Article April 16, 1904 Issue

From Our Exchanges

Christ is the way to Christ, and the sooner we enter that way by appropriating his teaching and growing into his spirit, the sooner shall we come to that end that is the true attitude for the soul and its true rest and joy. It is this that Paul calls "looking unto Jesus," and that Peter calls "setting the Lord ever before you." These are expressions that signify the coming to Jesus in the true spiritual meaning of the words. For whatever lifts us up, and refines us, and improves our tempers and inward states, is carrying us gradually, even if remotely, that way. Whatever brings us near to the high level whereon he stands, nears us to him. Whatever betters us in the spirit of our lives, so that we are made more like him and the Father who sent him, and the final perfection of the glorified, is virtually a means of approximation and victory. The verities and obediences, however practised, lead up and lead on from less to more and from lower to higher, even to that point wherein we shall reach the measure and stature of the fulness of Christ.—The Universalist Leader.

While it is absolutely true that we cannot save ourselves by any effort of our own, it is also true that our will must co-operate with the will of God in the process of salvation. God cannot save those who do not want to be saved. His Spirit may strive long with a reluctant soul, but until that soul yields its opposition and willingly receives Christ, it will not find salvation. When in that memorable walk to Emmaus, the disciples came to the village whither they were bound, Jesus "made as though he would go further." He would not enter without invitation. But how quickly he responded to their desire that he should abide with them! So, gladly, he enters every heart that invites his presence; but he will not force his way in, an uninvited guest.

The Examiner.

Send a comment to the editors

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit

From Our Exchanges

We'd love to hear from you!

Sign up for unlimited access