1 00:00:00,900 --> 00:00:04,771 A Good Soldier of Jesus Christ by Charles Haddon Spurgeon, 2 00:00:04,771 --> 00:00:06,573 preached in 1870. 3 00:00:06,573 --> 00:00:08,541 Audio produced by scroll reader. 4 00:00:08,541 --> 00:00:10,343 Icon 5 00:00:10,343 --> 00:00:13,446 a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 6 00:00:13,446 --> 00:00:16,750 Second Timothy, chapter two. 7 00:00:16,750 --> 00:00:19,953 Many people, many opinions 8 00:00:19,953 --> 00:00:22,489 when it comes to defining what a Christian is. 9 00:00:22,489 --> 00:00:25,925 There have been numerous and diverse viewpoints. 10 00:00:25,925 --> 00:00:30,830 Some believe that a Christian is someone with very refined tastes. 11 00:00:30,830 --> 00:00:33,967 This person cannot worship unless they are in a place 12 00:00:33,967 --> 00:00:37,937 with perfectly gothic architecture or else are sensitive, 13 00:00:37,937 --> 00:00:39,873 so would be offended. 14 00:00:39,873 --> 00:00:42,842 They find it difficult to pray properly 15 00:00:42,842 --> 00:00:47,781 unless their devotions are accompanied by the finest music. 16 00:00:47,781 --> 00:00:50,417 Even then, they may not succeed 17 00:00:50,417 --> 00:00:52,385 unless they are assisted by gentlemen 18 00:00:52,385 --> 00:00:55,588 whose lineage can be traced as clearly as race horses, 19 00:00:55,588 --> 00:00:57,123 and whose clothing is tailored 20 00:00:57,123 --> 00:01:00,660 according to the latest ecclesiastical fashion guidelines 21 00:01:00,660 --> 00:01:02,862 for each season of the year. 22 00:01:02,862 --> 00:01:06,366 If this is what it means to be a Christian today, 23 00:01:06,366 --> 00:01:09,869 it must be admitted that Paul said little 24 00:01:09,869 --> 00:01:14,340 about such a delicate and artistic type of person. 25 00:01:14,340 --> 00:01:17,811 Unless, of course, he was referring to it in Galatians 26 00:01:17,811 --> 00:01:22,015 chapter four, which you can read at your leisure. 27 00:01:22,015 --> 00:01:27,754 Even Paul's master would not acknowledge this kind of Christian. 28 00:01:27,754 --> 00:01:30,890 To some, a Christian is a spiritual. 29 00:01:30,890 --> 00:01:36,196 Or may he attend sermons only to be spiritually fed. 30 00:01:36,196 --> 00:01:41,267 He strongly disapproves of any sermon aimed at converting sinners. 31 00:01:41,267 --> 00:01:45,805 Viewing the Bible solely as a source of personal comfort. 32 00:01:45,805 --> 00:01:49,709 The more any doctrinal teaching promises him exclusive blessings 33 00:01:49,709 --> 00:01:53,313 and excludes others, the more he enjoys it. 34 00:01:53,313 --> 00:01:56,149 For him, part of the delight is believing that 35 00:01:56,149 --> 00:02:00,753 only a select few can share in these blessings. 36 00:02:00,753 --> 00:02:05,525 For him, living is about enjoyment, not service 37 00:02:05,525 --> 00:02:08,061 to satisfy his selfish desires. 38 00:02:08,061 --> 00:02:12,365 He would embrace the free invitations of the gospel. 39 00:02:12,365 --> 00:02:16,503 He is not just a hearer, but certainly not a doer. 40 00:02:16,503 --> 00:02:20,440 He is merely a hearer and a consumer of the Word of God. 41 00:02:20,440 --> 00:02:25,078 In a rather crude sense and nothing more. 42 00:02:25,078 --> 00:02:28,381 This is not Paul's ideal of a Christian. 43 00:02:28,381 --> 00:02:32,252 Paul envisions a Christian not with a napkin in the hand, 44 00:02:32,252 --> 00:02:36,222 sitting at a banquet table, but with a sword strapped to his side, 45 00:02:36,222 --> 00:02:38,424 ready for battle. 46 00:02:38,424 --> 00:02:39,392 To some, 47 00:02:39,392 --> 00:02:44,164 the pinnacle of being a Christian is to be a great reader, 48 00:02:44,164 --> 00:02:47,000 a profound student of the best books. 49 00:02:47,000 --> 00:02:51,771 But only for the purpose of composing spiritual riddles. 50 00:02:51,771 --> 00:02:54,674 He reads with no practical end in mind. 51 00:02:54,674 --> 00:02:58,945 He is a picker of words, a scrutinize r of syllables, 52 00:02:58,945 --> 00:03:01,981 a magnifier of minute detail, 53 00:03:01,981 --> 00:03:04,951 an expert in biblical hair splitting. 54 00:03:04,951 --> 00:03:07,420 The more a passage confuses others, 55 00:03:07,420 --> 00:03:10,323 the more certain he is of its meaning. 56 00:03:10,323 --> 00:03:13,993 He values things with a least practical relevance 57 00:03:13,993 --> 00:03:18,331 and is a people through spiritual spy glasses, believing 58 00:03:18,331 --> 00:03:23,303 he can interpret what wiser men leave to God. 59 00:03:23,303 --> 00:03:26,105 He chases after spiritual trivialities 60 00:03:26,105 --> 00:03:30,109 that, even if caught, would never be worth the effort. 61 00:03:30,109 --> 00:03:35,281 While he holds more important matters in low regard. 62 00:03:35,281 --> 00:03:38,685 This is not Paul's vision of a Christian, 63 00:03:38,685 --> 00:03:41,487 as the apostle was no lover of foolish 64 00:03:41,487 --> 00:03:45,091 and unlearned questions that lead to strife. 65 00:03:45,091 --> 00:03:49,095 Unfortunately, I must also add that for some, 66 00:03:49,095 --> 00:03:52,498 the ideal Christian is someone who can sleep 67 00:03:52,498 --> 00:03:55,535 through life in blissful serenity. 68 00:03:55,535 --> 00:03:59,305 A man who, having believed or professed to believe in 69 00:03:59,305 --> 00:04:03,042 Christ, thinks his life's work is complete real. 70 00:04:03,042 --> 00:04:07,814 From then on, he says to himself, so take it easy. 71 00:04:07,814 --> 00:04:10,483 You have much stored up for many years. 72 00:04:10,483 --> 00:04:13,553 Eat, drink and be merry. 73 00:04:13,553 --> 00:04:15,021 In the gospel. 74 00:04:15,021 --> 00:04:19,192 But as for feeding the hungry or clothing the naked, he asks. 75 00:04:19,192 --> 00:04:21,160 Am I my brother's keeper? 76 00:04:21,160 --> 00:04:23,363 What does that have to do with me? 77 00:04:23,363 --> 00:04:24,897 Look after yourself. 78 00:04:24,897 --> 00:04:28,201 And if you are right, let fate, Providence 79 00:04:28,201 --> 00:04:32,305 or sovereignty take care of the rest. 80 00:04:32,305 --> 00:04:34,641 Paul did not envision true believers 81 00:04:34,641 --> 00:04:39,512 as lazy individuals comfortably sleeping on the softest beds. 82 00:04:39,512 --> 00:04:43,583 Instead, he described a Christian as a soldier, 83 00:04:43,583 --> 00:04:46,986 which is vastly different from a religious dandy 84 00:04:46,986 --> 00:04:49,889 who delights in music and fine clothing. 85 00:04:49,889 --> 00:04:53,660 A theological critic who nitpicked at every word, 86 00:04:53,660 --> 00:04:57,930 a spiritual glutton who only seeks lifelong enjoyment, 87 00:04:57,930 --> 00:05:02,602 or a churchgoer who only desires personal peace. 88 00:05:02,602 --> 00:05:06,439 Paul portrays a Christian as a soldier, 89 00:05:06,439 --> 00:05:11,110 and that is a completely different matter. 90 00:05:11,110 --> 00:05:13,112 What is a soldier? 91 00:05:13,112 --> 00:05:15,481 A soldier is a practical person, 92 00:05:15,481 --> 00:05:19,352 someone with hard, demanding work to do. 93 00:05:19,352 --> 00:05:22,155 While he might sometimes wear the finery of war 94 00:05:22,155 --> 00:05:26,392 during moments of ease, real warfare is different. 95 00:05:26,392 --> 00:05:30,363 It involves dust, smoke and blood stained garments, 96 00:05:30,363 --> 00:05:34,634 hacked swords, dented armor, and bruised shields. 97 00:05:34,634 --> 00:05:38,538 These mark a true dedicated soldier 98 00:05:38,538 --> 00:05:43,343 to truly serve God, to genuinely display Christian virtues, 99 00:05:43,343 --> 00:05:46,713 to accomplish a meaningful life's work for Christ, 100 00:05:46,713 --> 00:05:48,514 and to win souls. 101 00:05:48,514 --> 00:05:53,986 This is the fruit worthy of a Christian. 102 00:05:53,986 --> 00:05:54,721 A soldier 103 00:05:54,721 --> 00:05:58,458 is a person of action, not just words. 104 00:05:58,458 --> 00:06:01,894 He must fight and struggle during wartime. 105 00:06:01,894 --> 00:06:04,430 His life is far from luxurious. 106 00:06:04,430 --> 00:06:05,565 In the dead of night, 107 00:06:05,565 --> 00:06:09,068 when he is most exhausted, the trumpet may sound, 108 00:06:09,068 --> 00:06:13,473 calling him to action just when he would prefer to rest. 109 00:06:13,473 --> 00:06:18,111 Similarly, the Christian is a soldier in enemy territory, 110 00:06:18,111 --> 00:06:23,316 always needing to stand God and contend not with flesh and blood, 111 00:06:23,316 --> 00:06:28,788 but with far worse foes, spiritual wickedness in high places. 112 00:06:28,788 --> 00:06:31,090 The Christian, like the soldier, 113 00:06:31,090 --> 00:06:34,894 must be self-sacrificing to protect his country. 114 00:06:34,894 --> 00:06:39,632 The soldier exposes himself to danger to serve his king. 115 00:06:39,632 --> 00:06:43,102 He must be ready to lay down his life. 116 00:06:43,102 --> 00:06:46,806 Surely anyone who has never felt the spirit of self-sacrifice 117 00:06:46,806 --> 00:06:49,709 cannot call himself a Christian. 118 00:06:49,709 --> 00:06:52,879 Living for oneself is living for the flesh, 119 00:06:52,879 --> 00:06:55,014 which leads to corruption. 120 00:06:55,014 --> 00:06:59,819 Only those who live for God, for Christ, for the truth, 121 00:06:59,819 --> 00:07:02,655 for the church, and for the noble cause, 122 00:07:02,655 --> 00:07:05,358 only they can truly be considered 123 00:07:05,358 --> 00:07:08,361 soldiers of Jesus Christ. 124 00:07:08,361 --> 00:07:13,733 A soldier is a servant not living for his own pleasure. 125 00:07:13,733 --> 00:07:17,703 He follows strict laws and rules 126 00:07:17,703 --> 00:07:22,575 with each hour of the day dedicated to prescribed duties. 127 00:07:22,575 --> 00:07:26,712 He must obey the commands of others rather than his own will. 128 00:07:26,712 --> 00:07:29,582 Similarly, Christians serve the Lord Jesus Christ 129 00:07:29,582 --> 00:07:32,852 while we are no longer enslaved by human expectations. 130 00:07:32,852 --> 00:07:36,122 We are devoted servants of Christ who has freed us. 131 00:07:36,122 --> 00:07:39,025 A soldier often endures suffering. 132 00:07:39,025 --> 00:07:43,496 There are wounds, hardships, and frequent stays in the hospital. 133 00:07:43,496 --> 00:07:48,968 Sometimes facing injuries so severe that they threaten life itself. 134 00:07:48,968 --> 00:07:53,005 The Christian soldier must also be ready to suffer 135 00:07:53,005 --> 00:07:57,443 enduring hardships, not seeking worldly pleasures, 136 00:07:57,443 --> 00:08:02,915 but finding joy in sacrificing, for Christ's sake. 137 00:08:02,915 --> 00:08:03,983 Moreover, 138 00:08:03,983 --> 00:08:07,420 a true soldier is driven by ambition. 139 00:08:07,420 --> 00:08:12,091 He seeks honor and glory, earning accolades on the battlefield 140 00:08:12,091 --> 00:08:16,162 and gaining renown amidst countless dangers. 141 00:08:16,162 --> 00:08:19,365 The Christian, however, is driven by higher ambitions 142 00:08:19,365 --> 00:08:21,400 than any earthly warrior. 143 00:08:21,400 --> 00:08:25,905 He sees a crown that will never fade and serves a king 144 00:08:25,905 --> 00:08:28,908 who is supremely worthy of service. 145 00:08:28,908 --> 00:08:31,644 He is motivated by a divine spirit, 146 00:08:31,644 --> 00:08:36,349 propelling him to noble deeds and self-sacrificing actions. 147 00:08:36,349 --> 00:08:39,552 Thus, the Christian is a soldier, 148 00:08:39,552 --> 00:08:42,522 and a key aspect of the Christian life 149 00:08:42,522 --> 00:08:45,558 is to contend earnestly for the faith 150 00:08:45,558 --> 00:08:49,795 and fight valiantly against sin. 151 00:08:49,795 --> 00:08:53,933 Paul does not urge Timothy to be just an ordinary soldier, 152 00:08:53,933 --> 00:08:57,003 but to be a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 153 00:08:57,003 --> 00:09:02,008 Not all soldiers, even true ones, are good soldiers. 154 00:09:02,008 --> 00:09:05,711 Some are barely soldiers, succumbing to temptation 155 00:09:05,711 --> 00:09:10,950 and becoming cowardly, idle, useless, and worthless. 156 00:09:10,950 --> 00:09:12,518 A good soldier, however, 157 00:09:12,518 --> 00:09:16,222 is the bravest of the brave, courageous at all times. 158 00:09:16,222 --> 00:09:21,260 He is zealous, performing his duties with heart and earnestness. 159 00:09:21,260 --> 00:09:26,365 A good soldier of Jesus Christ, through divine grace, strives 160 00:09:26,365 --> 00:09:31,304 to become as capable of serving the Lord as possible. 161 00:09:31,304 --> 00:09:33,673 He seeks to grow in grace 162 00:09:33,673 --> 00:09:37,143 and to be perfected in every good word and work, 163 00:09:37,143 --> 00:09:40,846 making himself fit for the roughest and sternest service 164 00:09:40,846 --> 00:09:46,085 in his master's battles, ready to bear the brunt of the fray. 165 00:09:46,085 --> 00:09:48,955 David had many soldiers and good ones too. 166 00:09:48,955 --> 00:09:51,490 But remember, it was said of many, 167 00:09:51,490 --> 00:09:54,994 these attained not unto the first three. 168 00:09:54,994 --> 00:09:59,432 Now, if I understand Paul correctly, he wanted Timothy to strive 169 00:09:59,432 --> 00:10:03,936 to be among the first three, to be a good soldier. 170 00:10:03,936 --> 00:10:06,072 This morning I would encourage 171 00:10:06,072 --> 00:10:10,343 my dear comrades in Christ little army gathered here. 172 00:10:10,343 --> 00:10:14,080 Let each of us strive to be among the first three. 173 00:10:14,080 --> 00:10:17,883 Let us seek to be numbered among the King's mightiest, 174 00:10:17,883 --> 00:10:21,287 doing noble work and honorable service, 175 00:10:21,287 --> 00:10:24,624 bringing fresh glory to our master's cause. 176 00:10:24,624 --> 00:10:28,094 Let us earnestly desire the best gifts, 177 00:10:28,094 --> 00:10:32,031 and as we have been for given much, let us love much, 178 00:10:32,031 --> 00:10:37,003 and prove that love through our actions. 179 00:10:37,003 --> 00:10:39,805 Before I fully delve into this metaphor, 180 00:10:39,805 --> 00:10:43,409 let me clarify that although we will use military terms 181 00:10:43,409 --> 00:10:47,346 and stirring language this morning, we must remember 182 00:10:47,346 --> 00:10:51,150 that our battle is not against people. 183 00:10:51,150 --> 00:10:53,552 The weapons we use are not meant 184 00:10:53,552 --> 00:10:56,522 for the deadly conflicts of mankind. 185 00:10:56,522 --> 00:10:59,191 A Christian's wars are against principles 186 00:10:59,191 --> 00:11:02,328 since the miseries of humanity 187 00:11:02,328 --> 00:11:06,832 and the evil one, who has led man astray from his maker. 188 00:11:06,832 --> 00:11:09,802 Our battles are against the iniquity that keeps man 189 00:11:09,802 --> 00:11:11,837 an enemy to himself. 190 00:11:11,837 --> 00:11:14,940 The weapons we wield are holy arguments. 191 00:11:14,940 --> 00:11:16,509 Consecrate lives. 192 00:11:16,509 --> 00:11:19,412 Devotion. Prayer to God. 193 00:11:19,412 --> 00:11:23,883 Teaching and setting an example among our fellow men. 194 00:11:23,883 --> 00:11:26,185 Our battle is for peace 195 00:11:26,185 --> 00:11:29,288 and our fight is for rest. 196 00:11:29,288 --> 00:11:32,291 We disturb the world to bring it tranquility 197 00:11:32,291 --> 00:11:34,160 and turn it upside down. 198 00:11:34,160 --> 00:11:35,728 To set it right. 199 00:11:35,728 --> 00:11:37,563 We pull down strongholds 200 00:11:37,563 --> 00:11:40,800 to prevent them from destroying the Zion of God. 201 00:11:40,800 --> 00:11:42,401 We overthrow the mighty 202 00:11:42,401 --> 00:11:46,706 so that the humble and meek may be estab lished. 203 00:11:46,706 --> 00:11:50,242 We have no sympathy for any other type of war, and consider it 204 00:11:50,242 --> 00:11:51,844 an evil of the dearest. 205 00:11:51,844 --> 00:11:55,481 Its sort, no matter how it is disguised. 206 00:11:55,481 --> 00:11:57,016 With that caution in mind. 207 00:11:57,016 --> 00:12:00,119 Let nothing I say suggest that I love 208 00:12:00,119 --> 00:12:03,155 or excuse ordinary warfare, 209 00:12:03,155 --> 00:12:06,959 for nothing is more abhorrent to a Christian 210 00:12:06,959 --> 00:12:10,863 than widespread violence and killing. 211 00:12:10,863 --> 00:12:13,332 We long for the promised era, 212 00:12:13,332 --> 00:12:17,403 when men shall beat their swords into plowshares 213 00:12:17,403 --> 00:12:21,941 and their spears into pruning hooks. 214 00:12:21,941 --> 00:12:22,908 Now let us 215 00:12:22,908 --> 00:12:26,078 proceed with the work of this morning. 216 00:12:26,078 --> 00:12:31,484 First, we will describe what makes a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 217 00:12:31,484 --> 00:12:35,888 And then we will exhort you to become one. 218 00:12:35,888 --> 00:12:39,258 I first, then this morning 219 00:12:39,258 --> 00:12:45,731 we shall endeavor to describe a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 220 00:12:45,731 --> 00:12:48,667 We must begin with his fundamental point. 221 00:12:48,667 --> 00:12:51,804 He must be loyal to his King. 222 00:12:51,804 --> 00:12:54,173 A soldier of Jesus Christ acknowledges 223 00:12:54,173 --> 00:12:58,077 the divine Redeemer as his King, and confesses his soul 224 00:12:58,077 --> 00:13:01,514 and undivided sovereignty in the spiritual kingdom. 225 00:13:01,514 --> 00:13:05,117 He abhors Antichrist in all its forms 226 00:13:05,117 --> 00:13:06,685 and every principle 227 00:13:06,685 --> 00:13:10,623 that opposes the reign of the beloved Prince of Peace. 228 00:13:10,623 --> 00:13:15,227 To him, Jesus is both Lord and God. 229 00:13:15,227 --> 00:13:16,662 On the day he enlisted. 230 00:13:16,662 --> 00:13:20,599 He symbolically put his finger into the print of the nails 231 00:13:20,599 --> 00:13:26,605 and said, With Thomas, my Lord, and my God. 232 00:13:26,605 --> 00:13:27,373 This was his 233 00:13:27,373 --> 00:13:31,177 enlistment declaration, and he remains true to it. 234 00:13:31,177 --> 00:13:33,913 Christ is all is his motto. 235 00:13:33,913 --> 00:13:39,285 And winning all men to obedience to Emmanuel is his life's mission 236 00:13:39,285 --> 00:13:43,055 until he sheaths his sword in the final victory, 237 00:13:43,055 --> 00:13:47,359 the Crucified One remains the sole monarch of his soul. 238 00:13:47,359 --> 00:13:49,628 He lives for him and is willing 239 00:13:49,628 --> 00:13:52,731 even to die for him. 240 00:13:52,731 --> 00:13:55,034 He has entered into a solemn league 241 00:13:55,034 --> 00:13:59,405 and covenant to uphold against all opposition. 242 00:13:59,405 --> 00:14:01,807 That Jesus Christ is Lord 243 00:14:01,807 --> 00:14:05,911 to the glory of God the Father. 244 00:14:05,911 --> 00:14:09,148 Moreover, the Christian soldier not only acknowledges 245 00:14:09,148 --> 00:14:12,651 Jesus as his King, but his heart is also full 246 00:14:12,651 --> 00:14:16,055 of loving devotion to him. 247 00:14:16,055 --> 00:14:18,157 Nothing makes his heart leap 248 00:14:18,157 --> 00:14:22,394 like the mention of that exalted more than royal name. 249 00:14:22,394 --> 00:14:24,930 He remembers who Jesus is, 250 00:14:24,930 --> 00:14:27,766 the son of God, the wonderful, 251 00:14:27,766 --> 00:14:30,936 the counselor, the mighty God. 252 00:14:30,936 --> 00:14:34,273 He remembers what Jesus did, how he loved him, 253 00:14:34,273 --> 00:14:37,309 and gave himself for him. 254 00:14:37,309 --> 00:14:40,479 He looks to the cross and recalls the streams of blood 255 00:14:40,479 --> 00:14:42,381 by which the elect were redeemed, 256 00:14:42,381 --> 00:14:45,451 even when they were enemies of God. 257 00:14:45,451 --> 00:14:47,853 He remembers Christ in heaven, 258 00:14:47,853 --> 00:14:51,690 enthroned at the right hand of the father. 259 00:14:51,690 --> 00:14:53,359 He loves him there, 260 00:14:53,359 --> 00:14:57,630 and it thrills his heart to think that God has highly exalted 261 00:14:57,630 --> 00:15:01,200 the once despised and rejected one, giving him a name 262 00:15:01,200 --> 00:15:04,970 above every name, so that at the name of Jesus 263 00:15:04,970 --> 00:15:08,173 every knee shall bow in heaven, 264 00:15:08,173 --> 00:15:10,843 on earth, and under the earth. 265 00:15:10,843 --> 00:15:15,180 He longs for the day when the crucified one will come in his glory, 266 00:15:15,180 --> 00:15:18,651 and rule the nations as their rightful Lord. 267 00:15:18,651 --> 00:15:24,156 He loves Jesus so deeply that he feels he belongs entirely to him. 268 00:15:24,156 --> 00:15:27,559 But with his blood redeemed by his power 269 00:15:27,559 --> 00:15:30,095 and comforted by his presence, 270 00:15:30,095 --> 00:15:33,399 he delights in knowing that he is not his own. 271 00:15:33,399 --> 00:15:36,135 For he is bought with a price, 272 00:15:36,135 --> 00:15:40,306 because he loves his King with an unquenchable ardor. 273 00:15:40,306 --> 00:15:46,078 Many waters cannot drown this love, nor can floods quench it. 274 00:15:46,078 --> 00:15:49,081 He also loves all the king's brethren 275 00:15:49,081 --> 00:15:52,451 and servants for the king's sake. 276 00:15:52,451 --> 00:15:56,555 He greets his fellow soldiers with heartfelt affection. 277 00:15:56,555 --> 00:16:00,159 He loves the grand old banner of the gospel 278 00:16:00,159 --> 00:16:04,663 and prays for the wind of the Holy Spirit to raise it 279 00:16:04,663 --> 00:16:09,435 so all eyes may behold its beauty. 280 00:16:09,435 --> 00:16:13,339 He is steadfast in the faith once delivered to the saints, 281 00:16:13,339 --> 00:16:17,109 and rejoices in every doctrine of the gospel. 282 00:16:17,109 --> 00:16:21,447 Willing to lay down his life to preserve it for the world. 283 00:16:21,447 --> 00:16:24,883 Above all, he loves the crown of his king 284 00:16:24,883 --> 00:16:27,486 and the cause of his master. 285 00:16:27,486 --> 00:16:31,023 Oh, if only he could elevate the captain of his salvation 286 00:16:31,023 --> 00:16:33,058 higher among men. 287 00:16:33,058 --> 00:16:38,897 He would be content to die in a ditch of neglect and scorn. 288 00:16:38,897 --> 00:16:42,134 If he could see the king come into his own. 289 00:16:42,134 --> 00:16:45,104 And the heir of all things, loyally acknowledged 290 00:16:45,104 --> 00:16:49,308 by his revolted provinces, he would be satisfied. 291 00:16:49,308 --> 00:16:52,544 No matter what became of himself. 292 00:16:52,544 --> 00:16:55,414 His heart is more than loyal. 293 00:16:55,414 --> 00:16:58,317 It is filled with personal affection 294 00:16:58,317 --> 00:17:01,487 for the chief among 10,000. 295 00:17:01,487 --> 00:17:05,758 I ask you, brethren, is this true for you? 296 00:17:05,758 --> 00:17:07,960 Believing? Yes. 297 00:17:07,960 --> 00:17:10,529 Knowing that it is true for many. 298 00:17:10,529 --> 00:17:15,768 I pray to God that it would be true for all. 299 00:17:15,768 --> 00:17:18,404 Brethren, I know you love Jesus well. 300 00:17:18,404 --> 00:17:22,741 No music sounds as sweetly to your ears as his charming name. 301 00:17:22,741 --> 00:17:27,112 No song of the finest minstrel is half as sweet. 302 00:17:27,112 --> 00:17:30,983 The very thought of him fills your heart with rapture. 303 00:17:30,983 --> 00:17:35,387 You assuredly possess one of the primary marks of good soldiers. 304 00:17:35,387 --> 00:17:36,121 Continue. 305 00:17:36,121 --> 00:17:40,292 I urge you to strive for what lies beyond. 306 00:17:40,292 --> 00:17:42,961 The next characteristic of a good soldier 307 00:17:42,961 --> 00:17:46,598 is obedience to his captain's commands. 308 00:17:46,598 --> 00:17:49,768 He would be no soldier at all 309 00:17:49,768 --> 00:17:53,472 if he did not take his marching orders from his leader, 310 00:17:53,472 --> 00:17:57,910 but instead acted according to his own will. 311 00:17:57,910 --> 00:18:01,213 Such a soldier would soon be dismissed from service, 312 00:18:01,213 --> 00:18:05,084 if not shot by order of a court martial, for crimes 313 00:18:05,084 --> 00:18:09,121 that military rule cannot tolerate 314 00:18:09,121 --> 00:18:11,156 now without expanding further. 315 00:18:11,156 --> 00:18:16,261 On this illustration, let me ask every Christian here and myself. 316 00:18:16,261 --> 00:18:19,498 First of all, are we doing all the masters? 317 00:18:19,498 --> 00:18:20,666 Will? 318 00:18:20,666 --> 00:18:23,902 Do we truly seek to know the master's will? 319 00:18:23,902 --> 00:18:27,606 I would not want any part of the Scripture to be distasteful to me. 320 00:18:27,606 --> 00:18:28,440 I would tremble 321 00:18:28,440 --> 00:18:32,311 if there were portions of my Lord's testimony that I feared to read 322 00:18:32,311 --> 00:18:35,280 or founded. Convenient to forget. 323 00:18:35,280 --> 00:18:37,416 It is a terrible when people feel 324 00:18:37,416 --> 00:18:40,652 compelled to skip over certain texts 325 00:18:40,652 --> 00:18:44,289 or manipulate them to fit their beliefs. 326 00:18:44,289 --> 00:18:47,292 We should not practice an ordinance merely 327 00:18:47,292 --> 00:18:52,064 because our church teaches it, or our parents believed in it. 328 00:18:52,064 --> 00:18:53,866 We must read the scriptures 329 00:18:53,866 --> 00:18:56,702 and investigate the questions for ourselves, or 330 00:18:56,702 --> 00:19:01,006 we are not showing proper respect to our Lord. 331 00:19:01,006 --> 00:19:01,840 A soldier 332 00:19:01,840 --> 00:19:05,310 who doesn't bother to read his superiors orders 333 00:19:05,310 --> 00:19:09,114 might rightly be suspected of mutiny. 334 00:19:09,114 --> 00:19:11,617 Disobedience festers in any heart 335 00:19:11,617 --> 00:19:15,954 where there is carelessness about knowing the Lord's will. 336 00:19:15,954 --> 00:19:21,026 Be courageous enough always to confront Scripture directly. 337 00:19:21,026 --> 00:19:24,830 It is, after all, your basic duty. 338 00:19:24,830 --> 00:19:27,733 It is better for us to change our views daily 339 00:19:27,733 --> 00:19:31,036 in the pursuit of truth, than to stubbornly hold on to them 340 00:19:31,036 --> 00:19:34,139 while suspecting we might be wrong. 341 00:19:34,139 --> 00:19:37,376 Living a life of obedience is a greater matter 342 00:19:37,376 --> 00:19:39,144 than some might think. 343 00:19:39,144 --> 00:19:42,247 Obedience is not a second rate virtue. 344 00:19:42,247 --> 00:19:45,150 To obey is better than sacrifice, 345 00:19:45,150 --> 00:19:48,420 and to hearken than the fat of rams. 346 00:19:48,420 --> 00:19:51,323 Jesus did not say, if you love me, 347 00:19:51,323 --> 00:19:55,561 go to the stake for me, or preach before kings for me. 348 00:19:55,561 --> 00:20:00,165 No, he said, if you love me, keep my commandments 349 00:20:00,165 --> 00:20:04,570 as if this were the surest and most accepted test of love. 350 00:20:04,570 --> 00:20:07,472 Therefore, may you be loyal to the King, 351 00:20:07,472 --> 00:20:13,812 and in the second place, obedient to his commands. 352 00:20:13,812 --> 00:20:17,316 The third important aspect for a good soldier to remember 353 00:20:17,316 --> 00:20:18,483 is this 354 00:20:18,483 --> 00:20:22,654 if he is indeed a first class soldier worthy of the service, 355 00:20:22,654 --> 00:20:26,358 his ruling passion must be to conquer. 356 00:20:26,358 --> 00:20:29,561 When the fight is on and a soldier's blood is up, 357 00:20:29,561 --> 00:20:32,531 he feels an unwavering determination. 358 00:20:32,531 --> 00:20:36,001 I must drive the enemy from his entrenchment. 359 00:20:36,001 --> 00:20:38,437 I must take that position. 360 00:20:38,437 --> 00:20:42,975 I must plant our conquering standard on the enemy's castle. 361 00:20:42,975 --> 00:20:45,811 Or I must die trying. 362 00:20:45,811 --> 00:20:47,279 Cursed be the sun. 363 00:20:47,279 --> 00:20:51,450 If it sets today and sees me retreat, he is resolved 364 00:20:51,450 --> 00:20:54,753 to win or die on the battlefield. 365 00:20:54,753 --> 00:20:57,389 Similarly, a Christian man driven 366 00:20:57,389 --> 00:21:01,994 to win souls, for Christ, to proclaim his truth and to establish 367 00:21:01,994 --> 00:21:06,732 Christ Church in new places is just as ready to suffer or die. 368 00:21:06,732 --> 00:21:11,270 As the boldest member of the most renowned regiment. 369 00:21:11,270 --> 00:21:14,172 To achieve this, he disentangled himself 370 00:21:14,172 --> 00:21:18,944 from all other ambitions and aims, for he that was 371 00:21:18,944 --> 00:21:23,448 does not entangle himself with the affairs of this life. 372 00:21:23,448 --> 00:21:26,285 For a good soldier of Christ, 373 00:21:26,285 --> 00:21:30,289 the master passion is to spread the gospel 374 00:21:30,289 --> 00:21:33,825 and save souls from perishing. 375 00:21:33,825 --> 00:21:38,964 He would rather do this and be poor than be rich and neglected. 376 00:21:38,964 --> 00:21:42,634 He would prefer to be useful and live unknown, 377 00:21:42,634 --> 00:21:46,405 then rank among the great ones of the earth, and be useless 378 00:21:46,405 --> 00:21:48,173 to his Lord. 379 00:21:48,173 --> 00:21:50,842 A truly good soldier of Jesus Christ 380 00:21:50,842 --> 00:21:55,314 sees difficulties only as challenges to be overcome. 381 00:21:55,314 --> 00:21:59,651 If his master commands him to perform tasks too hard for him, 382 00:21:59,651 --> 00:22:03,722 he draws upon the resources of omnipotence and achieves 383 00:22:03,722 --> 00:22:05,390 the impossible. 384 00:22:05,390 --> 00:22:08,560 One night, Wellington sent word to his troops 385 00:22:08,560 --> 00:22:12,564 Ciudad Rodrigo must be taken to night. 386 00:22:12,564 --> 00:22:14,966 The British soldiers chosen for the attack 387 00:22:14,966 --> 00:22:19,071 simply responded, then we will do it 388 00:22:19,071 --> 00:22:22,474 in the same way when our great captain commands us. 389 00:22:22,474 --> 00:22:27,512 Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature. 390 00:22:27,512 --> 00:22:30,549 If we were truly good soldiers of the cross, 391 00:22:30,549 --> 00:22:34,853 we would immediately say, we will do it, 392 00:22:34,853 --> 00:22:37,155 no matter how difficult the task. 393 00:22:37,155 --> 00:22:41,093 With God Himself as our captain and Jesus 394 00:22:41,093 --> 00:22:43,995 our High Priest, sounding the trumpet. 395 00:22:43,995 --> 00:22:47,366 We will do it in Jehovah's name. 396 00:22:47,366 --> 00:22:51,136 May such unwavering determination ignite your heart. 397 00:22:51,136 --> 00:22:54,106 My brothers and sisters, and may you thus 398 00:22:54,106 --> 00:22:58,710 prove yourselves to be good soldiers of Jesus Christ. 399 00:22:58,710 --> 00:23:00,178 A soldier's drive 400 00:23:00,178 --> 00:23:04,683 for victory often makes him forget everything else 401 00:23:04,683 --> 00:23:07,052 before the Battle of Waterloo. 402 00:23:07,052 --> 00:23:11,690 General Picton had two of his ribs shattered at Quatre Bras. 403 00:23:11,690 --> 00:23:14,326 Yet he hid this serious injury. 404 00:23:14,326 --> 00:23:18,063 Despite the intense pain, he rode at the front of his troops 405 00:23:18,063 --> 00:23:21,199 and led one of the decisive charges of the day. 406 00:23:21,199 --> 00:23:23,168 He never left his post. 407 00:23:23,168 --> 00:23:27,706 Continuing until a bullet crushed his skull and pierced his brain. 408 00:23:27,706 --> 00:23:30,542 The hero fell in the heat of battle. 409 00:23:30,542 --> 00:23:36,047 How few among us could endure such hardship for Jesus? 410 00:23:36,047 --> 00:23:39,084 Oh, that we could bear any suffering 411 00:23:39,084 --> 00:23:42,087 rather than be turned away from fulfilling 412 00:23:42,087 --> 00:23:46,057 our life's work for the one we love. 413 00:23:46,057 --> 00:23:49,261 In that same battle, one of our lieutenants 414 00:23:49,261 --> 00:23:54,766 had his left forearm broken by a shot early in the day. 415 00:23:54,766 --> 00:23:57,569 Unable to hold the reins with his hand, 416 00:23:57,569 --> 00:24:01,740 he sees them with his mouth and fought on until another shot 417 00:24:01,740 --> 00:24:06,211 shattered his upper arm, necessitating amputation. 418 00:24:06,211 --> 00:24:11,216 Yet within two days, with his arm still bleeding and the wound raw, 419 00:24:11,216 --> 00:24:15,187 he was back leading his division. 420 00:24:15,187 --> 00:24:19,124 Brave deeds have been done among our country's soldiers. 421 00:24:19,124 --> 00:24:21,860 Oh, that such brave deeds were common 422 00:24:21,860 --> 00:24:24,863 among the armed men of the church militant. 423 00:24:24,863 --> 00:24:28,200 Would to God that in the face of suffering 424 00:24:28,200 --> 00:24:31,903 we could all persevere in living the holy life. 425 00:24:31,903 --> 00:24:36,541 He calls us to live and in zealously spreading the glorious gospel 426 00:24:36,541 --> 00:24:41,480 that has saved our souls, and will save the souls of others. 427 00:24:41,480 --> 00:24:44,282 Great master, inspire us with his valor. 428 00:24:44,282 --> 00:24:46,818 By your own example, 429 00:24:46,818 --> 00:24:50,522 I long to see more of you in this beloved church 430 00:24:50,522 --> 00:24:53,992 who are resolved that Christ's gospel shall conquer 431 00:24:53,992 --> 00:24:58,163 this part of London, and ultimately the world, 432 00:24:58,163 --> 00:25:02,901 that Christ shall see the fruit of his suffering and be satisfied. 433 00:25:02,901 --> 00:25:07,506 I yearn to witness more of that relentless perseverance 434 00:25:07,506 --> 00:25:12,210 among Christians, which drives them to work tirelessly, 435 00:25:12,210 --> 00:25:15,046 even without immediate success, 436 00:25:15,046 --> 00:25:18,183 and to persist through every discouragement 437 00:25:18,183 --> 00:25:21,486 until their master rewards them on earth 438 00:25:21,486 --> 00:25:25,323 or takes them to their reward in heaven. 439 00:25:25,323 --> 00:25:27,425 To be a good soldier 440 00:25:27,425 --> 00:25:32,230 of Jesus Christ, there must be a passion for victory, 441 00:25:32,230 --> 00:25:35,867 an insatiable desire to establish the throne 442 00:25:35,867 --> 00:25:39,804 of Jesus in the souls of men. 443 00:25:39,804 --> 00:25:44,910 Fourthly, a good soldier is very brave in a charge. 444 00:25:44,910 --> 00:25:48,046 When the time comes and the orders are given 445 00:25:48,046 --> 00:25:50,949 for the good soldier to advance to the attack, 446 00:25:50,949 --> 00:25:54,853 he does not wish himself away, 447 00:25:54,853 --> 00:25:57,422 though a perfect hail of hurtling shot whistles 448 00:25:57,422 --> 00:26:00,492 all around, and the ranks of the army are thinned. 449 00:26:00,492 --> 00:26:04,763 He is glad to be there, for he feels the stern joy 450 00:26:04,763 --> 00:26:08,066 that flushes the face in the heat of battle, 451 00:26:08,066 --> 00:26:12,537 and he only wants to be within arm's length of the foe, 452 00:26:12,537 --> 00:26:15,540 and to come to close quarters with him. 453 00:26:15,540 --> 00:26:20,445 So it is with a genuine Christian when his heart is right with God. 454 00:26:20,445 --> 00:26:23,348 If he is bid to advance, no matter the danger. 455 00:26:23,348 --> 00:26:28,053 He feels honored to have such a service allotted to him. 456 00:26:28,053 --> 00:26:32,190 But are we all such soldiers? 457 00:26:32,190 --> 00:26:34,059 I fear not. 458 00:26:34,059 --> 00:26:35,860 How many of us are silent 459 00:26:35,860 --> 00:26:38,797 about Jesus Christ in private conversation? 460 00:26:38,797 --> 00:26:42,834 How little do we let our light shine before others? 461 00:26:42,834 --> 00:26:45,136 If we were the good soldiers we ought to be. 462 00:26:45,136 --> 00:26:48,273 We would seize every favorable opportunity in private, 463 00:26:48,273 --> 00:26:51,943 as well as in public, to share our faith and prudently. 464 00:26:51,943 --> 00:26:53,111 Yet zealously 465 00:26:53,111 --> 00:26:56,881 press the claims of Jesus Christ and His gospel upon others. 466 00:26:56,881 --> 00:27:00,919 O do this beloved and good will come of it. 467 00:27:00,919 --> 00:27:05,757 Each one of us should seek to have our own special work for Jesus, 468 00:27:05,757 --> 00:27:08,093 and if no one else attempts the task, 469 00:27:08,093 --> 00:27:12,130 we should like the brave soldiers who rush to storm a battery, 470 00:27:12,130 --> 00:27:15,834 carry the flag first and plant it, knowing 471 00:27:15,834 --> 00:27:20,038 that hundreds will follow the first brave person, 472 00:27:20,038 --> 00:27:24,809 even if they might not lead the way themselves. 473 00:27:24,809 --> 00:27:29,547 My beloved, may you and I be ready for anything, 474 00:27:29,547 --> 00:27:34,686 and bold to bear witness for Christ before a scoffing world. 475 00:27:34,686 --> 00:27:39,057 In the pulpits where we preach, in the workshops, where we labor, 476 00:27:39,057 --> 00:27:41,226 in the markets, where we trade 477 00:27:41,226 --> 00:27:45,296 in every company, where we move, wherever we may be. 478 00:27:45,296 --> 00:27:49,200 May we be brave enough to own our Lord 479 00:27:49,200 --> 00:27:52,170 and uphold his cause. 480 00:27:52,170 --> 00:27:56,708 But this is not all that makes a good soldier. 481 00:27:56,708 --> 00:28:00,512 A good soldier is like a rock under attack. 482 00:28:00,512 --> 00:28:04,382 British soldiers have stood in solid squares against enemy cavalry, 483 00:28:04,382 --> 00:28:07,919 with foes dashing upon them madly gnashing their teeth, 484 00:28:07,919 --> 00:28:10,689 firing in their faces, throwing their guns at them. 485 00:28:10,689 --> 00:28:13,892 Yet it was like riding against granite rocks. 486 00:28:13,892 --> 00:28:16,861 Our soldiers did not know how to yield 487 00:28:16,861 --> 00:28:21,499 and would not retreat as fast as one fell. 488 00:28:21,499 --> 00:28:25,804 Another filled the gap and the square of iron 489 00:28:25,804 --> 00:28:31,776 stood firm, defying the rush of the foe. 490 00:28:31,776 --> 00:28:33,878 We need this kind of fixed, 491 00:28:33,878 --> 00:28:37,382 resolved, persevering godliness in our churches, 492 00:28:37,382 --> 00:28:42,053 and we will have it if we are good soldiers of Jesus Christ. 493 00:28:42,053 --> 00:28:47,358 Alas, too many are exhausted by the initial zeal they exhibited. 494 00:28:47,358 --> 00:28:50,195 They can reach the highest point for a time, 495 00:28:50,195 --> 00:28:54,432 but continuing on and on is too difficult for them. 496 00:28:54,432 --> 00:28:56,935 How many young people join the church 497 00:28:56,935 --> 00:29:01,272 and seem very zealous for a while, only to grow cold? 498 00:29:01,272 --> 00:29:04,809 Alas, it is not always the young. 499 00:29:04,809 --> 00:29:10,482 Some among you were once most diligent in various forms of service. 500 00:29:10,482 --> 00:29:15,153 What hinders you from being diligent in your master's business now? 501 00:29:15,153 --> 00:29:17,689 Has Christ granted you permission to retreat 502 00:29:17,689 --> 00:29:21,392 into a life of ease without glory? 503 00:29:21,392 --> 00:29:24,596 Does he excuse you from service? 504 00:29:24,596 --> 00:29:26,965 Be cautious or you might find yourself 505 00:29:26,965 --> 00:29:30,268 excluded from the reward as well. 506 00:29:30,268 --> 00:29:33,271 We are called to uphold our integrity 507 00:29:33,271 --> 00:29:35,640 throughout our Christian journey. 508 00:29:35,640 --> 00:29:37,509 Resist temptation. 509 00:29:37,509 --> 00:29:42,113 Stay on the path set apart for us and pursue the souls of others 510 00:29:42,113 --> 00:29:45,583 with unwavering zeal and tireless dedication. 511 00:29:45,583 --> 00:29:48,887 Wrestling with God for men and with men. 512 00:29:48,887 --> 00:29:50,054 For God. 513 00:29:50,054 --> 00:29:53,558 Oh, for more of this resolute determination 514 00:29:53,558 --> 00:29:56,895 to stand firm and having done all, to continue 515 00:29:56,895 --> 00:30:02,433 standing by the last mark of a truly good soldier of Jesus Christ, 516 00:30:02,433 --> 00:30:06,604 is that he derives his strength from on high. 517 00:30:06,604 --> 00:30:10,875 This has been true even of some common soldiers. 518 00:30:10,875 --> 00:30:14,479 Religious men, when they have sought strength from God, 519 00:30:14,479 --> 00:30:17,749 have been all the braver in the day of conflict. 520 00:30:17,749 --> 00:30:21,953 I like the story of Frederick the Great when he overheard 521 00:30:21,953 --> 00:30:24,689 his favorite general engaged in prayer 522 00:30:24,689 --> 00:30:27,458 and was about to make a sneering remark. 523 00:30:27,458 --> 00:30:31,830 The fine old man who never feared a foe 524 00:30:31,830 --> 00:30:37,001 and did not even fear His Majesty's jest, said Your Majesty, 525 00:30:37,001 --> 00:30:42,540 I have just been asking aid from Your Majesty's great ally. 526 00:30:42,540 --> 00:30:46,244 He had been waiting upon God. 527 00:30:46,244 --> 00:30:49,948 This is how Christians achieve victory. 528 00:30:49,948 --> 00:30:52,951 They seek it from the church's great ally 529 00:30:52,951 --> 00:30:54,452 and then go to the conflict. 530 00:30:54,452 --> 00:30:57,889 Sure that they shall win the day. 531 00:30:57,889 --> 00:31:00,692 The best Christian is the best intercessor. 532 00:31:00,692 --> 00:31:03,928 He shall accomplish the most. Who prays the best 533 00:31:03,928 --> 00:31:06,397 in the Battle of Salamanca. 534 00:31:06,397 --> 00:31:09,901 When Wellington ordered one of his officers 535 00:31:09,901 --> 00:31:14,539 to advance with his troops and occupy a gap in the French lines, 536 00:31:14,539 --> 00:31:17,442 the general rode up to him and said, 537 00:31:17,442 --> 00:31:20,278 my Lord, I will do the work. 538 00:31:20,278 --> 00:31:25,149 But first give me a grasp of that conquering right hand of yours. 539 00:31:25,149 --> 00:31:27,452 He received a hearty grip 540 00:31:27,452 --> 00:31:32,190 and then rode away to the deadly encounter. 541 00:31:32,190 --> 00:31:35,760 Often has my soul said to her, captain, my Lord, 542 00:31:35,760 --> 00:31:37,262 I will do that work, 543 00:31:37,262 --> 00:31:40,999 if you will give me a grip of your conquering right hand. 544 00:31:40,999 --> 00:31:45,970 Oh, what power it instills in a man when he gets a grip of Christ, 545 00:31:45,970 --> 00:31:48,973 and Christ gets a grip of him. 546 00:31:48,973 --> 00:31:53,278 Fellowship with Christ is the fountain of the church's strength. 547 00:31:53,278 --> 00:31:56,347 Her power does not lie in her wealth, 548 00:31:56,347 --> 00:31:59,284 nor in the eloquence of her preachers, 549 00:31:59,284 --> 00:32:02,887 nor in anything that comes from man. 550 00:32:02,887 --> 00:32:06,157 The strength of the church is divine, 551 00:32:06,157 --> 00:32:10,528 and if she fails to draw strength from the everlasting hills, 552 00:32:10,528 --> 00:32:14,799 she becomes weak as water. 553 00:32:14,799 --> 00:32:16,901 Good soldiers of Jesus Christ, 554 00:32:16,901 --> 00:32:21,005 watch unto prayer, praying in the Holy Spirit. 555 00:32:21,005 --> 00:32:25,143 For in this way you will be strong in the Lord, 556 00:32:25,143 --> 00:32:27,679 and in the power of his might. 557 00:32:27,679 --> 00:32:32,016 Secondly, thus I have in a very humble way 558 00:32:32,016 --> 00:32:36,721 described a good soldier of Jesus Christ. 559 00:32:36,721 --> 00:32:40,325 Give me a few minutes, while I exhort you 560 00:32:40,325 --> 00:32:43,261 to be such, and mock you. 561 00:32:43,261 --> 00:32:48,533 I shall speak especially to the members of this Christian church. 562 00:32:48,533 --> 00:32:53,071 I exhort you, dear brethren, who are soldiers of Christ, 563 00:32:53,071 --> 00:32:58,176 to be good soldiers, because many of you have been so. 564 00:32:58,176 --> 00:33:02,380 Paul was likely to commend the churches when he could, 565 00:33:02,380 --> 00:33:04,949 and I feel I may, honestly 566 00:33:04,949 --> 00:33:08,619 and from my heart commend many of you, 567 00:33:08,619 --> 00:33:13,725 for you have served your Lord and master well. 568 00:33:13,725 --> 00:33:16,961 I know you have nothing of which to boast, but when you have done 569 00:33:16,961 --> 00:33:20,832 all, you are still unprofitable servants. 570 00:33:20,832 --> 00:33:24,902 But still I rejoice and will rejoice 571 00:33:24,902 --> 00:33:28,639 when I see the work of the Holy Spirit in you. 572 00:33:28,639 --> 00:33:30,842 I dare say that I have seen here instances 573 00:33:30,842 --> 00:33:32,510 of apostolic order 574 00:33:32,510 --> 00:33:36,447 and self sacrifice, such as I have read of in ancient records, 575 00:33:36,447 --> 00:33:39,717 but hardly ever expected to see. 576 00:33:39,717 --> 00:33:42,120 There are those in this House today 577 00:33:42,120 --> 00:33:46,057 who will shine as stars for ever and ever. 578 00:33:46,057 --> 00:33:48,960 For they have turned many to righteousness. 579 00:33:48,960 --> 00:33:50,762 Do not dishonor your past. 580 00:33:50,762 --> 00:33:53,731 I beseech you, fall not from your high. 581 00:33:53,731 --> 00:33:56,701 Standing forward is your motto. 582 00:33:56,701 --> 00:33:59,370 Never think of declining, but rather advance in 583 00:33:59,370 --> 00:34:02,540 love to God and in the fervor of your zeal. 584 00:34:02,540 --> 00:34:05,043 Remain steadfast as good soldiers, 585 00:34:05,043 --> 00:34:08,312 and do not stray from your first love. 586 00:34:08,312 --> 00:34:10,982 I am certain that the need for strong 587 00:34:10,982 --> 00:34:15,286 commitment is greater now than ever before. 588 00:34:15,286 --> 00:34:16,220 10 or 589 00:34:16,220 --> 00:34:19,424 16 years ago when I first spoke to you. 590 00:34:19,424 --> 00:34:23,494 The influence of Catholicism in this country was nothing 591 00:34:23,494 --> 00:34:26,130 compared to what it is today. 592 00:34:26,130 --> 00:34:31,469 Back then, the Church of England was more distinctly Protestant. 593 00:34:31,469 --> 00:34:36,174 Now it has become so frequently aligned with Catholic practices 594 00:34:36,174 --> 00:34:40,978 that I can boldly say we are burdened with two Catholic churches, 595 00:34:40,978 --> 00:34:45,083 one in Rome and the other in Oxford. 596 00:34:45,083 --> 00:34:47,685 The latter is no better than the former, 597 00:34:47,685 --> 00:34:51,355 only more cunning and deceptive, since it draws in 598 00:34:51,355 --> 00:34:56,260 many godly and sincere men who end up protecting those who, 599 00:34:56,260 --> 00:35:01,232 while claiming to be Protestant, are furthering the Pope's agenda. 600 00:35:01,232 --> 00:35:05,937 It grieves me to know that the evangelical clergy in England, 601 00:35:05,937 --> 00:35:09,474 by their continued union with the Church of England, 602 00:35:09,474 --> 00:35:15,546 are acting as a shield for the ritualistic or Catholic faction, 603 00:35:15,546 --> 00:35:19,117 giving them every opportunity to push their agenda 604 00:35:19,117 --> 00:35:24,088 of leading the nation back to Catholicism on a large scale. 605 00:35:24,088 --> 00:35:27,458 This very issue will likely spark a conflict 606 00:35:27,458 --> 00:35:29,160 between those who emphasize 607 00:35:29,160 --> 00:35:33,164 sacramental rituals and those who cherish the gospel. 608 00:35:33,164 --> 00:35:36,000 The battle has now come to your very doors. 609 00:35:36,000 --> 00:35:38,336 It was not so until recently, but now it is here, 610 00:35:38,336 --> 00:35:42,874 and you that are men must show your colors and serve your master 611 00:35:42,874 --> 00:35:46,744 against innumerable and constantly active foes. 612 00:35:46,744 --> 00:35:48,312 You have never failed me. 613 00:35:48,312 --> 00:35:52,517 You have always been bold, steadfast and diligent. 614 00:35:52,517 --> 00:35:56,821 Let it continue to be so, for the times require it. 615 00:35:56,821 --> 00:36:00,825 I can see that many of you young men are being attracted 616 00:36:00,825 --> 00:36:04,495 by the worldly amusements that surround us. 617 00:36:04,495 --> 00:36:07,865 Our dangers are not only those of Popery, 618 00:36:07,865 --> 00:36:12,270 but also of the world, the flesh and the devil. 619 00:36:12,270 --> 00:36:15,673 There must be greater earnestness and deeper piety among you. 620 00:36:15,673 --> 00:36:19,110 Or the next generation will become unworthy of yourselves. 621 00:36:19,110 --> 00:36:21,779 Your grief, not your joy. 622 00:36:21,779 --> 00:36:24,182 I pray you see to this. 623 00:36:24,182 --> 00:36:27,885 Be good soldiers, for much depends upon it. 624 00:36:27,885 --> 00:36:31,923 Your country will be blessed in proportion to your earnestness. 625 00:36:31,923 --> 00:36:34,458 Nonconformity in England will lose 626 00:36:34,458 --> 00:36:38,029 all its power if it loses its godliness. 627 00:36:38,029 --> 00:36:40,298 I do not care much for our political strength. 628 00:36:40,298 --> 00:36:45,203 I might even say I am almost indifferent to our political rights. 629 00:36:45,203 --> 00:36:49,807 I care for them, but only as a minor consideration. 630 00:36:49,807 --> 00:36:52,944 Our spirituality is the main matter. 631 00:36:52,944 --> 00:36:57,682 It is this alone that can make us a blessing to our country. 632 00:36:57,682 --> 00:36:59,317 Sons of the Puritans. 633 00:36:59,317 --> 00:37:04,055 You must walk with God or your day is past. 634 00:37:04,055 --> 00:37:07,325 You will be swept away, as Esther would have been 635 00:37:07,325 --> 00:37:11,262 if she had not fulfilled the office for which God had exalted her. 636 00:37:11,262 --> 00:37:14,465 You have grown in numbers and strength. 637 00:37:14,465 --> 00:37:17,301 Oh, that you may grow in grace. 638 00:37:17,301 --> 00:37:20,071 Love the gospel more, and love 639 00:37:20,071 --> 00:37:23,374 Christ more, for your country needs it. 640 00:37:23,374 --> 00:37:28,112 Your children need it, and you yourselves need it. 641 00:37:28,112 --> 00:37:33,050 The times are perilous, yet they are hopeful 642 00:37:33,050 --> 00:37:36,087 by their peril and their hopefulness. 643 00:37:36,087 --> 00:37:39,290 I beseech you to be good soldiers 644 00:37:39,290 --> 00:37:42,193 of Jesus Christ, real good soldiers. 645 00:37:42,193 --> 00:37:46,597 We ought to be, for a grand old cause is at stake. 646 00:37:46,597 --> 00:37:50,134 It is the kingdom of God, the church of Christ, 647 00:37:50,134 --> 00:37:54,839 the word of God, the truth, the doctrine of the gospel, 648 00:37:54,839 --> 00:37:58,376 and the crown of Jesus that are all at stake. 649 00:37:58,376 --> 00:38:02,313 I grant you that none shall ever shake the throne of Jesus. 650 00:38:02,313 --> 00:38:07,184 For though the heathen rage and the people imagine a vain thing, 651 00:38:07,184 --> 00:38:11,088 yet his throne shall be established. 652 00:38:11,088 --> 00:38:14,959 But we now speak according to the manner of men. 653 00:38:14,959 --> 00:38:18,462 God has been pleased to leave this matter to his church, 654 00:38:18,462 --> 00:38:22,033 which is the pillar and ground of the truth. 655 00:38:22,033 --> 00:38:24,902 Oh, then stand up manfully 656 00:38:24,902 --> 00:38:29,073 and fight earnestly, when so much rests upon it. 657 00:38:29,073 --> 00:38:33,544 God grant that you may not be like the children of A-frame, 658 00:38:33,544 --> 00:38:37,615 who, though armed and carrying bows, 659 00:38:37,615 --> 00:38:41,852 turned their backs in the day of battle. 660 00:38:41,852 --> 00:38:44,922 I implore you, my brethren 661 00:38:44,922 --> 00:38:49,760 and myself most of all, to be good soldiers of Jesus. 662 00:38:49,760 --> 00:38:53,731 When you consider the fame that has preceded you, 663 00:38:53,731 --> 00:38:56,767 a soldier, when he receives his colors, 664 00:38:56,767 --> 00:39:00,404 finds certain words embroidered on them to remind him 665 00:39:00,404 --> 00:39:04,842 of the former victories of the regiment in which he serves. 666 00:39:04,842 --> 00:39:07,645 Look at the 11th chapter of Hebrews 667 00:39:07,645 --> 00:39:12,717 and see the long list of the triumphs of the faithful. 668 00:39:12,717 --> 00:39:17,088 Remember how prophets and apostles served God. 669 00:39:17,088 --> 00:39:21,258 Remember how martyrs joyfully laid down their lives. 670 00:39:21,258 --> 00:39:25,262 Look at the long line of reformers and confessors. 671 00:39:25,262 --> 00:39:29,133 Remember your martyred sires and covenanting fathers. 672 00:39:29,133 --> 00:39:32,536 And by the grace of God, I beseech you, walk 673 00:39:32,536 --> 00:39:35,539 not unworthy of your noble lineage. 674 00:39:35,539 --> 00:39:39,377 Be good soldiers because of the victory that awaits you. 675 00:39:39,377 --> 00:39:43,047 Oh, it will be a grand thing to share 676 00:39:43,047 --> 00:39:46,817 in the ultimate triumph of Christ, for triumph. 677 00:39:46,817 --> 00:39:51,589 He will, when all his soldiers shall come back from the war, 678 00:39:51,589 --> 00:39:56,327 and the King himself at the head with the spoils of victory. 679 00:39:56,327 --> 00:39:59,864 When they shall return to the metropolitan city, 680 00:39:59,864 --> 00:40:05,169 to the ivory palaces of the great captain, when the song is heard. 681 00:40:05,169 --> 00:40:09,540 Lift up your heads, O you gates, and be lifted up 682 00:40:09,540 --> 00:40:12,276 you everlasting doors. 683 00:40:12,276 --> 00:40:16,313 When the question is answered, who is the King of glory? 684 00:40:16,313 --> 00:40:17,448 With a reply. 685 00:40:17,448 --> 00:40:21,452 The Lord of hosts, the Lord mighty in battle. 686 00:40:21,452 --> 00:40:23,754 He is the King of glory. 687 00:40:23,754 --> 00:40:27,691 It will be a glorious thing to have shed to fight for. 688 00:40:27,691 --> 00:40:34,231 Then you shall surely share the honors of that coronation day. 689 00:40:34,231 --> 00:40:36,734 A crown is prepared for that head, 690 00:40:36,734 --> 00:40:40,771 though it now aches with care for the cause. 691 00:40:40,771 --> 00:40:43,140 There is a palm branch for that hand 692 00:40:43,140 --> 00:40:45,843 which now toils in the fight. 693 00:40:45,843 --> 00:40:48,446 There are silver sandals for those feet 694 00:40:48,446 --> 00:40:51,649 which now march of a weary miles, for Christ sake. 695 00:40:51,649 --> 00:40:56,520 Honor and immortality unimaginable until they are enjoyed. 696 00:40:56,520 --> 00:41:02,126 Await every faithful soldier of the cross. 697 00:41:02,126 --> 00:41:03,828 And lastly, 698 00:41:03,828 --> 00:41:07,164 if you need another argument to become good soldiers, 699 00:41:07,164 --> 00:41:09,733 remember your captain, 700 00:41:09,733 --> 00:41:13,304 the captain whose wounded hands and pierced feet 701 00:41:13,304 --> 00:41:16,640 are tokens of his love for you, 702 00:41:16,640 --> 00:41:19,143 redeemed from going down to the pit. 703 00:41:19,143 --> 00:41:22,746 What can you do sufficiently to show your gratitude, 704 00:41:22,746 --> 00:41:25,616 assured of eternal glory in the future? 705 00:41:25,616 --> 00:41:30,120 How can you adequately prove that you feel your indebtedness? 706 00:41:30,120 --> 00:41:35,860 Rise up, I pray you, by him whose eyes are like a flame of fire. 707 00:41:35,860 --> 00:41:38,062 Yet were wet with tears. 708 00:41:38,062 --> 00:41:40,798 By him on whose head are many crowns. 709 00:41:40,798 --> 00:41:43,434 Yet who wore the crown of thorns. 710 00:41:43,434 --> 00:41:47,771 By him who is King of kings and Lord of lords, 711 00:41:47,771 --> 00:41:50,774 yet bowed his head to death for you? 712 00:41:50,774 --> 00:41:53,377 Resolve that to life's latest breath. 713 00:41:53,377 --> 00:41:57,848 You will spend and be spent for his praise 714 00:41:57,848 --> 00:41:59,149 the Lord grant 715 00:41:59,149 --> 00:42:02,953 that there may be many such in this church. 716 00:42:02,953 --> 00:42:06,724 Good soldiers of Jesus Christ. 717 00:42:06,724 --> 00:42:11,896 2 or 3 more words, and I will close at this present time. 718 00:42:11,896 --> 00:42:16,267 I urge you to engage in fresh efforts for Christ. 719 00:42:16,267 --> 00:42:18,602 I do not know that you are relaxing, 720 00:42:18,602 --> 00:42:21,839 and I have no complaints to make of anyone. 721 00:42:21,839 --> 00:42:25,776 However, I wish that we would begin anew with renewed vigor 722 00:42:25,776 --> 00:42:26,710 this day. 723 00:42:26,710 --> 00:42:31,615 If God wills it, as I myself commence a new year of Sundays, 724 00:42:31,615 --> 00:42:35,886 I desire to see a new era of greater exertion 725 00:42:35,886 --> 00:42:39,390 in the cause of Jesus Christ 726 00:42:39,390 --> 00:42:40,691 to be successful. 727 00:42:40,691 --> 00:42:44,695 Let not a single man or woman on the church row 728 00:42:44,695 --> 00:42:49,800 be missing from his or her post in the spiritual conflict. 729 00:42:49,800 --> 00:42:52,503 It is a remarkable fact that on the eve 730 00:42:52,503 --> 00:42:53,938 of a great battle 731 00:42:53,938 --> 00:42:58,008 in the Peninsular War, the officers read the muster roll 732 00:42:58,008 --> 00:43:03,447 and noted that not a man was missing. 733 00:43:03,447 --> 00:43:04,281 They all had 734 00:43:04,281 --> 00:43:07,551 good stomachs for the fight and were all present. 735 00:43:07,551 --> 00:43:09,386 You who are in the Sunday school, 736 00:43:09,386 --> 00:43:13,123 you who distribute tracts, you who preach in the streets. 737 00:43:13,123 --> 00:43:15,392 Every man to his post. 738 00:43:15,392 --> 00:43:18,162 And if you have no post yet, find one. 739 00:43:18,162 --> 00:43:22,232 Let there not be one idler, not one single loiter. 740 00:43:22,232 --> 00:43:25,536 For a single sluggard may ma work. 741 00:43:25,536 --> 00:43:29,707 If we are to be successful, let nothing divide us. 742 00:43:29,707 --> 00:43:32,643 The motto of one of our most famous regiments 743 00:43:32,643 --> 00:43:37,881 embroidered on their banner is who shall separate us? 744 00:43:37,881 --> 00:43:40,651 We are but mortals, and therefore 745 00:43:40,651 --> 00:43:44,221 little jealousies may spring up among us. 746 00:43:44,221 --> 00:43:47,858 There may be minor causes of personal vexation, 747 00:43:47,858 --> 00:43:51,662 but brave warriors in olden times who had fallen out 748 00:43:51,662 --> 00:43:54,965 have been known to come together on the eve of battle 749 00:43:54,965 --> 00:43:57,901 and say, come, let us be reconciled. 750 00:43:57,901 --> 00:43:59,837 We may die tomorrow. 751 00:43:59,837 --> 00:44:05,376 Besides, we join in common hatred of the foe and love for the king. 752 00:44:05,376 --> 00:44:07,711 Let your peace be unbroken. 753 00:44:07,711 --> 00:44:11,048 May your peace remain unbroken, 754 00:44:11,048 --> 00:44:13,817 your union steadfast. 755 00:44:13,817 --> 00:44:17,054 And may God bless you 756 00:44:17,054 --> 00:44:18,756 to help us succeed now. 757 00:44:18,756 --> 00:44:21,091 Let us adopt this one rule. 758 00:44:21,091 --> 00:44:23,761 Let no low standard of work, virtue 759 00:44:23,761 --> 00:44:27,398 or spiritual attainment content any of us. 760 00:44:27,398 --> 00:44:30,968 Let us resolve to be the best Christians that can be found 761 00:44:30,968 --> 00:44:36,306 under the stars, as devoted to Christ as human hearts can be doing, 762 00:44:36,306 --> 00:44:39,777 and giving as much for Christ as we can do 763 00:44:39,777 --> 00:44:43,247 or give consistently with our other duties. 764 00:44:43,247 --> 00:44:48,318 Let us spare nothing and keep back no part of the price. 765 00:44:48,318 --> 00:44:52,356 Let there be no Ananias and Sapphira among us. 766 00:44:52,356 --> 00:44:56,460 But let us all be like John who loved his Lord, 767 00:44:56,460 --> 00:44:59,229 and Paul who counted all things 768 00:44:59,229 --> 00:45:04,735 but loss for the excellency of Christ Jesus his Lord. 769 00:45:04,735 --> 00:45:09,006 Next let me say, let the present moment be seized. 770 00:45:09,006 --> 00:45:14,011 I would like to saturate this district with a mass of tracts, 771 00:45:14,011 --> 00:45:16,080 simply teaching the gospel 772 00:45:16,080 --> 00:45:19,883 and protesting against the false popery around us. 773 00:45:19,883 --> 00:45:24,455 Heaven and earth are being stirred around us right now. 774 00:45:24,455 --> 00:45:27,257 Our poor are being bribed, 775 00:45:27,257 --> 00:45:31,395 and the houses of our members are being systematically visited 776 00:45:31,395 --> 00:45:35,666 with the intent of luring them away from our worship. 777 00:45:35,666 --> 00:45:38,936 We are told that a certain small building used 778 00:45:38,936 --> 00:45:40,637 by the Episcopal body 779 00:45:40,637 --> 00:45:44,508 is the parish church, and we ought to attend it. 780 00:45:44,508 --> 00:45:47,611 I might far more truthfully assert this to be the church 781 00:45:47,611 --> 00:45:52,049 of the parish, by the choice of a far more numerous body, 782 00:45:52,049 --> 00:45:57,187 but I care not to make pretensions which prove nothing. 783 00:45:57,187 --> 00:46:00,524 The true question is, do we follow Christ 784 00:46:00,524 --> 00:46:03,694 and uphold the teachings of Scripture? 785 00:46:03,694 --> 00:46:07,631 If so, are standing is unassailable. 786 00:46:07,631 --> 00:46:08,365 Doubtless 787 00:46:08,365 --> 00:46:12,169 the word has gone forth that dissent must be crushed. 788 00:46:12,169 --> 00:46:14,838 But if we live near to God and maintain 789 00:46:14,838 --> 00:46:18,909 our zeal, dissent will rise, invincible 790 00:46:18,909 --> 00:46:23,313 from every attack, thus foreseeing the gathering storm. 791 00:46:23,313 --> 00:46:27,251 It is our consolation that we know where he dwells. 792 00:46:27,251 --> 00:46:29,920 Who is master of the tempest? 793 00:46:29,920 --> 00:46:32,923 Who can walk on the waters for our help. 794 00:46:32,923 --> 00:46:36,393 And calm the sea around our weather beaten boat. 795 00:46:36,393 --> 00:46:41,365 It becomes us now, at this present moment, to be indefatigable, 796 00:46:41,365 --> 00:46:45,669 to put forth all our strength for the truth of God, 797 00:46:45,669 --> 00:46:50,007 the Lord's pure word in doctrine and ordinance. 798 00:46:50,007 --> 00:46:51,575 Let us act now. 799 00:46:51,575 --> 00:46:54,812 Let us distribute gospel tracts widely and proclaim 800 00:46:54,812 --> 00:46:56,380 the truth boldly. 801 00:46:56,380 --> 00:46:59,449 Let us teach the gospel simply and clearly, 802 00:46:59,449 --> 00:47:02,586 and let our lives reflect its power. 803 00:47:02,586 --> 00:47:07,891 Now is the time to be vigilant, to be fervent, and to be united. 804 00:47:07,891 --> 00:47:10,527 Let us uphold the teachings of Scripture 805 00:47:10,527 --> 00:47:14,698 with unwavering faith and relentless dedication. 806 00:47:14,698 --> 00:47:17,534 Our efforts now will fortify our faith 807 00:47:17,534 --> 00:47:21,872 and ensure that we stand firm against any assault. 808 00:47:21,872 --> 00:47:24,041 God is our refuge and strength, 809 00:47:24,041 --> 00:47:28,011 and with him we shall not be moved. 810 00:47:28,011 --> 00:47:29,746 Let us seize this moment 811 00:47:29,746 --> 00:47:33,784 to glorify him and to spread his truth far and wide. 812 00:47:33,784 --> 00:47:37,588 Let no man's heart fail him. 813 00:47:37,588 --> 00:47:39,990 There is no fear of defeat. 814 00:47:39,990 --> 00:47:44,127 For many years the Lord of hosts has been with us as a church, 815 00:47:44,127 --> 00:47:47,431 and he will still be our helper. 816 00:47:47,431 --> 00:47:50,133 We have seen the rise and fall of many 817 00:47:50,133 --> 00:47:54,004 who blazed for a while, but are now quenched in darkness. 818 00:47:54,004 --> 00:47:58,876 While we have grown from a handful to this large assembly, 819 00:47:58,876 --> 00:48:02,646 the God who has been our trust and is still our stay 820 00:48:02,646 --> 00:48:05,315 will not forsake us now. 821 00:48:05,315 --> 00:48:07,484 He has not drawn you together 822 00:48:07,484 --> 00:48:10,888 and held you in one body by cords of love, 823 00:48:10,888 --> 00:48:13,690 so that you may prove to be a powerless, 824 00:48:13,690 --> 00:48:17,628 unwieldy mass of associated Christians. 825 00:48:17,628 --> 00:48:20,764 He intends to direct and strengthen you 826 00:48:20,764 --> 00:48:23,700 for nobler ends and purposes. 827 00:48:23,700 --> 00:48:28,305 God, even our own God, will bless us. 828 00:48:28,305 --> 00:48:32,910 Emmanuel, God with us, leads the charge, the truth. 829 00:48:32,910 --> 00:48:37,080 Like the virgin daughter of Zion shakes her head at boastful era 830 00:48:37,080 --> 00:48:41,451 and laughs it to scorn that falsehood put on her tawdry garments. 831 00:48:41,451 --> 00:48:45,122 Think herself a queen, and say that she shall sit alone 832 00:48:45,122 --> 00:48:47,157 and see no sorrow. 833 00:48:47,157 --> 00:48:49,760 Let error come forth in her panoply. 834 00:48:49,760 --> 00:48:53,497 And wave her flaunting banner before the sun. 835 00:48:53,497 --> 00:48:57,301 She draws near her end her armor. 836 00:48:57,301 --> 00:48:58,335 What is it? 837 00:48:58,335 --> 00:48:59,870 It is but pasteboard. 838 00:48:59,870 --> 00:49:01,305 And the lance of truth 839 00:49:01,305 --> 00:49:05,642 shall pierce it through and through her banner. 840 00:49:05,642 --> 00:49:10,180 What is it but a foul rag of the Roman harlot? 841 00:49:10,180 --> 00:49:13,216 It shall be laid in the dust. 842 00:49:13,216 --> 00:49:13,884 No! 843 00:49:13,884 --> 00:49:17,154 Let error bring forth all her hosts, 844 00:49:17,154 --> 00:49:20,190 and let them stand in their serried ranks. 845 00:49:20,190 --> 00:49:23,760 The faithful soldiers of Jesus will ride through them 846 00:49:23,760 --> 00:49:26,763 and bow the columns like reeds in the wind. 847 00:49:26,763 --> 00:49:29,967 In these days the doctrines and traditions of men 848 00:49:29,967 --> 00:49:31,301 compassed us about. 849 00:49:31,301 --> 00:49:34,171 Yes, like bees they compassed us about. 850 00:49:34,171 --> 00:49:37,841 But in the name of the Lord we will destroy them. 851 00:49:37,841 --> 00:49:40,844 Only let us have confidence in God, 852 00:49:40,844 --> 00:49:43,447 and the victory is sure. 853 00:49:43,447 --> 00:49:48,418 As for the thought of turning back, that can never be endured. 854 00:49:48,418 --> 00:49:52,322 A message came to Sir Colin Campbell at the Alma, 855 00:49:52,322 --> 00:49:56,360 stating that Her Majesty's guards were falling thick and fast 856 00:49:56,360 --> 00:49:59,863 beneath the shot and asking if they should retire 857 00:49:59,863 --> 00:50:02,966 for a while into safe quarters. 858 00:50:02,966 --> 00:50:06,036 The answer was it were better, sir, 859 00:50:06,036 --> 00:50:08,905 that every one of Her Majesty's guards 860 00:50:08,905 --> 00:50:12,142 should lie dead on this battlefield. 861 00:50:12,142 --> 00:50:16,246 Than turn their backs on the enemy. 862 00:50:16,246 --> 00:50:18,582 And it is so. 863 00:50:18,582 --> 00:50:20,417 Let us die. Yes. 864 00:50:20,417 --> 00:50:24,354 It were better devoutly wished than living a coward's life. 865 00:50:24,354 --> 00:50:27,157 Let the preacher be carried to his grave first. 866 00:50:27,157 --> 00:50:31,261 Let him never live to see the shame of this Israel. 867 00:50:31,261 --> 00:50:34,531 Let these eyes be sealed in death rather than behold. 868 00:50:34,531 --> 00:50:37,167 Ichabod, written on these walls. 869 00:50:37,167 --> 00:50:39,970 No, brethren, it shall not be. 870 00:50:39,970 --> 00:50:41,738 You will serve Jesus. 871 00:50:41,738 --> 00:50:42,906 You will love him. 872 00:50:42,906 --> 00:50:45,909 And onward to victory shall be your watchword. 873 00:50:45,909 --> 00:50:47,611 From today on. 874 00:50:47,611 --> 00:50:52,182 Be more in prayer, for this is the great matter. 875 00:50:52,182 --> 00:50:55,252 Seek out each one your own sphere of action, 876 00:50:55,252 --> 00:50:57,621 and give yourselves wholly to it. 877 00:50:57,621 --> 00:51:00,424 If any grow cold or careless, let him remember. 878 00:51:00,424 --> 00:51:03,960 Jesus says, I stand at the door and knock. 879 00:51:03,960 --> 00:51:07,464 If any man hears my voice and opens the door, 880 00:51:07,464 --> 00:51:11,401 I will come into him and will sup with him, 881 00:51:11,401 --> 00:51:15,338 and he with me. 882 00:51:15,338 --> 00:51:17,340 This blessed supping 883 00:51:17,340 --> 00:51:21,078 with Jesus will restore you, 884 00:51:21,078 --> 00:51:24,214 though you are like Leo decia 885 00:51:24,214 --> 00:51:26,850 neither cold nor hot. 886 00:51:26,850 --> 00:51:32,489 Fellowship with Jesus will renew the love of your spouses. 887 00:51:32,489 --> 00:51:36,426 Oh, then, my brethren, in Jesus name 888 00:51:36,426 --> 00:51:39,296 I bid you be strong in the Lord 889 00:51:39,296 --> 00:51:42,332 and in the power of his might. 890 00:51:42,332 --> 00:51:44,734 I have not preached to sinners today, 891 00:51:44,734 --> 00:51:49,272 but you will do that if you catch the spirit of this sermon. 892 00:51:49,272 --> 00:51:53,276 There will be many thousands of words spoken to sinners 893 00:51:53,276 --> 00:51:56,146 as a result of this exhortation. 894 00:51:56,146 --> 00:52:02,185 If God, the Holy Spirit, makes it accomplish my design 895 00:52:02,185 --> 00:52:05,789 only this word to those who are not soldiers of Jesus Christ. 896 00:52:05,789 --> 00:52:07,224 Trust him now. 897 00:52:07,224 --> 00:52:11,661 Come now and kiss his silver scepter of divine grace. 898 00:52:11,661 --> 00:52:15,632 He will forgive the rebel and take him to be his servant. 899 00:52:15,632 --> 00:52:17,901 God bless you. Amen.