Gospel Order

October23

"Do You Deny Christ?"

"And he said to them all, If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me." Luke 9:23

"The teacher of truth needs first to learn his lessons of the Great Teacher. Christ assumed humanity, that he might touch humanity; and he would have his people come as close to hearts as possible in sympathy and love, and yet not sacrifice one principle of truth. There are subjects that we can dwell upon that will not arouse a combative spirit. Speak of Christ and him crucified. There are very many groping in darkness. The cry of the soul is, "What must I do to be saved?" There are souls starving for their portion of meat in due season. If the Word is rightly divided, these souls will receive just what they need. The gospel of Christ must be presented in its simplicity; but no one can communicate that which he has not received. In order to confess Christ, he must have Christ abiding in his own heart. In words and deeds there must be a visible representation of Christ. Men may speak fluently upon doctrines, and may express strong faith in theories, but do they possess Christlike meekness and love? A spirit contrary to the love, humility, meekness, and gentleness of Christ denies him, whatever may be the profession. We deny Christ when we speak evil one of another. We deny him in foolish talking, in jesting and joking. We deny him when we have a selfish spirit, criticising our brethren. We deny him in seeking to be first, seeking honor one of another. We may deny Christ in outward appearance by gratifying a proud heart, by lifting up the soul unto vanity, and by uncourteous behavior." {BEcho, March 1, 1892}