Faithful Reproofs Necessary
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have refused to move at all under the attending discouragements of the
case, or would have managed more indiscreetly than those who did do
the work, following the opening of God’s providence.
But these unruly talkers will fasten upon the more disagreeable
features of the work, even as the lichen clings to the roughness of the
rock. These persons are spiritually dwarfed by continually dwelling
upon the failings and faults of others. They are morally incapable of
discerning good and noble actions, unselfish endeavors, true heroism,
and self-sacrifice. They are not becoming nobler and loftier in their
lives and hopes, more generous and broad in their ideas and plans. They
are not cultivating that charity that should characterize the Christian’s
life. They are degenerating every day and are becoming narrower
in their prejudices and views. Littleness is their element, and the
atmosphere that surrounds them is poisonous to peace and happiness.
The great sin of-----is a neglect to cherish the light which God has
given them through His servants. Said Christ to His apostles: “He
that receiveth whomsoever I send receiveth Me, and he that receiveth
Me receiveth Him that sent Me.” Here it is made plain that those who
reject the messages of God’s servants reject not only the Son, but also
the Father.
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Again He says: “But into whatsoever city ye enter, and they receive
you not, go your ways out into the streets of the same, and say, Even
the very dust of your city, which cleaveth on us, we do wipe off against
you: notwithstanding be ye sure of this, that the kingdom of God is
come nigh unto you. But I say unto you, that it shall be more tolerable
in that day for Sodom, than for that city. Woe unto thee, Chorazin!
woe unto thee, Bethsaida! for if the mighty works had been done
in Tyre and Sidon, which have been done in you, they had a great
while ago repented, sitting in sackcloth and ashes. But it shall be more
tolerable for Tyre and Sidon at the judgment, than for you. And thou,
Capernaum, which art exalted to heaven, shalt be thrust down to hell.
He that heareth you heareth Me; and he that despiseth you despiseth
Me; and he that despiseth Me despiseth Him that sent Me.”
How awfully solemn are these words! How important that we
should not be found rejecting the warnings and admonitions that God
delivers through His humble instruments; for in slighting the light
brought by His messengers, we slight the Saviour of the world, the
King of glory. Many are running this terrible risk and are thus bringing