Basic HTML Version
More Preaching, October 26
Which things also we speak, not in the words which man’s wisdom
teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual
things with spiritual.
1 Corinthians 2:13
.
Just prior to His leaving His disciples for the heavenly courts, Jesus
encouraged them with the promise of the Holy Spirit. This promise belongs
as much to us as it did to them, and yet how rarely it is presented before the
people, and its reception spoken of in the church.
In consequence of this silence upon this most important theme, what
promise do we know less about by its practical fulfillment than this rich
promise of the gift of the Holy Spirit, whereby efficiency is to be given to
all our spiritual labor? The promise of the Holy Spirit is casually brought
into our discourses, is incidentally touched upon, and that is all. Prophecies
have been dwelt upon, doctrines have been expounded; but that which is
essential to the church in order that they may grow in spiritual strength and
efficiency, in order that the preaching may carry conviction with it, and souls
be converted to God, has been largely left out of ministerial effort.
This subject has been set aside, as if some time in the future would be
given to its consideration. Other blessings and privileges have been presented
before the people until a desire has been awakened in the church for the
attainment of the blessing promised of God; but the impression concerning
the Holy Spirit has been that this gift is not for the church now, but that at
some time in the future it would be necessary for the church to receive it.
This promised blessing, if claimed by faith, would bring all other blessings
in its train, and it is to be given liberally to the people of God. Through the
cunning devices of the enemy the minds of God’s people seem to be incapable
of comprehending and appropriating the promises of God.... A harvest of
joy will be reaped by those who sow the holy seeds of truth. “He that goeth
forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with
rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him” (
Psalm 126:6
).—
Testimonies to
Ministers and Gospel Workers, 174, 175
.
319