The Duty Of EncouragementIllustration.The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.1. When the ten spies brought back an evil report from the land of Canaan, what did Caleb say?“And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said,Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.”Num. 13:30.2. What did the ten spies say?“But the men that went up with him said,We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.”Verse 31.3. What effect did this evil report have upon the people?“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, andcried; and the peopleweptthat night. And all the children of Israelmurmuredagainst Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them,Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!... And they said one to another,Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.”Num. 14:1-4.4. With what words did Moses seek to encourage Joshua?“And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel,Be strong and of a good courage.... The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:fear not, neither be dismayed.”Deut. 31:7, 8.[pg 581]5. In his final charge to Joshua, what did Moses, speaking for God, say to him?“And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said,Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.”Verse 23.6. After Moses' death, how did the Lord encourage Joshua?“The Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, ... There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.Be strong and of a good courage.”Joshua 1:1-6.7. When Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came against Jerusalem, what did King Hezekiah say to Israel?“Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayedfor the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: with him is an army of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles.”2 Chron. 32:7, 8.8. What effect did these words have upon the people?“Andthe people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiahking of Judah.”Verse 8.9. How did Josiah seek to promote the worship of God?“And he set the priests in their charges, andencouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord.”2 Chron. 35:2.10. By what message, through the prophet Haggai, did God seek to encourage the people to rebuild the temple?“Be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; andbe strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; andbe strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord,and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts.”Haggai 2:4.11. What encouraging message has Christ left us?“Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.Notes.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.“What men need most in this world's struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170.[pg 582]Unity Of BelieversIllustration.Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.1. What relation do the Father and the Son sustain to each other?“I and My Fatherare one.”John 10:30.2. In what does this oneness consist?“I seek not Mine own will, butthe will of the Fatherwhich hath sent Me.”John 5:30.Note.—Their oneness, therefore, consists in their having the same mind, will, and purpose.3. What did Christ pray the Father in behalf of His disciples?“That they may be one, even as We are one.”John 17:22. See also verses 11 and 23.4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us:that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.”Verse 21.5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples,if ye have love one to another.”John 13:35.[pg 583]Note.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God's plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God's work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,that ye all speak the same thing, andthat there be no divisions among you; butthat ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”1 Cor. 1:10.7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Alsoof your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”Acts 20:29, 30.8. What was already at work in the church in Paul's day?“Forthe mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [hindereth] will let, until he be taken out of the way.”2 Thess. 2:7.9. Before Christ should come, what did Paul say was to take place?“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there comea falling awayfirst, andthat man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.”Verses 3, 4.Note.—The huge system of error now fostered in the papal church is the result of the falling away here referred to. Says Wylie in his“History of Protestantism,”Vol. III, page 25:“Rome manifestly was the schismatic; she it was that abandoned what was once the common faith of Christendom, leaving by that step to all who remained on the old ground the indisputably valid title of the true church.”10. Together, what do believers in Christ form?“Nowye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”1 Cor. 12:27.11. Being members of Christ's body, of what else do we become members?[pg 584]“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, andevery one members one of another.”Rom. 12:5.12. As members of one another, what is the duty of each?“That there should be no schism in the body; but thatthe members should have the same care one for another.”1 Cor. 12:25.13. What should they endeavor to keep?“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love;endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”Eph. 4:1-3.14. What unity of faith is finally to exist among God's watchmen?“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: forthey shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.”Isa. 52:8.15. What solemn message, just before the Lord's coming, will unite God's people in bonds of faith and love?“Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.... Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.... If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.”Rev. 14:7-10. See Rev. 18:1-5.16. How are those who receive this message described?“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Verse 12.17. When the Lord comes, what will be the united cry of God's people?“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.How blest the sacred tie that bindsIn sweet communion kindred minds!How swift the heavenly course they runWhose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.[pg 585]Meekness And HumilityIllustration.Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.1. What promise is made to the meek?“Blessed are the meek: forthey shall inherit the earth.”Matt. 5:5.Meek:“Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; forbearing; submissive; humble.”—Webster.2. What did Christ say of His own character?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; forI am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.3. What is said of the character of Moses?“Nowthe man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”Num. 12:3.4. Whom has God promised to guide in judgment?“The meekwill He guide in judgment: andthe meekwill He teach His way.”Ps. 25:9.5. Of what is meekness a fruit?“Butthe fruit of the Spirit islove, joy, peace, long-suffering,[pg 587]gentleness, goodness, faith,meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”Gal. 5:22, 23.Illustration.Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.6. What does Christ say of those who exalt themselves?“For whosoever exalteth himselfshall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”Luke 14:11.Note.—The spirit of self-exaltation is of Satan. See Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:17. Christ humbled Himself, made Himself of no reputation, and became obedient even to the death on the cross. See Phil. 2:5-8.7. By what means did Jesus illustrate true humility?“And Jesus calleda little childunto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ...Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child; the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”Matt. 18:2-4.Notes.—Humility is“freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth.”It implies a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating ourclaimslow, in being willing towaive our rights, and totake a lower place than might be our due. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—Bishop Taylor.8. How will humility lead us to esteem others?“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mindlet each esteem other better than themselves.”Phil. 2:3.9. With whom does God dwell?“I dwell in the high and holy place,with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”Isa. 57:15.10. When asked a reason for our hope, in what spirit should we answer?“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in youwith meekness and fear.”1 Peter 3:15.11. Who should labor for one overtaken in a fault, and in what spirit?“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault,ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.[pg 588]12. With what should Christian women adorn themselves?“Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, eventhe ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”1 Peter 3:3, 4.Note.—The instruction given here,in principleapplies with equal force to men professing godliness. It is the needless display of apparel and outward adornment that is here condemned. God desires the ornamentswithin, displayed in the heart and life, rather than thosewithout, simply to be seen of men. Needless outward adornment, therefore, may generally be taken as an indication that the inward adornment, so precious in the sight of God, is lacking. Neatness in dress is not here discouraged.13. Why are we exhorted to humble ourselves?“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,that He may exalt you in due time.”1 Peter 5:6.Note.—“The higher a man is in grace, the lower he will be in his own esteem.”—Spurgeon.14. With what has the Lord promised to beautify the meek?“For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people:He will beautify the meek with salvation.”Ps. 149:4.15. What are the meek exhorted to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have 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.Note.—The fact that the meek are exhorted to seek meekness, is evidence that the meek themselves should cherish and cultivate meekness, and that sanctification, or the development of a perfect character, is a progressive work.16. What inheritance is promised the meek?“For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. Butthe meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”Ps. 37:10, 11.I count this thing to be grandly true:That a noble deed is a step toward God,Lifting the soul from the common clodTo a purer air and a broader view.We rise by the things that are under our feet;By what we have mastered of good and gain;By the pride deposed and the passion slain,And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.J. G. Holland.[pg 589]SobrietyIllustration.Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh's Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.1. To what extent did Solomon test the pleasures of this world?“Whatsoever mine eyes desiredI kept not from them, I withheld not my heart fromany joy.”“I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee withmirth, therefore enjoypleasure.”Eccl. 2:10, 1.2. How much true enjoyment did such a course afford?“Behold,all was vanity and vexation of spirit.”Verse 11.3. Of what does Solomon bid the young, in the buoyancy of youth, to be mindful?“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes;but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.”Eccl. 11:9.4. How does the grace of God teach us that we should live?“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we shouldlive soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”Titus 2:11, 12.[pg 590]5. What classes of individuals are admonished to be sober?“That theaged menbe sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Theaged womenlikewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, ... that they may teach theyoung womento be sober....Young menlikewise exhort to be sober-minded.”Verses 2-6.Note.—These four classes include all. All should be sober.6. What similar advice is given in the epistle to the Romans?“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”Rom. 13:13.7. What testimony does the apostle Peter bear on this point?“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind,be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 1:13.8. Why are foolish talking and jesting to be avoided?“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting,which are not convenient.”Eph. 5:4.Note.—To indulge in such things is not becoming a Christian. Life, with all its responsibilities and great issues at stake, is too serious a matter to be spent in such vanities.9. What is the thought of foolishness declared to be?“The thought of foolishness issin.”Prov. 24:9.Note.—Levity, foolishness, light and loose talking, throw us off our guard, and open the way to temptation and sin. To avoid sin, we must be sober and constantly on guard.10. Why are sobriety and vigilance especially necessary?“Be sober, be vigilant;because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”1 Peter 5:8.11. What other consideration should lead us to sobriety and watchfulness?“Butthe end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”1 Peter 4:7.How vain are all things here below!How false, and yet how fair!Each pleasure hath its poison, too,And every sweet a snare.Isaac Watts.[pg 591]WisdomIllustration.Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.1. Why are we told to get wisdom?“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”Prov. 4:7.Note.—Wisdom implies the ability to judge soundly and deal sagaciously. It is knowledge, with the capacity to make due use of it. One may have abundance ofknowledge, and at the same time possess littlewisdom.2. Of how much value is wisdom?“She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”Prov. 3:15.3. What blessings follow the acquisition of wisdom?“Exalt her, and she shallpromote thee: she shallbring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine headan ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.”Prov. 4:8, 9.4. Who gives wisdom?“For the Lord giveth wisdom.”Prov. 2:6.5. How may it be obtained?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth[pg 592]to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.6. When Solomon became king, what did he ask the Lord to give him?“Give me nowwisdom and knowledge.”2 Chron. 1:10.7. How did the Lord regard this request?“Andthe speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.”1 Kings 3:10.8. How was Solomon's prayer answered?“And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; ...behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.... And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor.”Verses 11-13.9. Are great men always wise?“Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”Job 32:9.10. What is the beginning of wisdom?“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.11. By what means was the psalmist made wiser than his enemies?“Thouthrough Thy commandmentshast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.”Ps. 119:98.12. Why did his understanding excel that of his teachers?“I have more understanding than all my teachers:for Thy testimonies are my meditation.”Verse 99.13. What effect does wisdom have upon the countenance?“A man's wisdom maketh his face toshine.”Eccl. 8:1.14. In what did Christ say the children of this world excel the children of light?“For the children of this world are in their generationwiserthan the children of light.”Luke 16:8.[pg 593]Note.—That is, they show more prudence, more cunning, and more intelligence about their business than do Christians concerning the things of God's kingdom.“They show more skill, study more plans, contrive more ways, to provide for themselves than the children of light do to promote the interests of religion.”—Dr. Albert Barnes.15. In what did the apostle say he would have us wise, and in what simple?“I would have youwise unto that which is good, andsimple concerning evil.”Rom. 16:19.16. How many kinds of wisdom are there?“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet notthe wisdom of this world.... But we speakthe wisdom of Godin a mystery, eventhe hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory.”1 Cor. 2:6, 7.17. How is worldly wisdom regarded by God?“For the wisdom of this world isfoolishnesswith God.”1 Cor. 3:19.18. What is the character of that wisdom which comes from God?“But the wisdom that is from above is firstpure, thenpeaceable,gentle, andeasy to be entreated,full of mercy and good fruits,without partiality,and without hypocrisy.”James 3:17.19. What wisdom are the Scriptures able to give?“And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make theewise unto salvationthrough faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.Broad is the road that leads to death,And thousands walk together there;But wisdom shows a narrow path,With here and there a traveler.Deny thyself, and take thy cross,Is thy Redeemer's great command;Nature must count her gold but dross,If she would gain that heavenly land.The fearful soul that tries and faints,And walks the ways of God no more,Is but esteemed almost a saint,And makes his own destruction sure.Isaac Watts.[pg 594]
The Duty Of EncouragementIllustration.The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.1. When the ten spies brought back an evil report from the land of Canaan, what did Caleb say?“And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said,Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.”Num. 13:30.2. What did the ten spies say?“But the men that went up with him said,We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.”Verse 31.3. What effect did this evil report have upon the people?“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, andcried; and the peopleweptthat night. And all the children of Israelmurmuredagainst Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them,Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!... And they said one to another,Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.”Num. 14:1-4.4. With what words did Moses seek to encourage Joshua?“And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel,Be strong and of a good courage.... The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:fear not, neither be dismayed.”Deut. 31:7, 8.[pg 581]5. In his final charge to Joshua, what did Moses, speaking for God, say to him?“And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said,Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.”Verse 23.6. After Moses' death, how did the Lord encourage Joshua?“The Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, ... There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.Be strong and of a good courage.”Joshua 1:1-6.7. When Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came against Jerusalem, what did King Hezekiah say to Israel?“Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayedfor the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: with him is an army of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles.”2 Chron. 32:7, 8.8. What effect did these words have upon the people?“Andthe people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiahking of Judah.”Verse 8.9. How did Josiah seek to promote the worship of God?“And he set the priests in their charges, andencouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord.”2 Chron. 35:2.10. By what message, through the prophet Haggai, did God seek to encourage the people to rebuild the temple?“Be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; andbe strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; andbe strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord,and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts.”Haggai 2:4.11. What encouraging message has Christ left us?“Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.Notes.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.“What men need most in this world's struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170.[pg 582]Unity Of BelieversIllustration.Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.1. What relation do the Father and the Son sustain to each other?“I and My Fatherare one.”John 10:30.2. In what does this oneness consist?“I seek not Mine own will, butthe will of the Fatherwhich hath sent Me.”John 5:30.Note.—Their oneness, therefore, consists in their having the same mind, will, and purpose.3. What did Christ pray the Father in behalf of His disciples?“That they may be one, even as We are one.”John 17:22. See also verses 11 and 23.4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us:that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.”Verse 21.5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples,if ye have love one to another.”John 13:35.[pg 583]Note.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God's plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God's work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,that ye all speak the same thing, andthat there be no divisions among you; butthat ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”1 Cor. 1:10.7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Alsoof your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”Acts 20:29, 30.8. What was already at work in the church in Paul's day?“Forthe mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [hindereth] will let, until he be taken out of the way.”2 Thess. 2:7.9. Before Christ should come, what did Paul say was to take place?“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there comea falling awayfirst, andthat man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.”Verses 3, 4.Note.—The huge system of error now fostered in the papal church is the result of the falling away here referred to. Says Wylie in his“History of Protestantism,”Vol. III, page 25:“Rome manifestly was the schismatic; she it was that abandoned what was once the common faith of Christendom, leaving by that step to all who remained on the old ground the indisputably valid title of the true church.”10. Together, what do believers in Christ form?“Nowye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”1 Cor. 12:27.11. Being members of Christ's body, of what else do we become members?[pg 584]“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, andevery one members one of another.”Rom. 12:5.12. As members of one another, what is the duty of each?“That there should be no schism in the body; but thatthe members should have the same care one for another.”1 Cor. 12:25.13. What should they endeavor to keep?“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love;endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”Eph. 4:1-3.14. What unity of faith is finally to exist among God's watchmen?“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: forthey shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.”Isa. 52:8.15. What solemn message, just before the Lord's coming, will unite God's people in bonds of faith and love?“Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.... Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.... If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.”Rev. 14:7-10. See Rev. 18:1-5.16. How are those who receive this message described?“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Verse 12.17. When the Lord comes, what will be the united cry of God's people?“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.How blest the sacred tie that bindsIn sweet communion kindred minds!How swift the heavenly course they runWhose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.[pg 585]Meekness And HumilityIllustration.Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.1. What promise is made to the meek?“Blessed are the meek: forthey shall inherit the earth.”Matt. 5:5.Meek:“Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; forbearing; submissive; humble.”—Webster.2. What did Christ say of His own character?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; forI am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.3. What is said of the character of Moses?“Nowthe man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”Num. 12:3.4. Whom has God promised to guide in judgment?“The meekwill He guide in judgment: andthe meekwill He teach His way.”Ps. 25:9.5. Of what is meekness a fruit?“Butthe fruit of the Spirit islove, joy, peace, long-suffering,[pg 587]gentleness, goodness, faith,meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”Gal. 5:22, 23.Illustration.Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.6. What does Christ say of those who exalt themselves?“For whosoever exalteth himselfshall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”Luke 14:11.Note.—The spirit of self-exaltation is of Satan. See Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:17. Christ humbled Himself, made Himself of no reputation, and became obedient even to the death on the cross. See Phil. 2:5-8.7. By what means did Jesus illustrate true humility?“And Jesus calleda little childunto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ...Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child; the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”Matt. 18:2-4.Notes.—Humility is“freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth.”It implies a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating ourclaimslow, in being willing towaive our rights, and totake a lower place than might be our due. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—Bishop Taylor.8. How will humility lead us to esteem others?“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mindlet each esteem other better than themselves.”Phil. 2:3.9. With whom does God dwell?“I dwell in the high and holy place,with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”Isa. 57:15.10. When asked a reason for our hope, in what spirit should we answer?“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in youwith meekness and fear.”1 Peter 3:15.11. Who should labor for one overtaken in a fault, and in what spirit?“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault,ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.[pg 588]12. With what should Christian women adorn themselves?“Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, eventhe ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”1 Peter 3:3, 4.Note.—The instruction given here,in principleapplies with equal force to men professing godliness. It is the needless display of apparel and outward adornment that is here condemned. God desires the ornamentswithin, displayed in the heart and life, rather than thosewithout, simply to be seen of men. Needless outward adornment, therefore, may generally be taken as an indication that the inward adornment, so precious in the sight of God, is lacking. Neatness in dress is not here discouraged.13. Why are we exhorted to humble ourselves?“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,that He may exalt you in due time.”1 Peter 5:6.Note.—“The higher a man is in grace, the lower he will be in his own esteem.”—Spurgeon.14. With what has the Lord promised to beautify the meek?“For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people:He will beautify the meek with salvation.”Ps. 149:4.15. What are the meek exhorted to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have 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.Note.—The fact that the meek are exhorted to seek meekness, is evidence that the meek themselves should cherish and cultivate meekness, and that sanctification, or the development of a perfect character, is a progressive work.16. What inheritance is promised the meek?“For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. Butthe meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”Ps. 37:10, 11.I count this thing to be grandly true:That a noble deed is a step toward God,Lifting the soul from the common clodTo a purer air and a broader view.We rise by the things that are under our feet;By what we have mastered of good and gain;By the pride deposed and the passion slain,And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.J. G. Holland.[pg 589]SobrietyIllustration.Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh's Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.1. To what extent did Solomon test the pleasures of this world?“Whatsoever mine eyes desiredI kept not from them, I withheld not my heart fromany joy.”“I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee withmirth, therefore enjoypleasure.”Eccl. 2:10, 1.2. How much true enjoyment did such a course afford?“Behold,all was vanity and vexation of spirit.”Verse 11.3. Of what does Solomon bid the young, in the buoyancy of youth, to be mindful?“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes;but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.”Eccl. 11:9.4. How does the grace of God teach us that we should live?“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we shouldlive soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”Titus 2:11, 12.[pg 590]5. What classes of individuals are admonished to be sober?“That theaged menbe sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Theaged womenlikewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, ... that they may teach theyoung womento be sober....Young menlikewise exhort to be sober-minded.”Verses 2-6.Note.—These four classes include all. All should be sober.6. What similar advice is given in the epistle to the Romans?“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”Rom. 13:13.7. What testimony does the apostle Peter bear on this point?“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind,be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 1:13.8. Why are foolish talking and jesting to be avoided?“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting,which are not convenient.”Eph. 5:4.Note.—To indulge in such things is not becoming a Christian. Life, with all its responsibilities and great issues at stake, is too serious a matter to be spent in such vanities.9. What is the thought of foolishness declared to be?“The thought of foolishness issin.”Prov. 24:9.Note.—Levity, foolishness, light and loose talking, throw us off our guard, and open the way to temptation and sin. To avoid sin, we must be sober and constantly on guard.10. Why are sobriety and vigilance especially necessary?“Be sober, be vigilant;because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”1 Peter 5:8.11. What other consideration should lead us to sobriety and watchfulness?“Butthe end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”1 Peter 4:7.How vain are all things here below!How false, and yet how fair!Each pleasure hath its poison, too,And every sweet a snare.Isaac Watts.[pg 591]WisdomIllustration.Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.1. Why are we told to get wisdom?“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”Prov. 4:7.Note.—Wisdom implies the ability to judge soundly and deal sagaciously. It is knowledge, with the capacity to make due use of it. One may have abundance ofknowledge, and at the same time possess littlewisdom.2. Of how much value is wisdom?“She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”Prov. 3:15.3. What blessings follow the acquisition of wisdom?“Exalt her, and she shallpromote thee: she shallbring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine headan ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.”Prov. 4:8, 9.4. Who gives wisdom?“For the Lord giveth wisdom.”Prov. 2:6.5. How may it be obtained?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth[pg 592]to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.6. When Solomon became king, what did he ask the Lord to give him?“Give me nowwisdom and knowledge.”2 Chron. 1:10.7. How did the Lord regard this request?“Andthe speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.”1 Kings 3:10.8. How was Solomon's prayer answered?“And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; ...behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.... And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor.”Verses 11-13.9. Are great men always wise?“Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”Job 32:9.10. What is the beginning of wisdom?“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.11. By what means was the psalmist made wiser than his enemies?“Thouthrough Thy commandmentshast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.”Ps. 119:98.12. Why did his understanding excel that of his teachers?“I have more understanding than all my teachers:for Thy testimonies are my meditation.”Verse 99.13. What effect does wisdom have upon the countenance?“A man's wisdom maketh his face toshine.”Eccl. 8:1.14. In what did Christ say the children of this world excel the children of light?“For the children of this world are in their generationwiserthan the children of light.”Luke 16:8.[pg 593]Note.—That is, they show more prudence, more cunning, and more intelligence about their business than do Christians concerning the things of God's kingdom.“They show more skill, study more plans, contrive more ways, to provide for themselves than the children of light do to promote the interests of religion.”—Dr. Albert Barnes.15. In what did the apostle say he would have us wise, and in what simple?“I would have youwise unto that which is good, andsimple concerning evil.”Rom. 16:19.16. How many kinds of wisdom are there?“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet notthe wisdom of this world.... But we speakthe wisdom of Godin a mystery, eventhe hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory.”1 Cor. 2:6, 7.17. How is worldly wisdom regarded by God?“For the wisdom of this world isfoolishnesswith God.”1 Cor. 3:19.18. What is the character of that wisdom which comes from God?“But the wisdom that is from above is firstpure, thenpeaceable,gentle, andeasy to be entreated,full of mercy and good fruits,without partiality,and without hypocrisy.”James 3:17.19. What wisdom are the Scriptures able to give?“And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make theewise unto salvationthrough faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.Broad is the road that leads to death,And thousands walk together there;But wisdom shows a narrow path,With here and there a traveler.Deny thyself, and take thy cross,Is thy Redeemer's great command;Nature must count her gold but dross,If she would gain that heavenly land.The fearful soul that tries and faints,And walks the ways of God no more,Is but esteemed almost a saint,And makes his own destruction sure.Isaac Watts.[pg 594]
The Duty Of EncouragementIllustration.The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.1. When the ten spies brought back an evil report from the land of Canaan, what did Caleb say?“And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said,Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.”Num. 13:30.2. What did the ten spies say?“But the men that went up with him said,We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.”Verse 31.3. What effect did this evil report have upon the people?“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, andcried; and the peopleweptthat night. And all the children of Israelmurmuredagainst Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them,Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!... And they said one to another,Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.”Num. 14:1-4.4. With what words did Moses seek to encourage Joshua?“And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel,Be strong and of a good courage.... The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:fear not, neither be dismayed.”Deut. 31:7, 8.[pg 581]5. In his final charge to Joshua, what did Moses, speaking for God, say to him?“And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said,Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.”Verse 23.6. After Moses' death, how did the Lord encourage Joshua?“The Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, ... There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.Be strong and of a good courage.”Joshua 1:1-6.7. When Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came against Jerusalem, what did King Hezekiah say to Israel?“Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayedfor the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: with him is an army of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles.”2 Chron. 32:7, 8.8. What effect did these words have upon the people?“Andthe people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiahking of Judah.”Verse 8.9. How did Josiah seek to promote the worship of God?“And he set the priests in their charges, andencouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord.”2 Chron. 35:2.10. By what message, through the prophet Haggai, did God seek to encourage the people to rebuild the temple?“Be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; andbe strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; andbe strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord,and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts.”Haggai 2:4.11. What encouraging message has Christ left us?“Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.Notes.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.“What men need most in this world's struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170.[pg 582]Unity Of BelieversIllustration.Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.1. What relation do the Father and the Son sustain to each other?“I and My Fatherare one.”John 10:30.2. In what does this oneness consist?“I seek not Mine own will, butthe will of the Fatherwhich hath sent Me.”John 5:30.Note.—Their oneness, therefore, consists in their having the same mind, will, and purpose.3. What did Christ pray the Father in behalf of His disciples?“That they may be one, even as We are one.”John 17:22. See also verses 11 and 23.4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us:that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.”Verse 21.5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples,if ye have love one to another.”John 13:35.[pg 583]Note.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God's plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God's work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,that ye all speak the same thing, andthat there be no divisions among you; butthat ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”1 Cor. 1:10.7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Alsoof your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”Acts 20:29, 30.8. What was already at work in the church in Paul's day?“Forthe mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [hindereth] will let, until he be taken out of the way.”2 Thess. 2:7.9. Before Christ should come, what did Paul say was to take place?“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there comea falling awayfirst, andthat man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.”Verses 3, 4.Note.—The huge system of error now fostered in the papal church is the result of the falling away here referred to. Says Wylie in his“History of Protestantism,”Vol. III, page 25:“Rome manifestly was the schismatic; she it was that abandoned what was once the common faith of Christendom, leaving by that step to all who remained on the old ground the indisputably valid title of the true church.”10. Together, what do believers in Christ form?“Nowye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”1 Cor. 12:27.11. Being members of Christ's body, of what else do we become members?[pg 584]“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, andevery one members one of another.”Rom. 12:5.12. As members of one another, what is the duty of each?“That there should be no schism in the body; but thatthe members should have the same care one for another.”1 Cor. 12:25.13. What should they endeavor to keep?“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love;endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”Eph. 4:1-3.14. What unity of faith is finally to exist among God's watchmen?“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: forthey shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.”Isa. 52:8.15. What solemn message, just before the Lord's coming, will unite God's people in bonds of faith and love?“Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.... Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.... If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.”Rev. 14:7-10. See Rev. 18:1-5.16. How are those who receive this message described?“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Verse 12.17. When the Lord comes, what will be the united cry of God's people?“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.How blest the sacred tie that bindsIn sweet communion kindred minds!How swift the heavenly course they runWhose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.[pg 585]Meekness And HumilityIllustration.Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.1. What promise is made to the meek?“Blessed are the meek: forthey shall inherit the earth.”Matt. 5:5.Meek:“Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; forbearing; submissive; humble.”—Webster.2. What did Christ say of His own character?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; forI am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.3. What is said of the character of Moses?“Nowthe man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”Num. 12:3.4. Whom has God promised to guide in judgment?“The meekwill He guide in judgment: andthe meekwill He teach His way.”Ps. 25:9.5. Of what is meekness a fruit?“Butthe fruit of the Spirit islove, joy, peace, long-suffering,[pg 587]gentleness, goodness, faith,meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”Gal. 5:22, 23.Illustration.Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.6. What does Christ say of those who exalt themselves?“For whosoever exalteth himselfshall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”Luke 14:11.Note.—The spirit of self-exaltation is of Satan. See Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:17. Christ humbled Himself, made Himself of no reputation, and became obedient even to the death on the cross. See Phil. 2:5-8.7. By what means did Jesus illustrate true humility?“And Jesus calleda little childunto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ...Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child; the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”Matt. 18:2-4.Notes.—Humility is“freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth.”It implies a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating ourclaimslow, in being willing towaive our rights, and totake a lower place than might be our due. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—Bishop Taylor.8. How will humility lead us to esteem others?“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mindlet each esteem other better than themselves.”Phil. 2:3.9. With whom does God dwell?“I dwell in the high and holy place,with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”Isa. 57:15.10. When asked a reason for our hope, in what spirit should we answer?“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in youwith meekness and fear.”1 Peter 3:15.11. Who should labor for one overtaken in a fault, and in what spirit?“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault,ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.[pg 588]12. With what should Christian women adorn themselves?“Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, eventhe ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”1 Peter 3:3, 4.Note.—The instruction given here,in principleapplies with equal force to men professing godliness. It is the needless display of apparel and outward adornment that is here condemned. God desires the ornamentswithin, displayed in the heart and life, rather than thosewithout, simply to be seen of men. Needless outward adornment, therefore, may generally be taken as an indication that the inward adornment, so precious in the sight of God, is lacking. Neatness in dress is not here discouraged.13. Why are we exhorted to humble ourselves?“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,that He may exalt you in due time.”1 Peter 5:6.Note.—“The higher a man is in grace, the lower he will be in his own esteem.”—Spurgeon.14. With what has the Lord promised to beautify the meek?“For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people:He will beautify the meek with salvation.”Ps. 149:4.15. What are the meek exhorted to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have 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.Note.—The fact that the meek are exhorted to seek meekness, is evidence that the meek themselves should cherish and cultivate meekness, and that sanctification, or the development of a perfect character, is a progressive work.16. What inheritance is promised the meek?“For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. Butthe meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”Ps. 37:10, 11.I count this thing to be grandly true:That a noble deed is a step toward God,Lifting the soul from the common clodTo a purer air and a broader view.We rise by the things that are under our feet;By what we have mastered of good and gain;By the pride deposed and the passion slain,And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.J. G. Holland.[pg 589]SobrietyIllustration.Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh's Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.1. To what extent did Solomon test the pleasures of this world?“Whatsoever mine eyes desiredI kept not from them, I withheld not my heart fromany joy.”“I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee withmirth, therefore enjoypleasure.”Eccl. 2:10, 1.2. How much true enjoyment did such a course afford?“Behold,all was vanity and vexation of spirit.”Verse 11.3. Of what does Solomon bid the young, in the buoyancy of youth, to be mindful?“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes;but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.”Eccl. 11:9.4. How does the grace of God teach us that we should live?“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we shouldlive soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”Titus 2:11, 12.[pg 590]5. What classes of individuals are admonished to be sober?“That theaged menbe sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Theaged womenlikewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, ... that they may teach theyoung womento be sober....Young menlikewise exhort to be sober-minded.”Verses 2-6.Note.—These four classes include all. All should be sober.6. What similar advice is given in the epistle to the Romans?“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”Rom. 13:13.7. What testimony does the apostle Peter bear on this point?“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind,be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 1:13.8. Why are foolish talking and jesting to be avoided?“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting,which are not convenient.”Eph. 5:4.Note.—To indulge in such things is not becoming a Christian. Life, with all its responsibilities and great issues at stake, is too serious a matter to be spent in such vanities.9. What is the thought of foolishness declared to be?“The thought of foolishness issin.”Prov. 24:9.Note.—Levity, foolishness, light and loose talking, throw us off our guard, and open the way to temptation and sin. To avoid sin, we must be sober and constantly on guard.10. Why are sobriety and vigilance especially necessary?“Be sober, be vigilant;because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”1 Peter 5:8.11. What other consideration should lead us to sobriety and watchfulness?“Butthe end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”1 Peter 4:7.How vain are all things here below!How false, and yet how fair!Each pleasure hath its poison, too,And every sweet a snare.Isaac Watts.[pg 591]WisdomIllustration.Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.1. Why are we told to get wisdom?“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”Prov. 4:7.Note.—Wisdom implies the ability to judge soundly and deal sagaciously. It is knowledge, with the capacity to make due use of it. One may have abundance ofknowledge, and at the same time possess littlewisdom.2. Of how much value is wisdom?“She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”Prov. 3:15.3. What blessings follow the acquisition of wisdom?“Exalt her, and she shallpromote thee: she shallbring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine headan ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.”Prov. 4:8, 9.4. Who gives wisdom?“For the Lord giveth wisdom.”Prov. 2:6.5. How may it be obtained?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth[pg 592]to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.6. When Solomon became king, what did he ask the Lord to give him?“Give me nowwisdom and knowledge.”2 Chron. 1:10.7. How did the Lord regard this request?“Andthe speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.”1 Kings 3:10.8. How was Solomon's prayer answered?“And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; ...behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.... And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor.”Verses 11-13.9. Are great men always wise?“Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”Job 32:9.10. What is the beginning of wisdom?“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.11. By what means was the psalmist made wiser than his enemies?“Thouthrough Thy commandmentshast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.”Ps. 119:98.12. Why did his understanding excel that of his teachers?“I have more understanding than all my teachers:for Thy testimonies are my meditation.”Verse 99.13. What effect does wisdom have upon the countenance?“A man's wisdom maketh his face toshine.”Eccl. 8:1.14. In what did Christ say the children of this world excel the children of light?“For the children of this world are in their generationwiserthan the children of light.”Luke 16:8.[pg 593]Note.—That is, they show more prudence, more cunning, and more intelligence about their business than do Christians concerning the things of God's kingdom.“They show more skill, study more plans, contrive more ways, to provide for themselves than the children of light do to promote the interests of religion.”—Dr. Albert Barnes.15. In what did the apostle say he would have us wise, and in what simple?“I would have youwise unto that which is good, andsimple concerning evil.”Rom. 16:19.16. How many kinds of wisdom are there?“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet notthe wisdom of this world.... But we speakthe wisdom of Godin a mystery, eventhe hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory.”1 Cor. 2:6, 7.17. How is worldly wisdom regarded by God?“For the wisdom of this world isfoolishnesswith God.”1 Cor. 3:19.18. What is the character of that wisdom which comes from God?“But the wisdom that is from above is firstpure, thenpeaceable,gentle, andeasy to be entreated,full of mercy and good fruits,without partiality,and without hypocrisy.”James 3:17.19. What wisdom are the Scriptures able to give?“And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make theewise unto salvationthrough faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.Broad is the road that leads to death,And thousands walk together there;But wisdom shows a narrow path,With here and there a traveler.Deny thyself, and take thy cross,Is thy Redeemer's great command;Nature must count her gold but dross,If she would gain that heavenly land.The fearful soul that tries and faints,And walks the ways of God no more,Is but esteemed almost a saint,And makes his own destruction sure.Isaac Watts.[pg 594]
The Duty Of EncouragementIllustration.The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.1. When the ten spies brought back an evil report from the land of Canaan, what did Caleb say?“And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said,Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.”Num. 13:30.2. What did the ten spies say?“But the men that went up with him said,We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.”Verse 31.3. What effect did this evil report have upon the people?“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, andcried; and the peopleweptthat night. And all the children of Israelmurmuredagainst Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them,Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!... And they said one to another,Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.”Num. 14:1-4.4. With what words did Moses seek to encourage Joshua?“And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel,Be strong and of a good courage.... The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:fear not, neither be dismayed.”Deut. 31:7, 8.[pg 581]5. In his final charge to Joshua, what did Moses, speaking for God, say to him?“And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said,Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.”Verse 23.6. After Moses' death, how did the Lord encourage Joshua?“The Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, ... There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.Be strong and of a good courage.”Joshua 1:1-6.7. When Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came against Jerusalem, what did King Hezekiah say to Israel?“Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayedfor the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: with him is an army of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles.”2 Chron. 32:7, 8.8. What effect did these words have upon the people?“Andthe people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiahking of Judah.”Verse 8.9. How did Josiah seek to promote the worship of God?“And he set the priests in their charges, andencouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord.”2 Chron. 35:2.10. By what message, through the prophet Haggai, did God seek to encourage the people to rebuild the temple?“Be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; andbe strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; andbe strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord,and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts.”Haggai 2:4.11. What encouraging message has Christ left us?“Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.Notes.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.“What men need most in this world's struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170.
Illustration.The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.
The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.
1. When the ten spies brought back an evil report from the land of Canaan, what did Caleb say?
“And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said,Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it.”Num. 13:30.
2. What did the ten spies say?
“But the men that went up with him said,We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we.”Verse 31.
3. What effect did this evil report have upon the people?
“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, andcried; and the peopleweptthat night. And all the children of Israelmurmuredagainst Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them,Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!... And they said one to another,Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.”Num. 14:1-4.
4. With what words did Moses seek to encourage Joshua?
“And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel,Be strong and of a good courage.... The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee:fear not, neither be dismayed.”Deut. 31:7, 8.
5. In his final charge to Joshua, what did Moses, speaking for God, say to him?
“And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said,Be strong and of a good courage: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.”Verse 23.
6. After Moses' death, how did the Lord encourage Joshua?
“The Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' minister, saying, ... There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.Be strong and of a good courage.”Joshua 1:1-6.
7. When Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came against Jerusalem, what did King Hezekiah say to Israel?
“Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayedfor the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: with him is an army of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles.”2 Chron. 32:7, 8.
8. What effect did these words have upon the people?
“Andthe people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiahking of Judah.”Verse 8.
9. How did Josiah seek to promote the worship of God?
“And he set the priests in their charges, andencouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord.”2 Chron. 35:2.
10. By what message, through the prophet Haggai, did God seek to encourage the people to rebuild the temple?
“Be strong, O Zerubbabel, saith the Lord; andbe strong, O Joshua, son of Josedech, the high priest; andbe strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord,and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts.”Haggai 2:4.
11. What encouraging message has Christ left us?
“Be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”John 16:33.
Notes.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.“What men need most in this world's struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170.
Notes.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.
“What men need most in this world's struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—“Week-Day Religion,”by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170.
Unity Of BelieversIllustration.Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.1. What relation do the Father and the Son sustain to each other?“I and My Fatherare one.”John 10:30.2. In what does this oneness consist?“I seek not Mine own will, butthe will of the Fatherwhich hath sent Me.”John 5:30.Note.—Their oneness, therefore, consists in their having the same mind, will, and purpose.3. What did Christ pray the Father in behalf of His disciples?“That they may be one, even as We are one.”John 17:22. See also verses 11 and 23.4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us:that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.”Verse 21.5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples,if ye have love one to another.”John 13:35.[pg 583]Note.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God's plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God's work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,that ye all speak the same thing, andthat there be no divisions among you; butthat ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”1 Cor. 1:10.7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Alsoof your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”Acts 20:29, 30.8. What was already at work in the church in Paul's day?“Forthe mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [hindereth] will let, until he be taken out of the way.”2 Thess. 2:7.9. Before Christ should come, what did Paul say was to take place?“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there comea falling awayfirst, andthat man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.”Verses 3, 4.Note.—The huge system of error now fostered in the papal church is the result of the falling away here referred to. Says Wylie in his“History of Protestantism,”Vol. III, page 25:“Rome manifestly was the schismatic; she it was that abandoned what was once the common faith of Christendom, leaving by that step to all who remained on the old ground the indisputably valid title of the true church.”10. Together, what do believers in Christ form?“Nowye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”1 Cor. 12:27.11. Being members of Christ's body, of what else do we become members?[pg 584]“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, andevery one members one of another.”Rom. 12:5.12. As members of one another, what is the duty of each?“That there should be no schism in the body; but thatthe members should have the same care one for another.”1 Cor. 12:25.13. What should they endeavor to keep?“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love;endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”Eph. 4:1-3.14. What unity of faith is finally to exist among God's watchmen?“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: forthey shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.”Isa. 52:8.15. What solemn message, just before the Lord's coming, will unite God's people in bonds of faith and love?“Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.... Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.... If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.”Rev. 14:7-10. See Rev. 18:1-5.16. How are those who receive this message described?“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Verse 12.17. When the Lord comes, what will be the united cry of God's people?“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.How blest the sacred tie that bindsIn sweet communion kindred minds!How swift the heavenly course they runWhose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.
Illustration.Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.
Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.
1. What relation do the Father and the Son sustain to each other?
“I and My Fatherare one.”John 10:30.
2. In what does this oneness consist?
“I seek not Mine own will, butthe will of the Fatherwhich hath sent Me.”John 5:30.
Note.—Their oneness, therefore, consists in their having the same mind, will, and purpose.
3. What did Christ pray the Father in behalf of His disciples?
“That they may be one, even as We are one.”John 17:22. See also verses 11 and 23.
4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?
“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us:that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me.”Verse 21.
5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?
“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples,if ye have love one to another.”John 13:35.
Note.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God's plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God's work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”
6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?
“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,that ye all speak the same thing, andthat there be no divisions among you; butthat ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment.”1 Cor. 1:10.
7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?
“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Alsoof your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.”Acts 20:29, 30.
8. What was already at work in the church in Paul's day?
“Forthe mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth [hindereth] will let, until he be taken out of the way.”2 Thess. 2:7.
9. Before Christ should come, what did Paul say was to take place?
“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there comea falling awayfirst, andthat man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.”Verses 3, 4.
Note.—The huge system of error now fostered in the papal church is the result of the falling away here referred to. Says Wylie in his“History of Protestantism,”Vol. III, page 25:“Rome manifestly was the schismatic; she it was that abandoned what was once the common faith of Christendom, leaving by that step to all who remained on the old ground the indisputably valid title of the true church.”
10. Together, what do believers in Christ form?
“Nowye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.”1 Cor. 12:27.
11. Being members of Christ's body, of what else do we become members?
“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, andevery one members one of another.”Rom. 12:5.
12. As members of one another, what is the duty of each?
“That there should be no schism in the body; but thatthe members should have the same care one for another.”1 Cor. 12:25.
13. What should they endeavor to keep?
“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love;endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace.”Eph. 4:1-3.
14. What unity of faith is finally to exist among God's watchmen?
“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: forthey shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion.”Isa. 52:8.
15. What solemn message, just before the Lord's coming, will unite God's people in bonds of faith and love?
“Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.... Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.... If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.”Rev. 14:7-10. See Rev. 18:1-5.
16. How are those who receive this message described?
“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.”Verse 12.
17. When the Lord comes, what will be the united cry of God's people?
“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.”Isa. 25:9.
How blest the sacred tie that bindsIn sweet communion kindred minds!How swift the heavenly course they runWhose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.
How blest the sacred tie that bindsIn sweet communion kindred minds!How swift the heavenly course they runWhose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.
How blest the sacred tie that binds
In sweet communion kindred minds!
How swift the heavenly course they run
Whose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.
Meekness And HumilityIllustration.Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.1. What promise is made to the meek?“Blessed are the meek: forthey shall inherit the earth.”Matt. 5:5.Meek:“Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; forbearing; submissive; humble.”—Webster.2. What did Christ say of His own character?“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; forI am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.3. What is said of the character of Moses?“Nowthe man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”Num. 12:3.4. Whom has God promised to guide in judgment?“The meekwill He guide in judgment: andthe meekwill He teach His way.”Ps. 25:9.5. Of what is meekness a fruit?“Butthe fruit of the Spirit islove, joy, peace, long-suffering,[pg 587]gentleness, goodness, faith,meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”Gal. 5:22, 23.Illustration.Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.6. What does Christ say of those who exalt themselves?“For whosoever exalteth himselfshall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”Luke 14:11.Note.—The spirit of self-exaltation is of Satan. See Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:17. Christ humbled Himself, made Himself of no reputation, and became obedient even to the death on the cross. See Phil. 2:5-8.7. By what means did Jesus illustrate true humility?“And Jesus calleda little childunto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ...Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child; the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”Matt. 18:2-4.Notes.—Humility is“freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth.”It implies a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating ourclaimslow, in being willing towaive our rights, and totake a lower place than might be our due. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—Bishop Taylor.8. How will humility lead us to esteem others?“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mindlet each esteem other better than themselves.”Phil. 2:3.9. With whom does God dwell?“I dwell in the high and holy place,with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”Isa. 57:15.10. When asked a reason for our hope, in what spirit should we answer?“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in youwith meekness and fear.”1 Peter 3:15.11. Who should labor for one overtaken in a fault, and in what spirit?“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault,ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.[pg 588]12. With what should Christian women adorn themselves?“Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, eventhe ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”1 Peter 3:3, 4.Note.—The instruction given here,in principleapplies with equal force to men professing godliness. It is the needless display of apparel and outward adornment that is here condemned. God desires the ornamentswithin, displayed in the heart and life, rather than thosewithout, simply to be seen of men. Needless outward adornment, therefore, may generally be taken as an indication that the inward adornment, so precious in the sight of God, is lacking. Neatness in dress is not here discouraged.13. Why are we exhorted to humble ourselves?“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,that He may exalt you in due time.”1 Peter 5:6.Note.—“The higher a man is in grace, the lower he will be in his own esteem.”—Spurgeon.14. With what has the Lord promised to beautify the meek?“For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people:He will beautify the meek with salvation.”Ps. 149:4.15. What are the meek exhorted to seek?“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have 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.Note.—The fact that the meek are exhorted to seek meekness, is evidence that the meek themselves should cherish and cultivate meekness, and that sanctification, or the development of a perfect character, is a progressive work.16. What inheritance is promised the meek?“For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. Butthe meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”Ps. 37:10, 11.I count this thing to be grandly true:That a noble deed is a step toward God,Lifting the soul from the common clodTo a purer air and a broader view.We rise by the things that are under our feet;By what we have mastered of good and gain;By the pride deposed and the passion slain,And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.J. G. Holland.
Illustration.Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.
Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.
1. What promise is made to the meek?
“Blessed are the meek: forthey shall inherit the earth.”Matt. 5:5.
Meek:“Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; forbearing; submissive; humble.”—Webster.
2. What did Christ say of His own character?
“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; forI am meek and lowly of heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.”Matt. 11:29.
3. What is said of the character of Moses?
“Nowthe man Moses was very meek, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.”Num. 12:3.
4. Whom has God promised to guide in judgment?
“The meekwill He guide in judgment: andthe meekwill He teach His way.”Ps. 25:9.
5. Of what is meekness a fruit?
“Butthe fruit of the Spirit islove, joy, peace, long-suffering,[pg 587]gentleness, goodness, faith,meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”Gal. 5:22, 23.
Illustration.Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.
Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.
6. What does Christ say of those who exalt themselves?
“For whosoever exalteth himselfshall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.”Luke 14:11.
Note.—The spirit of self-exaltation is of Satan. See Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:17. Christ humbled Himself, made Himself of no reputation, and became obedient even to the death on the cross. See Phil. 2:5-8.
7. By what means did Jesus illustrate true humility?
“And Jesus calleda little childunto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ...Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child; the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.”Matt. 18:2-4.
Notes.—Humility is“freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth.”It implies a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating ourclaimslow, in being willing towaive our rights, and totake a lower place than might be our due. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—Bishop Taylor.
Notes.—Humility is“freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one's own worth.”It implies a sense of one's own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating ourclaimslow, in being willing towaive our rights, and totake a lower place than might be our due. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.
“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—Bishop Taylor.
8. How will humility lead us to esteem others?
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mindlet each esteem other better than themselves.”Phil. 2:3.
9. With whom does God dwell?
“I dwell in the high and holy place,with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.”Isa. 57:15.
10. When asked a reason for our hope, in what spirit should we answer?
“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in youwith meekness and fear.”1 Peter 3:15.
11. Who should labor for one overtaken in a fault, and in what spirit?
“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault,ye which are spiritual, restore such an onein the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.”Gal. 6:1.
12. With what should Christian women adorn themselves?
“Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, eventhe ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.”1 Peter 3:3, 4.
Note.—The instruction given here,in principleapplies with equal force to men professing godliness. It is the needless display of apparel and outward adornment that is here condemned. God desires the ornamentswithin, displayed in the heart and life, rather than thosewithout, simply to be seen of men. Needless outward adornment, therefore, may generally be taken as an indication that the inward adornment, so precious in the sight of God, is lacking. Neatness in dress is not here discouraged.
13. Why are we exhorted to humble ourselves?
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God,that He may exalt you in due time.”1 Peter 5:6.
Note.—“The higher a man is in grace, the lower he will be in his own esteem.”—Spurgeon.
14. With what has the Lord promised to beautify the meek?
“For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people:He will beautify the meek with salvation.”Ps. 149:4.
15. What are the meek exhorted to seek?
“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have 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.
Note.—The fact that the meek are exhorted to seek meekness, is evidence that the meek themselves should cherish and cultivate meekness, and that sanctification, or the development of a perfect character, is a progressive work.
16. What inheritance is promised the meek?
“For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. Butthe meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.”Ps. 37:10, 11.
I count this thing to be grandly true:That a noble deed is a step toward God,Lifting the soul from the common clodTo a purer air and a broader view.We rise by the things that are under our feet;By what we have mastered of good and gain;By the pride deposed and the passion slain,And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.J. G. Holland.
I count this thing to be grandly true:That a noble deed is a step toward God,Lifting the soul from the common clodTo a purer air and a broader view.
I count this thing to be grandly true:
That a noble deed is a step toward God,
Lifting the soul from the common clod
To a purer air and a broader view.
We rise by the things that are under our feet;By what we have mastered of good and gain;By the pride deposed and the passion slain,And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.J. G. Holland.
We rise by the things that are under our feet;
By what we have mastered of good and gain;
By the pride deposed and the passion slain,
And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet.
J. G. Holland.
SobrietyIllustration.Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh's Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.1. To what extent did Solomon test the pleasures of this world?“Whatsoever mine eyes desiredI kept not from them, I withheld not my heart fromany joy.”“I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee withmirth, therefore enjoypleasure.”Eccl. 2:10, 1.2. How much true enjoyment did such a course afford?“Behold,all was vanity and vexation of spirit.”Verse 11.3. Of what does Solomon bid the young, in the buoyancy of youth, to be mindful?“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes;but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.”Eccl. 11:9.4. How does the grace of God teach us that we should live?“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we shouldlive soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”Titus 2:11, 12.[pg 590]5. What classes of individuals are admonished to be sober?“That theaged menbe sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Theaged womenlikewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, ... that they may teach theyoung womento be sober....Young menlikewise exhort to be sober-minded.”Verses 2-6.Note.—These four classes include all. All should be sober.6. What similar advice is given in the epistle to the Romans?“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”Rom. 13:13.7. What testimony does the apostle Peter bear on this point?“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind,be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 1:13.8. Why are foolish talking and jesting to be avoided?“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting,which are not convenient.”Eph. 5:4.Note.—To indulge in such things is not becoming a Christian. Life, with all its responsibilities and great issues at stake, is too serious a matter to be spent in such vanities.9. What is the thought of foolishness declared to be?“The thought of foolishness issin.”Prov. 24:9.Note.—Levity, foolishness, light and loose talking, throw us off our guard, and open the way to temptation and sin. To avoid sin, we must be sober and constantly on guard.10. Why are sobriety and vigilance especially necessary?“Be sober, be vigilant;because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”1 Peter 5:8.11. What other consideration should lead us to sobriety and watchfulness?“Butthe end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”1 Peter 4:7.How vain are all things here below!How false, and yet how fair!Each pleasure hath its poison, too,And every sweet a snare.Isaac Watts.
Illustration.Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh's Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.
Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh's Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.
1. To what extent did Solomon test the pleasures of this world?
“Whatsoever mine eyes desiredI kept not from them, I withheld not my heart fromany joy.”“I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee withmirth, therefore enjoypleasure.”Eccl. 2:10, 1.
2. How much true enjoyment did such a course afford?
“Behold,all was vanity and vexation of spirit.”Verse 11.
3. Of what does Solomon bid the young, in the buoyancy of youth, to be mindful?
“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes;but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment.”Eccl. 11:9.
4. How does the grace of God teach us that we should live?
“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we shouldlive soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.”Titus 2:11, 12.
5. What classes of individuals are admonished to be sober?
“That theaged menbe sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. Theaged womenlikewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, ... that they may teach theyoung womento be sober....Young menlikewise exhort to be sober-minded.”Verses 2-6.
Note.—These four classes include all. All should be sober.
6. What similar advice is given in the epistle to the Romans?
“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.”Rom. 13:13.
7. What testimony does the apostle Peter bear on this point?
“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind,be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.”1 Peter 1:13.
8. Why are foolish talking and jesting to be avoided?
“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting,which are not convenient.”Eph. 5:4.
Note.—To indulge in such things is not becoming a Christian. Life, with all its responsibilities and great issues at stake, is too serious a matter to be spent in such vanities.
9. What is the thought of foolishness declared to be?
“The thought of foolishness issin.”Prov. 24:9.
Note.—Levity, foolishness, light and loose talking, throw us off our guard, and open the way to temptation and sin. To avoid sin, we must be sober and constantly on guard.
10. Why are sobriety and vigilance especially necessary?
“Be sober, be vigilant;because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.”1 Peter 5:8.
11. What other consideration should lead us to sobriety and watchfulness?
“Butthe end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”1 Peter 4:7.
How vain are all things here below!How false, and yet how fair!Each pleasure hath its poison, too,And every sweet a snare.Isaac Watts.
How vain are all things here below!How false, and yet how fair!Each pleasure hath its poison, too,And every sweet a snare.Isaac Watts.
How vain are all things here below!
How false, and yet how fair!
Each pleasure hath its poison, too,
And every sweet a snare.
Isaac Watts.
WisdomIllustration.Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.1. Why are we told to get wisdom?“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”Prov. 4:7.Note.—Wisdom implies the ability to judge soundly and deal sagaciously. It is knowledge, with the capacity to make due use of it. One may have abundance ofknowledge, and at the same time possess littlewisdom.2. Of how much value is wisdom?“She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”Prov. 3:15.3. What blessings follow the acquisition of wisdom?“Exalt her, and she shallpromote thee: she shallbring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine headan ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.”Prov. 4:8, 9.4. Who gives wisdom?“For the Lord giveth wisdom.”Prov. 2:6.5. How may it be obtained?“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth[pg 592]to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.6. When Solomon became king, what did he ask the Lord to give him?“Give me nowwisdom and knowledge.”2 Chron. 1:10.7. How did the Lord regard this request?“Andthe speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.”1 Kings 3:10.8. How was Solomon's prayer answered?“And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; ...behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.... And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor.”Verses 11-13.9. Are great men always wise?“Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”Job 32:9.10. What is the beginning of wisdom?“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.11. By what means was the psalmist made wiser than his enemies?“Thouthrough Thy commandmentshast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.”Ps. 119:98.12. Why did his understanding excel that of his teachers?“I have more understanding than all my teachers:for Thy testimonies are my meditation.”Verse 99.13. What effect does wisdom have upon the countenance?“A man's wisdom maketh his face toshine.”Eccl. 8:1.14. In what did Christ say the children of this world excel the children of light?“For the children of this world are in their generationwiserthan the children of light.”Luke 16:8.[pg 593]Note.—That is, they show more prudence, more cunning, and more intelligence about their business than do Christians concerning the things of God's kingdom.“They show more skill, study more plans, contrive more ways, to provide for themselves than the children of light do to promote the interests of religion.”—Dr. Albert Barnes.15. In what did the apostle say he would have us wise, and in what simple?“I would have youwise unto that which is good, andsimple concerning evil.”Rom. 16:19.16. How many kinds of wisdom are there?“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet notthe wisdom of this world.... But we speakthe wisdom of Godin a mystery, eventhe hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory.”1 Cor. 2:6, 7.17. How is worldly wisdom regarded by God?“For the wisdom of this world isfoolishnesswith God.”1 Cor. 3:19.18. What is the character of that wisdom which comes from God?“But the wisdom that is from above is firstpure, thenpeaceable,gentle, andeasy to be entreated,full of mercy and good fruits,without partiality,and without hypocrisy.”James 3:17.19. What wisdom are the Scriptures able to give?“And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make theewise unto salvationthrough faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.Broad is the road that leads to death,And thousands walk together there;But wisdom shows a narrow path,With here and there a traveler.Deny thyself, and take thy cross,Is thy Redeemer's great command;Nature must count her gold but dross,If she would gain that heavenly land.The fearful soul that tries and faints,And walks the ways of God no more,Is but esteemed almost a saint,And makes his own destruction sure.Isaac Watts.
Illustration.Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.
Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.
1. Why are we told to get wisdom?
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom.”Prov. 4:7.
Note.—Wisdom implies the ability to judge soundly and deal sagaciously. It is knowledge, with the capacity to make due use of it. One may have abundance ofknowledge, and at the same time possess littlewisdom.
2. Of how much value is wisdom?
“She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.”Prov. 3:15.
3. What blessings follow the acquisition of wisdom?
“Exalt her, and she shallpromote thee: she shallbring thee to honor, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine headan ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.”Prov. 4:8, 9.
4. Who gives wisdom?
“For the Lord giveth wisdom.”Prov. 2:6.
5. How may it be obtained?
“If any of you lack wisdom,let him ask of God, that giveth[pg 592]to all men liberally, and upbraideth not;and it shall be given him.”James 1:5.
6. When Solomon became king, what did he ask the Lord to give him?
“Give me nowwisdom and knowledge.”2 Chron. 1:10.
7. How did the Lord regard this request?
“Andthe speech pleased the Lord, that Solomon had asked this thing.”1 Kings 3:10.
8. How was Solomon's prayer answered?
“And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; ...behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.... And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor.”Verses 11-13.
9. Are great men always wise?
“Great men are not always wise: neither do the aged understand judgment.”Job 32:9.
10. What is the beginning of wisdom?
“The fear of the Lordis the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.”Ps. 111:10.
11. By what means was the psalmist made wiser than his enemies?
“Thouthrough Thy commandmentshast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.”Ps. 119:98.
12. Why did his understanding excel that of his teachers?
“I have more understanding than all my teachers:for Thy testimonies are my meditation.”Verse 99.
13. What effect does wisdom have upon the countenance?
“A man's wisdom maketh his face toshine.”Eccl. 8:1.
14. In what did Christ say the children of this world excel the children of light?
“For the children of this world are in their generationwiserthan the children of light.”Luke 16:8.
Note.—That is, they show more prudence, more cunning, and more intelligence about their business than do Christians concerning the things of God's kingdom.“They show more skill, study more plans, contrive more ways, to provide for themselves than the children of light do to promote the interests of religion.”—Dr. Albert Barnes.
15. In what did the apostle say he would have us wise, and in what simple?
“I would have youwise unto that which is good, andsimple concerning evil.”Rom. 16:19.
16. How many kinds of wisdom are there?
“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet notthe wisdom of this world.... But we speakthe wisdom of Godin a mystery, eventhe hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory.”1 Cor. 2:6, 7.
17. How is worldly wisdom regarded by God?
“For the wisdom of this world isfoolishnesswith God.”1 Cor. 3:19.
18. What is the character of that wisdom which comes from God?
“But the wisdom that is from above is firstpure, thenpeaceable,gentle, andeasy to be entreated,full of mercy and good fruits,without partiality,and without hypocrisy.”James 3:17.
19. What wisdom are the Scriptures able to give?
“And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make theewise unto salvationthrough faith which is in Christ Jesus.”2 Tim. 3:15.
Broad is the road that leads to death,And thousands walk together there;But wisdom shows a narrow path,With here and there a traveler.Deny thyself, and take thy cross,Is thy Redeemer's great command;Nature must count her gold but dross,If she would gain that heavenly land.The fearful soul that tries and faints,And walks the ways of God no more,Is but esteemed almost a saint,And makes his own destruction sure.Isaac Watts.
Broad is the road that leads to death,And thousands walk together there;But wisdom shows a narrow path,With here and there a traveler.
Broad is the road that leads to death,
And thousands walk together there;
But wisdom shows a narrow path,
With here and there a traveler.
Deny thyself, and take thy cross,Is thy Redeemer's great command;Nature must count her gold but dross,If she would gain that heavenly land.
Deny thyself, and take thy cross,
Is thy Redeemer's great command;
Nature must count her gold but dross,
If she would gain that heavenly land.
The fearful soul that tries and faints,And walks the ways of God no more,Is but esteemed almost a saint,And makes his own destruction sure.Isaac Watts.
The fearful soul that tries and faints,
And walks the ways of God no more,
Is but esteemed almost a saint,
And makes his own destruction sure.
Isaac Watts.