but of the profession of faith in Him who was hanged on the Cross."
Jesus Christ crucified was the joy and delight, the comfort and the peace, the hope and the confidence, the food and the medicine of Paul's soul. He did not meditate on his own goodness, and his own righteousness. He loved to think of what Christ had done, and Christ had suffered - of the death of Christ, the righteousness of Christ, the atonement of Christ, the blood of Christ, the finished work of Christ. In this he did boast. This was the sun of his soul.
This is the subject Paul loved to preach about. He was a man who went to and fro on the earth, proclaiming to sinners that the Son of God had shed His own heart's blood to save their souls. He walked up and down the world telling people that Jesus Christ had loved them, and died for their sins upon the Cross. Paul, a blaspheming, persecuting Pharisee, had been washed in Christ's blood. He could not hold his peace about it. He was never weary of telling the story of the Cross.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 3)
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