Modern Proverb
Is it not time for us to grasp the gospel, and to consider upon what terms we took up our profession, and what the cross of Christ means? We have had a long time of comfort and relaxation, and have enjoyed our ministers, and sermons, and ordinances, with freedom; and we have grown dull, and slothful, and sleepy. We will not be awaken from our worldly advantages, nor will we sleep securely without them. Get the love of the world more out of your hearts, and the love of God more into your hearts; and this will make you willing to part with everything rather than part with him, his name, profession, word, or worship.
Who would drive us and pull us from our duty when we ourselves so easily and willingly draw back from it? Let us hold the gospel to our bosoms, embracing it in love and devotion. Let us not be ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Let us stand by our posts. Let not the adversary reproach us with the accusation that we dare not stand to our profession.
God is with us while we are with him. He gives new strength according to the day. It is not holding out a while, but is enduring to the end. The blessing is to that person who overcomes. The greatest safety lies in our duty to Christ, and keeping close to it. He is most in danger, and runs himself into it, that declines duty for fear of the cross, and suffering from men. It has been our great error that we have not trusted in the power of God. We have reasoned about the worst that men can do, but have not believed the best that God can do. Sense and carnal reason must be left behind in the things of God. We must not consult with flesh and blood.
Religion is still for standing and going forward. There is no armor for the back.
- We must take up the cross presently, duty must not be delayed: no, not a moment, when there is opportunity.
- Is not a season of suffering righteously to be prized as much or more than a season of grace?
- Do we know that God will ever honor us with such an opportunity, if we neglected this?
Get the love of the world more out of your hearts, and the love of God more into your hearts; and this will make you willing to part with everything rather than part with him, his name, profession, word, or worship.
—A portion of the first letter written by the Baptist Elder John Hardcastle from prison to his church in Bristol England dated Aug 18, 1675. He had been arrested for preaching and holding an unlawful church service. (Violation of the Three Mile Law)
Written from Newgate Prison London.
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