Ministerial Thieves
We have often thought it might be interesting and instructive, if we were to devote a short series of articles to some of the misunderstood and misinterpreted texts of the Bible. They are not few in number, nor are the mistakes made in their interpretation trivial in importance. There is nothing trivial in the Holy Scriptures, and it is always to our personal loss, when we misapply them.
Among those verses whose real meaning is often misunderstood is, "Truly, truly, I say unto you, he who enters not by the door into the sheepfold - but climbs up some other way, the same is a thief and a robber" (John 10:1). Those words have been strangely wrested both by pulpit and pew, and there seems a real need to prayerfully ascertain their significance, for they contain a warning which is a very timely one for these days.
The reference in John 10:1, is not to unregenerate souls creeping into the Church of God, still less to their obtaining an entrance to heaven. It is well-near unthinkable that any commentator should take such a view, for "thieves and robbers" never invade the celestial Paradise (Matt. 6:20), nor does Christ lead His sheep out of the Church, as He does from this "fold" (John 10:3). It is not fictitious sheep - but false shepherds that our Lord here is depicting. It is not unregenerate souls attempting to steal salvation - but unregenerate preachers seeking to fleece the flock of Christ who are represented by these "thieves and robbers." Sheep are quite incapable of "climbing up" high fences - but men who would prey upon them will stop at nothing in their determination to fatten at the expense of their victims.
Here, as everywhere, careful attention must be paid to the setting of our verse. John 10:1 forms part of a "parable" (v.6) or proverb. It is manifestly a continuation of the previous chapter, and therefore the false teachers among the Jews (those who had cast out of the Temple the one whose sight Christ had restored - (9:35) were primarily intended by the "thieves and robbers." The priests and scribes demanded of Christ - by what authority He acted, seeing that He had received no commission from them. Here He turns the tables upon them and insists that they had no Divine authority to officiate as the pastors of God's people.
In its wider application, the appellation, "thieves and robbers," refers to all those who invade the pastoral office, who are neither called nor equipped by God. "Truly, truly, I say unto you." The "you", then, are the Pharisees of 9:40. "He who enters not in by the door into the sheepfold" - this "door" must not be confused with that of verse 9: here it is the door into the "sheepfold" was Judaism, then degenerate; today it is Christendom, now apostate. The "door" into it denoted the lawful means of entrance - a Divine call: being in contrast from "some other way" by which the thieves and robbers gained access. In styling the Pharisees "thieves and robbers," Christ denounced them as false shepherds with no Divine commission, in sharp antithesis from Himself, who had (by His credentials) evidenced Himself to be the lawful and good Shepherd (John 10:2).
How diligently should they scrutinize their motives, who think of entering the ministry, for thousands have abused this Divine institution through love of ease, desire for authority and reputation - or love of money, and brought upon themselves "greater damnation" (James 3:1). Thousands have invaded the pastoral office in an unauthorized manner, to fleece sheep rather than feed them - robbing Christ of His honor, and starving His people. Solemn beyond words is it, to observe how sternly our Lord denounced these false shepherds of His day. "Nothing seemed so offensive to Christ as a false teacher of religion, a false prophet, or a false shepherd. (J. C. Ryle). Nothing ought to so much feared by the Church, be so plainly rebuked, opposed and exposed" Compare Matt. 23:27, 28, 33.
In conclusion it is pertinent to ask, what are the marks of a true shepherd, how are God's people to identify those called and qualified by Him to minister unto His people?
First, the genuine pastor has the DOCTRINE of Christ on his lips. Christendom today is infested with men who are full of deceit and hypocrisy, trimming their sails according to whatever direction the breeze of public opinion is blowing. The true servant of Christ holds back nothing that is profitable, no matter how unpalatable it may be unto his hearers. He is one who does not magnify himself, nor his denomination - But Christ - His wondrous Person, His atoning blood, His exacting claims.
Second, the genuine pastor has the SPIRIT of Christ in his heart. It is the Spirit who opens to him the mysteries of the Gospel. It is the Spirit of Christ who gives him a love for His sheep, so that it is his greatest delight to lead into green pastures of His Word. It is the Spirit of Christ who gives efficacy to his ministry, making it fruitful according to the sovereign pleasure of God.
Third, the genuine pastor has the EXAMPLE of Christ in his life, which is conforming him to the image of his Master. It is true, sadly true, that there is not one of them who does not fall far short - both of the inward and outward image of Christ. Yet there are some faint tracings of His image visible in all His true servants. The image of Christ is seen in their words, spirit, actions - it may be broken, like the image of the sun in ruffled water; but it is there. Find a man (no easy task today!) who has the doctrine of Christ on his lips, the Spirit of Christ in his heart, and the example of Christ in his life - and you find one of His genuine ministers! All who are destitute of these marks,are but "thieves and robbers."
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, August 24, 2019
An Evangelical Spirit # 1
An Evangelical Spirit # 1
Once more we employ a term which does not occur in so many letters and syllables on the pages of Holy Writ. Though its sound is not heard there - the sense and substance of it most certainly is - and it is one which we can scarcely avoid using if we are to express ourselves accurately and intelligently. While all men are essentially "legalistic" by nature - none but those to whom the Gospel of Christ has been made the power of God unto salvation, are possessed of a truly "evangelical" spirit. The terms are antithetical, as much so as are darkness and light, bondage and liberty. A "legal" spirit is the product of the Fall; an "evangelical" spirit is the fruit of regeneration. A "legal" spirit is the breathing of self-righteousness; an "evangelical" spirit is the outcome of self-renunciation; an "evangelical" spirit is the outflow of humility and dependence. A "legal" spirit is the enmity which the carnal mind has against the grace of God; and "evangelical" spirit is the acquiescence of the renewed mind in undeserved mercy.
An evangelical spirit is found where the heart beats in accord with the essence and substance of the Gospel. The Gospel makes nothing of man - and everything of Christ. The Gospel comes to us on the assumption, or rather the fully demonstrated fact - that we are lost creatures - hopelessly, helplessly, irretrievably lost in ourselves. It comes unto us as those who are justly condemned by the holy law of God - as those who are even now under the Divine curse - as those who are rushing headlong to eternal destruction! The Gospel tells of the amazing provision which God has made for depraved and vile sinners! It announces the exceeding riches of grace - unto those who are His inveterate enemies. it proclaims a full and perfect salvation for all who are willing to receive it. It not only publishes a full pardon and deliverance from hell - but it promises eternal life and everlasting glory to all who believe its glad tidings! And it offers these inestimable blessings freely, "without money and without price!"
The Gospel makes known how God can show mercy unto the rebellious - without compromising His justice; how He can receive the ungodly - without sullying His holiness; how He can remit the penalty of sin - without dishonoring His Law; how He can save the very chief of sinners - to the praise of the glory of His grace. God has not shown mercy - at the expense of justice, for He set forth Christ to be an atoning sacrifice rendered to Divine justice. God has not sullied His holiness - but rather has He exemplified and glorified it by refusing to spare His own dear Son - when He bore the sins of His people. God has not slighted the Law - for it was magnified and made honorable by Immanuel's rendering unto it a perfect and perpetual obedience in thought, word and deed. God can save the very chief of sinners unto the praise of the glory of His grace - without requiring any price from them, because He has received full payment of his debts in the sacrifice of Calvary, which was and is of infinite value!
Where the Gospel is applied by the supernatural power of the Spirit, beating down all opposition thereto - the mind cordially assents to its contents, the heart rejoices therein, the will responds thereto - and thus an "evangelical spirit" is born in the soul. The sinner not only throws down the weapons of warfare against God - but he repudiates the filthy rags of his own righteousness. He has been made to see and feel himself so condemned by the Law - as to know there is no help in himself. He has been brought to realize that his soul is mortally sick - and that none but the great Physician can do him any good. He now knows himself to be a pauper, utterly dependent upon Divine charity - and therefore the Gospel of the grace of God is most suited to his need, and most glorious good tidings unto his heart. It is as truly welcome to him - as food to a starving man; or as a cup of cold water would be to one who was suffering the fires of hell.
Wherever an understanding has been Divinely enlightened, wherever a heart has been opened to receive the Gospel of God - there an "evangelical spirit" prevails. Such a one has been accepted in the Beloved, given a standing before God which neither the Law nor satan can challenge, and made nearer and dearer to God than are the holy angels. Tell such a one that something else is still required from him before God can regard him with approbation - that the redemption of Christ must be added to by his own good works - and he rejects such an aspersion with the utmost abhorrence, as the devil's lie!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Once more we employ a term which does not occur in so many letters and syllables on the pages of Holy Writ. Though its sound is not heard there - the sense and substance of it most certainly is - and it is one which we can scarcely avoid using if we are to express ourselves accurately and intelligently. While all men are essentially "legalistic" by nature - none but those to whom the Gospel of Christ has been made the power of God unto salvation, are possessed of a truly "evangelical" spirit. The terms are antithetical, as much so as are darkness and light, bondage and liberty. A "legal" spirit is the product of the Fall; an "evangelical" spirit is the fruit of regeneration. A "legal" spirit is the breathing of self-righteousness; an "evangelical" spirit is the outcome of self-renunciation; an "evangelical" spirit is the outflow of humility and dependence. A "legal" spirit is the enmity which the carnal mind has against the grace of God; and "evangelical" spirit is the acquiescence of the renewed mind in undeserved mercy.
An evangelical spirit is found where the heart beats in accord with the essence and substance of the Gospel. The Gospel makes nothing of man - and everything of Christ. The Gospel comes to us on the assumption, or rather the fully demonstrated fact - that we are lost creatures - hopelessly, helplessly, irretrievably lost in ourselves. It comes unto us as those who are justly condemned by the holy law of God - as those who are even now under the Divine curse - as those who are rushing headlong to eternal destruction! The Gospel tells of the amazing provision which God has made for depraved and vile sinners! It announces the exceeding riches of grace - unto those who are His inveterate enemies. it proclaims a full and perfect salvation for all who are willing to receive it. It not only publishes a full pardon and deliverance from hell - but it promises eternal life and everlasting glory to all who believe its glad tidings! And it offers these inestimable blessings freely, "without money and without price!"
The Gospel makes known how God can show mercy unto the rebellious - without compromising His justice; how He can receive the ungodly - without sullying His holiness; how He can remit the penalty of sin - without dishonoring His Law; how He can save the very chief of sinners - to the praise of the glory of His grace. God has not shown mercy - at the expense of justice, for He set forth Christ to be an atoning sacrifice rendered to Divine justice. God has not sullied His holiness - but rather has He exemplified and glorified it by refusing to spare His own dear Son - when He bore the sins of His people. God has not slighted the Law - for it was magnified and made honorable by Immanuel's rendering unto it a perfect and perpetual obedience in thought, word and deed. God can save the very chief of sinners unto the praise of the glory of His grace - without requiring any price from them, because He has received full payment of his debts in the sacrifice of Calvary, which was and is of infinite value!
Where the Gospel is applied by the supernatural power of the Spirit, beating down all opposition thereto - the mind cordially assents to its contents, the heart rejoices therein, the will responds thereto - and thus an "evangelical spirit" is born in the soul. The sinner not only throws down the weapons of warfare against God - but he repudiates the filthy rags of his own righteousness. He has been made to see and feel himself so condemned by the Law - as to know there is no help in himself. He has been brought to realize that his soul is mortally sick - and that none but the great Physician can do him any good. He now knows himself to be a pauper, utterly dependent upon Divine charity - and therefore the Gospel of the grace of God is most suited to his need, and most glorious good tidings unto his heart. It is as truly welcome to him - as food to a starving man; or as a cup of cold water would be to one who was suffering the fires of hell.
Wherever an understanding has been Divinely enlightened, wherever a heart has been opened to receive the Gospel of God - there an "evangelical spirit" prevails. Such a one has been accepted in the Beloved, given a standing before God which neither the Law nor satan can challenge, and made nearer and dearer to God than are the holy angels. Tell such a one that something else is still required from him before God can regard him with approbation - that the redemption of Christ must be added to by his own good works - and he rejects such an aspersion with the utmost abhorrence, as the devil's lie!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, August 17, 2019
The Cross (and others)
The Cross (and others)
Whence came the tree from which the Cross was made? What has become of the particles of which it was composed? What hands were employed in preparing this instrument of a cruel death? To such questions no answer can be given - and none is needed. The Cross was a common mode of punishment among several nations, and among the Romans was reserved for the punishment of slaves and the vilest malefactors. It was never made use of by the Jews. If they had had the power of execution in their hands when Christ suffered, the punishment for the offence alleged against Him would have been stoning. But by the ordering of divine Providence, our Lord was put to death in that way which was accursed, according to Jewish law; for it was written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree."
The death of Christ on the Cross may well be reckoned mysterious, for it was at the same time a cursed and a blessed death. Christ was "made a curse for us," that He might deliver us from the curse of the law. And yet Christ's death on the Cross is the most blessed event which ever occurred in the world; for on the Cross the price of our redemption was paid. Christ "bore our sins in His own body on the tree." He died, "the just for the unjust," to bring us unto God. This led Paul to say, "God forbid that I should glory,save in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."
The Cross is the center in which many lines of truth meet. The Cross is an incomprehensible mystery. That God should be manifest in the flesh, is the great "mystery of godliness." That the Prince of life should be crucified, was an event which caused the angels to stoop from their celestial thrones, that they might gaze in amazement upon it. The prophets who predicted these events were perplexed at their own prophecies, "They inquired into what time or what circumstances the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating, when He testified in advance to the messianic sufferings and the glories that would follow."
The truths which are exhibited in a clear and strong light by the crucifixion of Christ, are such as these:
1. The infinite evil of sin, which in order to its pardon required such a sacrifice.
2. The holiness and justice of God, which would not allow sin to pass without full evidence of the divine disapprobation, and His inflexible purpose to visit it with deserved punishment.
3. The wisdom of God, in contriving a method of salvation by which His own glory would be promoted in the eternal salvation of hell-deserving sinners. This wisdom is chiefly manifest in the incarnation of the Son of God, by which the divine and human natures are united in one Person.
4. But the most wonderful exhibition of the Cross is the mercy of God, the love of God to sinners - such love as never could have been conceived of, had it not been manifest by the gift of His own Son! "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life."
~Archibald Alexander~
(The End)
_______________________
Nevertheless, I am continually with You!
(Charles Spurgeon)
"I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You.
Nevertheless, I am continually with You!" Psalm 73:22-23"Nevertheless," as if, notwithstanding all the foolishness and ignorance which David had just been confessing to God, not one atom the less was it true and certain that David was saved and accepted, and that the blessing of being constantly in God's presence was undoubtedly his. Fully conscious of his own lost estate, and of the deceitfulness and vileness of his nature--yet, by a glorious outburst of faith, he sings, "Nevertheless, I am continually with You."
Believer, you are forced to enter into the Psalmist's confession of sinfulness--in the same way endeavor to say, "Nevertheless, since I belong to Christ, I am continually with God!"
I am continually upon His mind--He is always thinking of me for my good.
I am continually before His eye--the eye of the Lord never sleeps, but is perpetually watching over my welfare.
I am continually in His hand--so that none shall be able to pluck me thence.
I am continually on His heart--worn there as a memorial, even as the high priest bore the names of the twelve tribes upon his heart forever.
"You always think of me, O God.
Your love and affections continually yearn towards me.
You are always making providence work for my good.
You have set me as a signet upon your arm.
Your love is strong as death, many waters cannot quench it; neither can the floods drown it.
Surprising grace! Though in myself abhorred, You see me in Christ and washed in His blood, and thus I stand accepted in Your presence. I am thus continually in Your favor, continually with You!"
Here is comfort for the tried and afflicted soul: "Nevertheless!"
O say it in your heart, and take the peace it gives, "Nevertheless, I am continually with You!"
Whence came the tree from which the Cross was made? What has become of the particles of which it was composed? What hands were employed in preparing this instrument of a cruel death? To such questions no answer can be given - and none is needed. The Cross was a common mode of punishment among several nations, and among the Romans was reserved for the punishment of slaves and the vilest malefactors. It was never made use of by the Jews. If they had had the power of execution in their hands when Christ suffered, the punishment for the offence alleged against Him would have been stoning. But by the ordering of divine Providence, our Lord was put to death in that way which was accursed, according to Jewish law; for it was written, "Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree."
The death of Christ on the Cross may well be reckoned mysterious, for it was at the same time a cursed and a blessed death. Christ was "made a curse for us," that He might deliver us from the curse of the law. And yet Christ's death on the Cross is the most blessed event which ever occurred in the world; for on the Cross the price of our redemption was paid. Christ "bore our sins in His own body on the tree." He died, "the just for the unjust," to bring us unto God. This led Paul to say, "God forbid that I should glory,save in the Cross of our Lord Jesus Christ."
The Cross is the center in which many lines of truth meet. The Cross is an incomprehensible mystery. That God should be manifest in the flesh, is the great "mystery of godliness." That the Prince of life should be crucified, was an event which caused the angels to stoop from their celestial thrones, that they might gaze in amazement upon it. The prophets who predicted these events were perplexed at their own prophecies, "They inquired into what time or what circumstances the Spirit of Christ within them was indicating, when He testified in advance to the messianic sufferings and the glories that would follow."
The truths which are exhibited in a clear and strong light by the crucifixion of Christ, are such as these:
1. The infinite evil of sin, which in order to its pardon required such a sacrifice.
2. The holiness and justice of God, which would not allow sin to pass without full evidence of the divine disapprobation, and His inflexible purpose to visit it with deserved punishment.
3. The wisdom of God, in contriving a method of salvation by which His own glory would be promoted in the eternal salvation of hell-deserving sinners. This wisdom is chiefly manifest in the incarnation of the Son of God, by which the divine and human natures are united in one Person.
4. But the most wonderful exhibition of the Cross is the mercy of God, the love of God to sinners - such love as never could have been conceived of, had it not been manifest by the gift of His own Son! "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life."
~Archibald Alexander~
(The End)
_______________________
Nevertheless, I am continually with You!
(Charles Spurgeon)
"I was so foolish and ignorant; I was like a beast before You.
Nevertheless, I am continually with You!" Psalm 73:22-23"Nevertheless," as if, notwithstanding all the foolishness and ignorance which David had just been confessing to God, not one atom the less was it true and certain that David was saved and accepted, and that the blessing of being constantly in God's presence was undoubtedly his. Fully conscious of his own lost estate, and of the deceitfulness and vileness of his nature--yet, by a glorious outburst of faith, he sings, "Nevertheless, I am continually with You."
Believer, you are forced to enter into the Psalmist's confession of sinfulness--in the same way endeavor to say, "Nevertheless, since I belong to Christ, I am continually with God!"
I am continually upon His mind--He is always thinking of me for my good.
I am continually before His eye--the eye of the Lord never sleeps, but is perpetually watching over my welfare.
I am continually in His hand--so that none shall be able to pluck me thence.
I am continually on His heart--worn there as a memorial, even as the high priest bore the names of the twelve tribes upon his heart forever.
"You always think of me, O God.
Your love and affections continually yearn towards me.
You are always making providence work for my good.
You have set me as a signet upon your arm.
Your love is strong as death, many waters cannot quench it; neither can the floods drown it.
Surprising grace! Though in myself abhorred, You see me in Christ and washed in His blood, and thus I stand accepted in Your presence. I am thus continually in Your favor, continually with You!"
Here is comfort for the tried and afflicted soul: "Nevertheless!"
O say it in your heart, and take the peace it gives, "Nevertheless, I am continually with You!"
Identification of the Godly # 2
Identification of the Godly # 2
5. A spiritual sight of the Son causes a yearning for KNOWLEDGE. Not of profitless speculations on prophecy, nor for a better grasp of theology - but for a deeper and fuller apprehension of Christ Himself: in His wondrous person, His glorious offices, His peerless perfections, and His perfect work; and that, not merely information of the same, but a personal acquaintance with them. When Christ has made Himself known to one, his longing is "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple" (Psalm 27:4). No matter to what extent he may grow in grace - yet he will still desire and purpose with Paul, "that I may know Him" (Phil. 3:10), counting all else but loss, "for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord" (Phil. 3:8), longing for the immediate vision of Him in glory.
6. A spiritual sight of the Son brings LIBERTY. "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty" (2 Cor. 3:17). The reference there, as the next verse goes on to show, is to the Comforter as a Spirit of revelation - revealing to the believer the glory of the Lord, and conforming him thereto. Such is the actual experience of God's children. A supernatural beholding of the glory of God in the face of Christ...looses our chains, frees us from our legal bondage, and delivers from fears of the wrath to come.
Liberty is then ours to freely unbosom ourselves to the Lord as we never did before, to tell out to Him the burden of our hearts, to pray and plead before Him in childlike reality. This it is, which liberates the captive and opens the doors of the prison to him who previously was bound (Isa. 61:1). "I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4).
7. A spiritual sight of the Son instills JOY. Therein is the spiritual fulfillment and personal application of that promise, "The wilderness and the solitary place (the Christian soul) shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing." And what is it, dear reader, which occasions such a glorious transformation from desolation and barrenness - into jubilation and fertility? This: "They shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God" (Isa. 35:1-2). The experience of their father Abraham rejoiced in all his believing children: "Abraham rejoiced to see my day" said Christ, "and he saw it, and was glad" (John 8:56). Thus it was, too, with the apostles: "Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord" (John 20:20). A discovery of Christ unto the soul - cannot but produce gladness.
8. A spiritual sight of the Son engenders longings. Longings to be delivered from the raging of indwelling sin, the surgings of pride, the risings of self-will, the chilling blasts of unbelief from everything which hinders his enjoyment of the Lord.
The experience of such a soul is expressed in those words, "As the deer pants after the water-brooks - so pants my soul after You, O God" (Psalm 42:1). Pants for more of His grace, to triumph over trials and hindrances; for more of His holiness, to be more fully conformed to His image; for more of His strength, to overcome temptations; for more of His Spirit, to be brought into closer and more constant communion with Him. Yes, a discovery of Christ to the soul, creates longings to depart from this earthly scene and to be with Him forever.
9. A spiritual sight of the Son causes contempt of the world. Once Christ is made a living reality to the heart, that person realizes that everything under the sun is "vanity and vexation of spirit." An internal revelation of Christ, completely eclipses the beauty and glory of those objects which charm the ungodly.
10. A spiritual sight of the Son evokes zeal. There are indeed many who "have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge" (Rom. 10:2), for it issues from the feverish energy of the flesh - rather than being prompted by the Holy Spirit; and is directed by impulse, carnal reason, or tradition - instead of by means of God's Word. But an inward revelation of Christ conveys such an experiential knowledge of Him, as regularizes our energies, and leads the soul to do and suffer for Him. Love for Him constrains him to further his cause and help his followers. He has a true zeal to deny self, separate from the world, and run in the way of his commandments. Though he is ridiculed and persecuted, these things move him not, and he counts not his life dear unto himself. If such effects as the above have been produced in you, my readers, then it can be said, "Blessed are your eyes, for they see" (Matt. 13:16).
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
5. A spiritual sight of the Son causes a yearning for KNOWLEDGE. Not of profitless speculations on prophecy, nor for a better grasp of theology - but for a deeper and fuller apprehension of Christ Himself: in His wondrous person, His glorious offices, His peerless perfections, and His perfect work; and that, not merely information of the same, but a personal acquaintance with them. When Christ has made Himself known to one, his longing is "One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in His temple" (Psalm 27:4). No matter to what extent he may grow in grace - yet he will still desire and purpose with Paul, "that I may know Him" (Phil. 3:10), counting all else but loss, "for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord" (Phil. 3:8), longing for the immediate vision of Him in glory.
6. A spiritual sight of the Son brings LIBERTY. "Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty" (2 Cor. 3:17). The reference there, as the next verse goes on to show, is to the Comforter as a Spirit of revelation - revealing to the believer the glory of the Lord, and conforming him thereto. Such is the actual experience of God's children. A supernatural beholding of the glory of God in the face of Christ...looses our chains, frees us from our legal bondage, and delivers from fears of the wrath to come.
Liberty is then ours to freely unbosom ourselves to the Lord as we never did before, to tell out to Him the burden of our hearts, to pray and plead before Him in childlike reality. This it is, which liberates the captive and opens the doors of the prison to him who previously was bound (Isa. 61:1). "I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears" (Psalm 34:4).
7. A spiritual sight of the Son instills JOY. Therein is the spiritual fulfillment and personal application of that promise, "The wilderness and the solitary place (the Christian soul) shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing." And what is it, dear reader, which occasions such a glorious transformation from desolation and barrenness - into jubilation and fertility? This: "They shall see the glory of the Lord, and the excellency of our God" (Isa. 35:1-2). The experience of their father Abraham rejoiced in all his believing children: "Abraham rejoiced to see my day" said Christ, "and he saw it, and was glad" (John 8:56). Thus it was, too, with the apostles: "Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord" (John 20:20). A discovery of Christ unto the soul - cannot but produce gladness.
8. A spiritual sight of the Son engenders longings. Longings to be delivered from the raging of indwelling sin, the surgings of pride, the risings of self-will, the chilling blasts of unbelief from everything which hinders his enjoyment of the Lord.
The experience of such a soul is expressed in those words, "As the deer pants after the water-brooks - so pants my soul after You, O God" (Psalm 42:1). Pants for more of His grace, to triumph over trials and hindrances; for more of His holiness, to be more fully conformed to His image; for more of His strength, to overcome temptations; for more of His Spirit, to be brought into closer and more constant communion with Him. Yes, a discovery of Christ to the soul, creates longings to depart from this earthly scene and to be with Him forever.
9. A spiritual sight of the Son causes contempt of the world. Once Christ is made a living reality to the heart, that person realizes that everything under the sun is "vanity and vexation of spirit." An internal revelation of Christ, completely eclipses the beauty and glory of those objects which charm the ungodly.
10. A spiritual sight of the Son evokes zeal. There are indeed many who "have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge" (Rom. 10:2), for it issues from the feverish energy of the flesh - rather than being prompted by the Holy Spirit; and is directed by impulse, carnal reason, or tradition - instead of by means of God's Word. But an inward revelation of Christ conveys such an experiential knowledge of Him, as regularizes our energies, and leads the soul to do and suffer for Him. Love for Him constrains him to further his cause and help his followers. He has a true zeal to deny self, separate from the world, and run in the way of his commandments. Though he is ridiculed and persecuted, these things move him not, and he counts not his life dear unto himself. If such effects as the above have been produced in you, my readers, then it can be said, "Blessed are your eyes, for they see" (Matt. 13:16).
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, August 10, 2019
Identification of the Godly # 1
Identification of the Godly # 1
"That every one who sees the Son, and believes on Him, may have everlasting life" (John 6:40).
There is a seeing of the Son which is necessary for a saving faith in Him. That sight of Him is far more than an intellectual perception, being an experiential revelation of Him in the soul. The majority of professing Christians have nothing better than a natural notion and image of Christ in their brains; but those who behold Him to their everlasting well-being, are granted a spiritual and supernatural sight of Him.
That raises the vitally important question, How may I be certain that the latter is my case? By the effects produced. The sinner is brought to realize his desperate and dire need of Christ, and made sensible that He alone can meet his desperate case. Christ can only be effectually seen in His own light (Psalm 36:9). As the sun cannot be seen except by its own light, neither can the Son of righteousness be beheld, unless He arises upon us with healing in His wings. He whose eyes were formerly blinded by sin - is not given a spiritual and inward sight of Him who is fairer than the children of men. By that sight, Christ is beheld as an all-sufficient Saviour for the vilest of sinners; and the heart is drawn out irresistibly to Him. He is now seen as a perfectly suited Physician to heal, Prophet to instruct, Priest to cleanse, and King to subdue His enemies.
1. A spiritual sight of the Son begets FAITH in Him. It cannot be otherwise, for such a view of Christ compels confidence in Him. When the Lord Jesus performed His first miracle at Cana and "manifested forth His glory," we read that His disciples "believed on Him" (John 2:11). A revelation of Christ puts unbelief quite out of countenance. While unbelief prevails, it says, "Unless I shall see in His hands the print of the nails...I will not believe" (John 20:25); but when Christ appears, faith exclaims, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). When a man's eyes are opened to see the King in His beauty - his heart at once closes with Him. "Those who know Your name will put their trust in You" (Psalm 9:10).
2. A spiritual sight of the Son works REPENTANCE and sorrow for sin. It is written, "They shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourns for his only son" (Zech. 12:10), which is fulfilled in the experience of every one whose eyes have been opened by divine grace. "Was it possible for you, O believer, to kook upon this glorious Son of righteousness without a watering eye and a mourning penitential heart? Did not the heart, that was harder than a flint, become softer than wax, melting beneath the warm fire of the love of God manifested in Christ?" When Job saw the Lord, he abhorred himself and repented in dust and ashes (Job 42:5-6).
3. A spiritual sight of the Son inspires HOPE. The unregenerate, even the hypocrite, has a "hope," but when a person is supernaturally illumined by the Spirit, he perceives that his hope rests on a rotten foundation, and he is obliged to forsake his refuge of lies. Now he is horrified over his enmity against God and terrified at the imminent prospect of suffering His wrath forever. His awful sins stare him in the face, and his expectation of escaping the just punishment of them expires. But a revelation of Christ to the soul changes his despair into a lively hope, and his fervent longing now is "to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better" (Phil. 1:23).
4. A spiritual sight of the Son engenders LOVE to Him, not only for His bounty, but chiefly for His beauty. This it is, and this alone - which breaks the power of natural enmity against God. Nothing but a revelation of Christ will win the heart to Him. "Whom having not see (by sense), you love" (1 Peter 1:8). Was it not so with Saul of Tarsus? Filled with prejudice and hatred against Christ and His followers, a sight of Jesus made him immediately drop the weapons of his rebellion and cry, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" (Acts 9:6). It is possible to have a discovery of Christ made to the soul - and yet not love Him, His people, and His precepts. I may indeed mourn the feebleness and fickleness of my love - yet I certainly would not do so if I still hated Him!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
"That every one who sees the Son, and believes on Him, may have everlasting life" (John 6:40).
There is a seeing of the Son which is necessary for a saving faith in Him. That sight of Him is far more than an intellectual perception, being an experiential revelation of Him in the soul. The majority of professing Christians have nothing better than a natural notion and image of Christ in their brains; but those who behold Him to their everlasting well-being, are granted a spiritual and supernatural sight of Him.
That raises the vitally important question, How may I be certain that the latter is my case? By the effects produced. The sinner is brought to realize his desperate and dire need of Christ, and made sensible that He alone can meet his desperate case. Christ can only be effectually seen in His own light (Psalm 36:9). As the sun cannot be seen except by its own light, neither can the Son of righteousness be beheld, unless He arises upon us with healing in His wings. He whose eyes were formerly blinded by sin - is not given a spiritual and inward sight of Him who is fairer than the children of men. By that sight, Christ is beheld as an all-sufficient Saviour for the vilest of sinners; and the heart is drawn out irresistibly to Him. He is now seen as a perfectly suited Physician to heal, Prophet to instruct, Priest to cleanse, and King to subdue His enemies.
1. A spiritual sight of the Son begets FAITH in Him. It cannot be otherwise, for such a view of Christ compels confidence in Him. When the Lord Jesus performed His first miracle at Cana and "manifested forth His glory," we read that His disciples "believed on Him" (John 2:11). A revelation of Christ puts unbelief quite out of countenance. While unbelief prevails, it says, "Unless I shall see in His hands the print of the nails...I will not believe" (John 20:25); but when Christ appears, faith exclaims, "My Lord and my God!" (John 20:28). When a man's eyes are opened to see the King in His beauty - his heart at once closes with Him. "Those who know Your name will put their trust in You" (Psalm 9:10).
2. A spiritual sight of the Son works REPENTANCE and sorrow for sin. It is written, "They shall look upon Me whom they have pierced, and they shall mourn for Him, as one mourns for his only son" (Zech. 12:10), which is fulfilled in the experience of every one whose eyes have been opened by divine grace. "Was it possible for you, O believer, to kook upon this glorious Son of righteousness without a watering eye and a mourning penitential heart? Did not the heart, that was harder than a flint, become softer than wax, melting beneath the warm fire of the love of God manifested in Christ?" When Job saw the Lord, he abhorred himself and repented in dust and ashes (Job 42:5-6).
3. A spiritual sight of the Son inspires HOPE. The unregenerate, even the hypocrite, has a "hope," but when a person is supernaturally illumined by the Spirit, he perceives that his hope rests on a rotten foundation, and he is obliged to forsake his refuge of lies. Now he is horrified over his enmity against God and terrified at the imminent prospect of suffering His wrath forever. His awful sins stare him in the face, and his expectation of escaping the just punishment of them expires. But a revelation of Christ to the soul changes his despair into a lively hope, and his fervent longing now is "to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better" (Phil. 1:23).
4. A spiritual sight of the Son engenders LOVE to Him, not only for His bounty, but chiefly for His beauty. This it is, and this alone - which breaks the power of natural enmity against God. Nothing but a revelation of Christ will win the heart to Him. "Whom having not see (by sense), you love" (1 Peter 1:8). Was it not so with Saul of Tarsus? Filled with prejudice and hatred against Christ and His followers, a sight of Jesus made him immediately drop the weapons of his rebellion and cry, "Lord, what will you have me to do?" (Acts 9:6). It is possible to have a discovery of Christ made to the soul - and yet not love Him, His people, and His precepts. I may indeed mourn the feebleness and fickleness of my love - yet I certainly would not do so if I still hated Him!
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
The Problem of A Suffering Christian
The Problem of A Suffering Christian
"Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities" (Romans 8:26)
A child of God - oppressed, suffering sorely, often driven to his wit's end - what a strange thing!
A joint-heir with Christ - financially embarrassed, poor in this world's goods, wondering where his next meal is coming from - what an anomaly!
An object of the Father's everlasting love and distinguishing favor - tossed up and down upon a sea of trouble, with every apparent prospect of his frail bark capsizing - what a perplexity!
One who has been regenerated and is now indwelt by the Holy Spirit - daily harassed by satan, and frequently overcome by indwelling sin - what an enigma!
Loved by the Father, redeemed by the Son, indwelt by the Holy Spirit - yet left in this world year after year to...
to suffer affliction and persecution,
to mourn and groan over innumerable failures,
to encounter one trial after another,
often to be placed in far less favorable circumstances than the wicked,
to sigh and cry for relief -
yet for sorrow and suffering to increase - what a mystery! What Christian has not felt the force of it, and been baffled by its inscrutability.
Now it was to cast light upon this pressing problem of the sorely tried believer, that Romans 8 was written. There the apostle was moved to show that "the sufferings of this present time" are not inconsistent with the special favor and infinite love which God bears unto His people.
First, because by those sufferings the Christian is brought into personal and experimental fellowship with the sufferings of Christ. (Romans 8:17; Phil. 3:10).
Second, severe and protracted as our afflictions may be, yet there is an immeasurable disproportion between our present sufferings and the future Glory (Romans 8:8-23).
Third, our very sufferings provide occasion for the exercise of hope and the development of patience (Romans 8:24-25).
Fourth, Divine aids and supports are furnished to us under our afflictions (Romans 8:26-27) and it is these we would now consider.
"Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities" Not only does "hope" support and cheer the suffering saint, leading him to patiently wait for deliverance from his afflictions, but the blessed Comforter has also been given to him in order to supply help to this very end. By His gracious aid the believer is preserved from being totally submerged by his doubts and fears. By His mighty enabling, the sorely harassed and groaning Christian is kept from sinking into complete skepticism, and infidelity. By His quickening power, hope is still kept alive, and the voice of prayer is still faintly heard. What keeps you heeding that temptation of satan to totally abandon the good fight of faith? The blessed Spirit helps you. Some precious promise is sealed to your heart, some comforting view of Christ is presented to your soul, some whisper of divine love is breathed into your ear.
Here, then, is real light cast upon the problem of a suffering Christian, the most perplexing feature of that problem being how to harmonize sore sufferings with the love of God. But if God had ceased to care for His child, then He had deserted him, left him to himself. Very far from this, though, is the actual case: the Divine Comforter is given to help his infirmities.
Here, too, is the sufficient answer to an objection which the carnal mind is ready to make against the inspired reasoning of the apostle in the context: How can we who are so weak in ourselves, so inferior in power to the enemies confronting us - bear us under our trials which are so numerous, so protracted, so crushing? We could not, and therefore Divine grace has provided for us an all-sufficient Helper. Without His aid we would have long since succumbed, mastered by our trials. Hope looks forward to the Glory to come; in the weary interval of waiting, the Spirit supports our poor hearts and keeps grace alive within us.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
"Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities" (Romans 8:26)
A child of God - oppressed, suffering sorely, often driven to his wit's end - what a strange thing!
A joint-heir with Christ - financially embarrassed, poor in this world's goods, wondering where his next meal is coming from - what an anomaly!
An object of the Father's everlasting love and distinguishing favor - tossed up and down upon a sea of trouble, with every apparent prospect of his frail bark capsizing - what a perplexity!
One who has been regenerated and is now indwelt by the Holy Spirit - daily harassed by satan, and frequently overcome by indwelling sin - what an enigma!
Loved by the Father, redeemed by the Son, indwelt by the Holy Spirit - yet left in this world year after year to...
to suffer affliction and persecution,
to mourn and groan over innumerable failures,
to encounter one trial after another,
often to be placed in far less favorable circumstances than the wicked,
to sigh and cry for relief -
yet for sorrow and suffering to increase - what a mystery! What Christian has not felt the force of it, and been baffled by its inscrutability.
Now it was to cast light upon this pressing problem of the sorely tried believer, that Romans 8 was written. There the apostle was moved to show that "the sufferings of this present time" are not inconsistent with the special favor and infinite love which God bears unto His people.
First, because by those sufferings the Christian is brought into personal and experimental fellowship with the sufferings of Christ. (Romans 8:17; Phil. 3:10).
Second, severe and protracted as our afflictions may be, yet there is an immeasurable disproportion between our present sufferings and the future Glory (Romans 8:8-23).
Third, our very sufferings provide occasion for the exercise of hope and the development of patience (Romans 8:24-25).
Fourth, Divine aids and supports are furnished to us under our afflictions (Romans 8:26-27) and it is these we would now consider.
"Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities" Not only does "hope" support and cheer the suffering saint, leading him to patiently wait for deliverance from his afflictions, but the blessed Comforter has also been given to him in order to supply help to this very end. By His gracious aid the believer is preserved from being totally submerged by his doubts and fears. By His mighty enabling, the sorely harassed and groaning Christian is kept from sinking into complete skepticism, and infidelity. By His quickening power, hope is still kept alive, and the voice of prayer is still faintly heard. What keeps you heeding that temptation of satan to totally abandon the good fight of faith? The blessed Spirit helps you. Some precious promise is sealed to your heart, some comforting view of Christ is presented to your soul, some whisper of divine love is breathed into your ear.
Here, then, is real light cast upon the problem of a suffering Christian, the most perplexing feature of that problem being how to harmonize sore sufferings with the love of God. But if God had ceased to care for His child, then He had deserted him, left him to himself. Very far from this, though, is the actual case: the Divine Comforter is given to help his infirmities.
Here, too, is the sufficient answer to an objection which the carnal mind is ready to make against the inspired reasoning of the apostle in the context: How can we who are so weak in ourselves, so inferior in power to the enemies confronting us - bear us under our trials which are so numerous, so protracted, so crushing? We could not, and therefore Divine grace has provided for us an all-sufficient Helper. Without His aid we would have long since succumbed, mastered by our trials. Hope looks forward to the Glory to come; in the weary interval of waiting, the Spirit supports our poor hearts and keeps grace alive within us.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, August 3, 2019
Identification of the Godly # 2
Identification of the Godly # 2
We mean that when bowed in His presence, in the calmness and quietness of your prayer closet, you own without any qualification that your best performances are defiled by sin - and that in yourself, you are a filthy pauper!
If that is indeed you language before God - it most certainly issues from a humble heart. The heart of the natural man thinks and feels the very opposite, and can no more loathe himself - than transform himself into a holy angel!
THIRD, if you receive everything in the Scriptures as a little child - that is another proof that a miracle of grace has been wrought within you and that you now possess a humble heart. By nature, we are "wise and prudent" in our own esteem.
The enmity of the proud carnal mind rises up against the sovereignty of God, making one vessel to honor and another to dishonor; against the spirituality and strictness of the Divine law, which curses all who deviate the slightest from its holy demands; against the endless punishment of all dying out of Christ. But the regenerate, though there is much they do not understand, accept without murmur or question - all that is revealed in the Word. If you do, that is proof that your pride has been abased before God.
FOURTH, if you mourn over the wretched returns you make unto God, that is further evidence of a humble heart. Nor is this a point difficult to determine. There is no need for you to make a mystery out of it. You know whether you do or do not sorrow over the response you make unto God, for all His goodness unto you. You know whether or not you feel you have ill requited Him, for the multitude of His favors and mercies. You know whether you do or do not grieve over the coldness of your heart, in answer to His loving-kindness; the weakness of your faith, in view of His promises; the feebleness and perhaps the absence of your praise and thanksgiving, for His long-sufferance and faithfulness. If you do make conscience of these things, mourn over them and confess them - though not as feelingly as you ought - that is another proof of a humble heart. As it is faith, and not the strength of it, which saves; so it is such mourning, and not the depth of it, which evidences its spirituality.
FIFTH, if you frankly ascribe to God all the good that is in you - then you have a humble heart. If you freely own that all your springs are in Him, that He has wrought all your works in you (Isa. 26:12), if you honestly disclaim any credit to yourself for any good thing - then your pride has been slain before God - and that is what most matters! If the language of your heart really is, "by the grace of God, I am what I am" (1 Cor. 15:10), my "sufficiency is of God" (2 Cor. 3:5), that He has worked in me both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13) - then most assuredly, your pride has been subdued. In such case, you will gladly unite in declaring, "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us - but unto your Name give glory!" (Psalm 115:1). You will take no credit for - for should you deny the existence of a humble heart - but will unhesitatingly give God all the honor and praise for it.
How thankful we should be that Scripture does not say, God dwells only in those who have complete victory over sin, or those who enjoy unbroken and unclouded communion with Him. Had those been the distinguishing features named - then everyone of us might well despair - most certainly, they had excluded or "cut off" this writer. But we say again, a contrite and humble spirit takes in every regenerate soul. And if you, my reader, measuring yourself by what has been pointed out above, can discern such fruits and evidences of contrition and humility - then so far from its being presumptuous for you to look upon yourself as one saved and indwelt by God, it would be most wicked presumption for you to do otherwise.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
We mean that when bowed in His presence, in the calmness and quietness of your prayer closet, you own without any qualification that your best performances are defiled by sin - and that in yourself, you are a filthy pauper!
If that is indeed you language before God - it most certainly issues from a humble heart. The heart of the natural man thinks and feels the very opposite, and can no more loathe himself - than transform himself into a holy angel!
THIRD, if you receive everything in the Scriptures as a little child - that is another proof that a miracle of grace has been wrought within you and that you now possess a humble heart. By nature, we are "wise and prudent" in our own esteem.
The enmity of the proud carnal mind rises up against the sovereignty of God, making one vessel to honor and another to dishonor; against the spirituality and strictness of the Divine law, which curses all who deviate the slightest from its holy demands; against the endless punishment of all dying out of Christ. But the regenerate, though there is much they do not understand, accept without murmur or question - all that is revealed in the Word. If you do, that is proof that your pride has been abased before God.
FOURTH, if you mourn over the wretched returns you make unto God, that is further evidence of a humble heart. Nor is this a point difficult to determine. There is no need for you to make a mystery out of it. You know whether you do or do not sorrow over the response you make unto God, for all His goodness unto you. You know whether or not you feel you have ill requited Him, for the multitude of His favors and mercies. You know whether you do or do not grieve over the coldness of your heart, in answer to His loving-kindness; the weakness of your faith, in view of His promises; the feebleness and perhaps the absence of your praise and thanksgiving, for His long-sufferance and faithfulness. If you do make conscience of these things, mourn over them and confess them - though not as feelingly as you ought - that is another proof of a humble heart. As it is faith, and not the strength of it, which saves; so it is such mourning, and not the depth of it, which evidences its spirituality.
FIFTH, if you frankly ascribe to God all the good that is in you - then you have a humble heart. If you freely own that all your springs are in Him, that He has wrought all your works in you (Isa. 26:12), if you honestly disclaim any credit to yourself for any good thing - then your pride has been slain before God - and that is what most matters! If the language of your heart really is, "by the grace of God, I am what I am" (1 Cor. 15:10), my "sufficiency is of God" (2 Cor. 3:5), that He has worked in me both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Phil. 2:13) - then most assuredly, your pride has been subdued. In such case, you will gladly unite in declaring, "Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us - but unto your Name give glory!" (Psalm 115:1). You will take no credit for - for should you deny the existence of a humble heart - but will unhesitatingly give God all the honor and praise for it.
How thankful we should be that Scripture does not say, God dwells only in those who have complete victory over sin, or those who enjoy unbroken and unclouded communion with Him. Had those been the distinguishing features named - then everyone of us might well despair - most certainly, they had excluded or "cut off" this writer. But we say again, a contrite and humble spirit takes in every regenerate soul. And if you, my reader, measuring yourself by what has been pointed out above, can discern such fruits and evidences of contrition and humility - then so far from its being presumptuous for you to look upon yourself as one saved and indwelt by God, it would be most wicked presumption for you to do otherwise.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
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