TWO ladies were Traveling on the railway a short time ago, and on observing a placard which stated that a certain theatrical play had been performed 7,025 times in different parts of the world, one of them remarked that she had had 7,025 chances of seeing that play, and had not seen it yet. Their conversation was overheard by a Christian, who thought of how many opportunities God gives souls of being converted in this present day, and of how great a number of people are apparently still unsaved. From the subject of their conversation, it appeared that these ladies knew nothing of the love of Christ; they were still in their sins, away from God, under judgment, and their hearts fully occupied with the fleeting pleasures of this world. It could hardly be possible that one opportunity had not been given them of coming to Christ, that they had never heard the story of the Gospel, that God had never spoken to them by His Word, or some other means; yet, up to this time, they were still amongst the unsaved, and all warnings had been unheeded. What a terrible condition was theirs, yet similar to that of many in the world today. Is it yours, reader?
Scripture records three instances of men to each of whom was given one opportunity. Felix heard the Gospel from the lips of the most devoted servant of the Lord that ever lived. He trembled in the presence of Paul, and his conscience seemed to be touched as his prisoner reasoned of righteousness, temperance, and judgment to come. Did the powerful message have the effect of making him believe the truth, and surrender to God? Was his heart broken as he felt his terrible sinfulness, and the reality of judgment to come? Nay; he neglected God’s mercy, and said, “When I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.” God’s time was not his time, and it is not recorded that his “convenient season” ever arrived. Felix will have to answer for this opportunity, afforded him by God; and what excuse will he make for having neglected it? He will be self-condemned. He trembled in the presence of Paul (then a prisoner in his hands); what will he do when he stands before God? It is solemn when a soul turns a deaf ear to all God’s gracious entreaties, and postpones the consideration of its eternal welfare.
Agrippa heard of Christ from the same apostle. He said, “Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian,” but Scripture is silent as to whether his persuasion was ever complete, and whether he believed in the Lord. What is necessary to persuade thee, reader? May thy heart be won by the immeasurable love of Christ, who descended from glory to the depths of death to redeem thee from hell, and fit thee for His presence above.
Blind Bartimæus had but one opportunity, but he made good use of it. Immediately he heard of Jesus, he was in earnest to be in His presence, and allowed nobody to hinder him in his purpose. He pleaded for “mercy,” and the blessed Saviour said, “Thy faith hath made thee whole,” his sight being restored him. He then followed Jesus in the way. How much in nature would there be for a man who had been blind to admire, and set his eyes on! Yet he followed Christ, having eyes to admire no one but Him, and counting Him worthy of all his heart. What an occupation for a beggar, following Jesus, the Christ, the Son of God! Yet what a picture of a true-hearted Christian, following the Lord in this world until he shall be with Him in glory!
How different is the case of Felix or Agrippa from that of Bartimæus! The first two were rich in this world; Bartimæus was poor, yet rich in faith. Felix and Agrippa neglected the opportunity afforded them; Bartimæus rejoiced in it, and received the blessing. Felix and Agrippa will have to appear before Christ in the judgment-day; Bartimæus had dealings with the Saviour in a time of grace.
May those who read this paper not say, “When I have a convenient season”; but, being altogether persuaded, may they follow Jesus in the way.
A. Y. C.