Part XIV. Christian Service[pg 628]Illustration.The Good Samaritan. "When he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds." Luke 10:33, 34.[pg 629]The Gift Of GivingIllustration.Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son." John 3:16.1. What example of giving has God given to the world?“God so loved the world, thatHe gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”John 3:16.2. By what were Abraham's faith and devotion tested?“By faith Abraham, when he was tried,offered up Isaac; and he that had received the promisesoffered up his only begotten son.”Heb. 11:17.3. What did Christ do to redeem us?“Whogave Himselffor our sins.”Gal. 1:4. See also Titus 2:14; 1 Tim. 2:6.4. Why did He lay aside His riches and become poor?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yetfor your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.5. After Abraham was blessed, what was he to be?“I will bless thee, ...and thou shalt be a blessing.”Gen. 12:2.[pg 630]6. As Christ sent out His disciples to preach, to heal the sick, and to raise the dead, what did He say to them?“Freely ye have received,freely give.”Matt. 10:8.7. Why does God comfort us in our troubles?“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”2 Cor. 1:4.Note.—All who accept the gospel take upon themselves the obligation to pass its blessings on to others. In this way the work of salvation is extended. Every soul reclaimed from sin, God expects to join in the same work for others which lifted him up, and placed his feet upon the Rock. The good things of God are not to be selfishly kept to ourselves. We receive to give. Says Whittier,“The soul is lost that's saved alone.”And as love prompted God's great gift, so His love in our hearts will prompt us to give, to minister, and to engage in loving service for the welfare and the happiness of others.8. What did Christ say of the blessedness of giving?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.Note.—The government of God is founded on the principle of benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our fellow men.“The quality of mercy is not strained,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”9. For what was Christ anointed by the Holy Spirit?“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Meto preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.”Isa. 61:1. See Luke 4:18.Note.—The Holy Spirit is given to fit God's children for service.10. After being thus anointed, what did Jesus do?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.Have you had a kindness shown?Pass it on;'Twas not given for you alone.Pass it on;Let it travel down the years,Let it wipe another's tears,Till in heaven the gift appears—Pass it on.[pg 631]Preaching The GospelIllustration.The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.1. Before leaving His disciples, what great commission did Christ give them?“And He said unto them,Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”Mark 16:15.Note.—The word gospel means good news, or glad tidings.2. What is the gospel of Christ?“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: forit is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”Rom. 1:16.3. How extensively and for how long did Christ say the gospel should be preached?“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preachedin all the worldfor a witness unto all nations; andthen shall the end come.”Matt. 24:14.4. Why was the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles?“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles,to take out of them a people for His name.”Acts 15:14.5. How are those who preach the gospel described?“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that[pg 632]bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.”Isa. 52:7.6. What was the object of Christ's ministry?“I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.”Isa. 42:6, 7.7. For what purpose did Christ select the apostle Paul, and send him to the Gentiles?“And He said, ... I have appeared unto thee for this purpose,to make thee a minister and a witness ... to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.”Acts 26:15-18.8. What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?“Preachthe word.”2 Tim. 4:2.9. Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?“They are they which testify ofMe.”John 5:39.Note.—Every one, therefore, who preaches the word aright, will preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God's word, said he was determined not to know (i.e., to make known) anything“save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”1 Cor. 2:2. Jonathan Edwards was once asked by a young minister what he thought of a sermon he had just preached.“It was a very poor sermon, indeed,”said Mr. Edwards.“Why?”asked the young minister.“Because,”said Mr. Edwards,“there was noChristin it.”All the great truths of the Scriptures center in Christ. Rightly understood, all lead to Him. Christ, therefore, should be presented in every discourse as the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan of salvation.10. How does God expect His ministers to preach the word?“He that hath My word, let him speak My wordfaithfully.”Jer. 23:28.11. How did Christ present the truth to the people?“And with many such parables spake He the word unto them,as they were able to hear it.”Mark 4:33.Note.—Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for whom they labor—to meet the people where they are.12. What rule for teaching doctrine is laid down in the Bible?[pg 633]“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.”Isa. 28:10.13. How should the servant of God labor?“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”2 Tim. 2:24, 25.Note.—While the claims of the law of God are presented to the sinner, ministers should never forget that love—the love of God—is the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance and obedience, and that tosavemen is their great work.14. As a preparation for their work, what did Christ do to the apostles?“Thenopened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.”Luke 24:45.15. For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?“But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem,until ye be endued with power from on high.”Verse 49.16. How did the apostles preach the gospel?“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.”1 Peter 1:12.17. What was the result of this preaching?“Manyof them which heard the wordbelieved.”“And the word of Godincreased; andthe number of the disciples multipliedin Jerusalemgreatly; and a great company of thepriestswere obedient to the faith.”Acts 4:4; 6:7.18. What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:6.To every clime, where lost by sin,The grace of Christ a soul may win,From here Thy messengers go forthFrom east to west, from south to north.Perchance, in heaven one day to meSome blessed soul may come and say,All hail, beloved! But for theeMy soul to death had been a prey.Ah, then what sweetness in the thoughtOne soul to glory to have brought![pg 634]Illustration.The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.[pg 635]The Shepherd And His WorkIllustration.Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.1. Who did Christ say is the good shepherd?“I am the good shepherd.”John 10:11.2. What is Christ elsewhere called?“The Shepherd andBishop of your souls.”“Thechief Shepherd.”1 Peter 2:25; 5:4.3. What does the expression“thechiefShepherd”imply?That there areunder-shepherds.4. How does the good shepherd manifest his love and care for the sheep?“The good shepherdgiveth his life for the sheep.”John 10:11.5. What does the hireling, or false shepherd, do, and why?“The hirelingfleeth, because he is an hireling, andcareth not for the sheep.”Verse 13.6. What example will the true shepherd set before his flock?“In all things showing thyselfa pattern of good works.”Titus 2:7.7. What is the special work of the gospel shepherd?[pg 636]“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.”Acts 20:28.“Feed the flock of Godwhich is among you,taking the oversight thereof.”1 Peter 5:2. See also John 21:15-17.8. With what kind of food will the true shepherd feed the flock?“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:Preach the word.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.“O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; thereforethou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me.”Eze. 33:7. See Eze. 3:17-21.9. Was there to come a time when people would not listen to plain Bible truth?“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from thetruth, and shall beturned unto fables.”2 Tim. 4:3, 4.10. Instead of the straight testimony, what kind of preaching will such demand?“Prophesy not unto us right things,speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.”Isa. 30:10.11. What test is given by which we may distinguish between true and false shepherds?“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isa. 8:20.“For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, andthey should seek the law at his mouth.”Mal. 2:7.12. What will those servants be doing upon whom Christ pronounces a blessing when He comes?“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household,to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.”Matt. 24:45-47.13. What excuses are made by some for not expounding the prophecies?[pg 637]“And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver toone that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: andhe saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: and the book is delivered to him that isnot learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith,I am not learned.”Isa. 29:11, 12.Note.—The prophecies of Daniel were to be unsealed at“the time of the end.”See Dan. 12:4, 9, 10; Rev. 10:1, 2. In Jer. 25:34-37 is found a warning message addressed to unfaithful shepherds.14. After receiving his commission to preach, how did the apostle Paul feel?“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea,woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”1 Cor. 9:16.15. How faithfully will the true shepherd watch the flock?“They watch for your souls,as they that must give account.”Heb. 13:17.Note.—Mark Guy Pearse once said to Mr. Spurgeon:“When I was a young fellow in London, I used to sit right over there and hear you preach, and you will never know how much good you did me. You used to wind me up like an eight-day clock. I was bound to go right for a week after hearing you.”16. If God's watchmen fail to warn the wicked, what terrible responsibility will be charged to their account?“If thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; buthis blood will I require at thine hand.”Eze. 33:8. See Isa. 3:10, 11.Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,Every soul a warning give;Whosoever hears the messageMay repent and turn and live.Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,Gloomy shade and sunny plain;Ocean depths repeat the message,Full salvation's glad refrain.Sound it in the hedge and highway,Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;Let it tell all things are ready,Father waits to welcome home.Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,Blow it loud o'er land and sea;God commissions, sound the message!Every captive may be free.Dr. H. L. Gilmour.[pg 638]Missionary WorkIllustration.Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2 Cor. 5:14.1. What has been given to every man?“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, andto every man his work.”Mark 13:34.2. Besides work, what else has been given to every man?“And unto one he gave fivetalents, to another two, and to another one;to every man according to his several ability.”Matt. 25:15.3. What are those called to whom this work is committed?“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his ownservants, and delivered unto them his goods.”Verse 14.4. What use did these servants make of their talents?“Then he that had received the five talentswent and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.... But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.”Verses 16-18.[pg 639]5. What excuse did the one who hid his talent make?“I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.”Verse 25.6. What did his master say to him?“His lord answered and said unto him,Thou wicked and slothful servant.”Verse 26.7. What did he say the servant should have done?“Thou oughtest therefore to haveput my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.”Verse 27.8. What is characteristic of slothful persons?“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”Prov. 22:13.Note.—That is, they see great obstacles before them, and are always ready with excuses.9. What was the fate of the slothful servant?“Andcast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”Matt. 25:30.10. What was said to the servant who improved his talents?“His lord said unto him,Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things:enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”Verse 21.11. Why did Christ endure the cruel death on the cross?“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”Heb. 12:2.12. What will bring to the Lord this satisfaction and joy?“He shallsee of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.”Isa. 53:11.13. How will Christ demonstrate His joy over the saved?“He will joy over theewith singing.”Zeph. 3:17.14. What did Paul set forth as his crown of rejoicing?“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?For ye are our glory and joy.”1 Thess. 2:19, 20.[pg 640]15. Since this joy comes to Christ only through His self-denial and suffering for others, in what way must all others partake of that joy?“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him:if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us.”2 Tim. 2:11, 12.16. What motive should prompt to soul-saving labor?“Forthe love of Christ constraineth us.”2 Cor. 5:14.17. Whom does every faithful Christian worker represent?“Now then we areambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.”Verse 20.18. What does God do with the unfruitful members?“Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”John 15:2.19. Can one occupy a mere neutral position toward Christ?“He that is not with Me isagainstMe: and he that gathereth not with Mescattereth.”Luke 11:23.20. For what does the Lord tell us to pray?“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few:pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest.”Luke 10:2.21. How are we cautioned against delaying the work?“Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.”John 4:35.22. What promise is made to those who sow the gospel seed?“They that sow in tearsshall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:5, 6.23. What promise is made to soul-winners?“He that winneth souls iswise.”Prov. 11:30.“And they that be wise [margin, teachers] shallshine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousnessas the stars forever and ever.”Dan. 12:3.[pg 641]The Poor, And Our Duty Toward ThemIllustration.On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.1. What is God's attitude toward the poor?“He shalldeliverthe needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.”Ps. 72:12.2. For what purpose did Christ say God had anointed Him?“He hath anointed Meto preach the gospel to the poor.”Luke 4:18.3. When did He say we could minister to the poor?“Whensoever ye willye may do them good.”Mark 14:7.4. What did Paul say regarding our duty to the poor?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboringye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.5. What promises are made to those who consider the poor?“Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.”Ps. 41:1-3.[pg 642]Illustration.Lazarus At The Rich Man's Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.[pg 643]6. How does the Lord regard kindness shown to the poor?“He that hath pity upon the poorlendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath givenwill He pay him again.”Prov. 19:17.“ForGod is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”Heb. 6:10.7. What fate awaits those who turn a deaf ear to the poor?“Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.”Prov. 21:13.8. What classes are we especially enjoined to help?“Learn to do well; seek judgment,relieve the oppressed,judge the fatherless,plead for the widow.”Isa. 1:17.9. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this,To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”James 1:27.10. What kind of fast is most acceptable to God?“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?... Is it not todeal thy bread to the hungry, and that thoubring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seestthe naked, that thou cover him; and thatthou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”Isa. 58:6, 7.11. What is promised those who do this work?“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry and He shall say, Here I am.... And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.”Verses 9-11.12. How did the patriarch Job treat the poor?“I was afatherto the poor: andthe cause which I knew not I searched out.”Job 29:16.13. What did Christ tell the rich young man to do?“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect,go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.”Matt. 19:21.Note.—From Matt. 25:31-45 we learn that Christ identifies Himself with needy, suffering humanity; and that any neglect shown them He regards as done unto Himself.[pg 644]
Part XIV. Christian Service[pg 628]Illustration.The Good Samaritan. "When he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds." Luke 10:33, 34.[pg 629]The Gift Of GivingIllustration.Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son." John 3:16.1. What example of giving has God given to the world?“God so loved the world, thatHe gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”John 3:16.2. By what were Abraham's faith and devotion tested?“By faith Abraham, when he was tried,offered up Isaac; and he that had received the promisesoffered up his only begotten son.”Heb. 11:17.3. What did Christ do to redeem us?“Whogave Himselffor our sins.”Gal. 1:4. See also Titus 2:14; 1 Tim. 2:6.4. Why did He lay aside His riches and become poor?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yetfor your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.5. After Abraham was blessed, what was he to be?“I will bless thee, ...and thou shalt be a blessing.”Gen. 12:2.[pg 630]6. As Christ sent out His disciples to preach, to heal the sick, and to raise the dead, what did He say to them?“Freely ye have received,freely give.”Matt. 10:8.7. Why does God comfort us in our troubles?“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”2 Cor. 1:4.Note.—All who accept the gospel take upon themselves the obligation to pass its blessings on to others. In this way the work of salvation is extended. Every soul reclaimed from sin, God expects to join in the same work for others which lifted him up, and placed his feet upon the Rock. The good things of God are not to be selfishly kept to ourselves. We receive to give. Says Whittier,“The soul is lost that's saved alone.”And as love prompted God's great gift, so His love in our hearts will prompt us to give, to minister, and to engage in loving service for the welfare and the happiness of others.8. What did Christ say of the blessedness of giving?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.Note.—The government of God is founded on the principle of benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our fellow men.“The quality of mercy is not strained,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”9. For what was Christ anointed by the Holy Spirit?“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Meto preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.”Isa. 61:1. See Luke 4:18.Note.—The Holy Spirit is given to fit God's children for service.10. After being thus anointed, what did Jesus do?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.Have you had a kindness shown?Pass it on;'Twas not given for you alone.Pass it on;Let it travel down the years,Let it wipe another's tears,Till in heaven the gift appears—Pass it on.[pg 631]Preaching The GospelIllustration.The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.1. Before leaving His disciples, what great commission did Christ give them?“And He said unto them,Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”Mark 16:15.Note.—The word gospel means good news, or glad tidings.2. What is the gospel of Christ?“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: forit is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”Rom. 1:16.3. How extensively and for how long did Christ say the gospel should be preached?“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preachedin all the worldfor a witness unto all nations; andthen shall the end come.”Matt. 24:14.4. Why was the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles?“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles,to take out of them a people for His name.”Acts 15:14.5. How are those who preach the gospel described?“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that[pg 632]bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.”Isa. 52:7.6. What was the object of Christ's ministry?“I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.”Isa. 42:6, 7.7. For what purpose did Christ select the apostle Paul, and send him to the Gentiles?“And He said, ... I have appeared unto thee for this purpose,to make thee a minister and a witness ... to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.”Acts 26:15-18.8. What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?“Preachthe word.”2 Tim. 4:2.9. Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?“They are they which testify ofMe.”John 5:39.Note.—Every one, therefore, who preaches the word aright, will preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God's word, said he was determined not to know (i.e., to make known) anything“save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”1 Cor. 2:2. Jonathan Edwards was once asked by a young minister what he thought of a sermon he had just preached.“It was a very poor sermon, indeed,”said Mr. Edwards.“Why?”asked the young minister.“Because,”said Mr. Edwards,“there was noChristin it.”All the great truths of the Scriptures center in Christ. Rightly understood, all lead to Him. Christ, therefore, should be presented in every discourse as the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan of salvation.10. How does God expect His ministers to preach the word?“He that hath My word, let him speak My wordfaithfully.”Jer. 23:28.11. How did Christ present the truth to the people?“And with many such parables spake He the word unto them,as they were able to hear it.”Mark 4:33.Note.—Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for whom they labor—to meet the people where they are.12. What rule for teaching doctrine is laid down in the Bible?[pg 633]“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.”Isa. 28:10.13. How should the servant of God labor?“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”2 Tim. 2:24, 25.Note.—While the claims of the law of God are presented to the sinner, ministers should never forget that love—the love of God—is the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance and obedience, and that tosavemen is their great work.14. As a preparation for their work, what did Christ do to the apostles?“Thenopened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.”Luke 24:45.15. For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?“But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem,until ye be endued with power from on high.”Verse 49.16. How did the apostles preach the gospel?“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.”1 Peter 1:12.17. What was the result of this preaching?“Manyof them which heard the wordbelieved.”“And the word of Godincreased; andthe number of the disciples multipliedin Jerusalemgreatly; and a great company of thepriestswere obedient to the faith.”Acts 4:4; 6:7.18. What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:6.To every clime, where lost by sin,The grace of Christ a soul may win,From here Thy messengers go forthFrom east to west, from south to north.Perchance, in heaven one day to meSome blessed soul may come and say,All hail, beloved! But for theeMy soul to death had been a prey.Ah, then what sweetness in the thoughtOne soul to glory to have brought![pg 634]Illustration.The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.[pg 635]The Shepherd And His WorkIllustration.Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.1. Who did Christ say is the good shepherd?“I am the good shepherd.”John 10:11.2. What is Christ elsewhere called?“The Shepherd andBishop of your souls.”“Thechief Shepherd.”1 Peter 2:25; 5:4.3. What does the expression“thechiefShepherd”imply?That there areunder-shepherds.4. How does the good shepherd manifest his love and care for the sheep?“The good shepherdgiveth his life for the sheep.”John 10:11.5. What does the hireling, or false shepherd, do, and why?“The hirelingfleeth, because he is an hireling, andcareth not for the sheep.”Verse 13.6. What example will the true shepherd set before his flock?“In all things showing thyselfa pattern of good works.”Titus 2:7.7. What is the special work of the gospel shepherd?[pg 636]“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.”Acts 20:28.“Feed the flock of Godwhich is among you,taking the oversight thereof.”1 Peter 5:2. See also John 21:15-17.8. With what kind of food will the true shepherd feed the flock?“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:Preach the word.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.“O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; thereforethou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me.”Eze. 33:7. See Eze. 3:17-21.9. Was there to come a time when people would not listen to plain Bible truth?“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from thetruth, and shall beturned unto fables.”2 Tim. 4:3, 4.10. Instead of the straight testimony, what kind of preaching will such demand?“Prophesy not unto us right things,speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.”Isa. 30:10.11. What test is given by which we may distinguish between true and false shepherds?“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isa. 8:20.“For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, andthey should seek the law at his mouth.”Mal. 2:7.12. What will those servants be doing upon whom Christ pronounces a blessing when He comes?“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household,to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.”Matt. 24:45-47.13. What excuses are made by some for not expounding the prophecies?[pg 637]“And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver toone that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: andhe saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: and the book is delivered to him that isnot learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith,I am not learned.”Isa. 29:11, 12.Note.—The prophecies of Daniel were to be unsealed at“the time of the end.”See Dan. 12:4, 9, 10; Rev. 10:1, 2. In Jer. 25:34-37 is found a warning message addressed to unfaithful shepherds.14. After receiving his commission to preach, how did the apostle Paul feel?“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea,woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”1 Cor. 9:16.15. How faithfully will the true shepherd watch the flock?“They watch for your souls,as they that must give account.”Heb. 13:17.Note.—Mark Guy Pearse once said to Mr. Spurgeon:“When I was a young fellow in London, I used to sit right over there and hear you preach, and you will never know how much good you did me. You used to wind me up like an eight-day clock. I was bound to go right for a week after hearing you.”16. If God's watchmen fail to warn the wicked, what terrible responsibility will be charged to their account?“If thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; buthis blood will I require at thine hand.”Eze. 33:8. See Isa. 3:10, 11.Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,Every soul a warning give;Whosoever hears the messageMay repent and turn and live.Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,Gloomy shade and sunny plain;Ocean depths repeat the message,Full salvation's glad refrain.Sound it in the hedge and highway,Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;Let it tell all things are ready,Father waits to welcome home.Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,Blow it loud o'er land and sea;God commissions, sound the message!Every captive may be free.Dr. H. L. Gilmour.[pg 638]Missionary WorkIllustration.Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2 Cor. 5:14.1. What has been given to every man?“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, andto every man his work.”Mark 13:34.2. Besides work, what else has been given to every man?“And unto one he gave fivetalents, to another two, and to another one;to every man according to his several ability.”Matt. 25:15.3. What are those called to whom this work is committed?“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his ownservants, and delivered unto them his goods.”Verse 14.4. What use did these servants make of their talents?“Then he that had received the five talentswent and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.... But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.”Verses 16-18.[pg 639]5. What excuse did the one who hid his talent make?“I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.”Verse 25.6. What did his master say to him?“His lord answered and said unto him,Thou wicked and slothful servant.”Verse 26.7. What did he say the servant should have done?“Thou oughtest therefore to haveput my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.”Verse 27.8. What is characteristic of slothful persons?“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”Prov. 22:13.Note.—That is, they see great obstacles before them, and are always ready with excuses.9. What was the fate of the slothful servant?“Andcast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”Matt. 25:30.10. What was said to the servant who improved his talents?“His lord said unto him,Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things:enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”Verse 21.11. Why did Christ endure the cruel death on the cross?“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”Heb. 12:2.12. What will bring to the Lord this satisfaction and joy?“He shallsee of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.”Isa. 53:11.13. How will Christ demonstrate His joy over the saved?“He will joy over theewith singing.”Zeph. 3:17.14. What did Paul set forth as his crown of rejoicing?“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?For ye are our glory and joy.”1 Thess. 2:19, 20.[pg 640]15. Since this joy comes to Christ only through His self-denial and suffering for others, in what way must all others partake of that joy?“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him:if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us.”2 Tim. 2:11, 12.16. What motive should prompt to soul-saving labor?“Forthe love of Christ constraineth us.”2 Cor. 5:14.17. Whom does every faithful Christian worker represent?“Now then we areambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.”Verse 20.18. What does God do with the unfruitful members?“Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”John 15:2.19. Can one occupy a mere neutral position toward Christ?“He that is not with Me isagainstMe: and he that gathereth not with Mescattereth.”Luke 11:23.20. For what does the Lord tell us to pray?“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few:pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest.”Luke 10:2.21. How are we cautioned against delaying the work?“Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.”John 4:35.22. What promise is made to those who sow the gospel seed?“They that sow in tearsshall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:5, 6.23. What promise is made to soul-winners?“He that winneth souls iswise.”Prov. 11:30.“And they that be wise [margin, teachers] shallshine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousnessas the stars forever and ever.”Dan. 12:3.[pg 641]The Poor, And Our Duty Toward ThemIllustration.On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.1. What is God's attitude toward the poor?“He shalldeliverthe needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.”Ps. 72:12.2. For what purpose did Christ say God had anointed Him?“He hath anointed Meto preach the gospel to the poor.”Luke 4:18.3. When did He say we could minister to the poor?“Whensoever ye willye may do them good.”Mark 14:7.4. What did Paul say regarding our duty to the poor?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboringye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.5. What promises are made to those who consider the poor?“Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.”Ps. 41:1-3.[pg 642]Illustration.Lazarus At The Rich Man's Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.[pg 643]6. How does the Lord regard kindness shown to the poor?“He that hath pity upon the poorlendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath givenwill He pay him again.”Prov. 19:17.“ForGod is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”Heb. 6:10.7. What fate awaits those who turn a deaf ear to the poor?“Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.”Prov. 21:13.8. What classes are we especially enjoined to help?“Learn to do well; seek judgment,relieve the oppressed,judge the fatherless,plead for the widow.”Isa. 1:17.9. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this,To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”James 1:27.10. What kind of fast is most acceptable to God?“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?... Is it not todeal thy bread to the hungry, and that thoubring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seestthe naked, that thou cover him; and thatthou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”Isa. 58:6, 7.11. What is promised those who do this work?“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry and He shall say, Here I am.... And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.”Verses 9-11.12. How did the patriarch Job treat the poor?“I was afatherto the poor: andthe cause which I knew not I searched out.”Job 29:16.13. What did Christ tell the rich young man to do?“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect,go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.”Matt. 19:21.Note.—From Matt. 25:31-45 we learn that Christ identifies Himself with needy, suffering humanity; and that any neglect shown them He regards as done unto Himself.[pg 644]
Part XIV. Christian Service[pg 628]Illustration.The Good Samaritan. "When he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds." Luke 10:33, 34.[pg 629]The Gift Of GivingIllustration.Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son." John 3:16.1. What example of giving has God given to the world?“God so loved the world, thatHe gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”John 3:16.2. By what were Abraham's faith and devotion tested?“By faith Abraham, when he was tried,offered up Isaac; and he that had received the promisesoffered up his only begotten son.”Heb. 11:17.3. What did Christ do to redeem us?“Whogave Himselffor our sins.”Gal. 1:4. See also Titus 2:14; 1 Tim. 2:6.4. Why did He lay aside His riches and become poor?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yetfor your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.5. After Abraham was blessed, what was he to be?“I will bless thee, ...and thou shalt be a blessing.”Gen. 12:2.[pg 630]6. As Christ sent out His disciples to preach, to heal the sick, and to raise the dead, what did He say to them?“Freely ye have received,freely give.”Matt. 10:8.7. Why does God comfort us in our troubles?“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”2 Cor. 1:4.Note.—All who accept the gospel take upon themselves the obligation to pass its blessings on to others. In this way the work of salvation is extended. Every soul reclaimed from sin, God expects to join in the same work for others which lifted him up, and placed his feet upon the Rock. The good things of God are not to be selfishly kept to ourselves. We receive to give. Says Whittier,“The soul is lost that's saved alone.”And as love prompted God's great gift, so His love in our hearts will prompt us to give, to minister, and to engage in loving service for the welfare and the happiness of others.8. What did Christ say of the blessedness of giving?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.Note.—The government of God is founded on the principle of benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our fellow men.“The quality of mercy is not strained,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”9. For what was Christ anointed by the Holy Spirit?“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Meto preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.”Isa. 61:1. See Luke 4:18.Note.—The Holy Spirit is given to fit God's children for service.10. After being thus anointed, what did Jesus do?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.Have you had a kindness shown?Pass it on;'Twas not given for you alone.Pass it on;Let it travel down the years,Let it wipe another's tears,Till in heaven the gift appears—Pass it on.[pg 631]Preaching The GospelIllustration.The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.1. Before leaving His disciples, what great commission did Christ give them?“And He said unto them,Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”Mark 16:15.Note.—The word gospel means good news, or glad tidings.2. What is the gospel of Christ?“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: forit is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”Rom. 1:16.3. How extensively and for how long did Christ say the gospel should be preached?“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preachedin all the worldfor a witness unto all nations; andthen shall the end come.”Matt. 24:14.4. Why was the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles?“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles,to take out of them a people for His name.”Acts 15:14.5. How are those who preach the gospel described?“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that[pg 632]bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.”Isa. 52:7.6. What was the object of Christ's ministry?“I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.”Isa. 42:6, 7.7. For what purpose did Christ select the apostle Paul, and send him to the Gentiles?“And He said, ... I have appeared unto thee for this purpose,to make thee a minister and a witness ... to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.”Acts 26:15-18.8. What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?“Preachthe word.”2 Tim. 4:2.9. Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?“They are they which testify ofMe.”John 5:39.Note.—Every one, therefore, who preaches the word aright, will preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God's word, said he was determined not to know (i.e., to make known) anything“save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”1 Cor. 2:2. Jonathan Edwards was once asked by a young minister what he thought of a sermon he had just preached.“It was a very poor sermon, indeed,”said Mr. Edwards.“Why?”asked the young minister.“Because,”said Mr. Edwards,“there was noChristin it.”All the great truths of the Scriptures center in Christ. Rightly understood, all lead to Him. Christ, therefore, should be presented in every discourse as the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan of salvation.10. How does God expect His ministers to preach the word?“He that hath My word, let him speak My wordfaithfully.”Jer. 23:28.11. How did Christ present the truth to the people?“And with many such parables spake He the word unto them,as they were able to hear it.”Mark 4:33.Note.—Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for whom they labor—to meet the people where they are.12. What rule for teaching doctrine is laid down in the Bible?[pg 633]“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.”Isa. 28:10.13. How should the servant of God labor?“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”2 Tim. 2:24, 25.Note.—While the claims of the law of God are presented to the sinner, ministers should never forget that love—the love of God—is the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance and obedience, and that tosavemen is their great work.14. As a preparation for their work, what did Christ do to the apostles?“Thenopened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.”Luke 24:45.15. For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?“But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem,until ye be endued with power from on high.”Verse 49.16. How did the apostles preach the gospel?“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.”1 Peter 1:12.17. What was the result of this preaching?“Manyof them which heard the wordbelieved.”“And the word of Godincreased; andthe number of the disciples multipliedin Jerusalemgreatly; and a great company of thepriestswere obedient to the faith.”Acts 4:4; 6:7.18. What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:6.To every clime, where lost by sin,The grace of Christ a soul may win,From here Thy messengers go forthFrom east to west, from south to north.Perchance, in heaven one day to meSome blessed soul may come and say,All hail, beloved! But for theeMy soul to death had been a prey.Ah, then what sweetness in the thoughtOne soul to glory to have brought![pg 634]Illustration.The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.[pg 635]The Shepherd And His WorkIllustration.Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.1. Who did Christ say is the good shepherd?“I am the good shepherd.”John 10:11.2. What is Christ elsewhere called?“The Shepherd andBishop of your souls.”“Thechief Shepherd.”1 Peter 2:25; 5:4.3. What does the expression“thechiefShepherd”imply?That there areunder-shepherds.4. How does the good shepherd manifest his love and care for the sheep?“The good shepherdgiveth his life for the sheep.”John 10:11.5. What does the hireling, or false shepherd, do, and why?“The hirelingfleeth, because he is an hireling, andcareth not for the sheep.”Verse 13.6. What example will the true shepherd set before his flock?“In all things showing thyselfa pattern of good works.”Titus 2:7.7. What is the special work of the gospel shepherd?[pg 636]“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.”Acts 20:28.“Feed the flock of Godwhich is among you,taking the oversight thereof.”1 Peter 5:2. See also John 21:15-17.8. With what kind of food will the true shepherd feed the flock?“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:Preach the word.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.“O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; thereforethou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me.”Eze. 33:7. See Eze. 3:17-21.9. Was there to come a time when people would not listen to plain Bible truth?“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from thetruth, and shall beturned unto fables.”2 Tim. 4:3, 4.10. Instead of the straight testimony, what kind of preaching will such demand?“Prophesy not unto us right things,speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.”Isa. 30:10.11. What test is given by which we may distinguish between true and false shepherds?“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isa. 8:20.“For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, andthey should seek the law at his mouth.”Mal. 2:7.12. What will those servants be doing upon whom Christ pronounces a blessing when He comes?“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household,to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.”Matt. 24:45-47.13. What excuses are made by some for not expounding the prophecies?[pg 637]“And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver toone that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: andhe saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: and the book is delivered to him that isnot learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith,I am not learned.”Isa. 29:11, 12.Note.—The prophecies of Daniel were to be unsealed at“the time of the end.”See Dan. 12:4, 9, 10; Rev. 10:1, 2. In Jer. 25:34-37 is found a warning message addressed to unfaithful shepherds.14. After receiving his commission to preach, how did the apostle Paul feel?“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea,woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”1 Cor. 9:16.15. How faithfully will the true shepherd watch the flock?“They watch for your souls,as they that must give account.”Heb. 13:17.Note.—Mark Guy Pearse once said to Mr. Spurgeon:“When I was a young fellow in London, I used to sit right over there and hear you preach, and you will never know how much good you did me. You used to wind me up like an eight-day clock. I was bound to go right for a week after hearing you.”16. If God's watchmen fail to warn the wicked, what terrible responsibility will be charged to their account?“If thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; buthis blood will I require at thine hand.”Eze. 33:8. See Isa. 3:10, 11.Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,Every soul a warning give;Whosoever hears the messageMay repent and turn and live.Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,Gloomy shade and sunny plain;Ocean depths repeat the message,Full salvation's glad refrain.Sound it in the hedge and highway,Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;Let it tell all things are ready,Father waits to welcome home.Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,Blow it loud o'er land and sea;God commissions, sound the message!Every captive may be free.Dr. H. L. Gilmour.[pg 638]Missionary WorkIllustration.Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2 Cor. 5:14.1. What has been given to every man?“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, andto every man his work.”Mark 13:34.2. Besides work, what else has been given to every man?“And unto one he gave fivetalents, to another two, and to another one;to every man according to his several ability.”Matt. 25:15.3. What are those called to whom this work is committed?“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his ownservants, and delivered unto them his goods.”Verse 14.4. What use did these servants make of their talents?“Then he that had received the five talentswent and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.... But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.”Verses 16-18.[pg 639]5. What excuse did the one who hid his talent make?“I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.”Verse 25.6. What did his master say to him?“His lord answered and said unto him,Thou wicked and slothful servant.”Verse 26.7. What did he say the servant should have done?“Thou oughtest therefore to haveput my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.”Verse 27.8. What is characteristic of slothful persons?“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”Prov. 22:13.Note.—That is, they see great obstacles before them, and are always ready with excuses.9. What was the fate of the slothful servant?“Andcast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”Matt. 25:30.10. What was said to the servant who improved his talents?“His lord said unto him,Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things:enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”Verse 21.11. Why did Christ endure the cruel death on the cross?“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”Heb. 12:2.12. What will bring to the Lord this satisfaction and joy?“He shallsee of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.”Isa. 53:11.13. How will Christ demonstrate His joy over the saved?“He will joy over theewith singing.”Zeph. 3:17.14. What did Paul set forth as his crown of rejoicing?“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?For ye are our glory and joy.”1 Thess. 2:19, 20.[pg 640]15. Since this joy comes to Christ only through His self-denial and suffering for others, in what way must all others partake of that joy?“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him:if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us.”2 Tim. 2:11, 12.16. What motive should prompt to soul-saving labor?“Forthe love of Christ constraineth us.”2 Cor. 5:14.17. Whom does every faithful Christian worker represent?“Now then we areambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.”Verse 20.18. What does God do with the unfruitful members?“Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”John 15:2.19. Can one occupy a mere neutral position toward Christ?“He that is not with Me isagainstMe: and he that gathereth not with Mescattereth.”Luke 11:23.20. For what does the Lord tell us to pray?“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few:pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest.”Luke 10:2.21. How are we cautioned against delaying the work?“Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.”John 4:35.22. What promise is made to those who sow the gospel seed?“They that sow in tearsshall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:5, 6.23. What promise is made to soul-winners?“He that winneth souls iswise.”Prov. 11:30.“And they that be wise [margin, teachers] shallshine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousnessas the stars forever and ever.”Dan. 12:3.[pg 641]The Poor, And Our Duty Toward ThemIllustration.On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.1. What is God's attitude toward the poor?“He shalldeliverthe needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.”Ps. 72:12.2. For what purpose did Christ say God had anointed Him?“He hath anointed Meto preach the gospel to the poor.”Luke 4:18.3. When did He say we could minister to the poor?“Whensoever ye willye may do them good.”Mark 14:7.4. What did Paul say regarding our duty to the poor?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboringye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.5. What promises are made to those who consider the poor?“Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.”Ps. 41:1-3.[pg 642]Illustration.Lazarus At The Rich Man's Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.[pg 643]6. How does the Lord regard kindness shown to the poor?“He that hath pity upon the poorlendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath givenwill He pay him again.”Prov. 19:17.“ForGod is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”Heb. 6:10.7. What fate awaits those who turn a deaf ear to the poor?“Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.”Prov. 21:13.8. What classes are we especially enjoined to help?“Learn to do well; seek judgment,relieve the oppressed,judge the fatherless,plead for the widow.”Isa. 1:17.9. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this,To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”James 1:27.10. What kind of fast is most acceptable to God?“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?... Is it not todeal thy bread to the hungry, and that thoubring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seestthe naked, that thou cover him; and thatthou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”Isa. 58:6, 7.11. What is promised those who do this work?“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry and He shall say, Here I am.... And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.”Verses 9-11.12. How did the patriarch Job treat the poor?“I was afatherto the poor: andthe cause which I knew not I searched out.”Job 29:16.13. What did Christ tell the rich young man to do?“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect,go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.”Matt. 19:21.Note.—From Matt. 25:31-45 we learn that Christ identifies Himself with needy, suffering humanity; and that any neglect shown them He regards as done unto Himself.[pg 644]
Illustration.The Good Samaritan. "When he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds." Luke 10:33, 34.
The Good Samaritan. "When he saw him, he had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds." Luke 10:33, 34.
The Gift Of GivingIllustration.Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son." John 3:16.1. What example of giving has God given to the world?“God so loved the world, thatHe gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”John 3:16.2. By what were Abraham's faith and devotion tested?“By faith Abraham, when he was tried,offered up Isaac; and he that had received the promisesoffered up his only begotten son.”Heb. 11:17.3. What did Christ do to redeem us?“Whogave Himselffor our sins.”Gal. 1:4. See also Titus 2:14; 1 Tim. 2:6.4. Why did He lay aside His riches and become poor?“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yetfor your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.5. After Abraham was blessed, what was he to be?“I will bless thee, ...and thou shalt be a blessing.”Gen. 12:2.[pg 630]6. As Christ sent out His disciples to preach, to heal the sick, and to raise the dead, what did He say to them?“Freely ye have received,freely give.”Matt. 10:8.7. Why does God comfort us in our troubles?“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”2 Cor. 1:4.Note.—All who accept the gospel take upon themselves the obligation to pass its blessings on to others. In this way the work of salvation is extended. Every soul reclaimed from sin, God expects to join in the same work for others which lifted him up, and placed his feet upon the Rock. The good things of God are not to be selfishly kept to ourselves. We receive to give. Says Whittier,“The soul is lost that's saved alone.”And as love prompted God's great gift, so His love in our hearts will prompt us to give, to minister, and to engage in loving service for the welfare and the happiness of others.8. What did Christ say of the blessedness of giving?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.Note.—The government of God is founded on the principle of benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our fellow men.“The quality of mercy is not strained,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”9. For what was Christ anointed by the Holy Spirit?“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Meto preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.”Isa. 61:1. See Luke 4:18.Note.—The Holy Spirit is given to fit God's children for service.10. After being thus anointed, what did Jesus do?“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.Have you had a kindness shown?Pass it on;'Twas not given for you alone.Pass it on;Let it travel down the years,Let it wipe another's tears,Till in heaven the gift appears—Pass it on.
Illustration.Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son." John 3:16.
Abraham Offering Up Isaac. "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son." John 3:16.
1. What example of giving has God given to the world?
“God so loved the world, thatHe gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”John 3:16.
2. By what were Abraham's faith and devotion tested?
“By faith Abraham, when he was tried,offered up Isaac; and he that had received the promisesoffered up his only begotten son.”Heb. 11:17.
3. What did Christ do to redeem us?
“Whogave Himselffor our sins.”Gal. 1:4. See also Titus 2:14; 1 Tim. 2:6.
4. Why did He lay aside His riches and become poor?
“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yetfor your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.”2 Cor. 8:9.
5. After Abraham was blessed, what was he to be?
“I will bless thee, ...and thou shalt be a blessing.”Gen. 12:2.
6. As Christ sent out His disciples to preach, to heal the sick, and to raise the dead, what did He say to them?
“Freely ye have received,freely give.”Matt. 10:8.
7. Why does God comfort us in our troubles?
“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation,that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”2 Cor. 1:4.
Note.—All who accept the gospel take upon themselves the obligation to pass its blessings on to others. In this way the work of salvation is extended. Every soul reclaimed from sin, God expects to join in the same work for others which lifted him up, and placed his feet upon the Rock. The good things of God are not to be selfishly kept to ourselves. We receive to give. Says Whittier,“The soul is lost that's saved alone.”And as love prompted God's great gift, so His love in our hearts will prompt us to give, to minister, and to engage in loving service for the welfare and the happiness of others.
8. What did Christ say of the blessedness of giving?
“I have showed you all things, how that so laboring ye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.
Note.—The government of God is founded on the principle of benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our fellow men.“The quality of mercy is not strained,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”
Note.—The government of God is founded on the principle of benevolence, or the desire to bless others. Our richest blessings come as the result of the good things we have passed on to our fellow men.
“The quality of mercy is not strained,It droppeth as the gentle rain from heavenUpon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”
“The quality of mercy is not strained,
It droppeth as the gentle rain from heaven
Upon the place beneath; it is twice blessed—
It blesseth him that gives and him that takes.”
9. For what was Christ anointed by the Holy Spirit?
“The Spirit of the Lord God is upon Me; because the Lord hath anointed Meto preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound.”Isa. 61:1. See Luke 4:18.
Note.—The Holy Spirit is given to fit God's children for service.
10. After being thus anointed, what did Jesus do?
“Who went aboutdoing good.”Acts 10:38.
Have you had a kindness shown?Pass it on;'Twas not given for you alone.Pass it on;Let it travel down the years,Let it wipe another's tears,Till in heaven the gift appears—Pass it on.
Have you had a kindness shown?Pass it on;'Twas not given for you alone.Pass it on;Let it travel down the years,Let it wipe another's tears,Till in heaven the gift appears—Pass it on.
Have you had a kindness shown?
Pass it on;
'Twas not given for you alone.
Pass it on;
Let it travel down the years,
Let it wipe another's tears,
Till in heaven the gift appears—
Pass it on.
Preaching The GospelIllustration.The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.1. Before leaving His disciples, what great commission did Christ give them?“And He said unto them,Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”Mark 16:15.Note.—The word gospel means good news, or glad tidings.2. What is the gospel of Christ?“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: forit is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”Rom. 1:16.3. How extensively and for how long did Christ say the gospel should be preached?“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preachedin all the worldfor a witness unto all nations; andthen shall the end come.”Matt. 24:14.4. Why was the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles?“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles,to take out of them a people for His name.”Acts 15:14.5. How are those who preach the gospel described?“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that[pg 632]bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.”Isa. 52:7.6. What was the object of Christ's ministry?“I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.”Isa. 42:6, 7.7. For what purpose did Christ select the apostle Paul, and send him to the Gentiles?“And He said, ... I have appeared unto thee for this purpose,to make thee a minister and a witness ... to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.”Acts 26:15-18.8. What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?“Preachthe word.”2 Tim. 4:2.9. Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?“They are they which testify ofMe.”John 5:39.Note.—Every one, therefore, who preaches the word aright, will preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God's word, said he was determined not to know (i.e., to make known) anything“save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”1 Cor. 2:2. Jonathan Edwards was once asked by a young minister what he thought of a sermon he had just preached.“It was a very poor sermon, indeed,”said Mr. Edwards.“Why?”asked the young minister.“Because,”said Mr. Edwards,“there was noChristin it.”All the great truths of the Scriptures center in Christ. Rightly understood, all lead to Him. Christ, therefore, should be presented in every discourse as the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan of salvation.10. How does God expect His ministers to preach the word?“He that hath My word, let him speak My wordfaithfully.”Jer. 23:28.11. How did Christ present the truth to the people?“And with many such parables spake He the word unto them,as they were able to hear it.”Mark 4:33.Note.—Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for whom they labor—to meet the people where they are.12. What rule for teaching doctrine is laid down in the Bible?[pg 633]“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.”Isa. 28:10.13. How should the servant of God labor?“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”2 Tim. 2:24, 25.Note.—While the claims of the law of God are presented to the sinner, ministers should never forget that love—the love of God—is the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance and obedience, and that tosavemen is their great work.14. As a preparation for their work, what did Christ do to the apostles?“Thenopened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.”Luke 24:45.15. For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?“But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem,until ye be endued with power from on high.”Verse 49.16. How did the apostles preach the gospel?“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.”1 Peter 1:12.17. What was the result of this preaching?“Manyof them which heard the wordbelieved.”“And the word of Godincreased; andthe number of the disciples multipliedin Jerusalemgreatly; and a great company of thepriestswere obedient to the faith.”Acts 4:4; 6:7.18. What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:6.To every clime, where lost by sin,The grace of Christ a soul may win,From here Thy messengers go forthFrom east to west, from south to north.Perchance, in heaven one day to meSome blessed soul may come and say,All hail, beloved! But for theeMy soul to death had been a prey.Ah, then what sweetness in the thoughtOne soul to glory to have brought![pg 634]Illustration.The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.
Illustration.The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.
The Gospel Commission. "Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature." Mark 16:15.
1. Before leaving His disciples, what great commission did Christ give them?
“And He said unto them,Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.”Mark 16:15.
Note.—The word gospel means good news, or glad tidings.
2. What is the gospel of Christ?
“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: forit is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.”Rom. 1:16.
3. How extensively and for how long did Christ say the gospel should be preached?
“And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preachedin all the worldfor a witness unto all nations; andthen shall the end come.”Matt. 24:14.
4. Why was the gospel to be preached to the Gentiles?
“Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles,to take out of them a people for His name.”Acts 15:14.
5. How are those who preach the gospel described?
“How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him that[pg 632]bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation; that saith unto Zion, Thy God reigneth.”Isa. 52:7.
6. What was the object of Christ's ministry?
“I the Lord have called Thee in righteousness, and will hold Thine hand, and will keep Thee, and give Thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles;to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house.”Isa. 42:6, 7.
7. For what purpose did Christ select the apostle Paul, and send him to the Gentiles?
“And He said, ... I have appeared unto thee for this purpose,to make thee a minister and a witness ... to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in Me.”Acts 26:15-18.
8. What is the Christian minister commanded to preach?
“Preachthe word.”2 Tim. 4:2.
9. Of what did Christ say the Scriptures testify?
“They are they which testify ofMe.”John 5:39.
Note.—Every one, therefore, who preaches the word aright, will preach Christ. Paul, who faithfully preached God's word, said he was determined not to know (i.e., to make known) anything“save Jesus Christ, and Him crucified.”1 Cor. 2:2. Jonathan Edwards was once asked by a young minister what he thought of a sermon he had just preached.“It was a very poor sermon, indeed,”said Mr. Edwards.“Why?”asked the young minister.“Because,”said Mr. Edwards,“there was noChristin it.”All the great truths of the Scriptures center in Christ. Rightly understood, all lead to Him. Christ, therefore, should be presented in every discourse as the alpha and omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan of salvation.
10. How does God expect His ministers to preach the word?
“He that hath My word, let him speak My wordfaithfully.”Jer. 23:28.
11. How did Christ present the truth to the people?
“And with many such parables spake He the word unto them,as they were able to hear it.”Mark 4:33.
Note.—Ministers should learn to adapt their labors to those for whom they labor—to meet the people where they are.
12. What rule for teaching doctrine is laid down in the Bible?
“For precept must be upon precept, precept upon precept; line upon line, line upon line; here a little, and there a little.”Isa. 28:10.
13. How should the servant of God labor?
“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.”2 Tim. 2:24, 25.
Note.—While the claims of the law of God are presented to the sinner, ministers should never forget that love—the love of God—is the only power that can soften the heart and lead to repentance and obedience, and that tosavemen is their great work.
14. As a preparation for their work, what did Christ do to the apostles?
“Thenopened He their understanding, that they might understand the Scriptures.”Luke 24:45.
15. For what did He tell them to tarry in Jerusalem?
“But tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem,until ye be endued with power from on high.”Verse 49.
16. How did the apostles preach the gospel?
“With the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven.”1 Peter 1:12.
17. What was the result of this preaching?
“Manyof them which heard the wordbelieved.”“And the word of Godincreased; andthe number of the disciples multipliedin Jerusalemgreatly; and a great company of thepriestswere obedient to the faith.”Acts 4:4; 6:7.
18. What promise is made to the faithful gospel minister?
“He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:6.
To every clime, where lost by sin,The grace of Christ a soul may win,From here Thy messengers go forthFrom east to west, from south to north.Perchance, in heaven one day to meSome blessed soul may come and say,All hail, beloved! But for theeMy soul to death had been a prey.Ah, then what sweetness in the thoughtOne soul to glory to have brought!
To every clime, where lost by sin,The grace of Christ a soul may win,From here Thy messengers go forthFrom east to west, from south to north.
To every clime, where lost by sin,
The grace of Christ a soul may win,
From here Thy messengers go forth
From east to west, from south to north.
Perchance, in heaven one day to meSome blessed soul may come and say,All hail, beloved! But for theeMy soul to death had been a prey.Ah, then what sweetness in the thoughtOne soul to glory to have brought!
Perchance, in heaven one day to me
Some blessed soul may come and say,
All hail, beloved! But for thee
My soul to death had been a prey.
Ah, then what sweetness in the thought
One soul to glory to have brought!
Illustration.The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.
The Good Shepherd. "Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof." 1 Peter 5:2.
The Shepherd And His WorkIllustration.Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.1. Who did Christ say is the good shepherd?“I am the good shepherd.”John 10:11.2. What is Christ elsewhere called?“The Shepherd andBishop of your souls.”“Thechief Shepherd.”1 Peter 2:25; 5:4.3. What does the expression“thechiefShepherd”imply?That there areunder-shepherds.4. How does the good shepherd manifest his love and care for the sheep?“The good shepherdgiveth his life for the sheep.”John 10:11.5. What does the hireling, or false shepherd, do, and why?“The hirelingfleeth, because he is an hireling, andcareth not for the sheep.”Verse 13.6. What example will the true shepherd set before his flock?“In all things showing thyselfa pattern of good works.”Titus 2:7.7. What is the special work of the gospel shepherd?[pg 636]“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.”Acts 20:28.“Feed the flock of Godwhich is among you,taking the oversight thereof.”1 Peter 5:2. See also John 21:15-17.8. With what kind of food will the true shepherd feed the flock?“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:Preach the word.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.“O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; thereforethou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me.”Eze. 33:7. See Eze. 3:17-21.9. Was there to come a time when people would not listen to plain Bible truth?“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from thetruth, and shall beturned unto fables.”2 Tim. 4:3, 4.10. Instead of the straight testimony, what kind of preaching will such demand?“Prophesy not unto us right things,speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.”Isa. 30:10.11. What test is given by which we may distinguish between true and false shepherds?“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isa. 8:20.“For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, andthey should seek the law at his mouth.”Mal. 2:7.12. What will those servants be doing upon whom Christ pronounces a blessing when He comes?“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household,to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.”Matt. 24:45-47.13. What excuses are made by some for not expounding the prophecies?[pg 637]“And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver toone that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: andhe saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: and the book is delivered to him that isnot learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith,I am not learned.”Isa. 29:11, 12.Note.—The prophecies of Daniel were to be unsealed at“the time of the end.”See Dan. 12:4, 9, 10; Rev. 10:1, 2. In Jer. 25:34-37 is found a warning message addressed to unfaithful shepherds.14. After receiving his commission to preach, how did the apostle Paul feel?“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea,woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”1 Cor. 9:16.15. How faithfully will the true shepherd watch the flock?“They watch for your souls,as they that must give account.”Heb. 13:17.Note.—Mark Guy Pearse once said to Mr. Spurgeon:“When I was a young fellow in London, I used to sit right over there and hear you preach, and you will never know how much good you did me. You used to wind me up like an eight-day clock. I was bound to go right for a week after hearing you.”16. If God's watchmen fail to warn the wicked, what terrible responsibility will be charged to their account?“If thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; buthis blood will I require at thine hand.”Eze. 33:8. See Isa. 3:10, 11.Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,Every soul a warning give;Whosoever hears the messageMay repent and turn and live.Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,Gloomy shade and sunny plain;Ocean depths repeat the message,Full salvation's glad refrain.Sound it in the hedge and highway,Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;Let it tell all things are ready,Father waits to welcome home.Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,Blow it loud o'er land and sea;God commissions, sound the message!Every captive may be free.Dr. H. L. Gilmour.
Illustration.Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.
Feeding The Five Thousand. "Give ye them to eat." Matt. 14:16.
1. Who did Christ say is the good shepherd?
“I am the good shepherd.”John 10:11.
2. What is Christ elsewhere called?
“The Shepherd andBishop of your souls.”“Thechief Shepherd.”1 Peter 2:25; 5:4.
3. What does the expression“thechiefShepherd”imply?
That there areunder-shepherds.
4. How does the good shepherd manifest his love and care for the sheep?
“The good shepherdgiveth his life for the sheep.”John 10:11.
5. What does the hireling, or false shepherd, do, and why?
“The hirelingfleeth, because he is an hireling, andcareth not for the sheep.”Verse 13.
6. What example will the true shepherd set before his flock?
“In all things showing thyselfa pattern of good works.”Titus 2:7.
7. What is the special work of the gospel shepherd?
“Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers,to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood.”Acts 20:28.“Feed the flock of Godwhich is among you,taking the oversight thereof.”1 Peter 5:2. See also John 21:15-17.
8. With what kind of food will the true shepherd feed the flock?
“I charge thee therefore before God, and the Lord Jesus Christ, who shall judge the quick and the dead at His appearing and His kingdom:Preach the word.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.“O son of man, I have set thee a watchman unto the house of Israel; thereforethou shalt hear the word at My mouth, and warn them from Me.”Eze. 33:7. See Eze. 3:17-21.
9. Was there to come a time when people would not listen to plain Bible truth?
“For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; and they shall turn away their ears from thetruth, and shall beturned unto fables.”2 Tim. 4:3, 4.
10. Instead of the straight testimony, what kind of preaching will such demand?
“Prophesy not unto us right things,speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits.”Isa. 30:10.
11. What test is given by which we may distinguish between true and false shepherds?
“To the law and to the testimony: if they speak not according to this word, it is because there is no light in them.”Isa. 8:20.“For the priest's lips should keep knowledge, andthey should seek the law at his mouth.”Mal. 2:7.
12. What will those servants be doing upon whom Christ pronounces a blessing when He comes?
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household,to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing. Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.”Matt. 24:45-47.
13. What excuses are made by some for not expounding the prophecies?
“And the vision of all is become unto you as the words of a book that is sealed, which men deliver toone that is learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: andhe saith, I cannot; for it is sealed: and the book is delivered to him that isnot learned, saying, Read this, I pray thee: and he saith,I am not learned.”Isa. 29:11, 12.
Note.—The prophecies of Daniel were to be unsealed at“the time of the end.”See Dan. 12:4, 9, 10; Rev. 10:1, 2. In Jer. 25:34-37 is found a warning message addressed to unfaithful shepherds.
14. After receiving his commission to preach, how did the apostle Paul feel?
“For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea,woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!”1 Cor. 9:16.
15. How faithfully will the true shepherd watch the flock?
“They watch for your souls,as they that must give account.”Heb. 13:17.
Note.—Mark Guy Pearse once said to Mr. Spurgeon:“When I was a young fellow in London, I used to sit right over there and hear you preach, and you will never know how much good you did me. You used to wind me up like an eight-day clock. I was bound to go right for a week after hearing you.”
16. If God's watchmen fail to warn the wicked, what terrible responsibility will be charged to their account?
“If thou dost not speak to warn the wicked from his way, that wicked man shall die in his iniquity; buthis blood will I require at thine hand.”Eze. 33:8. See Isa. 3:10, 11.
Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,Every soul a warning give;Whosoever hears the messageMay repent and turn and live.Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,Gloomy shade and sunny plain;Ocean depths repeat the message,Full salvation's glad refrain.Sound it in the hedge and highway,Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;Let it tell all things are ready,Father waits to welcome home.Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,Blow it loud o'er land and sea;God commissions, sound the message!Every captive may be free.Dr. H. L. Gilmour.
Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,Every soul a warning give;Whosoever hears the messageMay repent and turn and live.
Watchman, blow the gospel trumpet,
Every soul a warning give;
Whosoever hears the message
May repent and turn and live.
Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,Gloomy shade and sunny plain;Ocean depths repeat the message,Full salvation's glad refrain.
Sound it loud o'er every hilltop,
Gloomy shade and sunny plain;
Ocean depths repeat the message,
Full salvation's glad refrain.
Sound it in the hedge and highway,Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;Let it tell all things are ready,Father waits to welcome home.
Sound it in the hedge and highway,
Earth's dark spots where exiles roam;
Let it tell all things are ready,
Father waits to welcome home.
Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,Blow it loud o'er land and sea;God commissions, sound the message!Every captive may be free.Dr. H. L. Gilmour.
Blow the trumpet, trusty watchman,
Blow it loud o'er land and sea;
God commissions, sound the message!
Every captive may be free.
Dr. H. L. Gilmour.
Missionary WorkIllustration.Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2 Cor. 5:14.1. What has been given to every man?“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, andto every man his work.”Mark 13:34.2. Besides work, what else has been given to every man?“And unto one he gave fivetalents, to another two, and to another one;to every man according to his several ability.”Matt. 25:15.3. What are those called to whom this work is committed?“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his ownservants, and delivered unto them his goods.”Verse 14.4. What use did these servants make of their talents?“Then he that had received the five talentswent and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.... But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.”Verses 16-18.[pg 639]5. What excuse did the one who hid his talent make?“I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.”Verse 25.6. What did his master say to him?“His lord answered and said unto him,Thou wicked and slothful servant.”Verse 26.7. What did he say the servant should have done?“Thou oughtest therefore to haveput my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.”Verse 27.8. What is characteristic of slothful persons?“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”Prov. 22:13.Note.—That is, they see great obstacles before them, and are always ready with excuses.9. What was the fate of the slothful servant?“Andcast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”Matt. 25:30.10. What was said to the servant who improved his talents?“His lord said unto him,Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things:enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”Verse 21.11. Why did Christ endure the cruel death on the cross?“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”Heb. 12:2.12. What will bring to the Lord this satisfaction and joy?“He shallsee of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.”Isa. 53:11.13. How will Christ demonstrate His joy over the saved?“He will joy over theewith singing.”Zeph. 3:17.14. What did Paul set forth as his crown of rejoicing?“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?For ye are our glory and joy.”1 Thess. 2:19, 20.[pg 640]15. Since this joy comes to Christ only through His self-denial and suffering for others, in what way must all others partake of that joy?“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him:if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us.”2 Tim. 2:11, 12.16. What motive should prompt to soul-saving labor?“Forthe love of Christ constraineth us.”2 Cor. 5:14.17. Whom does every faithful Christian worker represent?“Now then we areambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.”Verse 20.18. What does God do with the unfruitful members?“Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”John 15:2.19. Can one occupy a mere neutral position toward Christ?“He that is not with Me isagainstMe: and he that gathereth not with Mescattereth.”Luke 11:23.20. For what does the Lord tell us to pray?“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few:pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest.”Luke 10:2.21. How are we cautioned against delaying the work?“Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.”John 4:35.22. What promise is made to those who sow the gospel seed?“They that sow in tearsshall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:5, 6.23. What promise is made to soul-winners?“He that winneth souls iswise.”Prov. 11:30.“And they that be wise [margin, teachers] shallshine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousnessas the stars forever and ever.”Dan. 12:3.
Illustration.Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2 Cor. 5:14.
Ruth Gleaning In The Field Of Boaz. "For the love of Christ constraineth us." 2 Cor. 5:14.
1. What has been given to every man?
“For the Son of man is as a man taking a far journey, who left his house, and gave authority to his servants, andto every man his work.”Mark 13:34.
2. Besides work, what else has been given to every man?
“And unto one he gave fivetalents, to another two, and to another one;to every man according to his several ability.”Matt. 25:15.
3. What are those called to whom this work is committed?
“For the kingdom of heaven is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his ownservants, and delivered unto them his goods.”Verse 14.
4. What use did these servants make of their talents?
“Then he that had received the five talentswent and traded with the same, and made them other five talents.... But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money.”Verses 16-18.
5. What excuse did the one who hid his talent make?
“I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.”Verse 25.
6. What did his master say to him?
“His lord answered and said unto him,Thou wicked and slothful servant.”Verse 26.
7. What did he say the servant should have done?
“Thou oughtest therefore to haveput my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.”Verse 27.
8. What is characteristic of slothful persons?
“The slothful man saith, There is a lion without, I shall be slain in the streets.”Prov. 22:13.
Note.—That is, they see great obstacles before them, and are always ready with excuses.
9. What was the fate of the slothful servant?
“Andcast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”Matt. 25:30.
10. What was said to the servant who improved his talents?
“His lord said unto him,Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things:enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”Verse 21.
11. Why did Christ endure the cruel death on the cross?
“Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith;who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God.”Heb. 12:2.
12. What will bring to the Lord this satisfaction and joy?
“He shallsee of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied.”Isa. 53:11.
13. How will Christ demonstrate His joy over the saved?
“He will joy over theewith singing.”Zeph. 3:17.
14. What did Paul set forth as his crown of rejoicing?
“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing?Are not even ye in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?For ye are our glory and joy.”1 Thess. 2:19, 20.
15. Since this joy comes to Christ only through His self-denial and suffering for others, in what way must all others partake of that joy?
“It is a faithful saying: For if we be dead with Him, we shall also live with Him:if we suffer, we shall also reign with Him: if we deny Him, He also will deny us.”2 Tim. 2:11, 12.
16. What motive should prompt to soul-saving labor?
“Forthe love of Christ constraineth us.”2 Cor. 5:14.
17. Whom does every faithful Christian worker represent?
“Now then we areambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.”Verse 20.
18. What does God do with the unfruitful members?
“Every branch in Me that beareth not fruit He taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, He purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.”John 15:2.
19. Can one occupy a mere neutral position toward Christ?
“He that is not with Me isagainstMe: and he that gathereth not with Mescattereth.”Luke 11:23.
20. For what does the Lord tell us to pray?
“The harvest truly is great, but the laborers are few:pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that He would send forth laborers into His harvest.”Luke 10:2.
21. How are we cautioned against delaying the work?
“Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest.”John 4:35.
22. What promise is made to those who sow the gospel seed?
“They that sow in tearsshall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed,shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.”Ps. 126:5, 6.
23. What promise is made to soul-winners?
“He that winneth souls iswise.”Prov. 11:30.“And they that be wise [margin, teachers] shallshine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousnessas the stars forever and ever.”Dan. 12:3.
The Poor, And Our Duty Toward ThemIllustration.On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.1. What is God's attitude toward the poor?“He shalldeliverthe needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.”Ps. 72:12.2. For what purpose did Christ say God had anointed Him?“He hath anointed Meto preach the gospel to the poor.”Luke 4:18.3. When did He say we could minister to the poor?“Whensoever ye willye may do them good.”Mark 14:7.4. What did Paul say regarding our duty to the poor?“I have showed you all things, how that so laboringye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.5. What promises are made to those who consider the poor?“Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.”Ps. 41:1-3.[pg 642]Illustration.Lazarus At The Rich Man's Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.[pg 643]6. How does the Lord regard kindness shown to the poor?“He that hath pity upon the poorlendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath givenwill He pay him again.”Prov. 19:17.“ForGod is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”Heb. 6:10.7. What fate awaits those who turn a deaf ear to the poor?“Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.”Prov. 21:13.8. What classes are we especially enjoined to help?“Learn to do well; seek judgment,relieve the oppressed,judge the fatherless,plead for the widow.”Isa. 1:17.9. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this,To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”James 1:27.10. What kind of fast is most acceptable to God?“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?... Is it not todeal thy bread to the hungry, and that thoubring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seestthe naked, that thou cover him; and thatthou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”Isa. 58:6, 7.11. What is promised those who do this work?“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry and He shall say, Here I am.... And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.”Verses 9-11.12. How did the patriarch Job treat the poor?“I was afatherto the poor: andthe cause which I knew not I searched out.”Job 29:16.13. What did Christ tell the rich young man to do?“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect,go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.”Matt. 19:21.Note.—From Matt. 25:31-45 we learn that Christ identifies Himself with needy, suffering humanity; and that any neglect shown them He regards as done unto Himself.
Illustration.On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.
On The Way To The Inn. "He ... bound up his wounds, ... and set him on his own beast." Luke 10:33, 34.
1. What is God's attitude toward the poor?
“He shalldeliverthe needy when he crieth; the poor also, and him that hath no helper.”Ps. 72:12.
2. For what purpose did Christ say God had anointed Him?
“He hath anointed Meto preach the gospel to the poor.”Luke 4:18.
3. When did He say we could minister to the poor?
“Whensoever ye willye may do them good.”Mark 14:7.
4. What did Paul say regarding our duty to the poor?
“I have showed you all things, how that so laboringye ought to support the weak, and to remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how He said,It is more blessed to give than to receive.”Acts 20:35.
5. What promises are made to those who consider the poor?
“Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and Thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies. The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: Thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.”Ps. 41:1-3.
Illustration.Lazarus At The Rich Man's Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.
Lazarus At The Rich Man's Gate. "Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." Prov. 21:13.
6. How does the Lord regard kindness shown to the poor?
“He that hath pity upon the poorlendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath givenwill He pay him again.”Prov. 19:17.“ForGod is not unrighteous to forget your work and labor of love, which ye have showed toward His name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister.”Heb. 6:10.
7. What fate awaits those who turn a deaf ear to the poor?
“Whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor,he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard.”Prov. 21:13.
8. What classes are we especially enjoined to help?
“Learn to do well; seek judgment,relieve the oppressed,judge the fatherless,plead for the widow.”Isa. 1:17.
9. What is pure and undefiled religion declared to be?
“Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this,To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, and to keep himself unspotted from the world.”James 1:27.
10. What kind of fast is most acceptable to God?
“Is not this the fast that I have chosen?... Is it not todeal thy bread to the hungry, and that thoubring the poor that are cast out to thy house? when thou seestthe naked, that thou cover him; and thatthou hide not thyself from thine own flesh?”Isa. 58:6, 7.
11. What is promised those who do this work?
“Then shalt thou call, and the Lord shall answer; thou shalt cry and He shall say, Here I am.... And if thou draw out thy soul to the hungry, and satisfy the afflicted soul; then shall thy light rise in obscurity, and thy darkness be as the noonday. And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.”Verses 9-11.
12. How did the patriarch Job treat the poor?
“I was afatherto the poor: andthe cause which I knew not I searched out.”Job 29:16.
13. What did Christ tell the rich young man to do?
“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect,go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow Me.”Matt. 19:21.
Note.—From Matt. 25:31-45 we learn that Christ identifies Himself with needy, suffering humanity; and that any neglect shown them He regards as done unto Himself.