“Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.” — Ephesians 6:10
The Holy Spirit, Christ’s representative, arms the weakest with might to press forward unto victory. God has organized his instrumentalities to draw all men unto him. He sends forth to his work many who have not been dedicated by the laying on of hands. He answers objections that would arise against this method of labor, even before they arise. God sees the end from the beginning. He knows and anticipates every want, and provides for every emergency. If finite men to whom he commits his work, do not bar the way, God will send forth laborers into his vineyard. To every converted soul he says: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” It is not necessary that the Lord should first sit in earthly legislative councils, and inquire of those who think they must plan for his work, “Will you permit men whom I have chosen, to unite with you in working in some part of my moral vineyard?”
Christ was standing only a few steps from his heavenly throne when he gave his commission to his disciples, and included as missionaries all who would believe on his name. Jesus wants every minister to whom he has committed a sacred trust, to remember his injunctions, to consider the vastness of his work, and to place the obligation of preaching the gospel to the world upon the large number to whom it belongs. “Thus it is written, and thus it behooved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day; and that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem.” The power of God was to go with those that proclaimed the gospel.
God has appointed a day in which He will judge the world. Christ tells us when that day will be ushered in and says, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness … and then shall the end come.” [Matthew 24:14.]
He who works with an eye single to the glory of God will have increased light as He imparts light. He will see and realize the value of souls, and contact with an unconverted soul will lead him to kindle his taper at the divine altar, and bear its light to his fellow men. God will use the most humble men, even if they have not been ordained. Let all open the heart to the voice and knock of Jesus, and let Him in. (1)
Charge for the Day: God wants to use you in His work. He has commissioned you and He will equip you. Open your heart to the voice and knock of Jesus, and let Him in.
1. The Home Missionary, August 1, 1896