An Amiable Youth Falling Short of Heaven # 2 (and others)
But did he ever come back with a better mind? We do not read that he ever did. His sorrow was not that of true repentance; that is, repentance unto life. But his sorrow was "the sorrow of the world, which works death;" a sorrow which probably he has bitterly felt for eighteen centuries, and which will never cease!
What good can his riches do him now? They only furnish fuel to the flame in which he is tormented! Let young men look at this! Let the lovers of riches look at this!
Although neither the future course of this rich young man in this world, nor his final destiny, is given in the Scriptures; the probability is, that having turned his back on the Saviour and on the heavenly inheritance, he relinquished all thought about his salvation from this time, and abandoned himself to the enjoyment of his idolized riches. Men who have for a time been under serious concern about the salvation of their souls, and afterwards turn back to the world, because they find the terms of salvation too difficult, commonly become more careless and more hardened than others. "Their last state is worse than the first."
But though we have no record of the end of this rich young man, we have, from the lips of the Saviour Himself, an affecting account of the end of another rich man, who lived in splendor and pleasure on earth, but neglected piety and charity. The transition, in his case, from a sumptuous table, and from being clothed in purple and fine linen - to the torments of hell, is as great as the imagination can conceive! When he began to experience the keen anguish of future misery, O how better was his cry! "Send Lazarus to dip his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am tormented in this flame!" But it was too late to pray. He had enjoyed his good things here - and torment awaited him in the world of woe!
~Archibald Alexander~
(The End)
______________________
Prayer A Privilege
Although God is everywhere present, yet He is invisible. He is an all-pervading Spirit, yet is perceived by none of our senses. We behold His glorious works in the heavens and in the earth, and may learn something, by careful observation, of the general laws by which the material universe is governed; but still the great Architect is concealed. As far as reason can lead us, we seem to be shut out from all fellowship with our Maker; and whether prayer is permitted would remain forever doubtful, were it not for divine revelation. Indeed, considering man as a sinner, it would seem presumptuous for such a creature to obtrude himself into the presence of a holy God. Scripture teaches us that God may be acceptably approached by sinners only through the mediation of His Son.
Prayer is everywhere in the Bible recognized as proper, and inculcated as a duty. But it is also a most precious privilege, one of the richest blessings conferred on man. It opens a method of fellowship and communion with our Father in heaven; it furnishes a refuge for the soul oppressed with sin and sorrow; it affords an opportunity to the heart overwhelmed with an intolerable weight of misery to unburden itself, to pour its griefs into the ear of one who can pity and help.
The moral effect of prayer is important. It humbles the soul, and excites veneration for the magnificent and holy character of God. But though prayer brings into exercise the noblest acts and emotions of which our nature is capable, yet it would be a grand mistake to confine the efficacy of prayer to their moral effects. Prayer, when offered in faith, for things agreeable to the will of God, actually obtains for the petitioner the blessings which he needs. It has an efficacy to obtain forgiveness of sins, the gift of the Holy Spirit, and deliverance from a thousand evils. Prayer enters into the ears of the Lord Almighty; the prayer of faith is the mightiest engine upon earth. The Lord of heaven has given His word to answer prayer. He will be inquired of by His people, that He may bless them.
The Christian life is sustained by prayer. By it every grace is exercised, every blessing is obtained. Without the sincere desires of the heart, prayer is nothing; it is worse - it is a mockery. He is the best Christian who prays most. As God is ever near to us, "for in Him we live, and move, and have our being," we are permitted to hold fellowship with Him at all times, and in all places. We are commanded to "pray without ceasing" - to "be instant in prayer" - to pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands."
In prayer there is not only an outgoing of the soul to God, in acts of faith, love, and confidence, but there is an actual communication from God to the soul. Prayer is a holy converse - a fellowship with God. One hour spent in prayer, will accomplish more good than many employed in study or labor. Surely, then, it is good to draw near to God in prayer.
~Archibald Alexander~
(The End)
Saturday, July 27, 2019
Christ Despised # 2
Christ Despised # 2
Second, the One who upheld God's law. Therein is the Divine authority expressed, and complete subjection thereto is required from the creature; and therefore did Christ press the demands of God's law upon man. Said He, "Do not think that I have come to abolish them but to fulfill them" (Matt. 5:17); "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the law and the Prophets" (Matt. 7:12). But fallen men resent restraints, and want to be a law unto themselves, and their language concerning God and His Christ is "Let us tear off their chains and free ourselves from their restraints" (Psalm 2:3). Because the Lord Jesus enforced the requirements of the Decalogue He was "despised and rejected by men."
A solemn illustration of this occurs in John 7. To the Jews He said, "Did not Moses give you the law? Yet none of you keeps the law! Why do you want to kill Me?" (v. 19). And what was their response? This, "The people answered and said, You have a devil!" (v. 20). Who was so unwelcome here?
Third, the One who denounced human tradition in the religious sphere. Despite the Fall, man is essentially a religious creature - the image of God in which he was originally created, has not been completely destroyed. The world over, blacks, and whites, reds and yellows - pay homage to gods of their own devising, and there are few things on which they are more sensitive - than their religious superstitions - he who condemns or even criticizes the devotees of any religious belief or practice, will be greatly disliked. Now Christ drew upon Himself the hatred of Israel's leaders, by His denunciation of their religious inventions. He reproached them, "You nullify the Word of God by your tradition!" (Mark 7:13). When He cleansed the temple, the chief priests and scribes, "were indignant" (Matt. 21:15). Who was so unwelcome here?
Fourth, the One who repudiated an empty profession. Nothing so infuriated the Jews, as Christ's exposure and denunciation of their vain pretensions.
Being omniscient, it was impossible to impose upon Him; being inflexibly righteous. He could not accept deceptions; being absolutely holy, He must insist upon sincerity and reality. When they declared "Abraham is our Father!" He answered, "If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham!" When they added "we have one Father, even God," He replied, "If God were your Father, you would love Me...you are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do!" This so riled them, that they exclaimed, "Aren't we right in saying that You are a Samaritan and demon-possessed!" (John 8:39-48).
On another occasion the Jews asked Him, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly" (John 10:24). He at once exposed their hypocrisy by saying, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. You do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me" (John 10:25-27). So angered were they at this that they "took stones again to stone Him." Men will not tolerate One who pierces their religious disguise, exposes their shams, and repudiates their fair but empty profession. It is just the same today. Who was so unwelcome here?
Fifth, the One who exposed and denounced sin. Ah, this explains why Christ was not wanted here. He was a constant thorn in their sides! His holiness condemned their unholiness. Men wish to go their own way, to please themselves, to gratify their lusts. They want to be comfortable in their wickedness - therefore they resent one who searches the heart, pierces the conscience, rebukes their evil. Christ was absolutely uncompromising. He would not wink at wrong-doing, but unsparingly denounced it, in whoever it was found. He boldly affirmed, "For judgment I have come into this world" (John 9:41), that is, to unveil men's secret characters, to prove they are blind in spiritual things, to demonstrate they loved darkness rather than light. His Person and preaching tried everything and everyone He came into contact with.
Why was (and is) Christ "despised and rejected by men?"
First, because required inward purity. Herein is the great difference between all human religions and the Divine religion. All human religions concern themselves with external performances - but the Christian religion is only concerned with the source of all conduct. "Man looks on the outward appearance - but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Sam. 16:7). It was Christ's exposition and enforcement of this truth, which made Him so unpopular with the leaders. "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness!" (Matthew 23:25-28).
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Second, the One who upheld God's law. Therein is the Divine authority expressed, and complete subjection thereto is required from the creature; and therefore did Christ press the demands of God's law upon man. Said He, "Do not think that I have come to abolish them but to fulfill them" (Matt. 5:17); "So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the law and the Prophets" (Matt. 7:12). But fallen men resent restraints, and want to be a law unto themselves, and their language concerning God and His Christ is "Let us tear off their chains and free ourselves from their restraints" (Psalm 2:3). Because the Lord Jesus enforced the requirements of the Decalogue He was "despised and rejected by men."
A solemn illustration of this occurs in John 7. To the Jews He said, "Did not Moses give you the law? Yet none of you keeps the law! Why do you want to kill Me?" (v. 19). And what was their response? This, "The people answered and said, You have a devil!" (v. 20). Who was so unwelcome here?
Third, the One who denounced human tradition in the religious sphere. Despite the Fall, man is essentially a religious creature - the image of God in which he was originally created, has not been completely destroyed. The world over, blacks, and whites, reds and yellows - pay homage to gods of their own devising, and there are few things on which they are more sensitive - than their religious superstitions - he who condemns or even criticizes the devotees of any religious belief or practice, will be greatly disliked. Now Christ drew upon Himself the hatred of Israel's leaders, by His denunciation of their religious inventions. He reproached them, "You nullify the Word of God by your tradition!" (Mark 7:13). When He cleansed the temple, the chief priests and scribes, "were indignant" (Matt. 21:15). Who was so unwelcome here?
Fourth, the One who repudiated an empty profession. Nothing so infuriated the Jews, as Christ's exposure and denunciation of their vain pretensions.
Being omniscient, it was impossible to impose upon Him; being inflexibly righteous. He could not accept deceptions; being absolutely holy, He must insist upon sincerity and reality. When they declared "Abraham is our Father!" He answered, "If you were Abraham's children, you would do the works of Abraham!" When they added "we have one Father, even God," He replied, "If God were your Father, you would love Me...you are of your father the devil, and the lusts of your father you will do!" This so riled them, that they exclaimed, "Aren't we right in saying that You are a Samaritan and demon-possessed!" (John 8:39-48).
On another occasion the Jews asked Him, "How long will you keep us in suspense? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly" (John 10:24). He at once exposed their hypocrisy by saying, "I did tell you, but you do not believe. You do not believe because you are not my sheep. My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me" (John 10:25-27). So angered were they at this that they "took stones again to stone Him." Men will not tolerate One who pierces their religious disguise, exposes their shams, and repudiates their fair but empty profession. It is just the same today. Who was so unwelcome here?
Fifth, the One who exposed and denounced sin. Ah, this explains why Christ was not wanted here. He was a constant thorn in their sides! His holiness condemned their unholiness. Men wish to go their own way, to please themselves, to gratify their lusts. They want to be comfortable in their wickedness - therefore they resent one who searches the heart, pierces the conscience, rebukes their evil. Christ was absolutely uncompromising. He would not wink at wrong-doing, but unsparingly denounced it, in whoever it was found. He boldly affirmed, "For judgment I have come into this world" (John 9:41), that is, to unveil men's secret characters, to prove they are blind in spiritual things, to demonstrate they loved darkness rather than light. His Person and preaching tried everything and everyone He came into contact with.
Why was (and is) Christ "despised and rejected by men?"
First, because required inward purity. Herein is the great difference between all human religions and the Divine religion. All human religions concern themselves with external performances - but the Christian religion is only concerned with the source of all conduct. "Man looks on the outward appearance - but the Lord looks on the heart" (1 Sam. 16:7). It was Christ's exposition and enforcement of this truth, which made Him so unpopular with the leaders. "Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You clean the outside of the cup and dish, but inside they are full of greed and self-indulgence. Blind Pharisee! First clean the inside of the cup and dish, and then the outside also will be clean. Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of dead men's bones and everything unclean. In the same way, on the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness!" (Matthew 23:25-28).
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, July 20, 2019
Christ Despised # 1
Christ Despised # 1
"He is despised and rejected by men" (Isaiah 53:3). For the special benefit of young preachers, we propose to sermonize this text, though in as simple and homely a manner as possible, trusting that it may please the Lord to speak through it to some unsaved readers, for we dare not assume that all who take this article have really been born again.
Our text forms part of one of the Messianic predictions, in which God made know long beforehand the treatment which His Son would receive when He became incarnate.
The prophecy of Isaiah was in the hands of the Jews seven hundred years before the Lord Jesus was born at Bethlehem - yet so exactly did it describe what befell Him, that it might well have been written by one of the Apostles. Therein is supplied one of the incontrovertible proofs of the Divine inspiration of the Scriptures, for only One who knew the end from the beginning, could have thus written history beforehand.
It might well have been supposed that the advent to earth of such a One as the Lord of Glory, would meet with a warm welcome and reverent reception, the more so in view of His appearing in human form, going about doing good. Since He came not to judge - but to save; since His mission was one of grace and mercy, since He ministered to the needy and healed the sick - will not men gladly receive Him? Many would naturally think so - but in so thinking they overlook the fact that the Lord Jesus is "the Holy One," and none but those who have the principle of holiness in their hearts, can appreciate ineffable Purity. Such an assumption as the one we have just mentioned, ignores the solemn fact of human depravity - the heart of fallen man is "desperately wicked" (Jere. 17:9). How can the Holy One appear attractive to those who are full of sin? Nothing so clearly evidences the condition of the human heart, and so solemnly demonstrates its corruption, as its attitude toward the precious Saviour.
There is much recorded against man in the Old Testament Scriptures, as for example in Psalm 14:1-4; yet dark as is the picture there drawn of fallen human nature, it fades into insignificance before what the New Testament sets before us. "The carnal mind is enmity against God" (Romans 8:7), and never was this so frightfully patent, as when Jesus was manifested in flesh. "If I had not come," declared Christ, "and spoken unto them, they had not had sin - but now they have no cloak for their sin" (John 15:22). The appearing of Christ has fully exposed man, bringing to light as nothing else ever has - the desperate wickedness of his heart!
Now let us ask and supply answer to three questions - Who was, and still is, "despised and rejected by men?" Why is He so grievously slighted? In what way is He scorned? Who was so unwelcome here?
We answer, first, the One who pressed upon men the absolute sovereignty of God. Few things are so distasteful to the proud human heart, as the truth that God does as He pleases, without in any ways consulting with the creature; that He dispenses His favors entirely according to His imperial will. Fallen man has no claims upon Him, is destitute of any merit, and can do nothing whatever to win God's esteem. Fallen man is a spiritual pauper, entirely dependent upon Divine charity, and in the bestowal of His mercies God is regulated by nothing but His own "good pleasure." "Is it not lawful for Me to do what I will with My own?" (Matt. 20:15). is His own unanswerable challenge - yet, as the context there shows, man wickedly murmurs against this.
Now the Lord Jesus came here to glorify His Father, and therefore we find Him maintaining His crown-rights and emphasizing His sovereignty. In His first message, in the Capernaum synagogue, He pointed out that though there were many widows in Israel during the days of Elijah, when there was a great famine throughout all the land, unto none of them was the Prophet sent, except unto one at Zarephath. And that though there were many lepers in Israel in the time of Elisha, none of them were healed - yet distinguishing mercy was shown unto Naaman the Syrian. The sequel was, "When they heard this, everyone in the synagogue was enraged. They got up, drove Him out of town, and brought Him to the edge of the hill their town was built on, intending to hurl Him over the cliff!" (Luke 4:28, 29). For pressing the truth of God's absolute sovereignty, Christ was "despised and rejected by men." Who was so unwelcome here?
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
"He is despised and rejected by men" (Isaiah 53:3). For the special benefit of young preachers, we propose to sermonize this text, though in as simple and homely a manner as possible, trusting that it may please the Lord to speak through it to some unsaved readers, for we dare not assume that all who take this article have really been born again.
Our text forms part of one of the Messianic predictions, in which God made know long beforehand the treatment which His Son would receive when He became incarnate.
The prophecy of Isaiah was in the hands of the Jews seven hundred years before the Lord Jesus was born at Bethlehem - yet so exactly did it describe what befell Him, that it might well have been written by one of the Apostles. Therein is supplied one of the incontrovertible proofs of the Divine inspiration of the Scriptures, for only One who knew the end from the beginning, could have thus written history beforehand.
It might well have been supposed that the advent to earth of such a One as the Lord of Glory, would meet with a warm welcome and reverent reception, the more so in view of His appearing in human form, going about doing good. Since He came not to judge - but to save; since His mission was one of grace and mercy, since He ministered to the needy and healed the sick - will not men gladly receive Him? Many would naturally think so - but in so thinking they overlook the fact that the Lord Jesus is "the Holy One," and none but those who have the principle of holiness in their hearts, can appreciate ineffable Purity. Such an assumption as the one we have just mentioned, ignores the solemn fact of human depravity - the heart of fallen man is "desperately wicked" (Jere. 17:9). How can the Holy One appear attractive to those who are full of sin? Nothing so clearly evidences the condition of the human heart, and so solemnly demonstrates its corruption, as its attitude toward the precious Saviour.
There is much recorded against man in the Old Testament Scriptures, as for example in Psalm 14:1-4; yet dark as is the picture there drawn of fallen human nature, it fades into insignificance before what the New Testament sets before us. "The carnal mind is enmity against God" (Romans 8:7), and never was this so frightfully patent, as when Jesus was manifested in flesh. "If I had not come," declared Christ, "and spoken unto them, they had not had sin - but now they have no cloak for their sin" (John 15:22). The appearing of Christ has fully exposed man, bringing to light as nothing else ever has - the desperate wickedness of his heart!
Now let us ask and supply answer to three questions - Who was, and still is, "despised and rejected by men?" Why is He so grievously slighted? In what way is He scorned? Who was so unwelcome here?
We answer, first, the One who pressed upon men the absolute sovereignty of God. Few things are so distasteful to the proud human heart, as the truth that God does as He pleases, without in any ways consulting with the creature; that He dispenses His favors entirely according to His imperial will. Fallen man has no claims upon Him, is destitute of any merit, and can do nothing whatever to win God's esteem. Fallen man is a spiritual pauper, entirely dependent upon Divine charity, and in the bestowal of His mercies God is regulated by nothing but His own "good pleasure." "Is it not lawful for Me to do what I will with My own?" (Matt. 20:15). is His own unanswerable challenge - yet, as the context there shows, man wickedly murmurs against this.
Now the Lord Jesus came here to glorify His Father, and therefore we find Him maintaining His crown-rights and emphasizing His sovereignty. In His first message, in the Capernaum synagogue, He pointed out that though there were many widows in Israel during the days of Elijah, when there was a great famine throughout all the land, unto none of them was the Prophet sent, except unto one at Zarephath. And that though there were many lepers in Israel in the time of Elisha, none of them were healed - yet distinguishing mercy was shown unto Naaman the Syrian. The sequel was, "When they heard this, everyone in the synagogue was enraged. They got up, drove Him out of town, and brought Him to the edge of the hill their town was built on, intending to hurl Him over the cliff!" (Luke 4:28, 29). For pressing the truth of God's absolute sovereignty, Christ was "despised and rejected by men." Who was so unwelcome here?
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
An Amiable Youth Falling Short of Heaven # 1
An Amiable Youth Falling Short of Heaven # 1
"One thing you lack" (Mark 10:21).
The history of this young man is given by three of the evangelists, Matthew 19, Mark 10, Luke 18, in nearly the same words. It is therefore doubtless worthy of our marked attention.
This youth possessed many things, and yet was deficient in one. He was rich. He was possessed of power, for Luke calls him "a ruler." He was remarkable for his morality. Few young men in our day could compare with him in this respect. When our Saviour, to try him, mentioned several of the commandments of the second table, in which our duty to our fellow-men is enjoined, this young man was able to say, "All these I have kept from my youth up." And our Lord did not deny the truth of his assertion; yes, he admitted it, for Mark says, "Then Jesus beholding him, loved him." He was pleased with the purity and blamelessness of his external conduct.
Yet this youth had no proper knowledge of the state of his own heart. His obedience was only like that of Paul when a Pharisee, "touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless."
This young ruler, however, was not ashamed to address Christ in the most respectful manner. He came, regardless of the sneers of his peers, and kneeling, said, "Good Master." He came to Him as a serious inquirer. The question which he asked was the most important that he could ask, or that any man ever asked; "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" He was convinced that something was still needful, but he knew not what. He had heard of the teachings of Christ, and he was impelled by the serious impressions on his mind to break through every difficulty, and to inquire of the Master, believing that he could tell him what to do to secure this object of infinite value.
And evidently, he was confident that he was willing to do whatever should be prescribed. Oh, deceitful heart; how little did he know of its true state! But Jesus knew, and in a moment brought him to a fair test. He knew that, notwithstanding all his fair professions, amiable character, and courteous demeanor - he was an idolater in his heart, and worshiped mammon with supreme affection. He therefore said, "Go, sell all that you have, and distribute to the poor; and come, follow me; and you shall have treasure in heaven."
O what a test for a lover of riches! See, the young man's countenance changes; he remains silent. His heart is undergoing an evident conflict. Heaven and earth, with all their charms, are before him. For a moment, perhaps, he hesitates; for he sincerely wishes to possess eternal life - but, O upon what a hard condition to give away all his riches, to which his heart was wedded! No, no! He cannot do it!
See, he turns his back on the Saviour! He turns his back on all the treasures of heaven! He goes away sorrowful indeed, very sorrowful to lose the opportunity of securing eternal happiness, but deliberately resolved not to relinquish his hold of this world. He will have his "good things" in this life, whatever may become of him in the next. Here is a picture of the true state of thousands - of thousands of well-instructed, moral, and amiable youth!
But was not this a hard test? Was it not more than is required of others? Not at all. All may not, in fact, be put to this same test; but every true disciple has already passed this ordeal, and has renounced the world as a portion - as an object of supreme affection. And every true Christian, however much of this world he may possess, would instantly resign it all at the command of Christ. It is the characteristic of every genuine disciple, that, for the sake of Christ, he has been made willing to forsake father, mother, wife, and children, house and lands, yes, life itself.
It is true, this test, if made practical in our churches, would detect the hypocrisy of a multitude of professors; or rather, their lack of supreme love to Christ is already but too evident, from the ardor with which they pursue the world, and from their unwillingness to part with even a small portion of their wealth to promote the cause of Christ.
This young man possessed many excellent qualities and advantages, and lacked but ONE THING. Yet that was the main thing - the one thing needful - a heart to love God supremely - a heart to prefer heavenly treasures to earthly riches. Though his character and conduct were so correct and amiable, yet his heart was not right in the sight of God. He went away sorrowful.
~Archibald Alexander~
(continued with # 2)
"One thing you lack" (Mark 10:21).
The history of this young man is given by three of the evangelists, Matthew 19, Mark 10, Luke 18, in nearly the same words. It is therefore doubtless worthy of our marked attention.
This youth possessed many things, and yet was deficient in one. He was rich. He was possessed of power, for Luke calls him "a ruler." He was remarkable for his morality. Few young men in our day could compare with him in this respect. When our Saviour, to try him, mentioned several of the commandments of the second table, in which our duty to our fellow-men is enjoined, this young man was able to say, "All these I have kept from my youth up." And our Lord did not deny the truth of his assertion; yes, he admitted it, for Mark says, "Then Jesus beholding him, loved him." He was pleased with the purity and blamelessness of his external conduct.
Yet this youth had no proper knowledge of the state of his own heart. His obedience was only like that of Paul when a Pharisee, "touching the righteousness which is in the law, blameless."
This young ruler, however, was not ashamed to address Christ in the most respectful manner. He came, regardless of the sneers of his peers, and kneeling, said, "Good Master." He came to Him as a serious inquirer. The question which he asked was the most important that he could ask, or that any man ever asked; "What must I do to inherit eternal life?" He was convinced that something was still needful, but he knew not what. He had heard of the teachings of Christ, and he was impelled by the serious impressions on his mind to break through every difficulty, and to inquire of the Master, believing that he could tell him what to do to secure this object of infinite value.
And evidently, he was confident that he was willing to do whatever should be prescribed. Oh, deceitful heart; how little did he know of its true state! But Jesus knew, and in a moment brought him to a fair test. He knew that, notwithstanding all his fair professions, amiable character, and courteous demeanor - he was an idolater in his heart, and worshiped mammon with supreme affection. He therefore said, "Go, sell all that you have, and distribute to the poor; and come, follow me; and you shall have treasure in heaven."
O what a test for a lover of riches! See, the young man's countenance changes; he remains silent. His heart is undergoing an evident conflict. Heaven and earth, with all their charms, are before him. For a moment, perhaps, he hesitates; for he sincerely wishes to possess eternal life - but, O upon what a hard condition to give away all his riches, to which his heart was wedded! No, no! He cannot do it!
See, he turns his back on the Saviour! He turns his back on all the treasures of heaven! He goes away sorrowful indeed, very sorrowful to lose the opportunity of securing eternal happiness, but deliberately resolved not to relinquish his hold of this world. He will have his "good things" in this life, whatever may become of him in the next. Here is a picture of the true state of thousands - of thousands of well-instructed, moral, and amiable youth!
But was not this a hard test? Was it not more than is required of others? Not at all. All may not, in fact, be put to this same test; but every true disciple has already passed this ordeal, and has renounced the world as a portion - as an object of supreme affection. And every true Christian, however much of this world he may possess, would instantly resign it all at the command of Christ. It is the characteristic of every genuine disciple, that, for the sake of Christ, he has been made willing to forsake father, mother, wife, and children, house and lands, yes, life itself.
It is true, this test, if made practical in our churches, would detect the hypocrisy of a multitude of professors; or rather, their lack of supreme love to Christ is already but too evident, from the ardor with which they pursue the world, and from their unwillingness to part with even a small portion of their wealth to promote the cause of Christ.
This young man possessed many excellent qualities and advantages, and lacked but ONE THING. Yet that was the main thing - the one thing needful - a heart to love God supremely - a heart to prefer heavenly treasures to earthly riches. Though his character and conduct were so correct and amiable, yet his heart was not right in the sight of God. He went away sorrowful.
~Archibald Alexander~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, July 13, 2019
The Eye of Faith # 2
The Eye of Faith # 2
It is true that there may be a genuine faith, which takes in but little of the light of Divine revelation at first. Yet here again the earthly facts accurately shadow forth this spiritual truth. The eye of an infant takes in the light and perceives external objects - but with a good deal of weakness and confusion, until as it grows more its vision extends further and further. So it is with the eye of faith. At first, the light of spiritual knowledge is but dim - the babe in Christ is unable to see afar off. But as faith grows deeper and deeper into the Divine mysteries, until it comes at length to be swallowed up on open vision (John 17:24).
5. The eye is a very assuring faculty. Of the five bodily senses, this is the most convincing. What are we more sure of, than what we see with our eyes! Some fools may seek to persuade themselves that matter is a mental delusion - but no one in his right mind will believe them. If a man sees the sun shining in the heavens, he knows that it is day.
In like manner, faith is a grace which carries in its very nature a great deal of certainty: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (Heb. 11:1).
Skeptics may deny the Divine inspiration of the Scriptures - but when the eye of faith has gazed upon its supernatural beauties, the point is settled once for all. Others may regard Jesus as a pious myth - but once the saint has really beheld the Lamb of God, it can say "I know that my Redeemer lives."
6. The eye is an impressing organ. What we see leaves an impression upon our minds. That is why we need to pray often, "Turn away my eyes from beholding vanity" (Psalm 119:37). That is why the prophet declared, "What I see brings grief to my soul" (Lam. 3:51).
Real faith leaves an impression of the Son of Righteousness upon the heart, "Those who look to Him are radiant with joy" (Psalm 34:5). Also read 2 Corinthians 3:18.
7. The eye is a wondrous organ. Those who are competent to express an opinion, affirm that the eye is the most marvelous and remarkable of any part of the human body. There is much of the wisdom and power of the Creator to be discovered in the formation and operation of the eye! Just so, faith is a grace that is marvelously and wondrously wrought in the soul. There is more of the wisdom and power of the Divine Workman discovered in the formation of the grace of faith - than any other part of the new creature. Thus we read of the "work of faith with power" (2 Thess. 1:11). Yes, that the same exceeding great and mighty power which was put forth by God in the raising of Christ from the dead - is exerted upon and within those who believe! (Eph. 1:19)
8. The eye is a very delicate thing - it is soon hurt and easily damaged. A tiny speck of dust will cause pain and make it weep. It is very striking to note, that this is the very way to recovery - it weeps out the dust that gets into it.
Just so, faith is a most delicate grace - thriving best in a pure conscience. Hence the apostle speaks of "holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience" (1 Timothy 3:9). The lively actings of faith are soon marred by the dust of sin, or by the vanities of the world getting into the heart where it is seated. And wherever true faith is - if it is hurt by sin - it vents itself in a way of godly sorrow.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
It is true that there may be a genuine faith, which takes in but little of the light of Divine revelation at first. Yet here again the earthly facts accurately shadow forth this spiritual truth. The eye of an infant takes in the light and perceives external objects - but with a good deal of weakness and confusion, until as it grows more its vision extends further and further. So it is with the eye of faith. At first, the light of spiritual knowledge is but dim - the babe in Christ is unable to see afar off. But as faith grows deeper and deeper into the Divine mysteries, until it comes at length to be swallowed up on open vision (John 17:24).
5. The eye is a very assuring faculty. Of the five bodily senses, this is the most convincing. What are we more sure of, than what we see with our eyes! Some fools may seek to persuade themselves that matter is a mental delusion - but no one in his right mind will believe them. If a man sees the sun shining in the heavens, he knows that it is day.
In like manner, faith is a grace which carries in its very nature a great deal of certainty: "Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see" (Heb. 11:1).
Skeptics may deny the Divine inspiration of the Scriptures - but when the eye of faith has gazed upon its supernatural beauties, the point is settled once for all. Others may regard Jesus as a pious myth - but once the saint has really beheld the Lamb of God, it can say "I know that my Redeemer lives."
6. The eye is an impressing organ. What we see leaves an impression upon our minds. That is why we need to pray often, "Turn away my eyes from beholding vanity" (Psalm 119:37). That is why the prophet declared, "What I see brings grief to my soul" (Lam. 3:51).
Real faith leaves an impression of the Son of Righteousness upon the heart, "Those who look to Him are radiant with joy" (Psalm 34:5). Also read 2 Corinthians 3:18.
7. The eye is a wondrous organ. Those who are competent to express an opinion, affirm that the eye is the most marvelous and remarkable of any part of the human body. There is much of the wisdom and power of the Creator to be discovered in the formation and operation of the eye! Just so, faith is a grace that is marvelously and wondrously wrought in the soul. There is more of the wisdom and power of the Divine Workman discovered in the formation of the grace of faith - than any other part of the new creature. Thus we read of the "work of faith with power" (2 Thess. 1:11). Yes, that the same exceeding great and mighty power which was put forth by God in the raising of Christ from the dead - is exerted upon and within those who believe! (Eph. 1:19)
8. The eye is a very delicate thing - it is soon hurt and easily damaged. A tiny speck of dust will cause pain and make it weep. It is very striking to note, that this is the very way to recovery - it weeps out the dust that gets into it.
Just so, faith is a most delicate grace - thriving best in a pure conscience. Hence the apostle speaks of "holding the mystery of the faith in a pure conscience" (1 Timothy 3:9). The lively actings of faith are soon marred by the dust of sin, or by the vanities of the world getting into the heart where it is seated. And wherever true faith is - if it is hurt by sin - it vents itself in a way of godly sorrow.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
The Eye of Faith # 1
The Eye of Faith # 1
"I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear - but now my eye sees You!" (Job 42:5).
What did Job signify by this expression? Obviously his words are not to be understood literally. No, by employing a common figure of speech, he meant that the mists of unbelief (occasioned by self-righteousness) had now been dispelled, and faith perceived the being of God as a glorious and living reality. Of Moses it is said that "he endured as seeing Him who is invisible" (Heb. 11:27); that is, his heart was sustained through faith's being occupied with the mighty God.
Faith is frequently represented in Scripture under the metaphor of bodily sight. Our Lord said of the great patriarch, "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day - and he saw it and was glad" (John 8:56), meaning that his faith looked forward to the day of Christ's humiliation and exaltation. Paul was commissioned unto the Gentiles to "open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of satan unto God" (Acts 26:18); or, in other words, to be the Divine instrument of their conversion through preaching to them the Word of Faith. To some of his erring children he wrote, "O foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ has been plainly set forth, as crucified among you" (Galatians 3:1).
Now what we wish to point out in this article is, that when Scripture speaks of faith under the notion of bodily sight, its writers were doing something more than availing themselves of a pertinent and suitable figure of speech. The Author of Scriptures is the One who first formed the eye, that marvelous organ of vision and without a shadow of doubt He so fashioned it as to strikingly adumbrate in the visible that which now plays so prominent a part in the Christian's dealings with the invisible. Everything in the material world shadows forth some great reality in the spiritual realm, as we should perceive had we but sufficient wisdom to discern the fact. A wide field is here opened for observation and meditation, but we shall now confine ourselves to a single example, namely, the eye of the body - as it symbolizes the faith of the heart.
1. The eye is a passive organ. The eye does not send out a light from itself, nor does it give anything unto the objects it beholds. What can the eye communicate to the sun, moon, and stars, when it gazes upon them! No, the eye merely receives the print or image of them into the mind, without adding anything to them.
Just so is it with faith - it gives nothing unto God, or to what it beholds in the Word of His grace. It simply receives or takes them into the heart as they are presented to the soul's view in the light of Divine revelation. What did the bitten Israelites communicate unto the brazen serpent when they looked unto it, and were healed? As little do we add unto Christ, when we "look" unto Him and are saved (Isaiah 45:22).
2. The eye is a directing organ. The man that has the light of day and his eyes open - can see his way, and is not so likely to stumble into ditches or fall into a precipice as a blind man, or one who walks at nighttime.
So it is with faith: "The way of the wicked is as darkness, they know not at what they stumble," but "the path of the just is as the shining light, that shines more and more unto the perfect day" (Proverbs 4:19, 18). Of Christians it is said that "we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Cor. 5:7). By "looking off unto Jesus" (faith's viewing our Exemplar) we are enabled to run the race which is set before us.
3. The eye is a very quick organ, taking in things at a great distance. Within a fraction of a moment I can turn my gaze from things lying on the ground and focus it upon the mountains which are many miles away; nay, more, I can look away altogether from the things of earth and mount up among the stars, and in a moment view the entire expanse of the heavens! What a marvel is that!
Equally wonderful is the power of faith. It is indeed a quick-sighted grace, taking up things at a great distance, as the faith of the patriarchs did, who saw the things promised "afar off" (Heb. 11:13). So too, in a moment faith may look back to an eternity past - and view the everlasting springs of electing love, active on its behalf before the foundations of the earth were laid. And then, in the same breath, it can turn itself towards an eternity yet to come, and take a view of the hidden glories of the heavenly world!
4. The eye, though it be little, is a very capacious organ. The man who has his eyes open may see all that comes with the range of his vision. He may look around and see things behind, forward and view things ahead, downward upon the waters in a well or a stream at the bottom of a deep ravine, upwards and gaze upon celestial bodies in the distant heavens.
So is it with faith - it extends itself unto everything that lies within the vast compass of God's Word. It takes knowledge of things in the distant past, it also apprehends things that are yet to come; it looks into hell, and penetrates into Heaven. It is able to discern the vanity of the world all around us.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
"I have heard of You by the hearing of the ear - but now my eye sees You!" (Job 42:5).
What did Job signify by this expression? Obviously his words are not to be understood literally. No, by employing a common figure of speech, he meant that the mists of unbelief (occasioned by self-righteousness) had now been dispelled, and faith perceived the being of God as a glorious and living reality. Of Moses it is said that "he endured as seeing Him who is invisible" (Heb. 11:27); that is, his heart was sustained through faith's being occupied with the mighty God.
Faith is frequently represented in Scripture under the metaphor of bodily sight. Our Lord said of the great patriarch, "Your father Abraham rejoiced to see My day - and he saw it and was glad" (John 8:56), meaning that his faith looked forward to the day of Christ's humiliation and exaltation. Paul was commissioned unto the Gentiles to "open their eyes, to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of satan unto God" (Acts 26:18); or, in other words, to be the Divine instrument of their conversion through preaching to them the Word of Faith. To some of his erring children he wrote, "O foolish Galatians, who has bewitched you, that you should not obey the truth, before whose eyes Jesus Christ has been plainly set forth, as crucified among you" (Galatians 3:1).
Now what we wish to point out in this article is, that when Scripture speaks of faith under the notion of bodily sight, its writers were doing something more than availing themselves of a pertinent and suitable figure of speech. The Author of Scriptures is the One who first formed the eye, that marvelous organ of vision and without a shadow of doubt He so fashioned it as to strikingly adumbrate in the visible that which now plays so prominent a part in the Christian's dealings with the invisible. Everything in the material world shadows forth some great reality in the spiritual realm, as we should perceive had we but sufficient wisdom to discern the fact. A wide field is here opened for observation and meditation, but we shall now confine ourselves to a single example, namely, the eye of the body - as it symbolizes the faith of the heart.
1. The eye is a passive organ. The eye does not send out a light from itself, nor does it give anything unto the objects it beholds. What can the eye communicate to the sun, moon, and stars, when it gazes upon them! No, the eye merely receives the print or image of them into the mind, without adding anything to them.
Just so is it with faith - it gives nothing unto God, or to what it beholds in the Word of His grace. It simply receives or takes them into the heart as they are presented to the soul's view in the light of Divine revelation. What did the bitten Israelites communicate unto the brazen serpent when they looked unto it, and were healed? As little do we add unto Christ, when we "look" unto Him and are saved (Isaiah 45:22).
2. The eye is a directing organ. The man that has the light of day and his eyes open - can see his way, and is not so likely to stumble into ditches or fall into a precipice as a blind man, or one who walks at nighttime.
So it is with faith: "The way of the wicked is as darkness, they know not at what they stumble," but "the path of the just is as the shining light, that shines more and more unto the perfect day" (Proverbs 4:19, 18). Of Christians it is said that "we walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Cor. 5:7). By "looking off unto Jesus" (faith's viewing our Exemplar) we are enabled to run the race which is set before us.
3. The eye is a very quick organ, taking in things at a great distance. Within a fraction of a moment I can turn my gaze from things lying on the ground and focus it upon the mountains which are many miles away; nay, more, I can look away altogether from the things of earth and mount up among the stars, and in a moment view the entire expanse of the heavens! What a marvel is that!
Equally wonderful is the power of faith. It is indeed a quick-sighted grace, taking up things at a great distance, as the faith of the patriarchs did, who saw the things promised "afar off" (Heb. 11:13). So too, in a moment faith may look back to an eternity past - and view the everlasting springs of electing love, active on its behalf before the foundations of the earth were laid. And then, in the same breath, it can turn itself towards an eternity yet to come, and take a view of the hidden glories of the heavenly world!
4. The eye, though it be little, is a very capacious organ. The man who has his eyes open may see all that comes with the range of his vision. He may look around and see things behind, forward and view things ahead, downward upon the waters in a well or a stream at the bottom of a deep ravine, upwards and gaze upon celestial bodies in the distant heavens.
So is it with faith - it extends itself unto everything that lies within the vast compass of God's Word. It takes knowledge of things in the distant past, it also apprehends things that are yet to come; it looks into hell, and penetrates into Heaven. It is able to discern the vanity of the world all around us.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, July 6, 2019
The Narrow Way # 4
The Narrow Way # 4
There are multitudes of religionists who are attempting to combine the two "ways," making the best of both worlds and serving two masters. They wish to gratify self in time - and enjoy the happiness of Heaven in eternity. Crowds of nominal Christians are deluding themselves into believing that they can do so - but they are terribly deceived! A profession which is not verified by mortifying the deeds of the body in the power of the Spirit (Romans 8:13), is vain. A faith which is not evidenced by complete submission to Christ, is only the faith of demons. A love which does not keep Christ's commandments, is an imposition (John 14:23). A claim to being a Christian, where there is no real yieldedness to the will of God, is daring presumption. The reason why so few will enter Eternal Life - is because the multitudes are not seeking it in the way of God's appointing! None seek it aright - but those who pass through the Narrow Gate, and who, despite many discouragements and falls, continue to press forward along the Narrow Way.
Now notice, carefully, the very next thing which immediately followed our Lord's reference to the two ways in Matthew 7: "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing - but inwardly they are ravening wolves" (7:15). Why does come in next? Who are the "false prophets" against which a serious soul needs to be on his guard?
They are those who teach that Heaven may be reached without treading the Narrow Way! They are those who loudly insist that eternal life may be obtained on much easier terms. They come in "sheep's clothing" - they appear (to undiscerning souls) to exalt Christ, to emphasize His precious blood, to magnify God's grace. BUT they do NOT insist upon repentance; they fail to tell their hearers that nothing but a broken heart which hates sin, can truly believe in Christ. They do NOT teach that a saving faith is a living one which purifies the heart (Acts 15:9) and overcomes the world (1 John 5:4).
These "false prophets" are known by their "fruits," the primary reference being to their "converts" - the fruits of their fleshly labors. Their "converts" are on the Broad Road, which is not the path of open wickedness and vice - but of a religion which pleases the flesh! It is that "way which seems right unto a man - but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12). Those who are on this Broad Road (this way which "seems right to so many_, have a head-knowledge of the Truth - but they walk NOT in it. The "Narrow Way" is bounded by the commandments and precepts of Scripture; the Broad Road is that path which has broken out beyond the bounds of Scripture. Titus 2:11-12 supplies the test as to which "way" we are in: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world."
Before closing, let us anticipate and seek to remove an objection. Probably many of you are saying, "I thought Christ was the Way to the Father" (John 14:6). So He is! But how?
First, in that He has removed every legal obstacle, and thereby opened a way to heaven for His people.
Second, in that He has "left us an example that we should follow HIS steps." The mere opening of a door does not give me entrance into a house - I must tread the path leading to it, and mount the steps. Christ has, by His life of unreserved obedience to God, shown us the Way which leads to Heaven: "When He puts forth His own sheep, HE goes before them - and the sheep follow Him" (John 10:4).
Third, in that He is willing and ready to bestow grace and strength to walk therein. Christ did not come here and die - in order to make it unnecessary for me to please and obey God. No indeed! "He died for all, that those who live should not henceforth live unto themselves - but unto Him who died for them!" (2 Cor. 5:15). "He gave Himself for our sins - that He might deliver us from this present evil world" (Gal. 1:4). "He gave Himself for us - that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14). Christ came here to "save His people from their sins" (Matt. 1:21); and if you are not now delivered from the power of sin, from the deceptions of satan, from the love of the world, and from the pleasing of "self" - then you are NOT saved. May it please the God of all grace to add His blessing.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
There are multitudes of religionists who are attempting to combine the two "ways," making the best of both worlds and serving two masters. They wish to gratify self in time - and enjoy the happiness of Heaven in eternity. Crowds of nominal Christians are deluding themselves into believing that they can do so - but they are terribly deceived! A profession which is not verified by mortifying the deeds of the body in the power of the Spirit (Romans 8:13), is vain. A faith which is not evidenced by complete submission to Christ, is only the faith of demons. A love which does not keep Christ's commandments, is an imposition (John 14:23). A claim to being a Christian, where there is no real yieldedness to the will of God, is daring presumption. The reason why so few will enter Eternal Life - is because the multitudes are not seeking it in the way of God's appointing! None seek it aright - but those who pass through the Narrow Gate, and who, despite many discouragements and falls, continue to press forward along the Narrow Way.
Now notice, carefully, the very next thing which immediately followed our Lord's reference to the two ways in Matthew 7: "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing - but inwardly they are ravening wolves" (7:15). Why does come in next? Who are the "false prophets" against which a serious soul needs to be on his guard?
They are those who teach that Heaven may be reached without treading the Narrow Way! They are those who loudly insist that eternal life may be obtained on much easier terms. They come in "sheep's clothing" - they appear (to undiscerning souls) to exalt Christ, to emphasize His precious blood, to magnify God's grace. BUT they do NOT insist upon repentance; they fail to tell their hearers that nothing but a broken heart which hates sin, can truly believe in Christ. They do NOT teach that a saving faith is a living one which purifies the heart (Acts 15:9) and overcomes the world (1 John 5:4).
These "false prophets" are known by their "fruits," the primary reference being to their "converts" - the fruits of their fleshly labors. Their "converts" are on the Broad Road, which is not the path of open wickedness and vice - but of a religion which pleases the flesh! It is that "way which seems right unto a man - but the end thereof are the ways of death" (Proverbs 14:12). Those who are on this Broad Road (this way which "seems right to so many_, have a head-knowledge of the Truth - but they walk NOT in it. The "Narrow Way" is bounded by the commandments and precepts of Scripture; the Broad Road is that path which has broken out beyond the bounds of Scripture. Titus 2:11-12 supplies the test as to which "way" we are in: "For the grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world."
Before closing, let us anticipate and seek to remove an objection. Probably many of you are saying, "I thought Christ was the Way to the Father" (John 14:6). So He is! But how?
First, in that He has removed every legal obstacle, and thereby opened a way to heaven for His people.
Second, in that He has "left us an example that we should follow HIS steps." The mere opening of a door does not give me entrance into a house - I must tread the path leading to it, and mount the steps. Christ has, by His life of unreserved obedience to God, shown us the Way which leads to Heaven: "When He puts forth His own sheep, HE goes before them - and the sheep follow Him" (John 10:4).
Third, in that He is willing and ready to bestow grace and strength to walk therein. Christ did not come here and die - in order to make it unnecessary for me to please and obey God. No indeed! "He died for all, that those who live should not henceforth live unto themselves - but unto Him who died for them!" (2 Cor. 5:15). "He gave Himself for our sins - that He might deliver us from this present evil world" (Gal. 1:4). "He gave Himself for us - that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works" (Titus 2:14). Christ came here to "save His people from their sins" (Matt. 1:21); and if you are not now delivered from the power of sin, from the deceptions of satan, from the love of the world, and from the pleasing of "self" - then you are NOT saved. May it please the God of all grace to add His blessing.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
The Narrow Way # 3
The Narrow Way # 3
And how are we to "strive so as to enter" the Narrow Gate? The general answer is, "lawfully" (2 Tim. 2:5). But to particularize: We are to strive by prayer and supplication, diligently seeking deliverance from those things which would bar our entrance. We are to earnestly cry to Christ for help from those foes which are seeking to overcome us. We are to come constantly to the Throne of Grace, that we may there find grace to help us to repudiate and turn away with loathing from everything which is abhorred by God, even though it involves our cutting off of a right hand and plucking out of a right eye; and grace to help us do those things which He has commanded. We must be "temperate in all things", especially those things which the flesh craves and the world loves.
Why is such striving necessary to "enter" the narrow gate?
First, because satan is striving to destroy your soul. "Be careful! Watch out for attacks from the devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour!" (1 Peter 5:8). Therefore must he be resisted "steadfast in faith."
Second, because natural appetites of the FLESH are striving to destroy you: "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" (1 Peter 2:11).
Third, because the whole WORLD is arrayed against you, and if it cannot burn, it will seek to turn you by its alluring promises, Delilah-like deceits, and fatal enticements. Unless you overcome the world, the world will overcome you to the eternal destruction of your soul.
From what has been before us, we may plainly discover why it is that the vast majority of our fellow-men and women, yes, and of professing Christians also, will fail to reach Heaven: it is because they prefer sin to holiness, indulging the lusts of the flesh to walking according to the scriptures, self to Christ, the world to God. It is as the Lord Jesus declared, "Men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19). Men refuse to deny "self", abandon their idols, and submit to Christ as LORD - and without this, none can take the first step toward Heaven and enter through the "narrow gate."
The Narrow Way
Just as entering the "Narrow Gate" signifies the heart's acceptance of Christ's holy teaching, so to walk along the "Narrow Way" means for the heart and life to be constantly regulated thereby. Walking along the Narrow Way denotes a steady perseverance in faith and obedience to the Lord Jesus; overcoming all opposition, rejecting every temptation to forsake the path of fidelity to Him. It is called the "Narrow Way" because all self-pleasing and self-seeking is shut out!
In Genesis 18:19 it is called "the Way of the Lord;" in Exodus 13:21, 32:8 "the Way;" in 1 Samuel 12:23 "the good and right Way;" in Psalm 25:9 "His Way;" in Proverbs 4:11 "the Way of wisdom;" in Proverbs 8:20 "the Way of righteousness;" in Proverbs 10:17 "the Way of life;" in Isaiah 35:8 "the Way of holiness;" in Jeremiah 6:16 "the good Way;" in 2 Peter 2:2 "the Way of truth;" in 2 Peter 2:15 "the right Way."
The Narrow Way must be followed - no matter how much it may militate against my worldly interests. It is right here that the testing point is reached. Unto the natural man, it is much easier and far more pleasant - to indulge the flesh and follow our worldly propensities. The Broad Road, where the flesh is allowed "liberty" - under the pretense of the Christian not "being under the law" - is easy, smooth, and attractive; but it ends in "destruction!" Though the "Narrow Way" leads to life, only FEW tread it.
Multitudes make a profession and claim to be saved - but their lives give no evidence that they are "strangers and pilgrims" here on earth, or that their "treasure" is in heaven. They are afraid of being thought narrow and peculiar, strict and puritanical. satan has deceived them - they imagine that they can get to heaven by an easier route than by denying "self", taking up their cross daily, and following Christ!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 4)
And how are we to "strive so as to enter" the Narrow Gate? The general answer is, "lawfully" (2 Tim. 2:5). But to particularize: We are to strive by prayer and supplication, diligently seeking deliverance from those things which would bar our entrance. We are to earnestly cry to Christ for help from those foes which are seeking to overcome us. We are to come constantly to the Throne of Grace, that we may there find grace to help us to repudiate and turn away with loathing from everything which is abhorred by God, even though it involves our cutting off of a right hand and plucking out of a right eye; and grace to help us do those things which He has commanded. We must be "temperate in all things", especially those things which the flesh craves and the world loves.
Why is such striving necessary to "enter" the narrow gate?
First, because satan is striving to destroy your soul. "Be careful! Watch out for attacks from the devil, your great enemy. He prowls around like a roaring lion, looking for some victim to devour!" (1 Peter 5:8). Therefore must he be resisted "steadfast in faith."
Second, because natural appetites of the FLESH are striving to destroy you: "Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul" (1 Peter 2:11).
Third, because the whole WORLD is arrayed against you, and if it cannot burn, it will seek to turn you by its alluring promises, Delilah-like deceits, and fatal enticements. Unless you overcome the world, the world will overcome you to the eternal destruction of your soul.
From what has been before us, we may plainly discover why it is that the vast majority of our fellow-men and women, yes, and of professing Christians also, will fail to reach Heaven: it is because they prefer sin to holiness, indulging the lusts of the flesh to walking according to the scriptures, self to Christ, the world to God. It is as the Lord Jesus declared, "Men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil" (John 3:19). Men refuse to deny "self", abandon their idols, and submit to Christ as LORD - and without this, none can take the first step toward Heaven and enter through the "narrow gate."
The Narrow Way
Just as entering the "Narrow Gate" signifies the heart's acceptance of Christ's holy teaching, so to walk along the "Narrow Way" means for the heart and life to be constantly regulated thereby. Walking along the Narrow Way denotes a steady perseverance in faith and obedience to the Lord Jesus; overcoming all opposition, rejecting every temptation to forsake the path of fidelity to Him. It is called the "Narrow Way" because all self-pleasing and self-seeking is shut out!
In Genesis 18:19 it is called "the Way of the Lord;" in Exodus 13:21, 32:8 "the Way;" in 1 Samuel 12:23 "the good and right Way;" in Psalm 25:9 "His Way;" in Proverbs 4:11 "the Way of wisdom;" in Proverbs 8:20 "the Way of righteousness;" in Proverbs 10:17 "the Way of life;" in Isaiah 35:8 "the Way of holiness;" in Jeremiah 6:16 "the good Way;" in 2 Peter 2:2 "the Way of truth;" in 2 Peter 2:15 "the right Way."
The Narrow Way must be followed - no matter how much it may militate against my worldly interests. It is right here that the testing point is reached. Unto the natural man, it is much easier and far more pleasant - to indulge the flesh and follow our worldly propensities. The Broad Road, where the flesh is allowed "liberty" - under the pretense of the Christian not "being under the law" - is easy, smooth, and attractive; but it ends in "destruction!" Though the "Narrow Way" leads to life, only FEW tread it.
Multitudes make a profession and claim to be saved - but their lives give no evidence that they are "strangers and pilgrims" here on earth, or that their "treasure" is in heaven. They are afraid of being thought narrow and peculiar, strict and puritanical. satan has deceived them - they imagine that they can get to heaven by an easier route than by denying "self", taking up their cross daily, and following Christ!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 4)
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