Present Day Evangelism # 2
But serious indeed as is the indictment, it is only half of it - the negative side, that which is lacking. Worse still is that which is being retailed by the cheap-jack evangelists of the day. The positive content of their message is nothing but a throwing of dust in the eyes of the sinner. His soul is put to sleep by the devil's opiate, ministered in a most unsuspecting form. Those who really receive the "message" which is now being given out from most of the "orthodox" pulpits and platforms today, are being fatally deceived. It is away which seems right unto a man - but unless God sovereignly intervenes by a miracle of grace, all who follow it will surely find that the ends thereof are the ways of death. Tens of thousands who confidently imagine that they are bound for heaven - will get a terrible disillusionment, when they awake in hell!
What is the Gospel? Is the Gospel a message of glad tidings from heaven to make God-defying rebels at ease in their wickedness? Is it given for the purpose of assuring the pleasure-crazy young people that, providing they only "believe," there is nothing for them to fear in the future? One would certainly think so from the way in which the Gospel is presented - or rather perverted, by most of the "evangelists"! And the more so when we look at the lives of their "converts"! Surely those with any degree of spiritual discernment, must perceive that to assure such "converts" that God loves them and His Son died for them, and that a full pardon for all their sins (past, present and future) can be obtained by simply "accepting Christ as their personal Saviour" - is but a casting of pearls before swine!
The Gospel is not a thing apart. It is not something independent of the prior revelation of God's Law. It is not an announcement that God has relaxed His justice or lowered His standard of holiness. So far from that, when Scripturally expounded, the Gospel presents the clearest demonstration and the climacteric proof of the inexorableness of God's justice, and of His infinite abhorrence of sin! But for Scripturally expounding the Gospel, beardless youths and business men who devote their spare time to "evangelistic effort" are quite unqualified. Alas, that the pride of the flesh allows so many incompetent ones to rush in where those much wiser fear to tread! It is this multiplying of novices that is largely responsible for the woeful situation now confronting us, and because the "churches" and "assemblies" are so largely filled with their "converts" explains why they are so unspiritual and worldly.
No, my reader, the Gospel is very, very far from making light of sin. The Gospel shows us how unsparingly God deals with sin. it reveals to us the terrible sword of His justice smiting His beloved Son in order that atonement might be made for the transgressions of His people. So far from the Gospel setting aside the law, it exhibits the Saviour enduring the curse of it. Calvary supplied the most solemn and awe-inspiring display of God's hatred of sin that time or eternity will ever furnish! And do you imagine that the Gospel is magnified or God glorified - by going to worldlings and telling them that that "may be saved at this moment by simply accepting Christ as their personal Saviour" while they are wedded to their idols and their hearts are still in love with sin? If I do so, I tell them a lie, pervert the Gospel, insult Christ, and turn the grace of God into a license for sin.
No doubt some readers are ready to object to our "harsh" and "sarcastic" statements above by asking: "When the question was put, "What must I do to be saved?" (Acts 16:31), did not an inspired apostle expressly say, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ - and you shall be saved?" Can we err, then, if we tell sinners the same thing today? Have we not divine warrant for so doing? True, those words are found in Holy Writ, and because they are, many superficial and untrained people conclude that they are justified in repeating them to all. But let it be pointed out, that Acts 16:31 was not addressed to a promiscuous multitude - but to a particular individual, which at once intimates that it is not a message to be indiscriminately sounded forth - but rather, a special word to those whose characters correspond to the one to whom it was first spoken.
Verses of Scripture must NOT be wrenched from their setting - but weighed, interpreted, and applied in accord with their context; and that calls for prayerful consideration, careful meditation, and prolonged study; and it is failure at this point which accounts for these shoddy and worthless "messages" of this rush-ahead age. Look at the context of Acts 16:31, and what do we find? What was the occasion, and to whom was it that the apostle and his companion said, "Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ"? A sevenfold answer is there furnished, which supplies a striking and complete delineation of the character of those to whom we are warranted in giving this truly evangelistic word. As we briefly name these seven details, let the reader carefully ponder them.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, July 13, 2019
A Call To Separation # 2
A Call To Separation # 2
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies first to our religious connections. How many Christians are members of so-called "churches," where much is going on which they know is at direct variance with the Word of God - either the teaching from the pulpit, the worldly attractions used to draw the ungodly, and the worldly methods employed to finance it or the constant receiving into its membership of those who give no evidence of having been born again. Believers in Christ who remain in such "churches" (?) are dishonoring their Lord. Should they answer: "Practically all the churches are the same, and were we to resign, what could we do? We must go somewhere on Sundays," such language would show they are putting their own interests before the glory of Christ. Better stay at home and read God's Word - than fellowship with that which His Word condemns!
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies to membership in Secret Orders. A "yoke" is that which unites. Those who belong to a "lodge" are united in solemn oath and covenant with their "brother" members. Many of their fellow-members give no evidence of being born again. They may believe in a "Supreme Being," but what love have they for God's Word? What is their relation to God's Son? "Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?" (Amos 3:3). Can those who owe their all to Christ, both for time and eternity, have fellowship with those who "despise and reject" Him? Let any Christian reader who is thus unequally yoked - get from under it without delay.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies to marriage. There are but two families in this world: the children of God, and the children of the devil. (1 John 3:10). If then, a daughter of God marries a son of the devil, she becomes a daughter-in-law to satan! If a son of God marries a daughter of satan, he becomes a son-in-law to the devil! By such an infamous step an affinity is formed between one belonging to the Most High God - and one belonging to His archenemy. "Strong language!" Yes - but not too strong. And oh the bitter reaping from such a sowing! In every case it is the poor Christian who suffers. Read the inspired histories of Samson, Solomon, and Ahab - and see what followed their unholy alliances in wedlock. As well might an athlete, who attached to himself a heavy weight, expect to win a race, as a Christian to progress spiritually by marrying a worldling! Oh what watchfulness in prayer, is needed in the regulation of our affections!
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies to business partnerships. Disobedience at this point, has wrecked many a Christian's testimony and pierced him through with many sorrows. Whatever may be gained of this world, by seeking its avenues to wealth and social prestige - will but poorly compensate for the loss of fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. Read Proverbs 1:10-14. The path which the disciple of Christ is called to tread, is a narrow one, and if he leaves it for a wider road - it will mean severe chastenings, heartbreaking losses, and perhaps the forfeiting of the Saviour's "Well done!" at the end of the journey.
We are to hate even the "garment" - a figure of habits and ways - spotted by the flesh (Jude 23), and are to keep ourselves "unspotted from the world." (James 1:27). What a searching and sweeping word is that in 2 Corinthians 7:1, "Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." If any occupation or association is found to hinder our communion with God, or our enjoyment of spiritual things - then it must be abandoned. Beware of "leprosy" in the garment. (Lev. 13:47). Anything in my habits or ways which mars happy fellowship with the brethren or robs me of power in service, is to be unsparingly judged and made an end of, "burned". (Lev. 13:52). Whatever I cannot do for God's glory - must be avoided.
"For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and the devil? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What union can there be between God's temple and idols? How explicit and emphatic are the terms used there! No excuse whatever is there, for failing to understand the terms of this exhortation, and the reason with which it is supported. This command is so plain - that it requires no interpreter. All unions, alliances, partnerships, entanglements, with unbelievers are expressly forbidden to the Christian. It is impossible to find within the whole range of Holy Scripture, plainer language on any subject than we have here. Righteousness - and wickedness; light - and darkness; Christ - and the devil; God's temple - and idols. What do they have in common? What bond is there between them?
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies first to our religious connections. How many Christians are members of so-called "churches," where much is going on which they know is at direct variance with the Word of God - either the teaching from the pulpit, the worldly attractions used to draw the ungodly, and the worldly methods employed to finance it or the constant receiving into its membership of those who give no evidence of having been born again. Believers in Christ who remain in such "churches" (?) are dishonoring their Lord. Should they answer: "Practically all the churches are the same, and were we to resign, what could we do? We must go somewhere on Sundays," such language would show they are putting their own interests before the glory of Christ. Better stay at home and read God's Word - than fellowship with that which His Word condemns!
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies to membership in Secret Orders. A "yoke" is that which unites. Those who belong to a "lodge" are united in solemn oath and covenant with their "brother" members. Many of their fellow-members give no evidence of being born again. They may believe in a "Supreme Being," but what love have they for God's Word? What is their relation to God's Son? "Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?" (Amos 3:3). Can those who owe their all to Christ, both for time and eternity, have fellowship with those who "despise and reject" Him? Let any Christian reader who is thus unequally yoked - get from under it without delay.
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies to marriage. There are but two families in this world: the children of God, and the children of the devil. (1 John 3:10). If then, a daughter of God marries a son of the devil, she becomes a daughter-in-law to satan! If a son of God marries a daughter of satan, he becomes a son-in-law to the devil! By such an infamous step an affinity is formed between one belonging to the Most High God - and one belonging to His archenemy. "Strong language!" Yes - but not too strong. And oh the bitter reaping from such a sowing! In every case it is the poor Christian who suffers. Read the inspired histories of Samson, Solomon, and Ahab - and see what followed their unholy alliances in wedlock. As well might an athlete, who attached to himself a heavy weight, expect to win a race, as a Christian to progress spiritually by marrying a worldling! Oh what watchfulness in prayer, is needed in the regulation of our affections!
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This applies to business partnerships. Disobedience at this point, has wrecked many a Christian's testimony and pierced him through with many sorrows. Whatever may be gained of this world, by seeking its avenues to wealth and social prestige - will but poorly compensate for the loss of fellowship with the Father and His Son Jesus Christ. Read Proverbs 1:10-14. The path which the disciple of Christ is called to tread, is a narrow one, and if he leaves it for a wider road - it will mean severe chastenings, heartbreaking losses, and perhaps the forfeiting of the Saviour's "Well done!" at the end of the journey.
We are to hate even the "garment" - a figure of habits and ways - spotted by the flesh (Jude 23), and are to keep ourselves "unspotted from the world." (James 1:27). What a searching and sweeping word is that in 2 Corinthians 7:1, "Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God." If any occupation or association is found to hinder our communion with God, or our enjoyment of spiritual things - then it must be abandoned. Beware of "leprosy" in the garment. (Lev. 13:47). Anything in my habits or ways which mars happy fellowship with the brethren or robs me of power in service, is to be unsparingly judged and made an end of, "burned". (Lev. 13:52). Whatever I cannot do for God's glory - must be avoided.
"For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and the devil? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What union can there be between God's temple and idols? How explicit and emphatic are the terms used there! No excuse whatever is there, for failing to understand the terms of this exhortation, and the reason with which it is supported. This command is so plain - that it requires no interpreter. All unions, alliances, partnerships, entanglements, with unbelievers are expressly forbidden to the Christian. It is impossible to find within the whole range of Holy Scripture, plainer language on any subject than we have here. Righteousness - and wickedness; light - and darkness; Christ - and the devil; God's temple - and idols. What do they have in common? What bond is there between them?
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, July 6, 2019
A Call to Separation # 1
A Call to Separation # 1
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and the devil? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?" (2 Corinthians 6:14-16).
This passage gives utterance to a Divine exhortation for those belonging to Christ - to hold aloof from all intimate associations with the ungodly. It expressly forbids them entering into alliances with the unconverted. It definitely prohibits the children of God walking arm-in-arm with worldlings. it is an admonition applying to every phase and department of our lives - religious, domestic, social, commercial. And never, perhaps, was there a time when it more needed pressing on Christians, than now. The days in which we are living are marked by the spirit of compromise. On every side we behold unholy mixtures, ungodly alliances, unequal yokes. Many professing Christians appear to be trying how near to the world they may walk - and yet go to Heaven!
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This is a call to godly separation. In each dispensation, this Divine demand has been made. To Abraham Jehovah's peremptory word was, "Get out of your country, and from your kindred, and from your father's house." To Israel He said, "So do not act like the people of Egypt, where you uses to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You must NOT imitate their way of life. You must obey all My regulations and be careful to keep My laws, for I, the Lord, am your God!" (Leviticus 18:3-4). And again, "Do not live by the customs of the people whom I will expel before you. It is because they do these terrible things that I detest them so much!" (Lev. 20:23). It was for their disregard of these very prohibitions, that Israel brought down upon themselves such severe chastisements.
At the beginning of the New Testament we are shown the forerunner of Christ standing outside the organized religion of His day, calling on men to flee from the wrath to come. The Saviour announced that, "He calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out." (John 10:3). On the day of Pentecost the word to believers was, "Save yourselves from this perverse generation." (Acts 2:40). Later, to the Christian Hebrews Paul wrote, "Let us go forth therefore unto Him - outside the camp." (13:13). God's call to His people in Babylon is, "Come out of her, My people! Do not take part in her sins, or you will be punished with her!" (Revelation 18:4).
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This is God's word unto His people today. Nor does it stand alone. In Romans 16:17 it is said, "Mark those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned, and avoid them." In 2 Timothy 2:20 we read, "In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful, to the Master and prepared to do any good work." 2 Timothy 3:5 speaks of those "having a form of godliness - but denying the power thereof," then it is added, "from such turn away." What a word is that in 2 Thessalonians 3:14, "If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him." How radical is the admonition of 1 Corinthians 5:11, "I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother - but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat!"
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." We are fully persuaded, that it is disregard of this commandment, for a command it is, which is largely responsible for the low state which now prevails so generally among Christians, both individually and corporately. No wonder the spiritual pulse of many churches beats so feebly. No wonder their prayer meetings are so thinly attended; Christians who are unequally yoked, have no heart for prayer. Disobedience at this point is a certain preventative, to real and whole-hearted devotion to Christ. No one can be an unshackled follower of the Lord Jesus who is, in any way, "yoked" to his enemies. He may be a church member - but the testimony of his life, the witness of his walk, will not honor and glorify Christ.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers. For what do righteousness and wickedness have in common? Or what fellowship can light have with darkness? What harmony is there between Christ and the devil? What does a believer have in common with an unbeliever? What agreement is there between the temple of God and idols?" (2 Corinthians 6:14-16).
This passage gives utterance to a Divine exhortation for those belonging to Christ - to hold aloof from all intimate associations with the ungodly. It expressly forbids them entering into alliances with the unconverted. It definitely prohibits the children of God walking arm-in-arm with worldlings. it is an admonition applying to every phase and department of our lives - religious, domestic, social, commercial. And never, perhaps, was there a time when it more needed pressing on Christians, than now. The days in which we are living are marked by the spirit of compromise. On every side we behold unholy mixtures, ungodly alliances, unequal yokes. Many professing Christians appear to be trying how near to the world they may walk - and yet go to Heaven!
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This is a call to godly separation. In each dispensation, this Divine demand has been made. To Abraham Jehovah's peremptory word was, "Get out of your country, and from your kindred, and from your father's house." To Israel He said, "So do not act like the people of Egypt, where you uses to live, or like the people of Canaan, where I am taking you. You must NOT imitate their way of life. You must obey all My regulations and be careful to keep My laws, for I, the Lord, am your God!" (Leviticus 18:3-4). And again, "Do not live by the customs of the people whom I will expel before you. It is because they do these terrible things that I detest them so much!" (Lev. 20:23). It was for their disregard of these very prohibitions, that Israel brought down upon themselves such severe chastisements.
At the beginning of the New Testament we are shown the forerunner of Christ standing outside the organized religion of His day, calling on men to flee from the wrath to come. The Saviour announced that, "He calls His own sheep by name, and leads them out." (John 10:3). On the day of Pentecost the word to believers was, "Save yourselves from this perverse generation." (Acts 2:40). Later, to the Christian Hebrews Paul wrote, "Let us go forth therefore unto Him - outside the camp." (13:13). God's call to His people in Babylon is, "Come out of her, My people! Do not take part in her sins, or you will be punished with her!" (Revelation 18:4).
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." This is God's word unto His people today. Nor does it stand alone. In Romans 16:17 it is said, "Mark those who cause divisions and offenses contrary to the doctrine which you have learned, and avoid them." In 2 Timothy 2:20 we read, "In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for noble purposes and some for ignoble. If a man cleanses himself from the latter, he will be an instrument for noble purposes, made holy, useful, to the Master and prepared to do any good work." 2 Timothy 3:5 speaks of those "having a form of godliness - but denying the power thereof," then it is added, "from such turn away." What a word is that in 2 Thessalonians 3:14, "If anyone does not obey our instruction in this letter, take special note of him. Do not associate with him." How radical is the admonition of 1 Corinthians 5:11, "I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother - but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat!"
"Do not be yoked together with unbelievers." We are fully persuaded, that it is disregard of this commandment, for a command it is, which is largely responsible for the low state which now prevails so generally among Christians, both individually and corporately. No wonder the spiritual pulse of many churches beats so feebly. No wonder their prayer meetings are so thinly attended; Christians who are unequally yoked, have no heart for prayer. Disobedience at this point is a certain preventative, to real and whole-hearted devotion to Christ. No one can be an unshackled follower of the Lord Jesus who is, in any way, "yoked" to his enemies. He may be a church member - but the testimony of his life, the witness of his walk, will not honor and glorify Christ.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Present Day Evangelism # 2
Present Day Evangelism # 2
Bent on attaining a certain desired object, the energy of the flesh has been given free reign, and supposing that the object was right, evangelists have concluded that nothing could be wrong which contributed unto the securing of that end; and since their efforts appear to be eminently successful, only too many churches silently acquiesced, telling themselves "the end justifies the means." Instead of examining the plans proposed and the methods adopted by the light of Scripture, they were tacitly accepted on the ground of expediency. The evangelist was esteemed not for the soundness of his message - but by the visible "results" he secured. He was valued, not according to how his preaching honored God - but by how many souls were supposedly converted under it.
Once a man makes the conversion of sinners his prime design and all-consuming end, he is exceedingly apt to adopt a wrong course. Instead of striving to preach the Truth in all its purity - he will tone it down so as to make it more palatable to the unregenerate. Impelled by a single force, moving in one fixed direction, his object is to make conversion easy, and therefore favorite passages (like John 3:16) are dwelt upon incessantly, while others are ignored or pared away. It inevitably reacts upon his own theology, and various verses in the Word are shunned, if not repudiated. What place will he give in his thought to such declarations as: "Can the Ethiopian change his skin - or the leopard his spots?" (Jere. 13:23); "No man can come unto Me, except the Father who has sent Me draws him" (John 6:44); "You have not chosen Me - but I have chosen you" (John 15:14)?
He will be sorely tempted to modify the truth of God's sovereign election, of Christ's particular redemption, of the imperative necessity for the supernatural operations of the Holy Spirit.
In twentieth century evangelism, there has been a woeful ignoring of the solemn truth of the total depravity of man. There has been a complete underrating of the desperate case and condition of the sinner. Very few indeed have faced the unpalatable fact - that every man is thoroughly corrupt by nature, that he is completely unaware of his own wretchedness, blind and helpless, dead in trespasses and sins! Because such is his case, because his heart is filled with enmity against God, it follows that no man can be saved without the special and supernatural intervention of God. According to our view here, so will it be elsewhere. To qualify and modify the truth of man's total depravity will inevitably lead to the diluting of collateral truths. The teaching of Holy Writ on this point is unmistakable: man's plight is such that his salvation is impossible, unless God puts forth His mighty power. No stirring of the emotions by anecdotes, no regaling of the senses by music, no oratory of the preacher, no persuasive appeals - are of the slightest avail.
In connection with the old creation, God did all without any assistants. But in the far more stupendous work of the new creation, it is intimated by the Armenian evangelist of our day that God needs the sinner's cooperation. Really, it comes to this - God is represented as helping man to save himself: the sinner must begin the work by becoming willing, and then God will complete the business. Whereas, none but the Spirit can make him willing in the day of His power (Psalm 110:3). He alone can produce godly sorrow for sin, and saving faith in the Gospel. He alone can make us not love ourselves first and foremost, and bring us into subjection to the Lordship of Christ. Instead of seeking the aid of outside evangelists, let the churches get on their faces before God, confess their sins, seek His glory, and cry for His miracle-working operations. "Not by might (of the preacher), nor by power (of the sinner's will) - but by My Spirit, says the Lord."
It is generally recognized that spirituality is at a low ebb in Christendom, and not a few perceive that sound doctrine is rapidly on the wane - yet many of the Lord's people take comfort from supposing that the Gospel is still being widely preached and that large numbers are being saved thereby. Alas! their optimistic supposition is ill-founded and sandily grounded. If the "message" now being delivered in Mission Halls be examined, if the "tracts" which are being scattered among the unchurched masses be scrutinized, if the "open air" speakers be carefully listened to, if the "sermons" or "addresses" of a "soul-winning campaign" be analyzed; in short, if "modern evangelism" is weighed in the balances of Holy Writ, it will be found lacking, lacking that which is vital to genuine conversion, lacking what is essential if sinners are to be shown their need of a Saviour, lacking that which will produce the transformed lives of new creatures in Christ Jesus.
It is in no captious spirit that we write, seeking to make a man an offender for a word. It is not that we are looking for perfection, and complain because we cannot find it; nor that we criticize others because they are not doing things as we think they should be done. No, it is a matter far more serious than that, the "evangelism" of the day is not only superficial to the last degree - but it is radically defective. It is utterly lacking a foundation on which to base an appeal for lamentable lack of proportion (the mercy of God being made far more prominent than His holiness, His love than His wrath) - but there is a fatal omission of that which God has given for the purpose of imparting a knowledge of sin. There is not only a reprehensible introducing of "bright singing," humorous witticisms and entertaining anecdotes - but there is a studied omission of dark background upon which alone the Gospel can effectively shine forth.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Bent on attaining a certain desired object, the energy of the flesh has been given free reign, and supposing that the object was right, evangelists have concluded that nothing could be wrong which contributed unto the securing of that end; and since their efforts appear to be eminently successful, only too many churches silently acquiesced, telling themselves "the end justifies the means." Instead of examining the plans proposed and the methods adopted by the light of Scripture, they were tacitly accepted on the ground of expediency. The evangelist was esteemed not for the soundness of his message - but by the visible "results" he secured. He was valued, not according to how his preaching honored God - but by how many souls were supposedly converted under it.
Once a man makes the conversion of sinners his prime design and all-consuming end, he is exceedingly apt to adopt a wrong course. Instead of striving to preach the Truth in all its purity - he will tone it down so as to make it more palatable to the unregenerate. Impelled by a single force, moving in one fixed direction, his object is to make conversion easy, and therefore favorite passages (like John 3:16) are dwelt upon incessantly, while others are ignored or pared away. It inevitably reacts upon his own theology, and various verses in the Word are shunned, if not repudiated. What place will he give in his thought to such declarations as: "Can the Ethiopian change his skin - or the leopard his spots?" (Jere. 13:23); "No man can come unto Me, except the Father who has sent Me draws him" (John 6:44); "You have not chosen Me - but I have chosen you" (John 15:14)?
He will be sorely tempted to modify the truth of God's sovereign election, of Christ's particular redemption, of the imperative necessity for the supernatural operations of the Holy Spirit.
In twentieth century evangelism, there has been a woeful ignoring of the solemn truth of the total depravity of man. There has been a complete underrating of the desperate case and condition of the sinner. Very few indeed have faced the unpalatable fact - that every man is thoroughly corrupt by nature, that he is completely unaware of his own wretchedness, blind and helpless, dead in trespasses and sins! Because such is his case, because his heart is filled with enmity against God, it follows that no man can be saved without the special and supernatural intervention of God. According to our view here, so will it be elsewhere. To qualify and modify the truth of man's total depravity will inevitably lead to the diluting of collateral truths. The teaching of Holy Writ on this point is unmistakable: man's plight is such that his salvation is impossible, unless God puts forth His mighty power. No stirring of the emotions by anecdotes, no regaling of the senses by music, no oratory of the preacher, no persuasive appeals - are of the slightest avail.
In connection with the old creation, God did all without any assistants. But in the far more stupendous work of the new creation, it is intimated by the Armenian evangelist of our day that God needs the sinner's cooperation. Really, it comes to this - God is represented as helping man to save himself: the sinner must begin the work by becoming willing, and then God will complete the business. Whereas, none but the Spirit can make him willing in the day of His power (Psalm 110:3). He alone can produce godly sorrow for sin, and saving faith in the Gospel. He alone can make us not love ourselves first and foremost, and bring us into subjection to the Lordship of Christ. Instead of seeking the aid of outside evangelists, let the churches get on their faces before God, confess their sins, seek His glory, and cry for His miracle-working operations. "Not by might (of the preacher), nor by power (of the sinner's will) - but by My Spirit, says the Lord."
It is generally recognized that spirituality is at a low ebb in Christendom, and not a few perceive that sound doctrine is rapidly on the wane - yet many of the Lord's people take comfort from supposing that the Gospel is still being widely preached and that large numbers are being saved thereby. Alas! their optimistic supposition is ill-founded and sandily grounded. If the "message" now being delivered in Mission Halls be examined, if the "tracts" which are being scattered among the unchurched masses be scrutinized, if the "open air" speakers be carefully listened to, if the "sermons" or "addresses" of a "soul-winning campaign" be analyzed; in short, if "modern evangelism" is weighed in the balances of Holy Writ, it will be found lacking, lacking that which is vital to genuine conversion, lacking what is essential if sinners are to be shown their need of a Saviour, lacking that which will produce the transformed lives of new creatures in Christ Jesus.
It is in no captious spirit that we write, seeking to make a man an offender for a word. It is not that we are looking for perfection, and complain because we cannot find it; nor that we criticize others because they are not doing things as we think they should be done. No, it is a matter far more serious than that, the "evangelism" of the day is not only superficial to the last degree - but it is radically defective. It is utterly lacking a foundation on which to base an appeal for lamentable lack of proportion (the mercy of God being made far more prominent than His holiness, His love than His wrath) - but there is a fatal omission of that which God has given for the purpose of imparting a knowledge of sin. There is not only a reprehensible introducing of "bright singing," humorous witticisms and entertaining anecdotes - but there is a studied omission of dark background upon which alone the Gospel can effectively shine forth.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, June 29, 2019
Present Day Evangelism # 1
Present Day Evangelism # 1
"The glorious gospel of the blessed God, which He entrusted to me" (1 Timothy 1:11).
Most of the so-called evangelism of our day is a grief to genuine Christians, for they feel that it lacks any scriptural warrant, that it is dishonoring unto God, and that it is filling the churches with empty professors! They are shocked that so much frothy superficiality, fleshly excitement and worldly allurement should be associated with the holy name of the Lord Jesus Christ. They deplore the cheapening of the Gospel, the beguiling of unwary souls, and the carnalizing and commercializing of what is to them, ineffably sacred! It requires little spiritual discernment to perceive that the evangelistic activities of Christendom during the last century have steadfastly deteriorated from bad to worse - yet few appear to realize the root from which this evil has sprung. It will now be our endeavor to expose the same. Its aim was wrong, and therefore its fruit faulty.
The grand design of God, from which He never has and never will swerve, is to glorify Himself - to make manifest before His creatures what an infinitely glorious Being He is. That is the great aim and end He has - in all that He does and says. For that, He allowed sin to enter the world. For that, he willed His beloved Son to become incarnate, render perfect obedience to the divine law, suffer and die. For that, He is now taking out of the world a people for Himself, a people which shall eternally show forth His praises. For that, everything is ordered by His providential dealings. Unto that, everything on earth is now being directed, and shall actually affect the same. Nothing other than that, is what regulates God in all His actings: "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen." (Romans 11:36).
This grand and basic truth is written right across the Scriptures with the plainness of a sunbeam, and he who sees it not is blind. All things are appointed by God - for His glory. His saving of sinners is not an end in itself, for God would have been no loser had every one of them eternally perished. No, His saving of sinners is but a means unto an end - "to the praise of the glory of His grace!" (Eph. 1:6).
Now from that fundamental fact, it necessarily follows that we should make the same our aim and end: that God may be magnified by us - "whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31). In like manner, it also follows that such must be the preacher's aim, and that everything must be subordinated thereto, for everything else is of secondary importance and value. But, is it so?
If the evangelist fails to make the glory of God his paramount and constant aim, he is certain to go wrong, and all his efforts will be more or less a beating of the air. When he makes an end of anything less than that, he is sure to fall into error, for he no longer gives God His proper place. Once we fix on ends of our own, we are ready to adopt means of our own. It was at this very point, that evangelism failed two or three generations ago, and from that point it has farther and farther departed. Evangelism made "the winning of souls" its goal, its summum bonum, and everything else was made to serve and pay tribute to the same. Though the glory of God was not actually denied, yet it was lost sight of, crowded out, and made secondary. Further, let it be remembered that God is honored in exact proportion as the preacher cleaves to His Word, and faithfully proclaims "all His counsel," and not merely those portions which appeal to him.
To say nothing here about those cheap-jack evangelists who aim no higher than rushing people into making a formal profession of faith, in order that the membership of the churches may be swelled. Take those who are inspired by a genuine compassion and deep concern for the perishing, who earnestly long and zealously endeavor to deliver souls from the wrath to come - yet unless they be much on their guard, they too will inevitably err. Unless they steadily view conversion in the way God does - as the way in which He is to be glorified - they will quickly begin to compromise in the means they employ. The feverish urge of modern evangelism is not how to promote the glory of the triune Jehovah - but how to multiply conversions. The whole current of evangelism activity during the past fifty years has taken that direction. Losing sight of God's end, the churches have devised means of their own!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
"The glorious gospel of the blessed God, which He entrusted to me" (1 Timothy 1:11).
Most of the so-called evangelism of our day is a grief to genuine Christians, for they feel that it lacks any scriptural warrant, that it is dishonoring unto God, and that it is filling the churches with empty professors! They are shocked that so much frothy superficiality, fleshly excitement and worldly allurement should be associated with the holy name of the Lord Jesus Christ. They deplore the cheapening of the Gospel, the beguiling of unwary souls, and the carnalizing and commercializing of what is to them, ineffably sacred! It requires little spiritual discernment to perceive that the evangelistic activities of Christendom during the last century have steadfastly deteriorated from bad to worse - yet few appear to realize the root from which this evil has sprung. It will now be our endeavor to expose the same. Its aim was wrong, and therefore its fruit faulty.
The grand design of God, from which He never has and never will swerve, is to glorify Himself - to make manifest before His creatures what an infinitely glorious Being He is. That is the great aim and end He has - in all that He does and says. For that, He allowed sin to enter the world. For that, he willed His beloved Son to become incarnate, render perfect obedience to the divine law, suffer and die. For that, He is now taking out of the world a people for Himself, a people which shall eternally show forth His praises. For that, everything is ordered by His providential dealings. Unto that, everything on earth is now being directed, and shall actually affect the same. Nothing other than that, is what regulates God in all His actings: "For from Him and through Him and to Him are all things. To Him be the glory forever! Amen." (Romans 11:36).
This grand and basic truth is written right across the Scriptures with the plainness of a sunbeam, and he who sees it not is blind. All things are appointed by God - for His glory. His saving of sinners is not an end in itself, for God would have been no loser had every one of them eternally perished. No, His saving of sinners is but a means unto an end - "to the praise of the glory of His grace!" (Eph. 1:6).
Now from that fundamental fact, it necessarily follows that we should make the same our aim and end: that God may be magnified by us - "whatever you do, do all to the glory of God" (1 Cor. 10:31). In like manner, it also follows that such must be the preacher's aim, and that everything must be subordinated thereto, for everything else is of secondary importance and value. But, is it so?
If the evangelist fails to make the glory of God his paramount and constant aim, he is certain to go wrong, and all his efforts will be more or less a beating of the air. When he makes an end of anything less than that, he is sure to fall into error, for he no longer gives God His proper place. Once we fix on ends of our own, we are ready to adopt means of our own. It was at this very point, that evangelism failed two or three generations ago, and from that point it has farther and farther departed. Evangelism made "the winning of souls" its goal, its summum bonum, and everything else was made to serve and pay tribute to the same. Though the glory of God was not actually denied, yet it was lost sight of, crowded out, and made secondary. Further, let it be remembered that God is honored in exact proportion as the preacher cleaves to His Word, and faithfully proclaims "all His counsel," and not merely those portions which appeal to him.
To say nothing here about those cheap-jack evangelists who aim no higher than rushing people into making a formal profession of faith, in order that the membership of the churches may be swelled. Take those who are inspired by a genuine compassion and deep concern for the perishing, who earnestly long and zealously endeavor to deliver souls from the wrath to come - yet unless they be much on their guard, they too will inevitably err. Unless they steadily view conversion in the way God does - as the way in which He is to be glorified - they will quickly begin to compromise in the means they employ. The feverish urge of modern evangelism is not how to promote the glory of the triune Jehovah - but how to multiply conversions. The whole current of evangelism activity during the past fifty years has taken that direction. Losing sight of God's end, the churches have devised means of their own!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Burden Bearing # 2
Burden Bearing # 2
Others are, perhaps, determined from availing themselves of this privilege - through regarding God as being of such greatness and majesty, that it would be presumption to suppose He notices our petty trials and troubles. In the human realm, high office and pomposity usually go together, for those in authority rarely pay much attention to the personal affairs of those under them. But far different is it with the Lord. The One who created the universe - also planted the blade of grass. The One who governs the planets - also numbers the hairs of our heads. The One who is worshiped by the angels - also observes the fall of a sparrow.
The One who holds our souls in life - bids us to cast our "burden upon" Him. It is true that He is Almighty - but He is also our Father. If I called upon the king of England, or the president of the United States, he would not receive me; but he would receive His own child! Cultivate the thought of God's Fatherhood! It implies nearness, access, sympathy, readiness to sustain.
Another thing which hinders many, is the limitations which they place upon the Lord. They believe that Christ bore their sins in His own body on the tree - but that is as far as their faith goes. They trust Him with the eternal interests of their souls - but largely lose sight of Him for their temporal supplies. They betake themselves to Him as their spiritual Physician - but not as their bodily. We read, "Himself took our infirmities, and bore our sicknesses" (Matt. 8:17). He took them upon His spirit, entering sympathetically into the condition of the sufferers. And today, He is "touched with the feeling of our infirmities" (Heb. 4:15). Then contemplate Him as the compassionate One who has at heart your temporal interests, who is willing to supply all your need. He is not only a Deliverer from the wrath to come - but a Sustainer in trouble, a Strengthener in weakness, a Succourer in trials. Then make use of Him as such, and cast your burden upon Him.
Note well, it is not "burdens" but "burden" - for we are not to allow them to accumulate. As soon as you are conscious of one - cast it on the Lord, by taking Him fully into your confidence, freely unbosoming yourself to Him, and familiarly acquainting Him with what weighs upon you. If it is the burden of sin, confess it frankly to Him and plead the promise of 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." If the burden of sustenance, anxiety over the future, troubled about meeting your obligations, acknowledge your fear, unbelief and distress, and remember it is "the Father of mercies" (2 Cor. 1:3) you are talking to. If of sorrow, grief over wayward children, or the anguish of bereavement, pour out your lamentations into the ear of Him who wept by the grave side of Lazarus! Then plead His promise, "He shall sustain you" (Psalm 55:22), expect Him to make it good in your case, and you shall prove the grand truth, "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Cor. 12:9).
"Bear each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). A very needful word is that in this exceptionally selfish age, when, beyond contributing to public appeals for charity, few have any regard for the needs and rights of others, and when so many of the present and the rising generation are devoid of even "natural affection." True Christianity fulfills both tables of the Law. Genuine piety consists not only of giving God His proper place in my life - but in seeking the welfare of my neighbors. I may be diligent in keeping the Sabbath, singing Psalms, and attending church - but if I am lacking in love to those I profess are my brethren and sisters in Christ - then my religion is no better than that of the Pharisees. If the love of God has been shed abroad in my heart - then I shall sympathize with His children in their varied trials and troubles, be ready to counsel and comfort, and assist them so far as lies in my power. Only thus shall I fulfill the law of Christ's precepts and the law of His example (John 13:14, 15), for He enjoins us to be compassionate to others, and is Himself touched with the feeling of our infirmities.
"For every man shall bear his own burden" (Galatians 6:5). Needless to say, there is no conflict between this verse and the others which have been before us. There is a "burden" of which we cannot rid ourselves - and that is, the discharge of our responsibility, the performance of duty. For the fulfillment of that, we may - we should seek grace from the Lord; but to be relieved of it, we must not pray. Nor may we legitimately look to our brethren and sisters to shoulder it for us. We are not warranted in imposing on their benevolence, or so trading on their kindness, that we become drones. If a man will not work - neither shall he eat! (2 Thess. 3:10). If he refuses to use the strength and talent God has given him he has no right at all to expect others to come and feed him.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Others are, perhaps, determined from availing themselves of this privilege - through regarding God as being of such greatness and majesty, that it would be presumption to suppose He notices our petty trials and troubles. In the human realm, high office and pomposity usually go together, for those in authority rarely pay much attention to the personal affairs of those under them. But far different is it with the Lord. The One who created the universe - also planted the blade of grass. The One who governs the planets - also numbers the hairs of our heads. The One who is worshiped by the angels - also observes the fall of a sparrow.
The One who holds our souls in life - bids us to cast our "burden upon" Him. It is true that He is Almighty - but He is also our Father. If I called upon the king of England, or the president of the United States, he would not receive me; but he would receive His own child! Cultivate the thought of God's Fatherhood! It implies nearness, access, sympathy, readiness to sustain.
Another thing which hinders many, is the limitations which they place upon the Lord. They believe that Christ bore their sins in His own body on the tree - but that is as far as their faith goes. They trust Him with the eternal interests of their souls - but largely lose sight of Him for their temporal supplies. They betake themselves to Him as their spiritual Physician - but not as their bodily. We read, "Himself took our infirmities, and bore our sicknesses" (Matt. 8:17). He took them upon His spirit, entering sympathetically into the condition of the sufferers. And today, He is "touched with the feeling of our infirmities" (Heb. 4:15). Then contemplate Him as the compassionate One who has at heart your temporal interests, who is willing to supply all your need. He is not only a Deliverer from the wrath to come - but a Sustainer in trouble, a Strengthener in weakness, a Succourer in trials. Then make use of Him as such, and cast your burden upon Him.
Note well, it is not "burdens" but "burden" - for we are not to allow them to accumulate. As soon as you are conscious of one - cast it on the Lord, by taking Him fully into your confidence, freely unbosoming yourself to Him, and familiarly acquainting Him with what weighs upon you. If it is the burden of sin, confess it frankly to Him and plead the promise of 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." If the burden of sustenance, anxiety over the future, troubled about meeting your obligations, acknowledge your fear, unbelief and distress, and remember it is "the Father of mercies" (2 Cor. 1:3) you are talking to. If of sorrow, grief over wayward children, or the anguish of bereavement, pour out your lamentations into the ear of Him who wept by the grave side of Lazarus! Then plead His promise, "He shall sustain you" (Psalm 55:22), expect Him to make it good in your case, and you shall prove the grand truth, "My grace is sufficient for you" (2 Cor. 12:9).
"Bear each other's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ" (Galatians 6:2). A very needful word is that in this exceptionally selfish age, when, beyond contributing to public appeals for charity, few have any regard for the needs and rights of others, and when so many of the present and the rising generation are devoid of even "natural affection." True Christianity fulfills both tables of the Law. Genuine piety consists not only of giving God His proper place in my life - but in seeking the welfare of my neighbors. I may be diligent in keeping the Sabbath, singing Psalms, and attending church - but if I am lacking in love to those I profess are my brethren and sisters in Christ - then my religion is no better than that of the Pharisees. If the love of God has been shed abroad in my heart - then I shall sympathize with His children in their varied trials and troubles, be ready to counsel and comfort, and assist them so far as lies in my power. Only thus shall I fulfill the law of Christ's precepts and the law of His example (John 13:14, 15), for He enjoins us to be compassionate to others, and is Himself touched with the feeling of our infirmities.
"For every man shall bear his own burden" (Galatians 6:5). Needless to say, there is no conflict between this verse and the others which have been before us. There is a "burden" of which we cannot rid ourselves - and that is, the discharge of our responsibility, the performance of duty. For the fulfillment of that, we may - we should seek grace from the Lord; but to be relieved of it, we must not pray. Nor may we legitimately look to our brethren and sisters to shoulder it for us. We are not warranted in imposing on their benevolence, or so trading on their kindness, that we become drones. If a man will not work - neither shall he eat! (2 Thess. 3:10). If he refuses to use the strength and talent God has given him he has no right at all to expect others to come and feed him.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, June 22, 2019
Burden Bearing # 1
Burden Bearing # 1
"Cast your burden upon the Lord - and He shall sustain you" (Psalm 55:22).
What a remarkable statement is that! Probably our very familiarity with it, has prevented any sense of wonderment over it. Try to conceive what would be its first effect upon a converted heathen! He has been brought to a saving knowledge of the living God and granted a measure of light on His glorious Being and Majesty. he has learned that by His mere fiat, the universe was called into existence; that so infinitely is He exalted above all creatures, that the nations of the earth are regarded by Him as but a drop in the bucket; that He sits enthroned on High, where myriads of creatures bow before Him in worship crying, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord Almighty" (Isaiah 6:3).
And now he learns that this King of kings and Lord of lords invites him to "Cast your burden upon the Lord". Must not such a discovery be overwhelming to his mind and heart! And ought it not to have the same effect on us? - that He who "humbles himself to even behold the things that are in heaven" (Psalm 113:6) deigns to bid us lay upon HIM what we find too heavy to carry!
What a striking thing it is, that when a Christian has perceived the amazingness of such an invitation, or at least is acquainted with it - that he is so slow in profiting from it. We know not which is the more astonishing: that the Lord should be so condescending in granting us such a privilege - or that we should be so slow and reluctant to avail ourselves of it! We know not which is the more surprising: That we are given the opportunity of easing ourselves and laying on the Lord what is too heavy for us to carry; or our failure to embrace such an opportunity - and in consequence, continuing to stagger beneath a load which cripples us. It makes us think of a famished man being so foolishly proud as to refuse food when it is offered to him; or one in daylight closing and bandaging his eyes, and then complaining that he cannot see. Like Martha of old, many of the saints are "careful and troubled about many things" - when "but one thing is needful" (Luke 10:41, 42).
The one thing needful for ease of mind and peace of heart - is to "cast your burden upon the Lord", instead of attempting to carry it yourself. There is our blessed recourse! That is the grand remedy for anxiety. Why, that was the very thing we learned at the beginning, was it not? When convicted of our lost condition, when "heavy laden" with a sense of guilt and the wrath of God upon us, how did we obtain relief? Was it not by heeding that blessed Gospel invitation? We found rest of conscience and soul by coming to Christ just as we were, by acknowledging our wretchedness, by casting ourselves on His grace and mercy. And, my reader, we are to obtain relief of heart and mind from the cares of this life - in precisely the same way that we obtained relief of conscience at the beginning - by unbosoming ourselves to the Lord, by asking Him to undertake for us, by trusting Him to do so.
While it is true that an apprehension of the infinite greatness and absolute supremacy of God will fill us with wonderment at His amazing condescension in bidding us cast our burden upon Him - yet it needs to be pointed out that a sense of His dominion and all-mightiness will never move the soul to respond to this invitation. The contemplating of Jehovah upon His throne will awe us; but unless we also view Him in other relations and consider other aspects of the Divine character, our heart will never be melted before Him and drawn out to have free dealings with Him. There is a balance which needs observing here too. God is not only transcendent - but imminent. He not only resides in the highest Heaven - but "he be not far from everyone of us" (Acts 17:27). He not only dwells "in the light which no man can approach unto" (1 Tim. 6:16) - but He is also "a very present help in trouble" (Psalms 46:1); and for the believer, "a friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24).
The last quoted passages need to have a real place in our hearts if we are to respond to the invitation of our opening text. They need to be frequently meditated upon and require faith to be mixed with them. To view the Lord only as in Heaven, produces a sense of remoteness in the soul. We should also cultivate a sense of His nearness to us. The Lord is constantly near us: "I will never leave you, nor ever forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5); which is not only a blessed fact - but one that needs to be acted on. Since He is constantly by your side, "Cast your burden upon the Lord." "Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil - for you are with me" (Psalm 23:4).
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
"Cast your burden upon the Lord - and He shall sustain you" (Psalm 55:22).
What a remarkable statement is that! Probably our very familiarity with it, has prevented any sense of wonderment over it. Try to conceive what would be its first effect upon a converted heathen! He has been brought to a saving knowledge of the living God and granted a measure of light on His glorious Being and Majesty. he has learned that by His mere fiat, the universe was called into existence; that so infinitely is He exalted above all creatures, that the nations of the earth are regarded by Him as but a drop in the bucket; that He sits enthroned on High, where myriads of creatures bow before Him in worship crying, "Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord Almighty" (Isaiah 6:3).
And now he learns that this King of kings and Lord of lords invites him to "Cast your burden upon the Lord". Must not such a discovery be overwhelming to his mind and heart! And ought it not to have the same effect on us? - that He who "humbles himself to even behold the things that are in heaven" (Psalm 113:6) deigns to bid us lay upon HIM what we find too heavy to carry!
What a striking thing it is, that when a Christian has perceived the amazingness of such an invitation, or at least is acquainted with it - that he is so slow in profiting from it. We know not which is the more astonishing: that the Lord should be so condescending in granting us such a privilege - or that we should be so slow and reluctant to avail ourselves of it! We know not which is the more surprising: That we are given the opportunity of easing ourselves and laying on the Lord what is too heavy for us to carry; or our failure to embrace such an opportunity - and in consequence, continuing to stagger beneath a load which cripples us. It makes us think of a famished man being so foolishly proud as to refuse food when it is offered to him; or one in daylight closing and bandaging his eyes, and then complaining that he cannot see. Like Martha of old, many of the saints are "careful and troubled about many things" - when "but one thing is needful" (Luke 10:41, 42).
The one thing needful for ease of mind and peace of heart - is to "cast your burden upon the Lord", instead of attempting to carry it yourself. There is our blessed recourse! That is the grand remedy for anxiety. Why, that was the very thing we learned at the beginning, was it not? When convicted of our lost condition, when "heavy laden" with a sense of guilt and the wrath of God upon us, how did we obtain relief? Was it not by heeding that blessed Gospel invitation? We found rest of conscience and soul by coming to Christ just as we were, by acknowledging our wretchedness, by casting ourselves on His grace and mercy. And, my reader, we are to obtain relief of heart and mind from the cares of this life - in precisely the same way that we obtained relief of conscience at the beginning - by unbosoming ourselves to the Lord, by asking Him to undertake for us, by trusting Him to do so.
While it is true that an apprehension of the infinite greatness and absolute supremacy of God will fill us with wonderment at His amazing condescension in bidding us cast our burden upon Him - yet it needs to be pointed out that a sense of His dominion and all-mightiness will never move the soul to respond to this invitation. The contemplating of Jehovah upon His throne will awe us; but unless we also view Him in other relations and consider other aspects of the Divine character, our heart will never be melted before Him and drawn out to have free dealings with Him. There is a balance which needs observing here too. God is not only transcendent - but imminent. He not only resides in the highest Heaven - but "he be not far from everyone of us" (Acts 17:27). He not only dwells "in the light which no man can approach unto" (1 Tim. 6:16) - but He is also "a very present help in trouble" (Psalms 46:1); and for the believer, "a friend that sticks closer than a brother" (Prov. 18:24).
The last quoted passages need to have a real place in our hearts if we are to respond to the invitation of our opening text. They need to be frequently meditated upon and require faith to be mixed with them. To view the Lord only as in Heaven, produces a sense of remoteness in the soul. We should also cultivate a sense of His nearness to us. The Lord is constantly near us: "I will never leave you, nor ever forsake you" (Hebrews 13:5); which is not only a blessed fact - but one that needs to be acted on. Since He is constantly by your side, "Cast your burden upon the Lord." "Yes, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil - for you are with me" (Psalm 23:4).
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
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