The Prophet Sees Himself

The Prophet Sees Himself

Isa. 6:5

He who stands to preach to others Should understand himself. It is still more important to see himself as God sees him. For a man of God the searchlight turned upon himself is the way to self-discovery.

The revelation came to Isaiah when he saw the holiness of God. If such blinding vision of the holy God is not given to men in general, there is a revelation of God in Jesus, "the Word made flesh." In Him we see the glory of God's holy being. Isaiah saw himself against the backdrop of God's holiness. I see my true self as I stand beside the one perfect Man, the Man Christ Jesus.

In the presence of the splendid whiteness of the holy God the prophet cried, "Woe is me! for I am... a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips." When one has seen his own woeful uncleanness, he can in humble honesty say, "I am undone... and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips."

It was not defilement by contamination from the society of which he was a member. His uncleanness was not acquired by a contagion. It came spewing out of the depth of his own inner foulness. He was confessing the sin that dwelt within him. Jeremiah bewailed, "The heart is deceitful above all things.., who can know it?" (17:9). Before the cure for the sinful nature is known, the depth of one's own depravity must be realized and confessed.

Isaiah's Vision of God

Isaiah's Vision of God

Isa. 6:1

The God of Isaiah's vision was transcendent, He was high and lifted up. He was exalted above the heavens. Before His throne the seraphim bowed in reverence with wings covering their faces. They realized their creaturehood and covered their feet in humility. They acknowledged their submission, for they were poised ready to fly in obedience to the will of their Creator. The Lord of Hosts inhabits eternity. The heaven of heavens cannot contain Him. The whole earth is full of His glory. "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork. Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night sheweth knowledge" (Ps. 19:1-2).

The God Isaiah saw was immanent. He was active in the affairs of men and nations. It was in the year King Uzziah died that Isaiah saw the Lord. The prophet had great respect for the king who had ruled so long and so well. But he saw that same king stricken with leprosy because his heart was lifted up with pride. Uzziah in human frailty had fallen and was dead. God was alive, infallible, active, and ruling in the life of the nation. God is today the supreme Ruler. His kingdom of righteousness shall prevail.

The God of Isaiah's vision was holy. The seraphim sang in antiphonal choirs, "Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts." Isaiah was a new man. The vision transformed Isaiah. He saw God and he saw himself. His "Woe is me!" is followed by "Here am I." It is ever thus.

Scarlet Sins -- White as Snow

Scarlet Sins -- White as Snow

Isa. 1:18

In the meaning of the name Isaiah, "the eternal God is salvation," is found the theme of his prophecy. There are stern pronouncements of judgment. But George L. Robinson wrote, "Isaiah never promised a woe without adding a corresponding promise."

The earlier verses of this chapter lodge solemn indictment against Israel. Isaiah declared God's message, "I have nourished and brought up children, and they have rebelled against me.... they have forsaken the Lord, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger... Why should ye be stricken any more? Ye will revolt more and more... Except... [for] a very small remnant, we should have been as Sodom" (2, 4-5, 9).

Having described their moral degeneracy, Isaiah points up the futility of their formal religious ceremonies and sacrifices. God, according to the prophet, was saying, "To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me?... when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you: yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear" (11, 15). The temple-treading priests shared the rebuke of the Holy One of Israel. He calls upon all to put away the evil of their doings and learn to do well.

To all God gives a blessed invitation. "Come now, and let us reason together." Then follows the great promise of salvation. "Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

Thank God for this foregleam of the gospel. It is the message for this day.

Matthew Study Thirteen: The Death of Christ

 Today's lesson comes from Matthew 27: 45-61. The account of Christ's crucifixion actually begins with verse 31. The crucifixion is recorded in the other three gospels as well. This type of execution was  physically painful as well as having great mental and emotional distress. The death of Jesus Christ was the greatest act in the universe. Jesus became a sin offering for a rebellious people, satisfied God's Divine Justice and reconciled men to our Creator.

The death of Jesus was worse than being burned alive or being stoned. It was a public death that was slow, tenacious, agonizing, and accursed. This form of execution was chosen by God before the foundation of the world. This form of death would satisfy God's wrath against sin. This form of death was so horrible that the sufferer could never experience the relief of unconsciousness. It was a torture fit only for the most rebellious. 

The first section is "The Triumphant Christ." vv. 45-50 Jesus was placed on the cross at 9:00am. He died at 3:00pm. From noon un til 3:00pm there was darkness over all the land. Jesus said nothing during the three hours of darkness. Some have supposed that during the three hours of darkness and silence that He was battling the forces of darkness and evil. Jesus overcame all the power of the enemy and was victorious in His death. The following points need to be recognized:

1. Jesus would die at 3:00pm because that was the time that the Jewish fathers would be slaying their lamb for the Passover celebration. Jesus was our great sacrifice, so it was fitting that He die at the same time. One was an earthly sacrifice pointing to an event that took places many years before. One was a spiritual sacrifice that would point to eternity for the souls that would be saved do to the Perfect Sacrifice for sin.

2. John 10:18 records Jesus saying that no man takes His life, but He lays it down freely. Crucifixion brought on a slow death by asphyxiation. Yet, verse 50 states, "Jesus, when he had cried again with a loud voice, yielded up the ghost." If you have ever been completely out of breath, you know it is impossible to yell with a loud voice. Our Lord did not die a natural death from the crucifixion, He chose to die at the exact moment by freely giving up His Spirit.

In verse 46, Jesus cried out, "My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?" This is a quote from Psalm 22. That psalm also includes references to piercing of the hands and feet (v. 16), all of the bones being in tact (v. 17) and casting lots for garments (v. 18). Psalm 22 is clearly a Messanic psalm. However, many people fail to read verses 25-31. These verses build in praise to God and verse 27 declares, "All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the LORD." There will be feasting and worship (v. 29) and God 's righteousness  will be proclaimed (v. 31). For the believer, we can take solace in our Lord's enduring the cross. No matter how dark things may seem, it will end well for us. The worst that can happen to us is death and that death brings into the presence of the Lord for all eternity. Truly, Christ was triumphant!

The second section is "The Astonishing Realization." (vv. 51-56) When Jesus shouts His voice of triumph, the veil of the temple is torn in two. It was the time of the evening sacrifice. What a shock this would have been to the high priest as he officiated the service. The veil being torn represents that now the way was opened for all people to come to God through the sacrifice of Jesus' blood. The way into the presence of God had been barred to all men, but was now open to all men. 

The exclamation of the Roman centurion, "Truly this was the Son of God," shows us that the gospel message is clear to those who God has touched their hearts to receive the truth. The crucifixion opened the eyes of this hardened Roman soldier to the truth. Oftentimes religious people can't see the truth. The prejudice of the Jewish leaders blinded them to the truth. The centurion in heathen darkness, was drawn to truth. We should ask ourselves, do we have prejudices that block us from receiving truth?

The third section is "Joseph's Strange Gift." vv. 57-61 According to Roman law, a relative could claim the body of one executed. If it was not claimed, it would be left to rot until scavenger birds or dogs consumed the remains. Jesus' relatives were from Galilee and would not have a tomb to bury Jesus. Legend states that Joseph of Arimathaea was the uncle of Mary, the mother of Jesus. 

There is some debate regarding whether Joseph supported Jesus during His life. We do know that Joseph was a member of the Sanhedrin (Luke 23: 50) and "the same had not consented to the counsel and deed of them." Moreover, since the disciples had fled, it was Joseph who took care of the funeral.  Truthfully, Joseph displayed more courage than them all. His actions spoke boldly of his dedication to Jesus Christ. We should ask ourselves do we have the courage of standing by a living Christ that Joseph did for a "dead" Christ?

In conclusion, while the authorities did all they could to keep Christ in the tomb, there was no power that could hold Him. 

The Golden Text is "My God, my God. why hast thou forsaken me?" (Matthew 27:46) Commentators have described this passage so as to explain Christ becoming the sin offering and absorbing the wrath and hatred of Deity against sin. How should this impact us? It should impact us to the point that we truly hate sin because of what sin required Jesus to endure. Do you really hate sin? You should!

My summary points:

1. Jesus was our perfect sacrifice for our sins and is the eternal Passover Lamb.

2. Jesus voluntarily gave up His life, no one took it from Him.

3. We should have the courage to stand with Jesus Christ the way Joseph of Arimathaea did in His death .

Next week we begin a new study, the history of the Jews return from captivity. Lesson 1 is "The Decree To Return." (Ezra 1: 1-2:1)

True Evangelism Versus Another Gospel Part 2

As we continue to study what constitutes "another gospel" we will examine another Facebook post:

"There is a place you can reach in your spirit-man that even if you were facing martyrdom, you can be so intoxicated by the Holy Spirit, that death or persecution has zero power over your joy. It’s not about painting rose tinted pictures of life or delusional fantasies of bliss. It’s about facing pain and anguish with the power of the Holy Spirit to the point where they’ve lost their sting. Pain becomes an opportunity for God to display his glory.

That mindset and lifestyle takes strength, it takes energy, it takes endurance, and it takes a consistent flow of life. So may God renew our youth as we wait on him."

At first look, the above quote seems right, but upon closer examination it isn't. It has at its foundation a works based approach to salvation. It is the result of an evangelism that is not focused on God's Sovereignty, the depravity of man, Salvation being of the Lord, and the true doctrine of the Holy Spirit. What were the terms of discipleship as set forth by Jesus Himself:

^{Matt. 10:38} And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. ³⁹ Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 
^{Matt. 16:24} Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. ²⁵ For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
^{Lk. 17:33} Whoever seeks to preserve his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life will keep it.
^{Jn. 12:25} Whoever loves his life loses it, and whoever hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 

I am of the opinion that we have made the bar too low in preaching salvation to the lost. It is not Biblical. We get people to "accept" Jesus or make a "decision" for Him and tell them they are saved. Then, we place greater emphasis on a second experience, e.g. Baptism with the Holy Spirit or Entire Sanctification. We need to preach the Biblical salvation as spoken by Jesus and preached by Peter and Paul. Repent and believe the gospel. Take Jesus Christ as your Lord. He is not an add on, He is our all. 

If Jesus is not Lord of everything, then He is not Lord of anything!

True Evangelism Versus Another Gospel Part 1

 

Paul taught in Galatians 1:6: "I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel...." There are many "another gospels". Over the next few days, we will explore the false gospels in our modern times.

The below "testimony" was taken from a friend's Facebook page. This is an example of "Another Gospel." At the conclusion, I will give several examples of what are "Another Gospels." Then, the true gospel will be explained. This is the "testimony":

"Testimony time! And I want every single Christian to read this! People are dying and going to hell! Your job is to be a vessel of Jesus to them! Not beat them over the head with the Bible! The lost doesn’t care what the Bible says! They want and NEED the love of the father! Stop arguing over who owns the rainbow and GO OUT to the highways and byways and BE the hands and feet of Jesus!

I just had the most beautiful encounter at Caines Chicken.

My children begged for fast food. I bribed them with fruit first.

My 1st stop - there was an 8 minute wait. Too long for fast food.

2nd stop - the drive through was closed.

3rd stop - there was 10 trillion cars.

So I landed here at Caines.

Whipped right in and a young man at the drive through served me. This young man had on a full face of makeup, lashes, and the whole 9 yards.

He was very kind.

He said “your food will take a few minutes. Would it be okay if I bring it out to you?”

I said of course and pulled into the special “delayed food” area.

Me: Okay Holy Spirit...that was a lot of stops to get me here. Take over! (Insert me praying in the spirit here)

Holy Spirit reminded me that I had cash in my purse. This is strange for me because I don’t carry cash - I probably should - but I don’t.

The young man comes walking out to give me my food and I hear another employee yell “Hi Veronica!” and the young man waves to her.

Me: Holy Spirit I can’t call him Veronica so I’m gonna need you to move something here.

The young man hands me my food says thank you and starts to walk off.

Me: Hey, are you allowed to take tips?

Him: Sure!

Me: (hands him a tip) What’s your name?

Him: Nick (THANK YOU HOLY SPIRIT)

Me: Nick, how can I pray for you today?

Nick looks confused and starts to stumble over his words....

Nick: Ummmm, I don’t really know. However you think.

Me: Perfect. Can I have your hand?

Then Nick closes his eye and I simply pray that Nick is overtaken by the goodness of God. That he knows that he is radically loved and desired by the Father. I prayed blessings and goodness and hope for his future.

That was it.

Nick had his eyes closed and held my hand a little longer than I expected. That’s Jesus.

I didn’t call him to repentance.

I didn’t tell him he is outside of Gods will.

I didn’t lambaste him with scripture.

Why?

Because until Nick knows that he’s loved by Jesus then Nick can’t hear anything I’m saying.

Nick needs to know THE LOVE OF THE FATHER because it’s the GOODNESS OF GOD that will bring Nick home.

I am not Nicks Holy Spirit.

I am an ambassador for the LOVE OF CHRIST and that LOVE is more powerful than anything else I could have said.

I don’t know Nicks story.

I don’t know how Nick got to this place.

I do know that Nick met the love of Jesus today.

I know I heard from Holy Spirit.

I know Nick encountered Holy Spirit."

First, what I think Nick met that day was someone who was trying to check off the box for evangelism as if she was trying to make a quota. How can I say this? It is an established fact that federal agents study the original dollar bills for every little detail so that a counterfeit can be easily detected. We need to have a clear understanding of what is the true gospel.

The gospel of the Lord Jesus Christ is that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, that He was buried, and He arose again the third day according to the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit takes man as he is, without compromise, and strikes to the very heart of a depraved man, lays his heart bare, breaks his stubborn will, sets aside all pride and rebellion, and brings him as a little child to the feet of Christ and dips him in the blood of the Son of God, cleansing him and making him a new creature in Christ Jesus. That is the gospel. 1 Corinthians 15: 1-4 sets forth the gospel.

When we compare modern evangelism with the truth of the gospel, we see "another gospels" such as these:

1. Make a decision for Christ (as if He was on a ballot);

2. God votes for you and the devil votes against you, you make the deciding vote.

3. Pray this sinners prayer (not in the Bible).

4. Try Jesus, what do you have to lose.

5. God will meet you half way if you will meet Him the other half way. This is not in the Bible. Jesus said to deny yourself, and pick up your cross and follow Him.

6. As in the "testimony" above, you don't need to give Scripture, or tell someone they need to repent, just tell them about the love of God.

7. Accept Jesus as your Savior. You will not find this in the Bible.

We need to preach the true gospel. No compromise, period. We need to stand for the truth while there is still time. We want to reach as many people as we can with the truth.

Thanksgiving Inspires Courage

Thanksgiving Inspires Courage

Acts 28:15

Mighty conquerors had returned to Rome over the Appian Way, bringing captives as proof of their triumphs. Now a prisoner came who was the greatest conqueror of them all. In fact, he was more than conqueror. Their works have perished and their names are forgotten. The work of Paul the prisoner lives on. He is immortal. "He belongs to the ages."

Paul probably had misgivings about the reception which would be given him in Rome. How his heart must have leaped for joy when the first welcoming delegation met him 40 or more miles away from the city and again when a second group came at least 30 miles on foot to bid him welcome.

Such heartwarming demonstrations caused the great apostle to give thanks to God. He had been delivered from death in the sea. The sting of a deadly serpent had been made a witness to barbarous people. The healing, helping ministry along the way was reassurance that God was with him. And now seeing friendly faces and feeling the warmth of kindred spirits opened up a fountain of thanksgiving in his soul.

Gratitude for past and present blessings always inspires courage for the conflicts of the tomorrows. Paul, under guard, dwelt two whole years in his own hired house and received all that came unto him. His guards and attendants heard, believed, and gave the message to others even in the palace. Centuries later, Christianity became the religion of the Empire. The prisoner was at last the conqueror.

God Is Present In The Storm

God Is Present in the Storm

Acts 27:21-25

For many days the storm had been raging. With neither sun nor stars to guide them, the crew and all the passengers were gripped with fear and stricken with seasickness. They were fasting, and Paul was praying. God heard and answered his prayer with such assurance that Paul began again to speak to the crewmen. He had heard words of good cheer from God. He wanted them to believe in his God whom he served. It was not for himself alone that he had prayed and received an answer. He had prayed that all 276 on board the ship would be spared, and God had given him assurance that not one should be lost, only the ship.

Paul's faith shines out clear and strong while the storm is still raging. Fair-weather Christians are hardly worthy of the name. It takes no faith to believe when all signs are favorable. Paul declared his faith to all who heard him. "Wherefore, sirs, be of good cheer: for I believe God, that it shall be even as it was told me."

From that time fellow prisoners, passengers, and crew stood in awe and listened to the man who showed no sign of fear. Then the prisoner advised all to eat some food, and he took bread and gave thanks to God. When he demonstrated his faith by eating, they were all of good cheer and began to eat. The next day they all escaped safe to land. Faith is the victory!

Treacherous Winds

Treacherous Winds

Acts 27:13-14

Paul was now on board ship as a prisoner ticketed for Rome. The ship had arrived at a place called The Fair Havens. Paul counseled the centurion to winter there. But on a day "when the south wind blew softly," they weighed anchor and set sail. Often a season of bad weather is preceded by a day that seems especially fair. Similar times occur when worldly-minded people are led to launch their lives on a course that seems sure to lead to fame and fortune.

Those in charge of Paul's ship sought to sail close to the shore of Crete to play it safe. This too is a pattern often followed by those of world-ward disposition. None take the path that leads to hell as a voluntary choice. C. S. Lewis has said, "It does not matter how small the sins are, provided their cumulative effect is to edge the man away from the Light into Nothing. Murder is no better than cards, if cards can do the trick. Indeed the safest way to hell is the gradual one."

Everyone knows a fair, warm day may precede a stormy blast. The ship had not gone far until there arose a tempestuous wind. Fearing that ever-present peril of sailing near shore, Luke records that they lowered the sails "and so were driven." The ship was at the mercy of the raging sea. How many have sailed from the fair haven when the south wind blew softly and have been caught in the merciless storm, driven beyond control!

Consider the Goads

Consider the Goads

Acts 26:14

It is the Holy Spirit who convicts men of sin. Nevertheless the Spirit uses various means to goad the conscience of man.

Some contend that the conversion of Saul was an instantaneous act of God without preliminary preparation. Others believe that God had been dealing with him for some time, especially during the desert journey from Jerusalem to Damascus. The isolation of the desert was conducive to reflection. And now came this blinding light, this voice from heaven, this searching question from Jesus of Nazareth. This was but the climax of what had been surging through the soul of a man who was honest even though mistaken.

Saul knew the Law. He also knew it was inadequate. It is possible that Saul had some time seen Jesus when He was on earth. He could not forget what he saw and heard. It is almost certain that he had heard the advice of Gamaliel when he said to the council, "Take heed to yourselves what ye intend to do as touching these men.... for if... this work.., be of God, ye cannot overthrow it" (5:35, 38-39). Saul must have reasoned, If Gamaliel is right, I am wrong. Saul had seen the Christians suffer shame for Jesus' name. At least he had seen Stephen die while he consented to his death. That radiant face and that prayer were impossible to forget. These goads helped bring to a climax the work of God's Spirit, and the raging enemy of Christ and the Christians surrendered, saying, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" (9:6).

Matthew Study Twelve: The Last Supper

 

Note: At the end of this study is an article I wrote a few years ago about the subject of this week's study. Please do read.

Today's lesson comes from Matthew 26: 17-32. This is the final week of Jesus' earthly ministry before the resurrection. It is late Wednesday and Jesus has been preaching all day. He ends about noon and heads through the city, out the gate, and on to Mount Olivet. The chief priests, scribes and elders will be plotting through the night to develop a plan that will end with the execution of Jesus. Early Thursday morning preparation will be made for the Passover. This is a major celebration in the Jewish faith. Multitudes will be descending on Jerusalem for the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread. There would be a slaughter of approximately 250000 lambs symbolizing the Lamb of God that would be slain in a few days.  

The first section is "The Preparation." vv. 17-20 Passover was on 14 Nisan (in March or April) and would be followed by the Feast of Unleavened Bread 15-21 Nisan. You can read about the Passover in Leviticus 23: 4,5 and the Feast of Unleavened Bread at Leviticus 23: 6-8. There was much preparation to be done before the Passover. It was primarily a home activity. For several weeks, the Jewish households began to cleanse the home from all leaven. Every part of the house was checked. No dirt could be left. All stoves, kettles and clothes were to be cleaned and made ready for the celebration. At sunset on 14 Nisan, the head of the family went to the synagogue for the first evening prayer. From that point on, many prayers would be spoken during the Passover. In the evening, all members of the family would gather around the table. The head of the family would be dressed in a white gown and cap. There would be four questions asked by the children, by the wise, the simple, the foolish, and the one who was unable to inquire (an infant). This was called a Seder service.  The story of the Jews deliverance from Egypt would be remembered. No Gentiles were allowed to be seated at the Passover, only Jews. 

Some interesting facts about the Passover:

1. Jesus' parents traveled to Jerusalem yearly to celebrate Passover. At age 12, Jesus went with them (Luke 2: 41-50). 

2. The Passover lamb was to be a perfect male without spot or blemish (Exodus 12: 5).

3. The only bread eaten was unleavened bread. However, see my article at the end of this study.

4. On the night before Passover, the father does a final search for for any remaining leaven in the house. 

The next section is "The Pronouncement." vv. 21-25 In this section, Jesus announces that He is going to be betrayed. In verse 21, Jesus announces He will be betrayed. In verse 22, the disciples are sorrowful and every one of them is not sure if they are the one to betray Jesus. In verse 23, Jesus provides the test for the betrayer to be identified (the one that dips his hand with Jesus). In verse 24, He reminds everyone of the prophecies in the Old Testament, that He would be betrayed and killed (Psalm 41:9; Daniel 9:26; Isaiah 53:4-9).  In verse 25, Judas asks if it is him, even though he knew it was him. Jesus confirms that he is the one by the phrase, "Thou hast said." 

It is puzzling to me that the disciples had the reaction they did in verse 22. There must have been confusion in their minds on what betrayal meant. In some sense, we all betray Christ every day in that none of us have divine perfection. John Wesley spoke of Christian Perfection which is far different. Christian Perfection is loving God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and your neighbor as yourself. Divine perfection is far outside our capabilities. However, the betrayal Christ spoke of was much different. Judas would be possessed by Satan and seek tom destroy the Son of God. Thank God, while the betrayal was successful, the end result brought about the perfect sacrifice for our sins!

The third section is "The Communion." vv. 26-30 In this section, Jesus transforms the Passover meal into the Christian sacrament of the "Last Supper." Jesus breaks the bread and says "Take, eat; this is my body." Then, Jesus takes the cup and says, "Drink ye all of it; For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." When we read these verses through Gentile eyes, almost two thousand years after they were spoken, we lose the shock value of what is being said to the disciples. Every Jewish boy would have started learning the book of Leviticus at around age 5. They would have been familiar with the first book of Moses known as Genesis. In Genesis 9:6, we read, "Whoever sheds human blood, by humans shall their blood be shed; for in the image of God has God made mankind." The idea of cannibalism would have been repulsive to a first century Jew. Yet, that is what Jesus is symbolically asking His disciples to do. Moreover, Genesis 9: 2-4 states in part: "But you must not eat meat that has its lifeblood still in it." Leviticus 17:14 states: "For the life of every creature is in its blood: its blood is it's life." Jews didn't eat blood and certainly would not drink it. The disciples minds had to be exploding with questions and confusion. 

Truly, Jesus was creating a new ritual to be followed. This was not a typical Passover. This was the institution of something new. His body was to be broken for us. His blood was going to be shed for our sins so that we might be forgiven. While this may have been confusing to the disciples, we can look back with clarity because we have the written Word of God and we can rejoice. No confusion exists for us. We know what is occurring. 

The fourth section is "The Conclusion." vv. 31, 32 In verse 31, Jesus tells His disciples that they will all stumble at His being taken and abused this night. He tells them that the will be ashamed of Him. The disciples had to be so confused, but later it would all be made clear to them. In verse 32, Jesus provides hope to them. He will rise again and go before them. The disciples offense would turn to a committed group willing to die for their Savior.

The Golden Text is "For this is my blood of the New Testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins." (Matthew 26:28)  In the sacrificial system, "without shedding of blood there is no remission." It took blood being given for sins to be forgiven. Our Lord Jesus Christ was the perfect sacrifice for us, holt and without blemish. His blood purchased our salvation for all eternity. 

My summary points:

1. We need to make preparations to see the Lord, including the removal of all leaven (sin) and live a consecrated life to Him.

2. We can remain loyal to the Lord Jesus Christ as we live a life of repentance and submission to Him.

3. We can commune with God every moment of the day, not just on the weekend.

Next week, "The Death of Jesus." (Matthew 27:45-61)

The Last Supper

By Dr. Barry Jenkins

Some people think that Jesus was creating something new when He established the “Lord’s Supper.” Most English Bibles will say something like, “The Lord’s Supper Instituted.” Others seeking to establish the Hebraic roots of the faith insist that Yeshua was celebrating a traditional Passover meal. Who is right or, are they both wrong? Scripture and Hebraic customs shed some light.

In 30 A.D., Wednesday was Nisan 13. After sunset, Passover began on Nisan 14, which was a Thursday. Friday was Nisan 15 and was a Sabbath day. Saturday was Nisan 16 and was the seventh day Sabbath. In 30 A.D., there were back to back Sabbaths. It was on Wednesday that Jesus began to make plans for Passover. Later Christian tradition moves the last meal to Thursday night. It appears that Jesus was arrested on Wednesday night, crucified on Thursday, never had the passover meal on Thursday evening, and rose from the dead on Nisan 17, which was early morning on the day after the last Sabbath (what we call Sunday). How can we know this time table is accurate?

John specifies that the Wednesday night “last supper” was “before the festival of Passover (John 13:1).”He also informs us that when Jesus’ accusers appeared before Pilate on Thursday morning, they would not enter Pilate’s courtyard because they would be defiled and would not be able to eat the Passover that evening (John 18:28). I find it convincing proof that Jesus was not celebrating Passover because of the Greek word used for “bread.” It was artos and refers to a loaf of bread, i.e. the bread had leaven and had risen. In the Septuagint, a different Greek word is used to describe the unleavened bread commanded to be used in Exodus 12. It is the word azymos and it means unleavened or unfermented. Jesus used a loaf of bread on the night before His arrest. Have you ever seen a loaf of matzos? No Torah observant Jew would eat leavened bread once Passover began. Further, no Torah observant Jew would encourage others to disobey God’s command to eat unleavened bread. For Jesus to remain Torah observant, the last meal could not be a Passover meal.

Another point of interest is would Jesus choose not to be with His four brothers, two sisters, and mother on such an important celebration as Passover? It would seem that what we call the “Last Supper” occurred on Passover eve. We need to investigate all the things we think we know. We need Biblical truth. It is there, if we will investigate.

God's Overruling Providence

God's Overruling Providence

Acts 25:10-12

The risen Christ told Paul, "I have appeared unto thee for this purpose, to make thee a minister and a witness" (26:16). Even as He made known His purpose, He gave also a promise to deliver him from the people (the Jews) and from the Gentiles. Whenever God makes known His purpose, He always gives a promise. As completely as anyone yields his will to God's purpose, so completely does God keep His promise. Paul fully obeyed the heavenly vision; therefore, God kept His promise.

While in Jerusalem with the threat of death hanging over him, in the night the Lord stood by him and said, "Be of good cheer, Paul: for as thou hast testified of me in Jerusalem, so must thou bear witness also at Rome" (23:11). Thus was God's purpose and God's promise reaffirmed. Paul knew his work was not done.

Both Felix and Festus evaded their responsibility to set Paul free even though they knew there were no valid charges against him. Therefore, when Paul saw his opportunity to get to Rome had come, he said, "I stand at Caesar's judgment seat, where I ought to be judged... I appeal unto Caesar." Again he was claiming his rights as a Roman citizen. Festus, knowing that he had shirked his duty, had no choice but to say, "Hast thou appealed to Caesar? unto Caesar shalt thou go." Both the purpose and the promise of God were fulfilled. The servant and prisoner of Christ was soon on his way to Rome.

Convicted But Not Converted

Convicted But Not Converted

Acts 24:25

Felix was unfit to be a judge of men. He was without any sense of moral values. In his private life, he was ruled by his sensuous passions. He had enticed Drusilla when she was another man's wife. He was a favor-courting politician, willing to do the Jews a pleasure to gain their good will. His leniency to Paul was an admission that there was no serious charge against him. The worst transgression for a man in public service is willingness to be bought. Felix was not only ready to accept bribes, he sought the chance to do so.

When Paul stood before Felix as an accused prisoner, he made his own defense, of necessity. In that testimony he wove in a word which stung the dormant conscience of the governor. He said, "Herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men" (v. 16). Felix must have winced when he heard those pungent words.

Paul came to grips with the seared conscience of the governor. He did not make direct charges against him by calling out the sins of which he was guilty. But he did what must be done if sinful men are to be slain with conviction. "He reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come."

Felix procrastinated. He missed his moment for action. He called Paul again and again, but for ulterior motives. He never repented. He suffered loss of honor, position, and his soul.

A Christian Under Provocation

A Christian Under Provocation

Acts 23:1-5

By birth, by training, and by conviction Paul was a zealous Pharisee. When he became a Christian, he was no less zealous than he had been before. Having rescued Paul from the infuriated mob that would have killed him, the chief captain learned that he was a Roman. Therefore he sought to give Paul a fair hearing before his accusers. He was called before the Sanhedrin.

Paul bore a sincere, humble, and inoffensive testimony to any with open mind. The command that he be smitten on the mouth came as a shocking order from the high priest. Paul's retort is understandable even though inappropriate. His pronouncement was deserved and it came to pass as he said. Ananias was deposed not long after this incident and assassinated by Jewish zealots a few years later.

The exact meaning of Paul's response to the protest of the bystanders is not clear. It seems probably that what he meant was, "I spoke in haste and was unconscious for the moment that I was speaking to the representative of God." He acknowledged that he knew what was written (Exod. 22:28). In a becoming manner, he admitted his error without denying the truth of what he said.

All this is to remind all Christians that the best of men in moments of provocation may speak, in haste, words that may need forgiveness by God and man. Holiness of heart does not imply perfect control at all times. It does mean humility of spirit and readiness to admit wrong.

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 7

TRIUMPHANT DEATH OF GEORGE EDWARD DRYER

This saint of God went to heaven from Readsburg, Wis., Feb. 1, 1896. His sister, Mrs. Evaline Dryer Green, sends us the following:

Dear readers, come with me for a little while as I look on memory's walls. See, there are many things written there! Here is one story, sweet and sacred, almost too sacred to relate; yet as" with hushed voices we talk of this, our hearts shall melt and we shall feel that heaven is drawing nigher.

I remember my baby brother -- though I was a child of but four years when he came into our home. I well remember that little face as I saw it first. I remember the chubby brown hands when he was a wee boy, always in mischief then. 1 was a frail girl, and he soon outgrew me. Then those sweet years of home life-and later the glad home comings when I was away at school. On my return George was always the first to wave his hand and shout for joy -- perhaps toss his hat high in the air and give a certain "whoop" and three cheers that I loved to hear. We were right loyal friends, my brother and I. And then -- ah, its here I'd wish to draw the vail, and forget. We thought he would accomplish his ambitions -- so strong, so full of life! But we will only glance at those long months of suffering and hasten to the last. Nearly eighteen months of weariness from coughing, and there he lay, the picture of patient endurance, saying from his heart's depths,

"Farewell, mortality -- Jesus is mine

Welcome, eternity -- Jesus is mine!"

Often he would call me near him and say, "Oh, sister, the Lord does so save me!" To the doctor, the boys of his own age, to neighbors, and all who came, he testified how Jesus saved him, through and through.

The last hours were drawing near. One of the Lord's servants came and prayed. George prayed for father, mother, brothers and sisters. A little later in the evening a sweat, deathly cold, covered him. We thought he was going then -- the poor, weak body seemed all but gone, while the spirit grew even more bright. Ah, that picture! That high, marble-white brow, either cheek glowing with fever intense, great, expressive blue eyes, that peered earnestly, joyfully, all about him and upward. Those dear hands were lifted high, while he said, with heaven lighting his face,

"Angels now are hovering round us."

(Even now I feel to say, as I did then, "O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?")

Again he came back to us -- to spend one more night of suffering on earth, and to work for God and eternity. We watched all night, while he praised God, often saying 'under his breath, between awful fits of coughing, "Precious Jesus!" Toward morning he asked a dear sister to sing "I Saw A Happy Pilgrim."

Finally the morning came; a dark, rainy morning in February. The gray light was just dawning when we all gathered about his bed. We repeated beautiful texts to him, and verses of hymns that he most loved, and encouraged him to the very river's brink. His last spoken words were, "Eva, come on this side." Then, peacefully he closed his eyes and grew so still.

"And with the morn, those angel faces smile,

Which I have loved long since -- and lost a while."

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 6

THE COURAGE AND TRIUMPHANT DEATH OF ST. LAURENCE THE MARTYR

Laurentius, usually called St. Laurence, was archdeacon under Sextus, and when that bishop was led out to execution, Laurence accompanied and comforted him. As they parted from each other for the last time, Sextus warned his faithful follower that his martyrdom would soon come after his own: that this prophecy was true is indicated by the tradition that has been handed down to us telling of his subsequent seizure and cruel death.

The Christian church of Rotor, even at this early period, had in its treasury considerable riches -- both in money, and in gold and silver vessels used at the services of the church. All these treasures were under the watchful eye of Laurence, the archdeacon. Besides maintaining its clergy, the church supported many poor widows and orphans; nearly fifteen hundred of these poor people, whose names Laurence kept upon his list, lived upon the charity of the church. Sums of money were also constantly needed to help struggling churches which had been newly established in distant parts of the world.

Macrianus, governor of Rome under the emperor Valerian, had heard of these riches, and longed to seize them; he therefore sent soldiers to arrest Laurence, who was soon taken and dragged before the governor. As soon as Macrianus' pitiless eyes rested upon the prisoner, he said harshly:

"I hear that you who call yourselves Christians possess treasures of gold and silver, and that your priests use golden vessels at your services. Is this true?"

Laurence answered: "The church, indeed, has great treasures."

"Then bring those treasures forth," said Macrianus. "Do not your sacred books tell you to render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's? The emperor has need of those riches for the defense of the empire; therefore you must render them up."

After reflecting deeply for a few moments, Laurence replied: "In three days I will bring before you the greatest treasures of the church."

This answer satisfied the governor; so Laurence was set free, and Macrianus impatiently awaited the time when the expected stores of gold and silver should be placed before him.

On the appointed day Macrianus, attended by his officers, came to the place where the Christians usually assembled. They were calmly received by Laurence at the entrance and invited to pass into an inner room.

"Are the treasures collected?" was the first question of Macrianus.

"They are, my lord," replied Laurence; "will you enter and view them?"

With these words he opened a door and displayed to the astounded gaze of the governor, the poor pensioners of the church, a chosen number -- a row of the lame, a row of the blind, orphans and widows, the helpless and the weak. Astonished by the sight, the governor turned fiercely upon Laurence, saying: "What mean you by this mockery? Where are the treasures of gold and silver you promised to deliver up?"

"These that you see before you," replied the undaunted Laurence, "are the true treasures of the church. In the widows and orphans you behold her gold and silver, her pearls and precious stones. These are her real riches. Make use of them by asking for their prayers; they will prove your best weapon against your foes."

Enraged and disappointed at not securing the hoped-for gold (which had been carried to a place of safety during the three days that had elapsed), the governor furiously commanded his guards to seize Laurence and take him to a dungeon. There, terrible to relate, a great fire was built upon the stone floor, and a huge gridiron placed upon it; then the martyr was stripped of his clothing and thrown upon this fiery bed, to slowly perish in the scorching heat.

The cruel tyrant gazed down upon this dreadful sight to gratify his hatred and revenge; but the martyr had strength and spirit to triumph over him even to the last. Not a murmur escaped him, but with his dying breath he prayed for the. Christian church at Rome, and for the conversion of the entire empire to God; and so, lifting up his eyes to heaven, he gave up the ghost.

A Roman soldier, named Romanus, who looked on at the sufferings of St. Laurence, was so much affected by the martyr's courage and faith that he became a convert to Christianity. As soon as this was known the soldier was severely scourged, and afterward be. headed. -- Foxe's Book of Martyrs

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 5

THE CHILD MARTYR

The noted evangelist, E. P. Hammond, writes us from his home at Hartford, Conn., Aug. 11, 1898, and sends us the following reliable and very touching article for this work:

I have been surprised to notice how many children have died a martyr death rather than deny Jesus. I want to tell you about one of these young martyrs. In Antioch, where the disciples were first called Christians, a deacon from the church of Caesarea was called to bear cruel torture to force him to deny the Lord who bought him with His precious blood. While he was being tortured he still declared his faith, saying: "There is but one God and one mediator between God and man, Christ Jesus." His body was almost torn in pieces. The cruel emperor, Galerius, seemed to enjoy looking upon him in his suffering. At length this martyr begged his tormentors to ask any Christian child whether it was better to worship one God, the maker of heaven and earth, and one Savior, who had died for us, and was able to bring us to God, or to worship the gods many and the lords many whom the Romans served. There stood near by a Roman mother who had brought with her a little boy, nine years of age, that he might witness the sufferings of this martyr from Caesarea. The question was asked the child. He quickly replied, "God is one and Christ is one with the Father."

The persecutor was filled with fresh rage and cried out, "O base and wicked Christian, that thou hast taught this child to answer thus." Then turning to the boy, he said more mildly, "Child, tell me who taught thee thus to speak? Where did you learn this faith?"

The boy looked lovingly into his mother's face and said, "It was God that taught it to my mother, and she taught me that Jesus Christ loved little children, and so I learned to love Him for his first love for me."

"Let us see what the love of Christ can do for you," cried the cruel judge, and at a sign from him the officers who stood by with their rods, after the fashion of the Romans, quickly seized the boy and made ready to torture him.

"What can the love of Christ do for him now?" asked the judge, as the blood streamed from the tender flesh of the child. "It helps him," answered the mother, "to bear what his master endured for him when he died for us on the cross."

Again they smote the child, and every blow seemed to torture the agonized mother as much as the child. As the blows, faster and heavier, were laid upon the bleeding boy, they asked, "What can the love of Christ do for him now?"

Tears fell from heathen eyes as that Roman mother replied, "It teaches him to forgive his tormentors." The boy watched his mother's eyes and no doubt thought of the sufferings of his Lord and Savior, and when his tormentors asked if he would now serve the gods they served, he still answered, "I will not deny Christ. There is no other God but one, and Jesus Christ is the redeemer of the world. Be loved me and died for me, and I love him with all my heart."

The poor child at last fainted between the repeated strokes, and they cast the torn and bleeding body into the mother's arms, saying, supposing that he was dead, "See what the love of Christ has done for your Christian boy now."

As the mother pressed him to her heart she answered, "That love would take him from the wrath of man to the peace of heaven, where God shall wipe away all tears!"

But the boy had not yet passed over the river. Opening his eyes, he said, "Mother, can I have a drop of water from our cool well upon my tongue?"

As he closed his eyes in death the mother said, "Already, dearest, thou hast tasted of the well that springeth up unto everlasting life. Farewell! thy Savior calls for thee. Happy, happy martyr! for His sake may He grant thy mother grace to follow in thy bright path."

To the surprise of all, after they thought he bad closed his eyes and had breathed his last, he finally raised his eyes and looked to where the elder martyr was, and said in almost a whisper, "There is but one God, and Jesus Christ whom He has sent." And with these words upon his parched lips, he passed into God's presence, "where is fullness of joy, and to His right hand, where are pleasures forevermore."

Are you, my dear reader, a Christian? If not, you can become one now. That same Jesus who bled and died to save that little Roman boy, suffered on the cross for you, and He is ever ready to give you a new heart, so that you will love Him so much that you would be willing to die a death of suffering rather than deny Him.

Matthew Study Eleven: Parable of the Talents

Today's study comes from Matthew 25: 14-30. This teaching is part of what has been called the Olivet Discourse. Jesus had told the disciples that the "buildings of the temple" would be destroyed. The disciples asked Jesus three questions:

1. When shall these things be?

2. What shall be the sign of thy coming?

3. When the world end? 

Jesus answers by relating three signs and three parables. The three signs were:

1. Signs of the present age (Matthew 25:5-14).

2. Signs of the Great Tribulation (24: 15-28).

3. Signs of the coming of the Son of Man (24: 29-42). 

The three parables were:

1. The Parable of the Two Servants (24: 43-51).

2. The Parable of the Ten Virgins (25: 1-13).

3. The Parable of the Talents (25: 14-30). 

This parable is recorded only in the book of Matthew. The The lesson is divided into three parts: "Talents Entrusted," "Talent Invested," and "Talents Neglected."

The first section is "Talents Entrusted." (vv. 15-18) All believers have received some talent from the Lord. Some may play an instrument, sing, preach, teach, cook, or any one of a number of skills to further the kingdom of God. We are to receive those talents given. The parable emphasizes this need for personal preparation and faithful service to the Lord. Jesus was alluding to the fact that He would be returning to His Father and that He was entrusting His followers to carry on His ministry. The master "called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods." Jesus is the Master and we are the servants.

The word "talents" in our day refers to a God-given ability. In this parable a talent was the largest unit of money. It weighed about 96 ponds. We are not told whether the talent was gold or silver, but either one would be worth a large fortune. The talents were distributed, not randomly, but "to every man according to his several ability." We all don't have the same gifts and talents, but whatever we do have should receive the same level of faithfulness. The servants who received the five and two talents "went and traded with the same." There was no hesitation, only a desire to improve the wealth of the owner. In contrast, the servant that received one talent "went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord's money." Since he was not about building his master's kingdom, whose kingdom was he building? We should inquire of ourselves, whose kingdom are we building?

The second section is "Talents Invested." (vv. 19-23) In these verses, the lord returns and reviews the efforts of the first two servants. The one with five talents brought five additional talents. He acknowledged that what he started with came from the lord. The lord gives him praise, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant...."  He is told to "enter thou into the joy of thy lord." The same review is done with the servant who had received two talents. The praise is the same from the lord. The one with two talents brought those two, plus two more. 

The section summarizes some very practical truths for us:

1. Life is a gift from God and we should invest it back for the Lord's gain.

2. It does not matter how much talent you have, the praise is the same for all those that dedicate their life to the Lord's business.

3. We all will give an account to God.

The third section is "Talent Neglected." (vv. 24-30) In this final section, we see what occurred when the one that received only one talent did nothing with it. The following are the principles of this portion of Scripture:

1. The servant blamed his neglect on the master. "Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man."

2. The choice is between faith or fear. The servant operated in fear. "I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth."

3. Those who neglect or fail to improve the "talent" will be punished. "Thou wicked and slothful servant."

4. The failure to extend the master's domain resulted in the loss of what the servant had originally. "Take therefore the talent from him." He was called an "unprofitable servant" and cast "into outer darkness." 

John Wesley said, "He never knew God, who thinks him a hard master." It is clear to me that the unprofitable servant was not a true believer, but rather typifies a hypocrite hiding in the church.

The Golden Text is, "Well done, thou good and faithful servant...enter thou into the joy of thy lord." (Matthew 25:21) We are to render service to our Lord Jesus Christ based on a love relationship with Him. He is not a hard taskmaster. To think He is, is to reveal that you are not one of His. We should earnestly desire to further the kingdom of God at every opportunity and on every occasion. 

My summary points:

1. God has given us each talents that we should use to build His kingdom and bring glory to His name.

2. Our lives are a gift from God that we use for His glory.

3. We are to be faithful, not out of fear, but out of love.

Next week, "The Last Supper." (Matthew 26: 17-32)

Please read the Sunday School Beacon for inspiration and encouragement.

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 4

"CHILDREN, IS THIS DEATH? HOW BEAUTIFUL! HOW BEAUTIFUL!"

A preacher in Oregon, Rev. J. T. Leise, writes us as follows: "I thought it might be to the glory of God to give you an account of my mother's death. She died July 28, 1888, in the township of Winnebago City, Faribault County, Minnesota. About six months before her death I left home to enter the work of the Lord. At that time, and also for years, mother had what we often call an up-and-down experience. About July 1st, of the same year she died, I got word to return home to see her die. On my arrival I found mother very low, but having a strong faith in God. I said, 'Mother, you have a better experience than you have ever had.' 'Yes, Johnnie,' she said, 'about three months ago I got what I have longed for for years.' Mother's disease was of a dropsical character. With limbs swollen, she would suffer intensely; but her faith in Jesus never wavered. She would often speak of the glorious prospects in view. The morning she died, about four o'clock, a sister and I were sitting by her bed fanning her, when she suddenly opened her eyes and said, 'Children, is this death? How beautiful; how beautiful.' I said, 'Mother, you will soon be at rest. It won't be long before you shall have crossed over and are at home.' Mother never could sing to amount t o any. thing, but on this occasion she sang as if inspired from Heaven,

O I long to be there

And His glories to share

And to lean on my Savior's breast.

About four hours after we were around her bed having family worship, when, without a struggle, she passed away to be forever with the Lord. Amen-

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 3

REV. E. PAYSON'S JOYFUL EXPERIENCES AND TRIUMPHANT DEATH

He was asked, by a friend, if he could see any particular reason for this dispensation. He replied, "No; but I am as well satisfied as if I could see ten thousand reasons."

In a letter dictated to his sister he writes: "Were I to adopt the figurative language of Bunyan, I might date this letter from the land of Beulah, of which I have been for some time such a happy inhabitant. The celestial city is full in view. Its glories beam upon me; its breezes fan me; its odors are wafted to me; its sounds strike upon my ears, and its spirit is breathed into my heart. Nothing separates me from it but the river of death, which now appears as an insignificant rill, which can be crossed at a single step, whenever God shall give permission. The Sun of Righteousness has been gradually drawing nearer and nearer, appearing larger and brighter as He approached, and now fills the whole hemisphere, pouring forth a flood of glory, in which I seem to float like an insect in the beams of the sun, exulting, yet almost trembling, while I gaze on this excessive brightness, and wondering why God should deign thus to shine upon a sinful worm."

On being asked, "Do you feel reconciled?" he replied, "O, that is too cold; I rejoice; I triumph; and this happiness will endure as long as God himself, for it consists in admiring and adoring Him. I can find no words to express my happiness. I seem to be swimming in a river of pleasure, which is carrying me to the great fountain. It seems as if all the bottles in heaven were opened, and all its fullness and happiness have come down into my heart. God has been depriving me of one blessing after another, but as each one has removed, He has come in and filled up its place. If God had told me sometime ago, that He was about to make me as happy as I could be in this world, and that He should begin by crippling me in all my limbs, and removing from me all my usual sources of enjoyment, I should have thought it a very strange mode of accomplishing His purposes, now, when I am a cripple, and not able to move, I am happier than I ever was in my life before, or ever expected to be.

"It has often been remarked, that people who have passed into the other world cannot come back to tell us what they have seen; but I am so near the eternal world, that I can almost see as clearly as if I were there; and I see enough to satisfy me of the truth of the doctrines I have preached. I do not know that I should feel at all surer had I been really there."

"Watchman, what of the night!" asked a gray-headed member of his church. "I should think it was about noonday," replied the dying Payson.

The ruling passion being strong in death, he sent a request to his pulpit, that his people should repair to his sick-chamber. They did so in specified classes, a few at a time and received his dying message.

To the young men of his congregation, he said: "I felt desirous that you might see that the religion I have preached can support me in death. You know that I have many ties which bind me to earth; a family to which I am strongly attached, and a people whom I love almost as well; but the other world acts like a much stronger magnet, and draws my heart away from this."

"Death comes every night, and stands by my bedside in the form of terrible convulsions, every one of which threatens to separate the soul from the body. These grow worse and worse, till every bone is almost dislocated with pain. Yet, while my body is thus tortured, my soul is perfectly, perfectly happy and peaceful. I lie here and feel these convulsions extending higher and higher, but my soul is filled with joy unspeakable! I seem to swim in a flood of glory, which God pours down upon me. Is it a delusion, that can fill the soul to overflowing with joy in such circumstances? If so, it is a delusion better than any reality. It is no delusion. I feel it is not. I enjoy this happiness now. And now, standing as I do, on the ridge that separates the two worlds -- feeling what intense happiness the soul is capable of sustaining, and judging of your capacities by my own, and believing that those capacities will be filled to the very brim with joy or wretchedness forever, my heart yearns over you, my children, that you may choose life, and not death. I long to present every one of you with a cup of happiness, and see you drink it."

"A young man," he continued, "just about to leave the world, exclaimed, 'The battle's fought, the battle's fought, but the victory is lost forever!' But I can say, The battle's fought -- and the victory is won -- the victory is won forever! I am going to bathe in the ocean of purity, and benevolence, and happiness, to all eternity. And now, my children, let me bless you, not with the blessing of a poor, feeble, dying man, but with the blessing of the infinite God." He then pronounced the apostolic benediction.

A friend said to him, "I presume it is no longer incredible to you, that martyrs should rejoice and praise God in the flames and on the rack?"

"No," said he; "I can easily believe it. I have suffered twenty times as much as I could in being burned at the stake, while my joy in God so abounded as to render my sufferings not only tolerable, but welcome."

At another time, he said: "God is literally now my all in all. While He is present with me, no event can in the least diminish my happiness; and were the whole world at my feet, trying to minister to my comfort, they could not add one drop to my cup."

To Mrs. Payson, who observed to him, "Your head feels hot and seems to be distended"; he replied: "It seems as if the soul disdained such a narrow prison, and was determined to break through with an angel's energy, and I trust with no small portion of an angel's feeling, until it mounts on high."

"It seems as if my soul had found a new pair of wings, and was so eager to try them, that in her fluttering, she would rend. the fine network of the body in pieces."

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 2

POLYCARP, THE SAINTED CHRISTIAN FATHER

Polycarp, an eminent Christian father, was born in the reign of Nero. Ignatius recommended the church of Antioch to the care and superintendence of this zealous father, who appears to have been unwearied in his endeavors to preserve the peace of the church, and to promote piety and virtue amongst men.

During the persecution which raged at Smyrna, in the year 167, the distinguished character of Polycarp attracted the attention of the enemies of Christianity. The general outcry was, "Let Polycarp be sought for." When he was taken before the proconsul, he was solicited to reproach Christ, and save his life: but with a holy indignation, he nobly replied: "Eighty and six years have I served Christ, who has never done me any injury: how then can I blaspheme my King and Savior?"

When he was brought to the stake, the executioner offered, as usual, to nail him to it; but he said, "Let me alone as I am: He who has given me strength to come to the fire, will also give me patience to abide in it, without being fastened with nails."

Part of his last prayer, at his death, was as follows: "O God, the Father of Thy beloved son, Jesus Christ, by whom we have received the knowledge of Thyself; O God of angels and powers, of every creature, and of all the just who live in Thy presence; I thank Thee that Thou hast graciously vouchsafed, this day and this hour, to allot me a portion amongst the number of martyrs. O Lord, receive me; and make me a companion of saints in the resurrection, through the merits of our great High Priest, the Lord Jesus Christ. I praise and adore Thee, through thy beloved Son, to whom, with Thee, and Thy Holy Spirit, be all honor and glory, both now and forever. Amen." -- Power of Religion.

Dying Testimonies of the Saved Part 1

TRIUMPHANT DEATH OF IGNATIUS

Ignatius, one of the ancient fathers of the church, was born in Syria, and brought up under the care of the Apostle John. About the year 67, he became bishop of Antioch. In this important station he continued above 40 years, both an honor and a safeguard to the Christian religion; undaunted in the midst of very tempestuous times, and unmoved with the prospect of suffering a cruel death. He taught men to think little of the present life; to value and love the good things to come; and never to be deterred from a course of piety and virtue, by the fear of any temporal evils whatever; to oppose only meekness to anger, humility to boasting, and prayers to curses and reproaches.

This excellent man was selected by the emperor Trajan, as a subject whose sufferings might be proper to inspire terror and discouragement in the hearts of the Christians at Rome. He was condemned to die for his faith in Christ, and ordered to be thrown among wild beasts to be devoured by them. This cruel sentence, far from weakening his attachment to the great cause he had espoused, excited thankfulness of heart, that he had been counted worthy to suffer for the sake of religion. "I thank thee, O Lord," said he, "that thou hast condescended thus to honor me with thy love; and hast thought me worthy, with thy apostle Paul, to be bound in chains."

On his passage to Rome he wrote a letter to his fellow Christians there, to prepare them to acquiesce in his sufferings, and to assist him with their prayers. "Pray for me," said he, "that God would give me both inward and outward strength, that I may not only say, but do well; that I may not only be called a Christian, but be found one." Animated by the cheering prospect of the reward of his sufferings, he said: "Now, indeed, I begin to be a disciple; I weigh neither visible nor invisible things, in comparison with an interest in Jesus Christ." With the utmost Christian fortitude he met the wild beasts assigned for his destruction and triumphed in death. -- Power of Religion.

Dying Testimonies of the Saved and Unsaved Part 6

THE AWFUL END OF A BACKSLIDER

The following is a short account of the life and death of William Pope, of Bolton, in Lancashire. He was at one time a member of the Methodist Society, and was a saved and happy man. His wife, a devoted saint, died triumphantly. After her death his zeal for religion declined, and by associating with back-slidden professors he entered the path of ruin. His companions even professed to believe in the redemption of devils. William became an admirer of their scheme, a frequenter with them of the public-house, and in time a common drunkard.

He finally became a disciple of Thomas Paine, and associated himself with a number of deistical persons at Bolton, who assembled together on Sundays to confirm each other in their infidelity. They amused themselves with throwing the Word of God on the floor, kicking it around the room, and treading it under their feet. God laid His hand on this man's body, and he was seized with consumption.

Mr. Rhodes was requested to visit William Pope. He says: "When I first saw him he said to me, 'Last night I believe I was in hell, and felt the horrors and torment of the dammed; but God has brought me back again, and given me a little longer respite. The gloom of guilty terror does not sit so heavy upon me as it did, and I have something like a faint hope that, after all I have done, God may yet save me.'

After exhorting him to repentance and confidence in the Almighty Savior, I prayed with him and left him. In the evening he sent for me again. I found him in the utmost distress, overwhelmed with bitter anguish and despair. I endeavored to encourage him. I spoke of the infinite merit of the great Redeemer, and mentioned several cases in which God had saved the greatest sinners, but he answered, 'No case of any that has been mentioned is comparable to mine. I have no contrition; I cannot repent. God will damn me: I know the day of grace is lost. God has said of such as are in my case, "I will laugh at your calamity, and mock when your fear cometh,"'

I said, 'Have you ever known anything of the mercy and love of God?' 'Oh, yes,' he replied; 'many years ago I truly repented and sought the Lord and found peace and happiness.' I prayed with him after exhorting him to seek the Lord, and had great hopes of his salvation; he appeared much affected, and begged I would represent his case in our Society and pray for him. I did so that evening, and many hearty petitions were put up for him."

Mr. Barraclough gives the following account of what he witnessed. He says: "I went to see William Pope, and as soon as he saw me he exclaimed, 'You are come to see one who is damned forever!' I answered, 'I hope not; Christ can save the chief of sinners.' He replied, 'I have denied Him, I have denied Him; therefore hath He cast me off forever! I know the day of grace is past, gone -- gone, never more to return!' I entreated him not to be too hasty, and to pray. He answered, 'I cannot pray; my heart is quite hardened, I have no desire to receive any blessing at the hand of God,' and then cried out, 'Oh, the hell, the torment, the fire that I feel within reel Oh, eternity.' eternity! To dwell forever with devils and damned spirits in the burning lake must be my portion, and that justly!'

On Thursday I found him groaning under the weight of the displeasure of God. His eyes roiled to and fro; he lifted up his hands, and with vehemence cried out, 'Oh, the burning flame, the hell, the pain I feel! I have done, done the deed, the horrible, damnable deed!' I prayed with him, and while I was praying he said with inexpressible rage, 'I will not have salvation at the hand of God! No, no! I will not ask it of Him.'

After a short pause, he cried out, 'Oh, how I long to be in the bottomless pit -- in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone!' The day following I saw him again. I said, 'William, your pain is inexpressible.' He groaned, and with a loud voice cried out, 'Eternity will explain my torments. I tell you again, I am damned. I will not have salvation.' He called me to him as if to speak to me, but as soon as I came within his reach he struck me on the head with all his might, and gnashing his teeth, cried out, 'God will not hear your prayers.'

At another time he said, 'I have crucified the Son of God afresh, and counted the blood of the covenant an unholy thing! Oh, that wicked and horrible deed of blaspheming against the Holy Ghost! which I know I have committed!' He was often heard to exclaim, 'I want nothing but hell! Come, O devil, and take me!' At another time he said, 'Oh, what a terrible thing it is! Once I might, and would not: now I would and must not.' He declared that he was best satisfied when cursing. The day he died, when Mr. Rhodes visited him, and asked the privilege to pray once more with him, he cried out with great strength, considering his weakness, 'No!' and passed away in the evening without God."

Backslider, do you know you are in danger of the fires of hell? Do you know you are fast approaching the

"Line by us unseen

That crosses every path,

That marks the boundary between

God's mercy and His wrath."

You are, and unless you turn quickly, you with William Pope will be writhing in hell through all eternity. God says, "The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own ways." But He says again, "Return, ye backsliding children, and I will heal your backslidings." Oh, come back and be healed before God shall say of you, "He is joined to his idols, let him alone." -- Remarkable Narratives