Page 131 - Maranatha (1976)

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Mistaken Zeal, April 28
For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not
according to knowledge.
Romans 10:2
.
There is a noisy zeal, without aim or purpose, which is not according
to knowledge, which is blind in its operations and destructive in its results.
This is not Christian zeal. Christian zeal is controlled by principle and is
not spasmodic. It is earnest, deep, and strong, engaging the whole soul and
arousing to exercise the moral sensibilities.
The salvation of souls and the interests of the kingdom of God are
matters of the highest importance. What object is there that calls for greater
earnestness than the salvation of souls and the glory of God? There are
considerations here which cannot be lightly regarded. They are as weighty
as eternity. Eternal destinies are at stake. Men and women are deciding
for weal or woe. Christian zeal will not exhaust itself in talk, but will feel
and act with vigor and efficiency. Yet Christian zeal will not act for the
sake of being seen. Humility will characterize every effort and be seen
in every work. Christian zeal will lead to earnest prayer and humiliation,
and to faithfulness in home duties. In the family circle will be seen the
gentleness and love, benevolence and compassion, which are ever the fruits
of Christian zeal....
Oh, how few feel the worth of souls! How few are willing to sacrifice
to bring souls to the knowledge of Christ! There is much talking, much
professed love for perishing souls; but talk is cheap stuff. It is earnest
Christian zeal that is wanted—a zeal that will be manifested by doing
something. All must now work for themselves, and when they have Jesus
in their hearts they will confess Him to others. No more could a soul who
possesses Christ be hindered from confessing Him than could the waters of
Niagara be stopped from flowing over the falls.
Eternal life should engage the deepest interest of every Christian. To
be a co-worker with Christ and the heavenly angels in the great plan of
salvation! What work can bear any comparison with this! From every soul
saved there comes to God a revenue of glory to be reflected upon the one
saved and also upon the one instrumental in his salvation.
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