Righteousness And LifeIllustration.The Lord Our Righteousness. "He that hath the Son hath life." 1 John 5:12.1. What is assured to the believer in Christ?“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life.”John 3:16.2. What is revealed in the gospel?“For therein isthe righteousness of Godrevealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”Rom. 1:17.3. What has Christ brought to light through the gospel?“Who hath abolished death, and hath broughtlife and immortalityto light through the gospel.”2 Tim. 1:10.4. How closely are righteousness and life thus united?“In the way ofrighteousnessislife; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.”Prov. 12:28.5. What does he find who follows after righteousness?“He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findethlife, righteousness, and honor.”Prov. 21:21.6. Through what does grace reign unto eternal life?[pg 117]“That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reignthrough righteousnessunto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 5:21.Illustration.Healing The Lame Man. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6.7. What is the very life of the Spirit?“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because ofrighteousness.”Rom. 8:10.8. What are the commandments of God declared to be?“All Thy commandments arerighteousness.”Ps. 119:172.9. What did Jesus declare God's commandment to be?“And I know that His commandment islife everlasting.”John 12:50.Note.—Life and righteousness are thus shown to be inseparable.10. What does the prophet Jeremiah declare Christ to be?“And this is His name whereby He shall be called,The Lord Our Righteousness.”Jer. 23:6.11. What does Christ declare Himself to be?“I am the way, the truth, and thelife.”John 14:6.12. How is righteousness received?“For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and ofthe gift of righteousnessshall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.”Rom. 5:17.13. How is eternal life bestowed?“For the wages of sin is death; but thegiftof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 6:23.14. What did Moses set forth as the basis of righteousness?“Andit shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandmentsbefore the Lord our God, as He hath commanded us.”Deut. 6:25.15. What did Christ indicate as essential to eternal life?“And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: butif thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”Matt. 19:17.Note.—The righteousness of God, which is obtained by faith in Christ, brings with it the life of God, which is inseparably connected with righteousness; and the life of God, which is bestowed upon man as a gift through his faith in Christ, is a life of righteousness,—the righteousness, or right-doing, of Christ.[pg 118]ConsecrationIllustration.The Carpenter's Son. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil. 2:5.1. What offering did King Hezekiah command to be made when he reestablished the worship of the temple?“And Hezekiah commanded to offer theburnt offeringupon the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments ordained by David king of Israel.”2 Chron. 29:27.2. After the people had united in this service, how did Hezekiah interpret its meaning?“Then Hezekiah answered and said,Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the Lord, come near and bring sacrifices and thank-offerings into the house of the Lord. And the congregation brought in sacrifices and thank-offerings; and as many as were of a free heart burnt offerings.”Verse 31.Note.—The morning and the evening burnt offering, or the continual offering (Ex. 29:42), symbolized the daily consecration of the people to the Lord.3. How is this consecration urged upon all Christians?[pg 119]“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”Rom. 12:1.4. What is the continual sacrifice of praise declared to be?“Through Him then let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which make confession to His name.”Heb. 13:15, R. V.5. How is the service of consecration to be carried forward by the Christian church?“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 2:5.6. Who has set the example of complete consecration?“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even asthe Son of mancame not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.”Matt. 20: 27, 28.7. What position has Jesus taken among His brethren?“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? butI am among you as he that serveth.”Luke 22:27.8. In what does likeness to Christ consist?“Let thismindbe in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.9. What did Christ's spirit of meekness and consecration lead Him to do?“But made Himself of no reputation, andtook upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”Verse 7.10. To what extent did Christ humble Himself?“And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedientunto death, even the death of the cross.”Verse 8.11. How does He exhort us to the same consecration?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.12. What does He make the condition of discipleship?[pg 120]“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple.”Luke 14:33.13. What is proof that one does not belong to Christ?“If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”Rom. 8:9.14. How should he walk who professes to abide in Christ?“He that saith he abideth in Himought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.”1 John 2:6.15. Do we belong to ourselves?“Know ye not that ...ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price.”1 Cor. 6:19, 20.16. What are we therefore exhorted to do?“Thereforeglorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”Verse 20.Note.—Our time, strength, and means are God's, and should be given to His service.17. Of what are the bodies of Christians the temple?“What? know ye not that your body isthe temple of the Holy Ghostwhich is in you, which ye have of God?”Verse 19.18. When truly consecrated, for what is one ready?“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?Then said I, Here am I; send me.”Isa. 6:8.19. How is this willingness for service otherwise expressed?“Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress;so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God.”Ps. 123:2.Take my life, and let it beConsecrated, Lord, to Thee!Take my hands, and let them moveAt the impulse of Thy love.Take my feet, and let them beSwift and beautiful for Thee;Take my voice, and let me singAlways, only, for my King.Take my will, and make it Thine:It shall be no longer mine!Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—Itshall be Thy royal throne.Frances Ridley Havergal.[pg 121]Bible ElectionIllustration.The Ten Virgins. "They that were ready went in with him to the marriage." Matt. 25:10.1. What does the apostle Peter admonish us to do?“Wherefore ... brethren,give diligence to make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:10.Note.—This text at once reveals the fact that our salvation, so far as our own individual cases are concerned, is dependent upon our own action. We are elected to be saved; but we are to give diligence to make this electionsure. If we do not, it will not meet its purpose in our case, and we shall be lost.2. What admonition given by Christ teaches the same truth?“Behold, I come quickly:hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”Rev. 3:11.Note.—Crowns have been prepared for each of the finally redeemed. Every soul is a candidate in the race for eternal life, and hence for a crown. Faith in Jesus, and perseverance to the end, will hold it fast.3. Upon what condition is the crown of life promised?“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”Rev. 2:10.4. In whom, and from what time, have we been chosen unto holiness and salvation?[pg 122]“According as He hath chosen usin Him[Christ]before the foundation of the world.”Eph. 1:4, first part.5. What is the character of those thus chosen before the foundation of the world?“That we should beholyandwithout blemishbefore Him in love.”Same verse, last part, R. V.6. To what has God foreordained those who attain to this character?“Having foreordained usunto adoption as sonsthrough Jesus Christ unto Himself.”Verse 5, R. V.7. According to what does God call us?“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the calledaccording to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.8. According to what have we been predestinated?“Being predestinatedaccording to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will.”Eph. 1:11.9. How many does God desire to be saved?“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”1 Tim. 2:4.10. Upon what condition is salvation offered?“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.11. For how long must this faith be preserved in order to bring final salvation?“He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”Matt. 24:13. See James 1:12; Rev. 2:10.12. What scripture is sometimes cited as evidence that God is arbitrary in His dealings with men?“Therefore hath He mercy on whom Hewillhave mercy, and whom HewillHe hardeneth.”Rom. 9:18.13. But what other scripture shows with whom Godwillsto be merciful, and with whom otherwise?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26. See also Isa. 55:7.[pg 123]Note.—God wills that men shall be saved. He has foreordained the characters that will entitle men to salvation, but He does notcompelany one to receive Christ, possess this character, and be saved. This is a matter of individual choice. By His mighty acts and judgments in Egypt, God“hardened Pharaoh's heart.”Ex. 7:3, 13, 22. But the same manifestationssoftenedthe hearts of others. The difference was in thehearts, and in the way God's message and dealings were received; not in God. The same sun which melts the wax hardens the clay. Ex. 8:32 says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.14. What, on man's part, is essential to salvation?“Chooseye this day whom ye will serve.”Joshua 24:15.“If any manwilleth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.”John 7:17, R. V.“Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.“Whosoeverwill, let him take the water of life freely.”Rev. 22:17.Note.—A man once wished to join a certain church, but said he could not do so on account of the views this church held on the subject of“election.”The minister to whom he was sent for help and enlightenment, failing to make the matter clear, an old colored man, a layman, came to the rescue, and said:“Brother, this is the very easiest thing in the church. You see, it is like this: The votin' is goin' on all the time; and God, He is votin' for you; and the devil, he is votin' agin you; and whichever wayyouvote, that is the way theelectiongoes.”Commenting upon this incident, Rev. Wilbur Chapman, the noted evangelist, says:“I have studied theology some myself, and graduated at a theological seminary; but I never got anything quite so good as that.”15. In what fact may every believer rejoice?“But rejoicethat your names are written in heaven.”Luke 10:20, R. V.16. Whose names are to be retained in the book of life?“He that overcometh, ... I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.”Rev. 3:5.O, happy day! that fixed my choiceOn Thee, My Saviour and my God;Well may this glowing heart rejoice,And tell its raptures all abroad.'Tis done, the great transaction's done;I am my Lord's, and he is mine;He drew me, and I followed on,Charmed to confess the voice divine.Now rest, my long-divided heart,Fixed on this blissful center rest;Nor ever from thy Lord depart,With Him of every good possessed.Philip Doddridge.[pg 124]Bible SanctificationIllustration.Moses At The Burning Bush. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Ex. 3:5.1. What inspired prayer sets the standard of Christian experience?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray God your wholespiritandsoulandbodybe preservedblamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.2. How necessary is the experience of sanctification?“Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctificationwithout which no man shall see the Lord.”Heb. 12:14, R. V.3. What encouragement is held out as an aid in attaining this experience?“Forthis is the will of God, even your sanctification.”1 Thess. 4:3.Note.—Whatever is the will of God concerning us can be realized in our experience if our wills are in harmony with His will. It is therefore a matter of great encouragement to know that our sanctification is included in the will of God.4. What distinct purpose did Christ have in giving Himself for the church?“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it;that He might sanctify and cleanse itwith the washing of water by the word.”Eph. 5:25, 26.[pg 125]5. What kind of church would He thus be able to present to Himself?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”Verse 27.6. In the experience of sanctification, what attitude must one assume toward the truth?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit andbelief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.7. What instruction shows that sanctification is a progressive work?“Butgrowin grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18. See chap. 1:5-7.8. What description of the apostle Paul's experience is in harmony with this?“Brethren,I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,I press toward the markof the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 3:13, 14.9. By what is this cleansing from sin and fitting for God's service accomplished?“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: how much more shall theblood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God,purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”Heb. 9:13, 14. See also chap. 10:29.10. What change is thus brought about?“And be not conformed to this world: butbe ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”Rom. 12:2.11. Can any one boast of sinlessness?“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”1 John 1:8.12. What are we exhorted by the prophet to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have[pg 126]wrought His judgment;seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger.”Zeph. 2:3.13. In whose name should everything be done?“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Col. 3:17.14. In all we do, whose glory should we have in view?“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do,do all to the glory of God.”1 Cor. 10:31.15. What classes of persons are necessarily shut out of the kingdom of God?“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”Eph. 5:5.“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”1 Cor. 6:9, 10.16. What must be crucified and eliminated from our lives if we would be holy?“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.”Col. 3:5, 6.17. When purged from these sins, in what condition is a man, and for what is he prepared?“If a man therefore purge himself from these,he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”2 Tim. 2:21.Note.—“Sanctification is the term used to describe the work of God the Holy Ghost upon the character of those who are justified. We are justified in order that we may be sanctified, and we are sanctified in order that we may be glorified.‘Whom He justified, them He also glorified.' Rom. 8:30. The grace of God is given to make us holy, and so to fit us for God's presence in eternity; for 'without holiness no man shall see the Lord.’Heb. 12:14.”—“The Catholic Religion”(Episcopal),by Rev. Vernon Staley, page 327.[pg 127]Importance Of Sound DoctrineIllustration.Ezra Reading The Law. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:21.1. Does it matter what one believes, so long as he is sincere?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spiritand belief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.Note.—Doctrine affects thelife. Truth leads to life and God; error to death and destruction. No one would think of saying it matters not whatgodone worships, so long as he is sincere, any more than he would think of saying it matters not what oneeatsordrinks, so long as herelisheswhat he eats and drinks; or whatroadhe travels, so long as hethinkshe is on the right road. Sincerity is a virtue; but it is not the test of sound doctrine. God wills that we shall know thetruth, and He has made provision whereby we may know what is truth.2. Did Joshua think it immaterial what God Israel served?“Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: andput away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: butas for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Joshua 24:14, 15.Note.—The influence of all idolatrous worship is degrading. See Rom. 1:21-32; Numbers 15; 1 Cor. 10:20; 1 John 5:21.[pg 128]3. How may we determine the truthfulness of any doctrine?“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”1 Thess. 5:21.4. By what should we test, or prove, all doctrine?“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.Note.—The Bible is the test of all doctrine. Whatever does not harmonize and square with this, is not to be received.“There is but one standard of the everlastingly right and the everlastingly wrong, and that is the Bible.”—T. De Witt Talmage.5. Of what kind of doctrines should we beware?“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with everywind of doctrine.”Eph. 4:14. See also Heb. 13:9.6. What is a“wind of doctrine”?“And the prophets shall becomewind; andthe word is not in them.”Jer. 5:13.Note.—Calling a doctrine a wind of doctrine does not make it such. That is a wind of doctrine which is not sustained by the Word of God.7. For what is all scripture profitable?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine.”2 Tim. 3:16.8. What advice was given to Timothy while preparing for the gospel ministry?“Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, todoctrine.... Take heed unto thyself, and unto thedoctrine.”1 Tim. 4:13-16.9. What solemn charge was given him concerning his public work?“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; ... reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.10. Why did the apostle say this duty was so imperative?“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 the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”Verses 3, 4.[pg 129]11. What similar instruction was given to Titus?“But speak thou the things which becomesound doctrine: ... in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works:in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity.”Titus 2:1-7.12. What will sound doctrine enable the faithful teacher to do?“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be ableby sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”Titus 1:9.13. What danger attends the teaching of false doctrine?“Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; andoverthrow the faith of some.”2 Tim. 2:18.14. Who are the disciples of Jesus, and what gracious work does the truth do for those who receive it?“If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; andye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”John 8:31, 32.15. Through what are they to be sanctified?“Sanctify them throughThy truth: Thy word is truth.”John 17:17.16. What kind of worship results from false teaching?“But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”Matt. 15:9.17. Can we close our ears to truth, and remain innocent before God?“He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law,even his prayer shall be abomination.”Prov. 28:9.18. What did Christ say of those who will to do God's will?“If any man willeth to do His will,he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.”John 7:17, R. V. See also Ps. 25: 9; John 8:12.19. What will God allow to come to those who reject truth?“Because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send themstrong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be[pg 130]damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”2 Thess. 2:10-12.20. By what doctrines are some to be misled in the last days?“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils.”1 Tim. 4:1. See 2 Peter 2:1.21. What fate awaits blind teachers and their followers?“Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind,both shall fall into the ditch.”Matt. 15:14.22. To whom will the gates of the heavenly city finally be opened?“Open ye the gates, thatthe righteous nation which keepeth the truthmay enter in.”Isa. 26:2. See also Rev. 22:14.Truth is the gem for which we seek,O tell us where shall it be found!For this we search, and pray, and weep,That truth may in our hearts abound.We want the truth on every point,We want it all to practise by;Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anointWith a fresh unction from on high.Charlotte Haskins.[pg 131]
Righteousness And LifeIllustration.The Lord Our Righteousness. "He that hath the Son hath life." 1 John 5:12.1. What is assured to the believer in Christ?“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life.”John 3:16.2. What is revealed in the gospel?“For therein isthe righteousness of Godrevealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”Rom. 1:17.3. What has Christ brought to light through the gospel?“Who hath abolished death, and hath broughtlife and immortalityto light through the gospel.”2 Tim. 1:10.4. How closely are righteousness and life thus united?“In the way ofrighteousnessislife; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.”Prov. 12:28.5. What does he find who follows after righteousness?“He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findethlife, righteousness, and honor.”Prov. 21:21.6. Through what does grace reign unto eternal life?[pg 117]“That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reignthrough righteousnessunto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 5:21.Illustration.Healing The Lame Man. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6.7. What is the very life of the Spirit?“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because ofrighteousness.”Rom. 8:10.8. What are the commandments of God declared to be?“All Thy commandments arerighteousness.”Ps. 119:172.9. What did Jesus declare God's commandment to be?“And I know that His commandment islife everlasting.”John 12:50.Note.—Life and righteousness are thus shown to be inseparable.10. What does the prophet Jeremiah declare Christ to be?“And this is His name whereby He shall be called,The Lord Our Righteousness.”Jer. 23:6.11. What does Christ declare Himself to be?“I am the way, the truth, and thelife.”John 14:6.12. How is righteousness received?“For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and ofthe gift of righteousnessshall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.”Rom. 5:17.13. How is eternal life bestowed?“For the wages of sin is death; but thegiftof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 6:23.14. What did Moses set forth as the basis of righteousness?“Andit shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandmentsbefore the Lord our God, as He hath commanded us.”Deut. 6:25.15. What did Christ indicate as essential to eternal life?“And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: butif thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”Matt. 19:17.Note.—The righteousness of God, which is obtained by faith in Christ, brings with it the life of God, which is inseparably connected with righteousness; and the life of God, which is bestowed upon man as a gift through his faith in Christ, is a life of righteousness,—the righteousness, or right-doing, of Christ.[pg 118]ConsecrationIllustration.The Carpenter's Son. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil. 2:5.1. What offering did King Hezekiah command to be made when he reestablished the worship of the temple?“And Hezekiah commanded to offer theburnt offeringupon the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments ordained by David king of Israel.”2 Chron. 29:27.2. After the people had united in this service, how did Hezekiah interpret its meaning?“Then Hezekiah answered and said,Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the Lord, come near and bring sacrifices and thank-offerings into the house of the Lord. And the congregation brought in sacrifices and thank-offerings; and as many as were of a free heart burnt offerings.”Verse 31.Note.—The morning and the evening burnt offering, or the continual offering (Ex. 29:42), symbolized the daily consecration of the people to the Lord.3. How is this consecration urged upon all Christians?[pg 119]“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”Rom. 12:1.4. What is the continual sacrifice of praise declared to be?“Through Him then let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which make confession to His name.”Heb. 13:15, R. V.5. How is the service of consecration to be carried forward by the Christian church?“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 2:5.6. Who has set the example of complete consecration?“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even asthe Son of mancame not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.”Matt. 20: 27, 28.7. What position has Jesus taken among His brethren?“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? butI am among you as he that serveth.”Luke 22:27.8. In what does likeness to Christ consist?“Let thismindbe in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.9. What did Christ's spirit of meekness and consecration lead Him to do?“But made Himself of no reputation, andtook upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”Verse 7.10. To what extent did Christ humble Himself?“And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedientunto death, even the death of the cross.”Verse 8.11. How does He exhort us to the same consecration?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.12. What does He make the condition of discipleship?[pg 120]“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple.”Luke 14:33.13. What is proof that one does not belong to Christ?“If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”Rom. 8:9.14. How should he walk who professes to abide in Christ?“He that saith he abideth in Himought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.”1 John 2:6.15. Do we belong to ourselves?“Know ye not that ...ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price.”1 Cor. 6:19, 20.16. What are we therefore exhorted to do?“Thereforeglorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”Verse 20.Note.—Our time, strength, and means are God's, and should be given to His service.17. Of what are the bodies of Christians the temple?“What? know ye not that your body isthe temple of the Holy Ghostwhich is in you, which ye have of God?”Verse 19.18. When truly consecrated, for what is one ready?“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?Then said I, Here am I; send me.”Isa. 6:8.19. How is this willingness for service otherwise expressed?“Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress;so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God.”Ps. 123:2.Take my life, and let it beConsecrated, Lord, to Thee!Take my hands, and let them moveAt the impulse of Thy love.Take my feet, and let them beSwift and beautiful for Thee;Take my voice, and let me singAlways, only, for my King.Take my will, and make it Thine:It shall be no longer mine!Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—Itshall be Thy royal throne.Frances Ridley Havergal.[pg 121]Bible ElectionIllustration.The Ten Virgins. "They that were ready went in with him to the marriage." Matt. 25:10.1. What does the apostle Peter admonish us to do?“Wherefore ... brethren,give diligence to make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:10.Note.—This text at once reveals the fact that our salvation, so far as our own individual cases are concerned, is dependent upon our own action. We are elected to be saved; but we are to give diligence to make this electionsure. If we do not, it will not meet its purpose in our case, and we shall be lost.2. What admonition given by Christ teaches the same truth?“Behold, I come quickly:hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”Rev. 3:11.Note.—Crowns have been prepared for each of the finally redeemed. Every soul is a candidate in the race for eternal life, and hence for a crown. Faith in Jesus, and perseverance to the end, will hold it fast.3. Upon what condition is the crown of life promised?“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”Rev. 2:10.4. In whom, and from what time, have we been chosen unto holiness and salvation?[pg 122]“According as He hath chosen usin Him[Christ]before the foundation of the world.”Eph. 1:4, first part.5. What is the character of those thus chosen before the foundation of the world?“That we should beholyandwithout blemishbefore Him in love.”Same verse, last part, R. V.6. To what has God foreordained those who attain to this character?“Having foreordained usunto adoption as sonsthrough Jesus Christ unto Himself.”Verse 5, R. V.7. According to what does God call us?“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the calledaccording to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.8. According to what have we been predestinated?“Being predestinatedaccording to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will.”Eph. 1:11.9. How many does God desire to be saved?“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”1 Tim. 2:4.10. Upon what condition is salvation offered?“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.11. For how long must this faith be preserved in order to bring final salvation?“He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”Matt. 24:13. See James 1:12; Rev. 2:10.12. What scripture is sometimes cited as evidence that God is arbitrary in His dealings with men?“Therefore hath He mercy on whom Hewillhave mercy, and whom HewillHe hardeneth.”Rom. 9:18.13. But what other scripture shows with whom Godwillsto be merciful, and with whom otherwise?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26. See also Isa. 55:7.[pg 123]Note.—God wills that men shall be saved. He has foreordained the characters that will entitle men to salvation, but He does notcompelany one to receive Christ, possess this character, and be saved. This is a matter of individual choice. By His mighty acts and judgments in Egypt, God“hardened Pharaoh's heart.”Ex. 7:3, 13, 22. But the same manifestationssoftenedthe hearts of others. The difference was in thehearts, and in the way God's message and dealings were received; not in God. The same sun which melts the wax hardens the clay. Ex. 8:32 says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.14. What, on man's part, is essential to salvation?“Chooseye this day whom ye will serve.”Joshua 24:15.“If any manwilleth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.”John 7:17, R. V.“Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.“Whosoeverwill, let him take the water of life freely.”Rev. 22:17.Note.—A man once wished to join a certain church, but said he could not do so on account of the views this church held on the subject of“election.”The minister to whom he was sent for help and enlightenment, failing to make the matter clear, an old colored man, a layman, came to the rescue, and said:“Brother, this is the very easiest thing in the church. You see, it is like this: The votin' is goin' on all the time; and God, He is votin' for you; and the devil, he is votin' agin you; and whichever wayyouvote, that is the way theelectiongoes.”Commenting upon this incident, Rev. Wilbur Chapman, the noted evangelist, says:“I have studied theology some myself, and graduated at a theological seminary; but I never got anything quite so good as that.”15. In what fact may every believer rejoice?“But rejoicethat your names are written in heaven.”Luke 10:20, R. V.16. Whose names are to be retained in the book of life?“He that overcometh, ... I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.”Rev. 3:5.O, happy day! that fixed my choiceOn Thee, My Saviour and my God;Well may this glowing heart rejoice,And tell its raptures all abroad.'Tis done, the great transaction's done;I am my Lord's, and he is mine;He drew me, and I followed on,Charmed to confess the voice divine.Now rest, my long-divided heart,Fixed on this blissful center rest;Nor ever from thy Lord depart,With Him of every good possessed.Philip Doddridge.[pg 124]Bible SanctificationIllustration.Moses At The Burning Bush. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Ex. 3:5.1. What inspired prayer sets the standard of Christian experience?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray God your wholespiritandsoulandbodybe preservedblamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.2. How necessary is the experience of sanctification?“Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctificationwithout which no man shall see the Lord.”Heb. 12:14, R. V.3. What encouragement is held out as an aid in attaining this experience?“Forthis is the will of God, even your sanctification.”1 Thess. 4:3.Note.—Whatever is the will of God concerning us can be realized in our experience if our wills are in harmony with His will. It is therefore a matter of great encouragement to know that our sanctification is included in the will of God.4. What distinct purpose did Christ have in giving Himself for the church?“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it;that He might sanctify and cleanse itwith the washing of water by the word.”Eph. 5:25, 26.[pg 125]5. What kind of church would He thus be able to present to Himself?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”Verse 27.6. In the experience of sanctification, what attitude must one assume toward the truth?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit andbelief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.7. What instruction shows that sanctification is a progressive work?“Butgrowin grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18. See chap. 1:5-7.8. What description of the apostle Paul's experience is in harmony with this?“Brethren,I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,I press toward the markof the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 3:13, 14.9. By what is this cleansing from sin and fitting for God's service accomplished?“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: how much more shall theblood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God,purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”Heb. 9:13, 14. See also chap. 10:29.10. What change is thus brought about?“And be not conformed to this world: butbe ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”Rom. 12:2.11. Can any one boast of sinlessness?“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”1 John 1:8.12. What are we exhorted by the prophet to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have[pg 126]wrought His judgment;seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger.”Zeph. 2:3.13. In whose name should everything be done?“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Col. 3:17.14. In all we do, whose glory should we have in view?“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do,do all to the glory of God.”1 Cor. 10:31.15. What classes of persons are necessarily shut out of the kingdom of God?“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”Eph. 5:5.“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”1 Cor. 6:9, 10.16. What must be crucified and eliminated from our lives if we would be holy?“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.”Col. 3:5, 6.17. When purged from these sins, in what condition is a man, and for what is he prepared?“If a man therefore purge himself from these,he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”2 Tim. 2:21.Note.—“Sanctification is the term used to describe the work of God the Holy Ghost upon the character of those who are justified. We are justified in order that we may be sanctified, and we are sanctified in order that we may be glorified.‘Whom He justified, them He also glorified.' Rom. 8:30. The grace of God is given to make us holy, and so to fit us for God's presence in eternity; for 'without holiness no man shall see the Lord.’Heb. 12:14.”—“The Catholic Religion”(Episcopal),by Rev. Vernon Staley, page 327.[pg 127]Importance Of Sound DoctrineIllustration.Ezra Reading The Law. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:21.1. Does it matter what one believes, so long as he is sincere?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spiritand belief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.Note.—Doctrine affects thelife. Truth leads to life and God; error to death and destruction. No one would think of saying it matters not whatgodone worships, so long as he is sincere, any more than he would think of saying it matters not what oneeatsordrinks, so long as herelisheswhat he eats and drinks; or whatroadhe travels, so long as hethinkshe is on the right road. Sincerity is a virtue; but it is not the test of sound doctrine. God wills that we shall know thetruth, and He has made provision whereby we may know what is truth.2. Did Joshua think it immaterial what God Israel served?“Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: andput away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: butas for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Joshua 24:14, 15.Note.—The influence of all idolatrous worship is degrading. See Rom. 1:21-32; Numbers 15; 1 Cor. 10:20; 1 John 5:21.[pg 128]3. How may we determine the truthfulness of any doctrine?“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”1 Thess. 5:21.4. By what should we test, or prove, all doctrine?“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.Note.—The Bible is the test of all doctrine. Whatever does not harmonize and square with this, is not to be received.“There is but one standard of the everlastingly right and the everlastingly wrong, and that is the Bible.”—T. De Witt Talmage.5. Of what kind of doctrines should we beware?“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with everywind of doctrine.”Eph. 4:14. See also Heb. 13:9.6. What is a“wind of doctrine”?“And the prophets shall becomewind; andthe word is not in them.”Jer. 5:13.Note.—Calling a doctrine a wind of doctrine does not make it such. That is a wind of doctrine which is not sustained by the Word of God.7. For what is all scripture profitable?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine.”2 Tim. 3:16.8. What advice was given to Timothy while preparing for the gospel ministry?“Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, todoctrine.... Take heed unto thyself, and unto thedoctrine.”1 Tim. 4:13-16.9. What solemn charge was given him concerning his public work?“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; ... reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.10. Why did the apostle say this duty was so imperative?“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 the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”Verses 3, 4.[pg 129]11. What similar instruction was given to Titus?“But speak thou the things which becomesound doctrine: ... in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works:in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity.”Titus 2:1-7.12. What will sound doctrine enable the faithful teacher to do?“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be ableby sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”Titus 1:9.13. What danger attends the teaching of false doctrine?“Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; andoverthrow the faith of some.”2 Tim. 2:18.14. Who are the disciples of Jesus, and what gracious work does the truth do for those who receive it?“If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; andye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”John 8:31, 32.15. Through what are they to be sanctified?“Sanctify them throughThy truth: Thy word is truth.”John 17:17.16. What kind of worship results from false teaching?“But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”Matt. 15:9.17. Can we close our ears to truth, and remain innocent before God?“He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law,even his prayer shall be abomination.”Prov. 28:9.18. What did Christ say of those who will to do God's will?“If any man willeth to do His will,he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.”John 7:17, R. V. See also Ps. 25: 9; John 8:12.19. What will God allow to come to those who reject truth?“Because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send themstrong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be[pg 130]damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”2 Thess. 2:10-12.20. By what doctrines are some to be misled in the last days?“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils.”1 Tim. 4:1. See 2 Peter 2:1.21. What fate awaits blind teachers and their followers?“Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind,both shall fall into the ditch.”Matt. 15:14.22. To whom will the gates of the heavenly city finally be opened?“Open ye the gates, thatthe righteous nation which keepeth the truthmay enter in.”Isa. 26:2. See also Rev. 22:14.Truth is the gem for which we seek,O tell us where shall it be found!For this we search, and pray, and weep,That truth may in our hearts abound.We want the truth on every point,We want it all to practise by;Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anointWith a fresh unction from on high.Charlotte Haskins.[pg 131]
Righteousness And LifeIllustration.The Lord Our Righteousness. "He that hath the Son hath life." 1 John 5:12.1. What is assured to the believer in Christ?“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life.”John 3:16.2. What is revealed in the gospel?“For therein isthe righteousness of Godrevealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”Rom. 1:17.3. What has Christ brought to light through the gospel?“Who hath abolished death, and hath broughtlife and immortalityto light through the gospel.”2 Tim. 1:10.4. How closely are righteousness and life thus united?“In the way ofrighteousnessislife; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.”Prov. 12:28.5. What does he find who follows after righteousness?“He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findethlife, righteousness, and honor.”Prov. 21:21.6. Through what does grace reign unto eternal life?[pg 117]“That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reignthrough righteousnessunto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 5:21.Illustration.Healing The Lame Man. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6.7. What is the very life of the Spirit?“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because ofrighteousness.”Rom. 8:10.8. What are the commandments of God declared to be?“All Thy commandments arerighteousness.”Ps. 119:172.9. What did Jesus declare God's commandment to be?“And I know that His commandment islife everlasting.”John 12:50.Note.—Life and righteousness are thus shown to be inseparable.10. What does the prophet Jeremiah declare Christ to be?“And this is His name whereby He shall be called,The Lord Our Righteousness.”Jer. 23:6.11. What does Christ declare Himself to be?“I am the way, the truth, and thelife.”John 14:6.12. How is righteousness received?“For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and ofthe gift of righteousnessshall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.”Rom. 5:17.13. How is eternal life bestowed?“For the wages of sin is death; but thegiftof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 6:23.14. What did Moses set forth as the basis of righteousness?“Andit shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandmentsbefore the Lord our God, as He hath commanded us.”Deut. 6:25.15. What did Christ indicate as essential to eternal life?“And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: butif thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”Matt. 19:17.Note.—The righteousness of God, which is obtained by faith in Christ, brings with it the life of God, which is inseparably connected with righteousness; and the life of God, which is bestowed upon man as a gift through his faith in Christ, is a life of righteousness,—the righteousness, or right-doing, of Christ.[pg 118]ConsecrationIllustration.The Carpenter's Son. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil. 2:5.1. What offering did King Hezekiah command to be made when he reestablished the worship of the temple?“And Hezekiah commanded to offer theburnt offeringupon the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments ordained by David king of Israel.”2 Chron. 29:27.2. After the people had united in this service, how did Hezekiah interpret its meaning?“Then Hezekiah answered and said,Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the Lord, come near and bring sacrifices and thank-offerings into the house of the Lord. And the congregation brought in sacrifices and thank-offerings; and as many as were of a free heart burnt offerings.”Verse 31.Note.—The morning and the evening burnt offering, or the continual offering (Ex. 29:42), symbolized the daily consecration of the people to the Lord.3. How is this consecration urged upon all Christians?[pg 119]“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”Rom. 12:1.4. What is the continual sacrifice of praise declared to be?“Through Him then let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which make confession to His name.”Heb. 13:15, R. V.5. How is the service of consecration to be carried forward by the Christian church?“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 2:5.6. Who has set the example of complete consecration?“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even asthe Son of mancame not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.”Matt. 20: 27, 28.7. What position has Jesus taken among His brethren?“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? butI am among you as he that serveth.”Luke 22:27.8. In what does likeness to Christ consist?“Let thismindbe in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.9. What did Christ's spirit of meekness and consecration lead Him to do?“But made Himself of no reputation, andtook upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”Verse 7.10. To what extent did Christ humble Himself?“And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedientunto death, even the death of the cross.”Verse 8.11. How does He exhort us to the same consecration?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.12. What does He make the condition of discipleship?[pg 120]“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple.”Luke 14:33.13. What is proof that one does not belong to Christ?“If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”Rom. 8:9.14. How should he walk who professes to abide in Christ?“He that saith he abideth in Himought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.”1 John 2:6.15. Do we belong to ourselves?“Know ye not that ...ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price.”1 Cor. 6:19, 20.16. What are we therefore exhorted to do?“Thereforeglorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”Verse 20.Note.—Our time, strength, and means are God's, and should be given to His service.17. Of what are the bodies of Christians the temple?“What? know ye not that your body isthe temple of the Holy Ghostwhich is in you, which ye have of God?”Verse 19.18. When truly consecrated, for what is one ready?“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?Then said I, Here am I; send me.”Isa. 6:8.19. How is this willingness for service otherwise expressed?“Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress;so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God.”Ps. 123:2.Take my life, and let it beConsecrated, Lord, to Thee!Take my hands, and let them moveAt the impulse of Thy love.Take my feet, and let them beSwift and beautiful for Thee;Take my voice, and let me singAlways, only, for my King.Take my will, and make it Thine:It shall be no longer mine!Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—Itshall be Thy royal throne.Frances Ridley Havergal.[pg 121]Bible ElectionIllustration.The Ten Virgins. "They that were ready went in with him to the marriage." Matt. 25:10.1. What does the apostle Peter admonish us to do?“Wherefore ... brethren,give diligence to make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:10.Note.—This text at once reveals the fact that our salvation, so far as our own individual cases are concerned, is dependent upon our own action. We are elected to be saved; but we are to give diligence to make this electionsure. If we do not, it will not meet its purpose in our case, and we shall be lost.2. What admonition given by Christ teaches the same truth?“Behold, I come quickly:hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”Rev. 3:11.Note.—Crowns have been prepared for each of the finally redeemed. Every soul is a candidate in the race for eternal life, and hence for a crown. Faith in Jesus, and perseverance to the end, will hold it fast.3. Upon what condition is the crown of life promised?“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”Rev. 2:10.4. In whom, and from what time, have we been chosen unto holiness and salvation?[pg 122]“According as He hath chosen usin Him[Christ]before the foundation of the world.”Eph. 1:4, first part.5. What is the character of those thus chosen before the foundation of the world?“That we should beholyandwithout blemishbefore Him in love.”Same verse, last part, R. V.6. To what has God foreordained those who attain to this character?“Having foreordained usunto adoption as sonsthrough Jesus Christ unto Himself.”Verse 5, R. V.7. According to what does God call us?“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the calledaccording to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.8. According to what have we been predestinated?“Being predestinatedaccording to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will.”Eph. 1:11.9. How many does God desire to be saved?“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”1 Tim. 2:4.10. Upon what condition is salvation offered?“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.11. For how long must this faith be preserved in order to bring final salvation?“He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”Matt. 24:13. See James 1:12; Rev. 2:10.12. What scripture is sometimes cited as evidence that God is arbitrary in His dealings with men?“Therefore hath He mercy on whom Hewillhave mercy, and whom HewillHe hardeneth.”Rom. 9:18.13. But what other scripture shows with whom Godwillsto be merciful, and with whom otherwise?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26. See also Isa. 55:7.[pg 123]Note.—God wills that men shall be saved. He has foreordained the characters that will entitle men to salvation, but He does notcompelany one to receive Christ, possess this character, and be saved. This is a matter of individual choice. By His mighty acts and judgments in Egypt, God“hardened Pharaoh's heart.”Ex. 7:3, 13, 22. But the same manifestationssoftenedthe hearts of others. The difference was in thehearts, and in the way God's message and dealings were received; not in God. The same sun which melts the wax hardens the clay. Ex. 8:32 says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.14. What, on man's part, is essential to salvation?“Chooseye this day whom ye will serve.”Joshua 24:15.“If any manwilleth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.”John 7:17, R. V.“Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.“Whosoeverwill, let him take the water of life freely.”Rev. 22:17.Note.—A man once wished to join a certain church, but said he could not do so on account of the views this church held on the subject of“election.”The minister to whom he was sent for help and enlightenment, failing to make the matter clear, an old colored man, a layman, came to the rescue, and said:“Brother, this is the very easiest thing in the church. You see, it is like this: The votin' is goin' on all the time; and God, He is votin' for you; and the devil, he is votin' agin you; and whichever wayyouvote, that is the way theelectiongoes.”Commenting upon this incident, Rev. Wilbur Chapman, the noted evangelist, says:“I have studied theology some myself, and graduated at a theological seminary; but I never got anything quite so good as that.”15. In what fact may every believer rejoice?“But rejoicethat your names are written in heaven.”Luke 10:20, R. V.16. Whose names are to be retained in the book of life?“He that overcometh, ... I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.”Rev. 3:5.O, happy day! that fixed my choiceOn Thee, My Saviour and my God;Well may this glowing heart rejoice,And tell its raptures all abroad.'Tis done, the great transaction's done;I am my Lord's, and he is mine;He drew me, and I followed on,Charmed to confess the voice divine.Now rest, my long-divided heart,Fixed on this blissful center rest;Nor ever from thy Lord depart,With Him of every good possessed.Philip Doddridge.[pg 124]Bible SanctificationIllustration.Moses At The Burning Bush. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Ex. 3:5.1. What inspired prayer sets the standard of Christian experience?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray God your wholespiritandsoulandbodybe preservedblamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.2. How necessary is the experience of sanctification?“Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctificationwithout which no man shall see the Lord.”Heb. 12:14, R. V.3. What encouragement is held out as an aid in attaining this experience?“Forthis is the will of God, even your sanctification.”1 Thess. 4:3.Note.—Whatever is the will of God concerning us can be realized in our experience if our wills are in harmony with His will. It is therefore a matter of great encouragement to know that our sanctification is included in the will of God.4. What distinct purpose did Christ have in giving Himself for the church?“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it;that He might sanctify and cleanse itwith the washing of water by the word.”Eph. 5:25, 26.[pg 125]5. What kind of church would He thus be able to present to Himself?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”Verse 27.6. In the experience of sanctification, what attitude must one assume toward the truth?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit andbelief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.7. What instruction shows that sanctification is a progressive work?“Butgrowin grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18. See chap. 1:5-7.8. What description of the apostle Paul's experience is in harmony with this?“Brethren,I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,I press toward the markof the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 3:13, 14.9. By what is this cleansing from sin and fitting for God's service accomplished?“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: how much more shall theblood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God,purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”Heb. 9:13, 14. See also chap. 10:29.10. What change is thus brought about?“And be not conformed to this world: butbe ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”Rom. 12:2.11. Can any one boast of sinlessness?“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”1 John 1:8.12. What are we exhorted by the prophet to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have[pg 126]wrought His judgment;seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger.”Zeph. 2:3.13. In whose name should everything be done?“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Col. 3:17.14. In all we do, whose glory should we have in view?“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do,do all to the glory of God.”1 Cor. 10:31.15. What classes of persons are necessarily shut out of the kingdom of God?“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”Eph. 5:5.“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”1 Cor. 6:9, 10.16. What must be crucified and eliminated from our lives if we would be holy?“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.”Col. 3:5, 6.17. When purged from these sins, in what condition is a man, and for what is he prepared?“If a man therefore purge himself from these,he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”2 Tim. 2:21.Note.—“Sanctification is the term used to describe the work of God the Holy Ghost upon the character of those who are justified. We are justified in order that we may be sanctified, and we are sanctified in order that we may be glorified.‘Whom He justified, them He also glorified.' Rom. 8:30. The grace of God is given to make us holy, and so to fit us for God's presence in eternity; for 'without holiness no man shall see the Lord.’Heb. 12:14.”—“The Catholic Religion”(Episcopal),by Rev. Vernon Staley, page 327.[pg 127]Importance Of Sound DoctrineIllustration.Ezra Reading The Law. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:21.1. Does it matter what one believes, so long as he is sincere?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spiritand belief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.Note.—Doctrine affects thelife. Truth leads to life and God; error to death and destruction. No one would think of saying it matters not whatgodone worships, so long as he is sincere, any more than he would think of saying it matters not what oneeatsordrinks, so long as herelisheswhat he eats and drinks; or whatroadhe travels, so long as hethinkshe is on the right road. Sincerity is a virtue; but it is not the test of sound doctrine. God wills that we shall know thetruth, and He has made provision whereby we may know what is truth.2. Did Joshua think it immaterial what God Israel served?“Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: andput away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: butas for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Joshua 24:14, 15.Note.—The influence of all idolatrous worship is degrading. See Rom. 1:21-32; Numbers 15; 1 Cor. 10:20; 1 John 5:21.[pg 128]3. How may we determine the truthfulness of any doctrine?“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”1 Thess. 5:21.4. By what should we test, or prove, all doctrine?“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.Note.—The Bible is the test of all doctrine. Whatever does not harmonize and square with this, is not to be received.“There is but one standard of the everlastingly right and the everlastingly wrong, and that is the Bible.”—T. De Witt Talmage.5. Of what kind of doctrines should we beware?“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with everywind of doctrine.”Eph. 4:14. See also Heb. 13:9.6. What is a“wind of doctrine”?“And the prophets shall becomewind; andthe word is not in them.”Jer. 5:13.Note.—Calling a doctrine a wind of doctrine does not make it such. That is a wind of doctrine which is not sustained by the Word of God.7. For what is all scripture profitable?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine.”2 Tim. 3:16.8. What advice was given to Timothy while preparing for the gospel ministry?“Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, todoctrine.... Take heed unto thyself, and unto thedoctrine.”1 Tim. 4:13-16.9. What solemn charge was given him concerning his public work?“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; ... reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.10. Why did the apostle say this duty was so imperative?“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 the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”Verses 3, 4.[pg 129]11. What similar instruction was given to Titus?“But speak thou the things which becomesound doctrine: ... in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works:in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity.”Titus 2:1-7.12. What will sound doctrine enable the faithful teacher to do?“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be ableby sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”Titus 1:9.13. What danger attends the teaching of false doctrine?“Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; andoverthrow the faith of some.”2 Tim. 2:18.14. Who are the disciples of Jesus, and what gracious work does the truth do for those who receive it?“If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; andye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”John 8:31, 32.15. Through what are they to be sanctified?“Sanctify them throughThy truth: Thy word is truth.”John 17:17.16. What kind of worship results from false teaching?“But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”Matt. 15:9.17. Can we close our ears to truth, and remain innocent before God?“He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law,even his prayer shall be abomination.”Prov. 28:9.18. What did Christ say of those who will to do God's will?“If any man willeth to do His will,he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.”John 7:17, R. V. See also Ps. 25: 9; John 8:12.19. What will God allow to come to those who reject truth?“Because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send themstrong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be[pg 130]damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”2 Thess. 2:10-12.20. By what doctrines are some to be misled in the last days?“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils.”1 Tim. 4:1. See 2 Peter 2:1.21. What fate awaits blind teachers and their followers?“Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind,both shall fall into the ditch.”Matt. 15:14.22. To whom will the gates of the heavenly city finally be opened?“Open ye the gates, thatthe righteous nation which keepeth the truthmay enter in.”Isa. 26:2. See also Rev. 22:14.Truth is the gem for which we seek,O tell us where shall it be found!For this we search, and pray, and weep,That truth may in our hearts abound.We want the truth on every point,We want it all to practise by;Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anointWith a fresh unction from on high.Charlotte Haskins.[pg 131]
Righteousness And LifeIllustration.The Lord Our Righteousness. "He that hath the Son hath life." 1 John 5:12.1. What is assured to the believer in Christ?“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life.”John 3:16.2. What is revealed in the gospel?“For therein isthe righteousness of Godrevealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”Rom. 1:17.3. What has Christ brought to light through the gospel?“Who hath abolished death, and hath broughtlife and immortalityto light through the gospel.”2 Tim. 1:10.4. How closely are righteousness and life thus united?“In the way ofrighteousnessislife; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.”Prov. 12:28.5. What does he find who follows after righteousness?“He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findethlife, righteousness, and honor.”Prov. 21:21.6. Through what does grace reign unto eternal life?[pg 117]“That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reignthrough righteousnessunto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 5:21.Illustration.Healing The Lame Man. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6.7. What is the very life of the Spirit?“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because ofrighteousness.”Rom. 8:10.8. What are the commandments of God declared to be?“All Thy commandments arerighteousness.”Ps. 119:172.9. What did Jesus declare God's commandment to be?“And I know that His commandment islife everlasting.”John 12:50.Note.—Life and righteousness are thus shown to be inseparable.10. What does the prophet Jeremiah declare Christ to be?“And this is His name whereby He shall be called,The Lord Our Righteousness.”Jer. 23:6.11. What does Christ declare Himself to be?“I am the way, the truth, and thelife.”John 14:6.12. How is righteousness received?“For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and ofthe gift of righteousnessshall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.”Rom. 5:17.13. How is eternal life bestowed?“For the wages of sin is death; but thegiftof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 6:23.14. What did Moses set forth as the basis of righteousness?“Andit shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandmentsbefore the Lord our God, as He hath commanded us.”Deut. 6:25.15. What did Christ indicate as essential to eternal life?“And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: butif thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”Matt. 19:17.Note.—The righteousness of God, which is obtained by faith in Christ, brings with it the life of God, which is inseparably connected with righteousness; and the life of God, which is bestowed upon man as a gift through his faith in Christ, is a life of righteousness,—the righteousness, or right-doing, of Christ.
Illustration.The Lord Our Righteousness. "He that hath the Son hath life." 1 John 5:12.
The Lord Our Righteousness. "He that hath the Son hath life." 1 John 5:12.
1. What is assured to the believer in Christ?
“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but haveeverlasting life.”John 3:16.
2. What is revealed in the gospel?
“For therein isthe righteousness of Godrevealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.”Rom. 1:17.
3. What has Christ brought to light through the gospel?
“Who hath abolished death, and hath broughtlife and immortalityto light through the gospel.”2 Tim. 1:10.
4. How closely are righteousness and life thus united?
“In the way ofrighteousnessislife; and in the pathway thereof there is no death.”Prov. 12:28.
5. What does he find who follows after righteousness?
“He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findethlife, righteousness, and honor.”Prov. 21:21.
6. Through what does grace reign unto eternal life?
“That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reignthrough righteousnessunto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 5:21.
Illustration.Healing The Lame Man. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6.
Healing The Lame Man. "In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." Acts 3:6.
7. What is the very life of the Spirit?
“And if Christ be in you, the body is dead because of sin; but the Spirit is life because ofrighteousness.”Rom. 8:10.
8. What are the commandments of God declared to be?
“All Thy commandments arerighteousness.”Ps. 119:172.
9. What did Jesus declare God's commandment to be?
“And I know that His commandment islife everlasting.”John 12:50.
Note.—Life and righteousness are thus shown to be inseparable.
10. What does the prophet Jeremiah declare Christ to be?
“And this is His name whereby He shall be called,The Lord Our Righteousness.”Jer. 23:6.
11. What does Christ declare Himself to be?
“I am the way, the truth, and thelife.”John 14:6.
12. How is righteousness received?
“For if by one man's offense death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and ofthe gift of righteousnessshall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.”Rom. 5:17.
13. How is eternal life bestowed?
“For the wages of sin is death; but thegiftof God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”Rom. 6:23.
14. What did Moses set forth as the basis of righteousness?
“Andit shall be our righteousness, if we observe to do all these commandmentsbefore the Lord our God, as He hath commanded us.”Deut. 6:25.
15. What did Christ indicate as essential to eternal life?
“And He said unto him, Why callest thou Me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: butif thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.”Matt. 19:17.
Note.—The righteousness of God, which is obtained by faith in Christ, brings with it the life of God, which is inseparably connected with righteousness; and the life of God, which is bestowed upon man as a gift through his faith in Christ, is a life of righteousness,—the righteousness, or right-doing, of Christ.
ConsecrationIllustration.The Carpenter's Son. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil. 2:5.1. What offering did King Hezekiah command to be made when he reestablished the worship of the temple?“And Hezekiah commanded to offer theburnt offeringupon the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments ordained by David king of Israel.”2 Chron. 29:27.2. After the people had united in this service, how did Hezekiah interpret its meaning?“Then Hezekiah answered and said,Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the Lord, come near and bring sacrifices and thank-offerings into the house of the Lord. And the congregation brought in sacrifices and thank-offerings; and as many as were of a free heart burnt offerings.”Verse 31.Note.—The morning and the evening burnt offering, or the continual offering (Ex. 29:42), symbolized the daily consecration of the people to the Lord.3. How is this consecration urged upon all Christians?[pg 119]“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”Rom. 12:1.4. What is the continual sacrifice of praise declared to be?“Through Him then let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which make confession to His name.”Heb. 13:15, R. V.5. How is the service of consecration to be carried forward by the Christian church?“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 2:5.6. Who has set the example of complete consecration?“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even asthe Son of mancame not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.”Matt. 20: 27, 28.7. What position has Jesus taken among His brethren?“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? butI am among you as he that serveth.”Luke 22:27.8. In what does likeness to Christ consist?“Let thismindbe in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.9. What did Christ's spirit of meekness and consecration lead Him to do?“But made Himself of no reputation, andtook upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”Verse 7.10. To what extent did Christ humble Himself?“And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedientunto death, even the death of the cross.”Verse 8.11. How does He exhort us to the same consecration?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.12. What does He make the condition of discipleship?[pg 120]“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple.”Luke 14:33.13. What is proof that one does not belong to Christ?“If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”Rom. 8:9.14. How should he walk who professes to abide in Christ?“He that saith he abideth in Himought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.”1 John 2:6.15. Do we belong to ourselves?“Know ye not that ...ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price.”1 Cor. 6:19, 20.16. What are we therefore exhorted to do?“Thereforeglorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”Verse 20.Note.—Our time, strength, and means are God's, and should be given to His service.17. Of what are the bodies of Christians the temple?“What? know ye not that your body isthe temple of the Holy Ghostwhich is in you, which ye have of God?”Verse 19.18. When truly consecrated, for what is one ready?“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?Then said I, Here am I; send me.”Isa. 6:8.19. How is this willingness for service otherwise expressed?“Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress;so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God.”Ps. 123:2.Take my life, and let it beConsecrated, Lord, to Thee!Take my hands, and let them moveAt the impulse of Thy love.Take my feet, and let them beSwift and beautiful for Thee;Take my voice, and let me singAlways, only, for my King.Take my will, and make it Thine:It shall be no longer mine!Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—Itshall be Thy royal throne.Frances Ridley Havergal.
Illustration.The Carpenter's Son. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil. 2:5.
The Carpenter's Son. "Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus." Phil. 2:5.
1. What offering did King Hezekiah command to be made when he reestablished the worship of the temple?
“And Hezekiah commanded to offer theburnt offeringupon the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song of the Lord began also with the trumpets, and with the instruments ordained by David king of Israel.”2 Chron. 29:27.
2. After the people had united in this service, how did Hezekiah interpret its meaning?
“Then Hezekiah answered and said,Now ye have consecrated yourselves unto the Lord, come near and bring sacrifices and thank-offerings into the house of the Lord. And the congregation brought in sacrifices and thank-offerings; and as many as were of a free heart burnt offerings.”Verse 31.
Note.—The morning and the evening burnt offering, or the continual offering (Ex. 29:42), symbolized the daily consecration of the people to the Lord.
3. How is this consecration urged upon all Christians?
“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.”Rom. 12:1.
4. What is the continual sacrifice of praise declared to be?
“Through Him then let us offer up a sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of lips which make confession to His name.”Heb. 13:15, R. V.
5. How is the service of consecration to be carried forward by the Christian church?
“Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood,to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 2:5.
6. Who has set the example of complete consecration?
“And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: even asthe Son of mancame not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give His life a ransom for many.”Matt. 20: 27, 28.
7. What position has Jesus taken among His brethren?
“For whether is greater, he that sitteth at meat, or he that serveth? is not he that sitteth at meat? butI am among you as he that serveth.”Luke 22:27.
8. In what does likeness to Christ consist?
“Let thismindbe in you, which was also in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 2:5.
9. What did Christ's spirit of meekness and consecration lead Him to do?
“But made Himself of no reputation, andtook upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.”Verse 7.
10. To what extent did Christ humble Himself?
“And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedientunto death, even the death of the cross.”Verse 8.
11. How does He exhort us to the same consecration?
“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.
12. What does He make the condition of discipleship?
“So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be My disciple.”Luke 14:33.
13. What is proof that one does not belong to Christ?
“If any man have not the Spirit of Christ, he is none of His.”Rom. 8:9.
14. How should he walk who professes to abide in Christ?
“He that saith he abideth in Himought himself also so to walk, even as He walked.”1 John 2:6.
15. Do we belong to ourselves?
“Know ye not that ...ye are not your own? for ye are bought with a price.”1 Cor. 6:19, 20.
16. What are we therefore exhorted to do?
“Thereforeglorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.”Verse 20.
Note.—Our time, strength, and means are God's, and should be given to His service.
17. Of what are the bodies of Christians the temple?
“What? know ye not that your body isthe temple of the Holy Ghostwhich is in you, which ye have of God?”Verse 19.
18. When truly consecrated, for what is one ready?
“Also I heard the voice of the Lord, saying, Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?Then said I, Here am I; send me.”Isa. 6:8.
19. How is this willingness for service otherwise expressed?
“Behold, as the eyes of servants look unto the hand of their masters, and as the eyes of a maiden unto the hand of her mistress;so our eyes wait upon the Lord our God.”Ps. 123:2.
Take my life, and let it beConsecrated, Lord, to Thee!Take my hands, and let them moveAt the impulse of Thy love.Take my feet, and let them beSwift and beautiful for Thee;Take my voice, and let me singAlways, only, for my King.Take my will, and make it Thine:It shall be no longer mine!Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—Itshall be Thy royal throne.Frances Ridley Havergal.
Take my life, and let it beConsecrated, Lord, to Thee!Take my hands, and let them moveAt the impulse of Thy love.
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee!
Take my hands, and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet, and let them beSwift and beautiful for Thee;Take my voice, and let me singAlways, only, for my King.
Take my feet, and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee;
Take my voice, and let me sing
Always, only, for my King.
Take my will, and make it Thine:It shall be no longer mine!Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—Itshall be Thy royal throne.Frances Ridley Havergal.
Take my will, and make it Thine:
It shall be no longer mine!
Take my heart,—it is Thine own,—It
shall be Thy royal throne.
Frances Ridley Havergal.
Bible ElectionIllustration.The Ten Virgins. "They that were ready went in with him to the marriage." Matt. 25:10.1. What does the apostle Peter admonish us to do?“Wherefore ... brethren,give diligence to make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:10.Note.—This text at once reveals the fact that our salvation, so far as our own individual cases are concerned, is dependent upon our own action. We are elected to be saved; but we are to give diligence to make this electionsure. If we do not, it will not meet its purpose in our case, and we shall be lost.2. What admonition given by Christ teaches the same truth?“Behold, I come quickly:hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”Rev. 3:11.Note.—Crowns have been prepared for each of the finally redeemed. Every soul is a candidate in the race for eternal life, and hence for a crown. Faith in Jesus, and perseverance to the end, will hold it fast.3. Upon what condition is the crown of life promised?“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”Rev. 2:10.4. In whom, and from what time, have we been chosen unto holiness and salvation?[pg 122]“According as He hath chosen usin Him[Christ]before the foundation of the world.”Eph. 1:4, first part.5. What is the character of those thus chosen before the foundation of the world?“That we should beholyandwithout blemishbefore Him in love.”Same verse, last part, R. V.6. To what has God foreordained those who attain to this character?“Having foreordained usunto adoption as sonsthrough Jesus Christ unto Himself.”Verse 5, R. V.7. According to what does God call us?“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the calledaccording to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.8. According to what have we been predestinated?“Being predestinatedaccording to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will.”Eph. 1:11.9. How many does God desire to be saved?“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”1 Tim. 2:4.10. Upon what condition is salvation offered?“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.11. For how long must this faith be preserved in order to bring final salvation?“He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”Matt. 24:13. See James 1:12; Rev. 2:10.12. What scripture is sometimes cited as evidence that God is arbitrary in His dealings with men?“Therefore hath He mercy on whom Hewillhave mercy, and whom HewillHe hardeneth.”Rom. 9:18.13. But what other scripture shows with whom Godwillsto be merciful, and with whom otherwise?“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26. See also Isa. 55:7.[pg 123]Note.—God wills that men shall be saved. He has foreordained the characters that will entitle men to salvation, but He does notcompelany one to receive Christ, possess this character, and be saved. This is a matter of individual choice. By His mighty acts and judgments in Egypt, God“hardened Pharaoh's heart.”Ex. 7:3, 13, 22. But the same manifestationssoftenedthe hearts of others. The difference was in thehearts, and in the way God's message and dealings were received; not in God. The same sun which melts the wax hardens the clay. Ex. 8:32 says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.14. What, on man's part, is essential to salvation?“Chooseye this day whom ye will serve.”Joshua 24:15.“If any manwilleth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.”John 7:17, R. V.“Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.“Whosoeverwill, let him take the water of life freely.”Rev. 22:17.Note.—A man once wished to join a certain church, but said he could not do so on account of the views this church held on the subject of“election.”The minister to whom he was sent for help and enlightenment, failing to make the matter clear, an old colored man, a layman, came to the rescue, and said:“Brother, this is the very easiest thing in the church. You see, it is like this: The votin' is goin' on all the time; and God, He is votin' for you; and the devil, he is votin' agin you; and whichever wayyouvote, that is the way theelectiongoes.”Commenting upon this incident, Rev. Wilbur Chapman, the noted evangelist, says:“I have studied theology some myself, and graduated at a theological seminary; but I never got anything quite so good as that.”15. In what fact may every believer rejoice?“But rejoicethat your names are written in heaven.”Luke 10:20, R. V.16. Whose names are to be retained in the book of life?“He that overcometh, ... I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.”Rev. 3:5.O, happy day! that fixed my choiceOn Thee, My Saviour and my God;Well may this glowing heart rejoice,And tell its raptures all abroad.'Tis done, the great transaction's done;I am my Lord's, and he is mine;He drew me, and I followed on,Charmed to confess the voice divine.Now rest, my long-divided heart,Fixed on this blissful center rest;Nor ever from thy Lord depart,With Him of every good possessed.Philip Doddridge.
Illustration.The Ten Virgins. "They that were ready went in with him to the marriage." Matt. 25:10.
The Ten Virgins. "They that were ready went in with him to the marriage." Matt. 25:10.
1. What does the apostle Peter admonish us to do?
“Wherefore ... brethren,give diligence to make your calling and election sure.”2 Peter 1:10.
Note.—This text at once reveals the fact that our salvation, so far as our own individual cases are concerned, is dependent upon our own action. We are elected to be saved; but we are to give diligence to make this electionsure. If we do not, it will not meet its purpose in our case, and we shall be lost.
2. What admonition given by Christ teaches the same truth?
“Behold, I come quickly:hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”Rev. 3:11.
Note.—Crowns have been prepared for each of the finally redeemed. Every soul is a candidate in the race for eternal life, and hence for a crown. Faith in Jesus, and perseverance to the end, will hold it fast.
3. Upon what condition is the crown of life promised?
“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.”Rev. 2:10.
4. In whom, and from what time, have we been chosen unto holiness and salvation?
“According as He hath chosen usin Him[Christ]before the foundation of the world.”Eph. 1:4, first part.
5. What is the character of those thus chosen before the foundation of the world?
“That we should beholyandwithout blemishbefore Him in love.”Same verse, last part, R. V.
6. To what has God foreordained those who attain to this character?
“Having foreordained usunto adoption as sonsthrough Jesus Christ unto Himself.”Verse 5, R. V.
7. According to what does God call us?
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the calledaccording to His purpose.”Rom. 8:28.
8. According to what have we been predestinated?
“Being predestinatedaccording to the purpose of Him who worketh all things after the counsel of His own will.”Eph. 1:11.
9. How many does God desire to be saved?
“Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.”1 Tim. 2:4.
10. Upon what condition is salvation offered?
“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.
11. For how long must this faith be preserved in order to bring final salvation?
“He that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.”Matt. 24:13. See James 1:12; Rev. 2:10.
12. What scripture is sometimes cited as evidence that God is arbitrary in His dealings with men?
“Therefore hath He mercy on whom Hewillhave mercy, and whom HewillHe hardeneth.”Rom. 9:18.
13. But what other scripture shows with whom Godwillsto be merciful, and with whom otherwise?
“With themercifulThou wilt show Thyselfmerciful; with anuprightman Thou wilt show Thyselfupright; with thepureThou wilt show Thyselfpure; and with thefrowardThou wilt show Thyselffroward.”Ps. 18:25, 26. See also Isa. 55:7.
Note.—God wills that men shall be saved. He has foreordained the characters that will entitle men to salvation, but He does notcompelany one to receive Christ, possess this character, and be saved. This is a matter of individual choice. By His mighty acts and judgments in Egypt, God“hardened Pharaoh's heart.”Ex. 7:3, 13, 22. But the same manifestationssoftenedthe hearts of others. The difference was in thehearts, and in the way God's message and dealings were received; not in God. The same sun which melts the wax hardens the clay. Ex. 8:32 says that Pharaoh hardened his own heart.
14. What, on man's part, is essential to salvation?
“Chooseye this day whom ye will serve.”Joshua 24:15.“If any manwilleth to do His will, he shall know of the teaching.”John 7:17, R. V.“Believeon the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.”Acts 16:31.“Whosoeverwill, let him take the water of life freely.”Rev. 22:17.
Note.—A man once wished to join a certain church, but said he could not do so on account of the views this church held on the subject of“election.”The minister to whom he was sent for help and enlightenment, failing to make the matter clear, an old colored man, a layman, came to the rescue, and said:“Brother, this is the very easiest thing in the church. You see, it is like this: The votin' is goin' on all the time; and God, He is votin' for you; and the devil, he is votin' agin you; and whichever wayyouvote, that is the way theelectiongoes.”Commenting upon this incident, Rev. Wilbur Chapman, the noted evangelist, says:“I have studied theology some myself, and graduated at a theological seminary; but I never got anything quite so good as that.”
15. In what fact may every believer rejoice?
“But rejoicethat your names are written in heaven.”Luke 10:20, R. V.
16. Whose names are to be retained in the book of life?
“He that overcometh, ... I will not blot out his name out of the book of life.”Rev. 3:5.
O, happy day! that fixed my choiceOn Thee, My Saviour and my God;Well may this glowing heart rejoice,And tell its raptures all abroad.'Tis done, the great transaction's done;I am my Lord's, and he is mine;He drew me, and I followed on,Charmed to confess the voice divine.Now rest, my long-divided heart,Fixed on this blissful center rest;Nor ever from thy Lord depart,With Him of every good possessed.Philip Doddridge.
O, happy day! that fixed my choiceOn Thee, My Saviour and my God;Well may this glowing heart rejoice,And tell its raptures all abroad.
O, happy day! that fixed my choice
On Thee, My Saviour and my God;
Well may this glowing heart rejoice,
And tell its raptures all abroad.
'Tis done, the great transaction's done;I am my Lord's, and he is mine;He drew me, and I followed on,Charmed to confess the voice divine.
'Tis done, the great transaction's done;
I am my Lord's, and he is mine;
He drew me, and I followed on,
Charmed to confess the voice divine.
Now rest, my long-divided heart,Fixed on this blissful center rest;Nor ever from thy Lord depart,With Him of every good possessed.Philip Doddridge.
Now rest, my long-divided heart,
Fixed on this blissful center rest;
Nor ever from thy Lord depart,
With Him of every good possessed.
Philip Doddridge.
Bible SanctificationIllustration.Moses At The Burning Bush. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Ex. 3:5.1. What inspired prayer sets the standard of Christian experience?“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray God your wholespiritandsoulandbodybe preservedblamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.2. How necessary is the experience of sanctification?“Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctificationwithout which no man shall see the Lord.”Heb. 12:14, R. V.3. What encouragement is held out as an aid in attaining this experience?“Forthis is the will of God, even your sanctification.”1 Thess. 4:3.Note.—Whatever is the will of God concerning us can be realized in our experience if our wills are in harmony with His will. It is therefore a matter of great encouragement to know that our sanctification is included in the will of God.4. What distinct purpose did Christ have in giving Himself for the church?“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it;that He might sanctify and cleanse itwith the washing of water by the word.”Eph. 5:25, 26.[pg 125]5. What kind of church would He thus be able to present to Himself?“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”Verse 27.6. In the experience of sanctification, what attitude must one assume toward the truth?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit andbelief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.7. What instruction shows that sanctification is a progressive work?“Butgrowin grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18. See chap. 1:5-7.8. What description of the apostle Paul's experience is in harmony with this?“Brethren,I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,I press toward the markof the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 3:13, 14.9. By what is this cleansing from sin and fitting for God's service accomplished?“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: how much more shall theblood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God,purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”Heb. 9:13, 14. See also chap. 10:29.10. What change is thus brought about?“And be not conformed to this world: butbe ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”Rom. 12:2.11. Can any one boast of sinlessness?“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”1 John 1:8.12. What are we exhorted by the prophet to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have[pg 126]wrought His judgment;seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger.”Zeph. 2:3.13. In whose name should everything be done?“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Col. 3:17.14. In all we do, whose glory should we have in view?“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do,do all to the glory of God.”1 Cor. 10:31.15. What classes of persons are necessarily shut out of the kingdom of God?“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”Eph. 5:5.“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”1 Cor. 6:9, 10.16. What must be crucified and eliminated from our lives if we would be holy?“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.”Col. 3:5, 6.17. When purged from these sins, in what condition is a man, and for what is he prepared?“If a man therefore purge himself from these,he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”2 Tim. 2:21.Note.—“Sanctification is the term used to describe the work of God the Holy Ghost upon the character of those who are justified. We are justified in order that we may be sanctified, and we are sanctified in order that we may be glorified.‘Whom He justified, them He also glorified.' Rom. 8:30. The grace of God is given to make us holy, and so to fit us for God's presence in eternity; for 'without holiness no man shall see the Lord.’Heb. 12:14.”—“The Catholic Religion”(Episcopal),by Rev. Vernon Staley, page 327.
Illustration.Moses At The Burning Bush. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Ex. 3:5.
Moses At The Burning Bush. "The place whereon thou standest is holy ground." Ex. 3:5.
1. What inspired prayer sets the standard of Christian experience?
“And the very God of peacesanctify you wholly; and I pray God your wholespiritandsoulandbodybe preservedblamelessunto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.”1 Thess. 5:23.
2. How necessary is the experience of sanctification?
“Follow after peace with all men, and the sanctificationwithout which no man shall see the Lord.”Heb. 12:14, R. V.
3. What encouragement is held out as an aid in attaining this experience?
“Forthis is the will of God, even your sanctification.”1 Thess. 4:3.
Note.—Whatever is the will of God concerning us can be realized in our experience if our wills are in harmony with His will. It is therefore a matter of great encouragement to know that our sanctification is included in the will of God.
4. What distinct purpose did Christ have in giving Himself for the church?
“Husbands, love your wives, even as Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it;that He might sanctify and cleanse itwith the washing of water by the word.”Eph. 5:25, 26.
5. What kind of church would He thus be able to present to Himself?
“That He might present it to Himselfa glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish.”Verse 27.
6. In the experience of sanctification, what attitude must one assume toward the truth?
“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit andbelief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.
7. What instruction shows that sanctification is a progressive work?
“Butgrowin grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.”2 Peter 3:18. See chap. 1:5-7.
8. What description of the apostle Paul's experience is in harmony with this?
“Brethren,I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,I press toward the markof the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”Phil. 3:13, 14.
9. By what is this cleansing from sin and fitting for God's service accomplished?
“For if the blood of bulls and of goats, and the ashes of an heifer sprinkling the unclean, sanctifieth to the purifying of the flesh: how much more shall theblood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God,purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?”Heb. 9:13, 14. See also chap. 10:29.
10. What change is thus brought about?
“And be not conformed to this world: butbe ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”Rom. 12:2.
11. Can any one boast of sinlessness?
“If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us.”1 John 1:8.
12. What are we exhorted by the prophet to seek?
“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have[pg 126]wrought His judgment;seek righteousness, seek meekness: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord's anger.”Zeph. 2:3.
13. In whose name should everything be done?
“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed,do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.”Col. 3:17.
14. In all we do, whose glory should we have in view?
“Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do,do all to the glory of God.”1 Cor. 10:31.
15. What classes of persons are necessarily shut out of the kingdom of God?
“For this ye know, that no whoremonger, nor unclean person, nor covetous man, who is an idolater, hath any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”Eph. 5:5.“Know ye not that the unrighteous shall not inherit the kingdom of God? Be not deceived: neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor abusers of themselves with mankind, nor thieves, nor covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor extortioners, shall inherit the kingdom of God.”1 Cor. 6:9, 10.
16. What must be crucified and eliminated from our lives if we would be holy?
“Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth; fornication, uncleanness, inordinate affection, evil concupiscence, and covetousness, which is idolatry: for which things' sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience.”Col. 3:5, 6.
17. When purged from these sins, in what condition is a man, and for what is he prepared?
“If a man therefore purge himself from these,he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work.”2 Tim. 2:21.
Note.—“Sanctification is the term used to describe the work of God the Holy Ghost upon the character of those who are justified. We are justified in order that we may be sanctified, and we are sanctified in order that we may be glorified.‘Whom He justified, them He also glorified.' Rom. 8:30. The grace of God is given to make us holy, and so to fit us for God's presence in eternity; for 'without holiness no man shall see the Lord.’Heb. 12:14.”—“The Catholic Religion”(Episcopal),by Rev. Vernon Staley, page 327.
Importance Of Sound DoctrineIllustration.Ezra Reading The Law. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:21.1. Does it matter what one believes, so long as he is sincere?“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spiritand belief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.Note.—Doctrine affects thelife. Truth leads to life and God; error to death and destruction. No one would think of saying it matters not whatgodone worships, so long as he is sincere, any more than he would think of saying it matters not what oneeatsordrinks, so long as herelisheswhat he eats and drinks; or whatroadhe travels, so long as hethinkshe is on the right road. Sincerity is a virtue; but it is not the test of sound doctrine. God wills that we shall know thetruth, and He has made provision whereby we may know what is truth.2. Did Joshua think it immaterial what God Israel served?“Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: andput away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: butas for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Joshua 24:14, 15.Note.—The influence of all idolatrous worship is degrading. See Rom. 1:21-32; Numbers 15; 1 Cor. 10:20; 1 John 5:21.[pg 128]3. How may we determine the truthfulness of any doctrine?“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”1 Thess. 5:21.4. By what should we test, or prove, all doctrine?“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.Note.—The Bible is the test of all doctrine. Whatever does not harmonize and square with this, is not to be received.“There is but one standard of the everlastingly right and the everlastingly wrong, and that is the Bible.”—T. De Witt Talmage.5. Of what kind of doctrines should we beware?“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with everywind of doctrine.”Eph. 4:14. See also Heb. 13:9.6. What is a“wind of doctrine”?“And the prophets shall becomewind; andthe word is not in them.”Jer. 5:13.Note.—Calling a doctrine a wind of doctrine does not make it such. That is a wind of doctrine which is not sustained by the Word of God.7. For what is all scripture profitable?“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine.”2 Tim. 3:16.8. What advice was given to Timothy while preparing for the gospel ministry?“Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, todoctrine.... Take heed unto thyself, and unto thedoctrine.”1 Tim. 4:13-16.9. What solemn charge was given him concerning his public work?“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; ... reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.10. Why did the apostle say this duty was so imperative?“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 the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”Verses 3, 4.[pg 129]11. What similar instruction was given to Titus?“But speak thou the things which becomesound doctrine: ... in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works:in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity.”Titus 2:1-7.12. What will sound doctrine enable the faithful teacher to do?“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be ableby sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”Titus 1:9.13. What danger attends the teaching of false doctrine?“Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; andoverthrow the faith of some.”2 Tim. 2:18.14. Who are the disciples of Jesus, and what gracious work does the truth do for those who receive it?“If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; andye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”John 8:31, 32.15. Through what are they to be sanctified?“Sanctify them throughThy truth: Thy word is truth.”John 17:17.16. What kind of worship results from false teaching?“But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”Matt. 15:9.17. Can we close our ears to truth, and remain innocent before God?“He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law,even his prayer shall be abomination.”Prov. 28:9.18. What did Christ say of those who will to do God's will?“If any man willeth to do His will,he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.”John 7:17, R. V. See also Ps. 25: 9; John 8:12.19. What will God allow to come to those who reject truth?“Because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send themstrong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be[pg 130]damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”2 Thess. 2:10-12.20. By what doctrines are some to be misled in the last days?“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils.”1 Tim. 4:1. See 2 Peter 2:1.21. What fate awaits blind teachers and their followers?“Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind,both shall fall into the ditch.”Matt. 15:14.22. To whom will the gates of the heavenly city finally be opened?“Open ye the gates, thatthe righteous nation which keepeth the truthmay enter in.”Isa. 26:2. See also Rev. 22:14.Truth is the gem for which we seek,O tell us where shall it be found!For this we search, and pray, and weep,That truth may in our hearts abound.We want the truth on every point,We want it all to practise by;Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anointWith a fresh unction from on high.Charlotte Haskins.
Illustration.Ezra Reading The Law. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:21.
Ezra Reading The Law. "Prove all things; hold fast that which is good." 1 Thess. 5:21.
1. Does it matter what one believes, so long as he is sincere?
“God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spiritand belief of the truth.”2 Thess. 2:13.
Note.—Doctrine affects thelife. Truth leads to life and God; error to death and destruction. No one would think of saying it matters not whatgodone worships, so long as he is sincere, any more than he would think of saying it matters not what oneeatsordrinks, so long as herelisheswhat he eats and drinks; or whatroadhe travels, so long as hethinkshe is on the right road. Sincerity is a virtue; but it is not the test of sound doctrine. God wills that we shall know thetruth, and He has made provision whereby we may know what is truth.
2. Did Joshua think it immaterial what God Israel served?
“Now therefore fear the Lord, and serve Him in sincerity and in truth: andput away the gods which your fathers served on the other side of the flood and in Egypt; and serve ye the Lord. And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: butas for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”Joshua 24:14, 15.
Note.—The influence of all idolatrous worship is degrading. See Rom. 1:21-32; Numbers 15; 1 Cor. 10:20; 1 John 5:21.
3. How may we determine the truthfulness of any doctrine?
“Prove all things; hold fast that which is good.”1 Thess. 5:21.
4. By what should we test, or prove, all doctrine?
“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.
Note.—The Bible is the test of all doctrine. Whatever does not harmonize and square with this, is not to be received.“There is but one standard of the everlastingly right and the everlastingly wrong, and that is the Bible.”—T. De Witt Talmage.
5. Of what kind of doctrines should we beware?
“That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with everywind of doctrine.”Eph. 4:14. See also Heb. 13:9.
6. What is a“wind of doctrine”?
“And the prophets shall becomewind; andthe word is not in them.”Jer. 5:13.
Note.—Calling a doctrine a wind of doctrine does not make it such. That is a wind of doctrine which is not sustained by the Word of God.
7. For what is all scripture profitable?
“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and isprofitable for doctrine.”2 Tim. 3:16.
8. What advice was given to Timothy while preparing for the gospel ministry?
“Till I come, give attendance to reading, to exhortation, todoctrine.... Take heed unto thyself, and unto thedoctrine.”1 Tim. 4:13-16.
9. What solemn charge was given him concerning his public work?
“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; ... reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long-suffering and doctrine.”2 Tim. 4:1, 2.
10. Why did the apostle say this duty was so imperative?
“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 the truth, and shall be turned unto fables.”Verses 3, 4.
11. What similar instruction was given to Titus?
“But speak thou the things which becomesound doctrine: ... in all things showing thyself a pattern of good works:in doctrine showing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity.”Titus 2:1-7.
12. What will sound doctrine enable the faithful teacher to do?
“Holding fast the faithful word as he hath been taught, that he may be ableby sound doctrine both to exhort and to convince the gainsayers.”Titus 1:9.
13. What danger attends the teaching of false doctrine?
“Who concerning the truth have erred, saying that the resurrection is past already; andoverthrow the faith of some.”2 Tim. 2:18.
14. Who are the disciples of Jesus, and what gracious work does the truth do for those who receive it?
“If ye continue in My word, then are ye My disciples indeed; andye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.”John 8:31, 32.
15. Through what are they to be sanctified?
“Sanctify them throughThy truth: Thy word is truth.”John 17:17.
16. What kind of worship results from false teaching?
“But in vain they do worship Me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men.”Matt. 15:9.
17. Can we close our ears to truth, and remain innocent before God?
“He that turneth away his ear from hearing the law,even his prayer shall be abomination.”Prov. 28:9.
18. What did Christ say of those who will to do God's will?
“If any man willeth to do His will,he shall know of the teaching, whether it be of God, or whether I speak from Myself.”John 7:17, R. V. See also Ps. 25: 9; John 8:12.
19. What will God allow to come to those who reject truth?
“Because they receive not the love of the truth, that they might be saved. And for this cause God shall send themstrong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be[pg 130]damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”2 Thess. 2:10-12.
20. By what doctrines are some to be misled in the last days?
“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, anddoctrines of devils.”1 Tim. 4:1. See 2 Peter 2:1.
21. What fate awaits blind teachers and their followers?
“Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind,both shall fall into the ditch.”Matt. 15:14.
22. To whom will the gates of the heavenly city finally be opened?
“Open ye the gates, thatthe righteous nation which keepeth the truthmay enter in.”Isa. 26:2. See also Rev. 22:14.
Truth is the gem for which we seek,O tell us where shall it be found!For this we search, and pray, and weep,That truth may in our hearts abound.We want the truth on every point,We want it all to practise by;Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anointWith a fresh unction from on high.Charlotte Haskins.
Truth is the gem for which we seek,O tell us where shall it be found!For this we search, and pray, and weep,That truth may in our hearts abound.
Truth is the gem for which we seek,
O tell us where shall it be found!
For this we search, and pray, and weep,
That truth may in our hearts abound.
We want the truth on every point,We want it all to practise by;Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anointWith a fresh unction from on high.Charlotte Haskins.
We want the truth on every point,
We want it all to practise by;
Do thou, O Lord, our eyes anoint
With a fresh unction from on high.
Charlotte Haskins.