As to the subject before us, there are some who deeply feel the need of the power of God's Word to humble us as we are seeing the enemy's aggression among ourselves. Some of the evidences are shocking. The luxuries and fashions of this wicked world have so much conformed us that our heavenly calling has become well nigh forgotten. "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God." Rom. 12:22And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God. (Romans 12:2).
We seem to have lost the sense of what is becoming to our special charge of being gathered to the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, the holy and the true. No doubt there is ignorance with some, due to the lack of instruction, but what is too apparent, and far worse, is forgetfulness coupled with indifference! It is this stupefying lukewarmness and heartlessness for Christ that has crept in among us. Do we not feel this in our own hearts?
As to Our Calling
If asked, What is the gospel? many Christians could tell how God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son to suffer for our sins, to die in our stead, and to shed His blood to cleanse us fully and forever. But, if asked, What is our calling? we fear that this is a question that would embarrass many, and they would show that of this they know very little. Why does the Apostle Paul repeatedly say, "Know ye not?" Is it not because they should have known? And so many times he says, "I would not have you ignorant." Surely the new nature is never "willingly ignorant" (2 Peter 3:55For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water: (2 Peter 3:5)).
Most of us know what line of work engages us in order to make a living. We may speak of it as our vocation, profession, or just our job. In this we are generally intelligent and diligent, and we should be.
Our Heavenly Calling
Now, dear ones, do you know, that you have not only been called, but have been "chosen" in Christ "before the foundation of the world"? "Called us with a holy calling... according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began." 2 Tim. 1:99Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, (2 Timothy 1:9). Also in Rom. 8:28-3028And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. 29For whom he did foreknow, he also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son, that he might be the firstborn among many brethren. 30Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified. (Romans 8:28‑30): "Them who are the called according to His purpose. For whom He did foreknow, He also did predestinate to be conformed to the image of His Son... Moreover,... them He also called; and whom He called, them He also justified." We have been "called into the fellowship of His Son Jesus Christ our Lord." 1 Cor. 1:99God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9); J. N. D. Trans.
It is a "holy calling," and we ourselves are "holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling." Heb. 3:11Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus; (Hebrews 3:1). Furthermore, "God hath... called us... unto holiness" in our daily practice (1 Thess. 4:77For God hath not called us unto uncleanness, but unto holiness. (1 Thessalonians 4:7)). In the richest unfoldings of His grace, as found in Ephesians, we are blessed "with every spiritual blessing in the heavenlies in Christ," "accepted in the Beloved," and seated "in the heavenlies in Christ Jesus." Can we be indifferent to all this? Surely it becomes us to "walk worthy of the calling wherewith ye have been called" (Eph. 4:11I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, (Ephesians 4:1); J. N. D. Trans.), and also to "know what is the hope of His calling" (Eph. 1:1818The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, (Ephesians 1:18)). "Called in one hope of your calling" (Eph. 4:44There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; (Ephesians 4:4)). Very soon this "Blessed Hope" will take place "The calling on high of God in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 3:1414I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14); J. N. D. Trans.). "Oh! That will be joyful," eternally joyful! Christ will "descend from heaven with a shout" of joy, bidding us "Come up hither," for there is "our commonwealth... in the heavens" (Phil. 3:2020For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: (Philippians 3:20); J. N. D. Trans). We are "heavenly (ones)" and "shall bear also the image of the heavenly (One)." 1 Cor. 15:48, 4948As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly. 49And as we have borne the image of the earthy, we shall also bear the image of the heavenly. (1 Corinthians 15:48‑49); J. N. D. Trans. Do we not well then to consider our calling (1 Cor. 1:2626For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: (1 Corinthians 1:26))?
It was from this most blessed and lofty state that the church had fallen. Very much like ourselves, the Corinthians had settled down in the world, were "reigning as kings," "walking as men," "carnal" and forming parties. This downgrade continued until the dark ages, when there arose those courageous protesters, Luther, Zwingli, Calvin, Knox, Wesley and Whitfield. Through them there was the recovery of the simple gospel as well as emancipation from ecclesiastical tyranny a great victory indeed. But the heavenly calling of the Christian, which sets him entirely apart "from this present evil world" (Gal. 1:44Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father: (Galatians 1:4)), was by them virtually omitted. Then the followers of these men of God soon formed rival organizations, called denominations with their various names, creeds and governments, ignoring 1 Cor. 1:9-139God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. 10Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that ye all speak the same thing, and that there be no divisions among you; but that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment. 11For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. 12Now this I say, that every one of you saith, I am of Paul; and I of Apollos; and I of Cephas; and I of Christ. 13Is Christ divided? was Paul crucified for you? or were ye baptized in the name of Paul? (1 Corinthians 1:9‑13), as to sects. There was the Church of Scotland, the Church of England, Dissenters, Pilgrims, etc.
As these man-made organizations became unbearably formal, God opened many hearts and eyes to see how far had become the departure from what is explicitly written in His eternal Word. They left those human institutions and were gathered by the Holy Spirit to the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, simply as members of His one body. This was according to the pattern found in the Scriptures. It was through sovereign grace the recovery of a small remnant, answering to Philadelphia (Rev. 3:88I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name. (Revelation 3:8), etc.). It commenced in the late 1820's, with "a little strength," a little power of the Holy Spirit; but worldliness and divisions have since then crept in.
"How Has the Gold Become Dim!"
It might be worth our while to compare some statements made by an outside observer about a century ago (Sept. 1870), to see how far we have drifted. It is surely a deserved rebuke to our present state. So it reads: "Such spiritual and Christ-exalting literature... gracious men who sigh and cry for the abominations... with freedom to use with power and precision... in a day of self-indulgence... at the cost of all that flesh holds dear, have dared to stand... pure and simple in doctrine, and worship and practice their hearts having the fresh fuel of Scripture continually... are so well acquainted with their Bibles... They rally around Christ alone... testimony in the power of the Holy Spirit... have so enjoyed the feast of grace and truth, and had such sweet soul-filling fellowship with the Father and His Son, Jesus Christ."
They felt their own weakness and nothingness, as Mr. Darby said: "We own our bad and low state... and take our place where... the blessed Spirit can... bless us." He also said, We are "witnesses of the weakness and low state of the Church," and that our "Testimony (is) to a heavenly and rejected Jesus... a distinct witness to the heavenly
Called from above, and heavenly men by birth,
(Who once were but the citizens of earth),
As pilgrims here, we seek a heavenly home,
Our portion in the ages yet to come.
We are but strangers here, we do not crave:
A home on earth, which gave Thee but a grave
Thy cross has severed ties which bound us here,
Thyself our treasure in a brighter sphere.
In 1877 Mr. Darby gave this warning: "Brethren are in a critical moment; if their... devotedness be made good... they will stand, if not, I do not see what good they are." Another has said: "If we have shared in any way in the blessings of Philadelphia, we share in the dangers of Laodicea." Laodicea springs out of Philadelphian light but has not Philadelphian power—it is lukewarm, self-satisfied, heartless toward Christ, unconcerned! "Want of heart" is the worst of all ills." "Knowest not?" means oblivious, "blind!" The corruption of the best thing is the worst! How great is our need of grace from on high to be deeply stirred and exercised by His searching Word, so that the love of Christ will rewarm our hearts and enable us to overcome this prevailing lethargy! Samson "awoke out of his sleep" too late (Judg. 16:2020And she said, The Philistines be upon thee, Samson. And he awoke out of his sleep, and said, I will go out as at other times before, and shake myself. And he wist not that the Lord was departed from him. (Judges 16:20)).
The tendency of these wretched hearts of ours is to disregard God's gracious calling. Lot preferred to settle down in the well-watered plain so that he might thrive in his cattle business. He gave up his pilgrim tent-life and dwelt in a house, unequally yoked with a mere professor. He had two unchaste daughters and became a prominent official in Sodom. Although vexed continually, he was loath to leave! He was thus a poor example for the two and a half tribes who likewise had a mind of their own to settle down short of the promised land, because they too had "much cattle" and put their own business first!
In the Days of the Judges
"There arose another generation... which knew not the LORD... they would not hearken... they turned quickly out of the way which their fathers walked in... they ceased not from their own doings, nor from their stubborn way." Judge 2:10, 17-19. "Every man did that which was right in his own eyes." How about our own tendency? The term "worldly Christian" is indeed a paradox, yet how many have too much of the world to enjoy Christ!
The Mirror of God's Word!
Are we willing to face the very truth that is most needed to expose our glaring failures? If so, may the Lord enable us to tremble at His word, where it is intended to apply to our consciences. We cannot doubt that to be gathered to the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, puts us in the most privileged place on earth, and that what was written, concerning the remnant of Judah and its center, Jerusalem, was written for our learning. "These things happened to them as types, and have been written for our admonition." It would be stubborn folly to refuse to face that which is God's special voice to ourselves, who are gathered to the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, "the holy and the true."
While good King Hezekiah was energetically giving God the first place, the people of Judah and Jerusalem were at the very same time doing the opposite! In 2 Chron. 29 we see him at the early age of 25 reigning at Jerusalem and confessing that "our fathers have not burned incense, nor offered burnt offerings... unto the God of Israel." 2 Chron. 29:77Also they have shut up the doors of the porch, and put out the lamps, and have not burned incense nor offered burnt offerings in the holy place unto the God of Israel. (2 Chronicles 29:7). Twelve times in this chapter He emphasizes the burnt-offering, which speaks of the special satisfaction and delight God had in His own beloved Son who glorified Him on earth. And Hezekiah in 2 Chron. 29:1111My sons, be not now negligent: for the Lord hath chosen you to stand before him, to serve him, and that ye should minister unto him, and burn incense. (2 Chronicles 29:11) urges them, "My sons, be not now negligent: for the LORD hath chosen you to stand before Him, to serve Him, and that ye should minister unto Him, and burn incense." Incense speaks of the fragrance and perfections of Christ's Person rising in worship for God's delight. This is indeed of first importance.
Isaiah
All this is lovely, nevertheless at this very time the prophet Isaiah exposes the actual internal corruption, hypocrisy and formality of Judah and Jerusalem! "Isaiah... which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of... Hezekiah." Isa. 1:11The vision of Isaiah the son of Amoz, which he saw concerning Judah and Jerusalem in the days of Uzziah, Jotham, Ahaz, and Hezekiah, kings of Judah. (Isaiah 1:1). God says, "My people doth not consider... How is the faithful city become a harlot!" Isa. 1:3, 213The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master's crib: but Israel doth not know, my people doth not consider. (Isaiah 1:3)
21How is the faithful city become an harlot! it was full of judgment; righteousness lodged in it; but now murderers. (Isaiah 1:21). "Jerusalem is ruined, and Judah is fallen." Isa. 3:88For Jerusalem is ruined, and Judah is fallen: because their tongue and their doings are against the Lord, to provoke the eyes of his glory. (Isaiah 3:8). "This people draw near Me with their mouth, and with their lips do honor Me, but have removed their heart far from Me." Isa. 29: 13. "Children, saith the LORD... that walk to go down into Egypt... that will not hear... Which say... to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things." Isa. 30:1, 2, 9, 101Woe to the rebellious children, saith the Lord, that take counsel, but not of me; and that cover with a covering, but not of my spirit, that they may add sin to sin: 2That walk to go down into Egypt, and have not asked at my mouth; to strengthen themselves in the strength of Pharaoh, and to trust in the shadow of Egypt! (Isaiah 30:1‑2)
9That this is a rebellious people, lying children, children that will not hear the law of the Lord: 10Which say to the seers, See not; and to the prophets, Prophesy not unto us right things, speak unto us smooth things, prophesy deceits: (Isaiah 30:9‑10). Is it not because of this kind of an attitude that it has become most difficult to declare God's Word faithfully? Does God want His servants to soothe the ears of the careless and call it edification! Jer. 23:2828The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 23:28) says the opposite: "He that hath My word, let him speak My word faithfully."
Jeremiah the Prophet Jeremiah Is Still More Especially Sent to Expose the Internal State of Judah and Jerusalem. This Was His Sorrowful Mission for Full Forty Years, Eighteen Years of Which Was During the Exemplary and Faithful Reign of King Josiah! in Marvelous Grace God Raised up This Very Young King and Sustained Him. Jeremiah Speaks of Judah 183 Times; He Refers to Jerusalem 111 Times, Besides Speaking of It Often As "This City", "the City," and "This Place." He Upbraids Them for Not Hearkening 49 Times! What a Serious Charge! Think of It. Do We Want to Be Like That? Nine Times He Labels It "Stubbornness" (in the Most Faithful Translation). Jeremiah Wept Much Over This State of Things Among God's Most Privileged People. in Jer. 5:2121Hear now this, O foolish people, and without understanding; which have eyes, and see not; which have ears, and hear not: (Jeremiah 5:21) (J. N. D. Trans.) God Addresses His People Judah As Being "Heartless," Which Is Precisely What Laodicea Is; and in Jer. 5:3131The prophets prophesy falsely, and the priests bear rule by their means; and my people love to have it so: and what will ye do in the end thereof? (Jeremiah 5:31) He Says, "My People Love to Have It so" Virtually Like Saying "Speak Unto Us Smooth Things."
In Jer. 7, we see them boasting, "The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD, The temple of the LORD," as though position and privilege was everything, while, as to their shameful practice, they could brazenly say, "We are delivered to do all these abominations"! Jeremiah deeply felt the gravity and shame! "Thou hast filled me with indignation," he says (Jer. 15:1717I sat not in the assembly of the mockers, nor rejoiced; I sat alone because of thy hand: for thou hast filled me with indignation. (Jeremiah 15:17)), "Detestable and abominable things." Jer. 16:1818And first I will recompense their iniquity and their sin double; because they have defiled my land, they have filled mine inheritance with the carcases of their detestable and abominable things. (Jeremiah 16:18). Because of his indignation they could not stand him. They said, "Come, and let us smite him... and let us not give heed to any of his words." Jer. 18:1818Then said they, Come, and let us devise devices against Jeremiah; for the law shall not perish from the priest, nor counsel from the wise, nor the word from the prophet. Come, and let us smite him with the tongue, and let us not give heed to any of his words. (Jeremiah 18:18). Then in Jer. 26:88Now it came to pass, when Jeremiah had made an end of speaking all that the Lord had commanded him to speak unto all the people, that the priests and the prophets and all the people took him, saying, Thou shalt surely die. (Jeremiah 26:8) they say, "Thou shalt surely die." "The king sought to put him to death" (Jer. 26:2121And when Jehoiakim the king, with all his mighty men, and all the princes, heard his words, the king sought to put him to death: but when Urijah heard it, he was afraid, and fled, and went into Egypt; (Jeremiah 26:21)), and did cast his words into the fire (Jer. 36:2323And it came to pass, that when Jehudi had read three or four leaves, he cut it with the penknife, and cast it into the fire that was on the hearth, until all the roll was consumed in the fire that was on the hearth. (Jeremiah 36:23)). In Jer. 38:66Then took they Jeremiah, and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the son of Hammelech, that was in the court of the prison: and they let down Jeremiah with cords. And in the dungeon there was no water, but mire: so Jeremiah sunk in the mire. (Jeremiah 38:6) he allowed Jeremiah to be cast into the dungeon.
Ezekiel
Ezekiel continues the same strain. To him "the Lord said... Go through the midst of... Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof." Ezek. 9:44And the Lord said unto him, Go through the midst of the city, through the midst of Jerusalem, and set a mark upon the foreheads of the men that sigh and that cry for all the abominations that be done in the midst thereof. (Ezekiel 9:4). "Cause Jerusalem to know her abominations." Ezek. 16:22Son of man, cause Jerusalem to know her abominations, (Ezekiel 16:2). "Show her all her abominations." Ezek. 22:22Now, thou son of man, wilt thou judge, wilt thou judge the bloody city? yea, thou shalt show her all her abominations. (Ezekiel 22:2). "Declare unto them their abominations." Ezek. 23:3636The Lord said moreover unto me; Son of man, wilt thou judge Aholah and Aholibah? yea, declare unto them their abominations; (Ezekiel 23:36). The prophet stresses their abominations 49 times! You and I know that faithfulness like this is the very thing that infuriates the flesh. Nevertheless, Timothy was told to "reprove, rebuke." 2 Tim. 4:22Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine. (2 Timothy 4:2). "As many as I love, I rebuke." Rev. 3:1919As many as I love, I rebuke and chasten: be zealous therefore, and repent. (Revelation 3:19). May the Lord help us to do it in love. Surely we naturally shrink from this task.
Laodicean Indifference
Well may we consider our ways lest we have settled down and become self-satisfied like Laodicea, not knowing our own poverty of heart for Christ. Prosperity and luxury may have blinded our eyes to a greater extent than we are apt to realize.
Women
Why does the Word of God have so much to say to women as to their special need of discretion, chastity and modesty? Is it not that they should avoid putting on a vain show and thus become a snare? Perhaps it is because there is such strong objection to saying anything against the prevailing customs, that it is so painful to review this subject. But when we see how much the Lord is being dishonored and His Word disregarded, only carnal flesh could object. Mr. Darby has said that "Amalek is Satan's operations on the flesh."
Godly women find no difficulty, do not quarrel with God's Word, do not resist the truth. God Himself laments over and reproves the daughters of Judah and Jerusalem in Isa. 3 for putting on a vain show to attract attention. He speaks of "wanton eyes," Isa. 3:1616Moreover the Lord saith, Because the daughters of Zion are haughty, and walk with stretched forth necks and wanton eyes, walking and mincing as they go, and making a tinkling with their feet: (Isaiah 3:16); "bracelets," Isa. 3:1919The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers, (Isaiah 3:19); "finger rings," Isa. 3:2121The rings, and nose jewels, (Isaiah 3:21); "festival robes" Isa. 3:2222The changeable suits of apparel, and the mantles, and the wimples, and the crisping pins, (Isaiah 3:22); "mirrors" Isa. 3:2323The glasses, and the fine linen, and the hoods, and the vails. (Isaiah 3:23); "perfume .. well-set hair... robe of display," Isa. 3:2424And it shall come to pass, that instead of sweet smell there shall be stink; and instead of a girdle a rent; and instead of well set hair baldness; and instead of a stomacher a girding of sackcloth; and burning instead of beauty. (Isaiah 3:24); (J. N. D. Trans.) Is such finery becoming women professing godliness?
Is it modesty that is pleasing to the Lord? Why glory in their shame?
Is not the Word of God being totally disregarded, such as "Be not conformed to this world," "Babylonish garments," "the attire of an harlot," "Be clothed, that the shame of thy nakedness do not appear," "silly women," "the woman whose heart is snares" (Eccl. 7:2626And I find more bitter than death the woman, whose heart is snares and nets, and her hands as bands: whoso pleaseth God shall escape from her; but the sinner shall be taken by her. (Ecclesiastes 7:26)).
"Saints... make the path at this time one of sorrow... the tendency of the day is to adopt an advanced form of expression of the truth, but walk as worldly as ever... the object of all such being the best way to get along in this scene... deepening their interest in this world... How can we expect a saint who is ministering to self to have any conception of what is due to Christ?... a condition incapable of grasping the mind of God and to which He does not communicate His thoughts... liberty for self... those who announce every Lord's day at the Table that death by which, not only sin is put away, but every link with the world is broken."
Fearless, Phinehas faithfulness may horrify these daring, vexing, shocking ones that dishonor the Lord and embarrass others without blushing, but they need to be vexed, shocked, embarrassed and made to blush—their parents also. The truth does not hurt unless it should. (See Num. 25).
"All moral virtue and restraint is now nearly given up. The Christian either gives way or has the precious opportunity of standing firm for his Lord against the tide... different from the fashionable world." (J. W. R.)
When we go to the store, do we leave the Lord outside the door because we are determined to have our own way? Or have we been much in His presence praying earnestly, "Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts... and lead me in the way" of Thy will. "Cause me to know the way wherein I should walk: for I lift up my soul unto Thee... Teach me to do Thy will... for Thy name's sake." Psa. 143:10, 1110Teach me to do thy will; for thou art my God: thy spirit is good; lead me into the land of uprightness. 11Quicken me, O Lord, for thy name's sake: for thy righteousness' sake bring my soul out of trouble. (Psalm 143:10‑11). "The Word of God is... a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart... all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do." Heb. 4:12, 1312For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (Hebrews 4:12‑13). "It is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure"; thus "Be not conformed to this world: but... transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God." "For the love of Christ constraineth us" not to live unto ourselves, but unto Him which died for us, and rose again. (2 Cor. 5:1515And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again. (2 Corinthians 5:15)). "Ye are not your own... Ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body." 1 Cor. 6:19, 2019What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? 20For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. (1 Corinthians 6:19‑20). May the grace of God enable us to do so.
Under the old order when only men were priests, flesh was not to be exposed in the presence of God. They were to be clothed with "linen breeches to cover their nakedness: from the loins even unto the thighs... when they come near... in the holy place." Ex. 28:42, 4342And thou shalt make them linen breeches to cover their nakedness; from the loins even unto the thighs they shall reach: 43And they shall be upon Aaron, and upon his sons, when they come in unto the tabernacle of the congregation, or when they come near unto the altar to minister in the holy place; that they bear not iniquity, and die: it shall be a statute for ever unto him and his seed after him. (Exodus 28:42‑43). "They shall come near to My table... and... be clothed with linen garments... linen breeches upon their loins." Ezek. 44:16-1816They shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge. 17And it shall come to pass, that when they enter in at the gates of the inner court, they shall be clothed with linen garments; and no wool shall come upon them, whiles they minister in the gates of the inner court, and within. 18They shall have linen bonnets upon their heads, and shall have linen breeches upon their loins; they shall not gird themselves with any thing that causeth sweat. (Ezekiel 44:16‑18). But now, all sisters in the Lord are also priests (Rev. 1:5, 65And from Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead, and the prince of the kings of the earth. Unto him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in his own blood, 6And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. (Revelation 1:5‑6); 1 Peter 2:5,95Ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ. (1 Peter 2:5)
9But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light: (1 Peter 2:9)). Linen speaks of practical righteousness in all our ways. "The soul that doeth.. presumptuously... reproacheth the Lord... because he hath despised the Word of the Lord." Num. 15:30,3130But the soul that doeth ought presumptuously, whether he be born in the land, or a stranger, the same reproacheth the Lord; and that soul shall be cut off from among his people. 31Because he hath despised the word of the Lord, and hath broken his commandment, that soul shall utterly be cut off; his iniquity shall be upon him. (Numbers 15:30‑31).
"Hear the Word of the Lord, O ye women, and let your ear receive the Word of His mouth, and teach your daughters wailing, and... lamentation." Jer. 9:2020Yet hear the word of the Lord, O ye women, and let your ear receive the word of his mouth, and teach your daughters wailing, and every one her neighbor lamentation. (Jeremiah 9:20); "that they may admonish the young women to be... discreet, chaste." Titus 2:44That they may teach the young women to be sober, to love their husbands, to love their children, (Titus 2:4), J. N. D. Trans.; "that the women in decent deportment and dress adorn themselves with modesty and discretion." 1 Tim. 2:99In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; (1 Timothy 2:9), J. N. D. Trans.; "whose adorning let it not be that outward one of tressing of hair, and wearing gold, or putting on apparel; but the hidden man of the heart, in the incorruptible ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which in the sight of God is of great price. For thus also the holy women who have hoped in God heretofore adorned themselves." 1 Peter 3:3-53Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; 4But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. 5For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands: (1 Peter 3:3‑5), J. N. D.; "that they adorn the doctrine." Titus 2:1010Not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things. (Titus 2:10). Much more should be said about the "shame for a woman to be shorn" (1 Cor. 11:66For if the woman be not covered, let her also be shorn: but if it be a shame for a woman to be shorn or shaven, let her be covered. (1 Corinthians 11:6)); and "the woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man." Deut. 22:55The woman shall not wear that which pertaineth unto a man, neither shall a man put on a woman's garment: for all that do so are abomination unto the Lord thy God. (Deuteronomy 22:5). Inadequate coverings of the head are lamentable.
The new nature welcomes God's holy Word. That it may be so with our beloved sisters, for whom Christ died, is the prayer of many, yes, many. But we know that the time has come "when they will not endure sound doctrine:... and they shall turn away their ears from the truth." 2 Tim. 4:3,43For the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears; 4And they shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables. (2 Timothy 4:3‑4). How sad!
We have felt that all of this is very needful as it does show how far we have lost sight of our heavenly calling.
How About Men?
Nabal, in Judah, was a rich but arrogant fool, like the rich fool of Luke 12. King Solomon exceeded all kings for riches and wisdom, yet his love for women made him a fool. Ambition ruined Abimelech, Absalom and countless men. The "carcass" of the disobedient "man of God" of Judah, is mentioned ten times (1 Kings 13).
From grammar school to the highest technical institutions, the educational system has become a sink of corruption in this adulterous generation. Evolution, exaltation of man to highest pinnacles of fame, specializing in every clever means of making men rich in this world, and shamefully specializing in sex courses, text books and even sex dictionaries, besides the "square dances" and "rock and roll" indecencies. Men are generally the leaders in all this. Then too they are advancing in greater inventions, engineering construction, automobiles, aircraft, space craft, color T.V., photography, travel tours, world fairs, ultra modern motels, eating places, and every kind of worldly appeal to fallen nature. Man, in particular, is liable to be caught in the current and swept away by his own devices; and the Christian may be caught off his guard. How very unbecoming it is for those who profess to be partakers of the heavenly calling to conform to this world's styles of long hair —"If a man have long hair, it is a shame." 1 Cor. 11:1414Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? (1 Corinthians 11:14)—or in any way to call attention to ourselves either by extremes in styles or the opposite, slip-shod or slovenly, like many so-called hippies.
God has given men the more prominent place of privilege and therewith responsibility, in the household of faith, in the assembly—as gifts, overseers and others to care for temporal needs. The father is head of his house. He has a stewardship to serve the Lord, each in his temporal calling as well as in his heavenly. Men only were used of the Holy Spirit to pen the Word of God. All the apostles, evangelists and teachers were men. God has ever raised up faithful witnesses, such as are recorded in Heb. 11. They were exemplary overcomers in difficult times and suffered in the face of cruel opposition. It greatly encourages us to see the individual devotedness and faithfulness in such as Joseph, Gideon, David, Jonathan, Hezekiah, Josiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, Ezra, Nehemiah, Stephen, Timothy, Paul and John. Some were young men. The aged John wrote: "I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one." 1 John 2:1414I have written unto you, fathers, because ye have known him that is from the beginning. I have written unto you, young men, because ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one. (1 John 2:14). The aged Paul urged his beloved young Timothy to "Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers"; "Flee also youthful lusts"; "continue thou in the things which thou hast learned"; "for the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine... and they shall turn away their ears from the truth." And to the Philippians he could highly commend Timothy (whose name means "To honor God"), saying, "I have no man like-minded, who will naturally care for your state. For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's." Phil. 2:20, 2120For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state. 21For all seek their own, not the things which are Jesus Christ's. (Philippians 2:20‑21).
Proverbs, the so-called "Young Man's Book," is full of wisdom, guidance and warnings: "To deliver thee from the strange woman... which flattereth with her words" (Prov. 2:1616To deliver thee from the strange woman, even from the stranger which flattereth with her words; (Proverbs 2:16)); "Keep thy heart more than anything that is guarded" (Prov. 4:2323Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23), J. N. D. Trans.); "For the lips of a strange woman drop as a honeycomb... I was almost in all evil in the midst of the... assembly" (Prov. 5:3,143For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: (Proverbs 5:3)
14I was almost in all evil in the midst of the congregation and assembly. (Proverbs 5:14)). No one is immune even there from snares! Woe to giddy and mischievous triflers.
Men often excel and boast of their wisdom, might and riches. The Corinthians were characterized by such, and we too may be failing in these luxurious times. Scripture speaks of some being "full," "rich," reigning "as kings," walking "as men," and being "puffed up." Is it legality to consider our ways (Hag. 1:55Now therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways. (Haggai 1:5)), and see how far we have drifted from the simplicity of "having food and raiment, let us be therewith content"? Why is it such a touchy subject to mention luxurious houses, cars, clothing, faring sumptuously, so, much like the world? The apostle Paul could ask the saints to follow him as he followed Christ. He could put his life in contrast to the way the Corinthians lived. "We both hunger, and thirst, and are naked and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling place... I write not these things to shame you, but as my beloved sons I warn you." This was because he loved them and sought their recovery.
We have heard of some at "young people's meetings" that resent senior counsel and godly restraint. Some have impudently asked: "What harm is there in mini skirts?" "What harm is there in hippy hair cuts?" "What harm is there in T.V.?" "What harm is there in smoking?" "What harm is there in going to fairs?" "What harm is there in going to Disneyland?" "What harm is there in hot rods?" "What harm is there in women bobbing their hair?" Might as well ask what harm is there in singing sacred songs to rag-time and jazz swing? The answer is, it is turning the grace of God into fleshly license, ignoring and dishonoring the Lord.
Of course, mere legality and prohibition may reform and make strict Pharisees. We do not want any such thing. It is our hearts the Lord wants. "My son, give Me thine heart." "I will run the way of Thy commandments, when Thou shalt enlarge my heart." Psa. 119:3232I will run the way of thy commandments, when thou shalt enlarge my heart. (Psalm 119:32).
A Young Man Fell Out of the Window
In Acts 20 the saints were gathered to the name of the Lord Jesus Christ on the Lord's day for the breaking of bread. This was worship, remembering Christ and His infinite and unfathomable love and sufferings. There the Lord of glory was in their midst, as well as God, the Holy Spirit. They were up there in the third story, "the upper room," where there were many lights. They were also highly privileged to have and hear the greatest of the apostles giving most needed counsel and warnings. What a beautiful setting this is! Is it not a picture of our heavenly calling, with so much light, Christ our eternal portion, "blessed... with all spiritual blessings in the heavenlies in Christ"? But what of that young man way back there, as far as he could get, sitting in the window? He has fallen asleep! How many young men are inclined to the back seat! Are their minds so full of their cars, girl friends, or making money, that Paul's teaching wearies them? The Lord said, "Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Another Observable Tendency
Earthly mindedness blurs our heavenly calling and hope. We are liable to forget our greatest privilege, as priests, to draw near into the very presence of God, as adoring worshipers. Surely this is the highest of all blessings—nearness to Himself, and it is this that delights Him most. Even as God our Father ever delights in His beloved Son, so are we now His delight (Psa. 16:33But to the saints that are in the earth, and to the excellent, in whom is all my delight. (Psalm 16:3); Prov. 8:3131Rejoicing in the habitable part of his earth; and my delights were with the sons of men. (Proverbs 8:31); John 15:99As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. (John 15:9)); His "treasure" (Matt. 13:4444Again, the kingdom of heaven is like unto treasure hid in a field; the which when a man hath found, he hideth, and for joy thereof goeth and selleth all that he hath, and buyeth that field. (Matthew 13:44)); and "precious" (Isa. 43:44Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honorable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life. (Isaiah 43:4)). But because of our undervaluing this most special favor there is a growing tendency to substitute activity. God does not value our service as much as our presence, as drawn by His love. Look at Martha and Mary. See also 2 Chron. 29:1111My sons, be not now negligent: for the Lord hath chosen you to stand before him, to serve him, and that ye should minister unto him, and burn incense. (2 Chronicles 29:11); Psa. 65:44Blessed is the man whom thou choosest, and causest to approach unto thee, that he may dwell in thy courts: we shall be satisfied with the goodness of thy house, even of thy holy temple. (Psalm 65:4); Ezek. 44:1616They shall enter into my sanctuary, and they shall come near to my table, to minister unto me, and they shall keep my charge. (Ezekiel 44:16) compared with verses 11, 13, 14. Mary was wholly absorbed with her Savior, and this is what filled Him with delight.
"Our calling, characteristically, is ecclesiastical rather than evangelical... What is due to Christ by His body is the greatest favor... Paul's doctrine... must first and foremost be guarded." (J. N. D.)
"Paul's Doctrine" by C. H. Brown gives us a much needed word in season.
"Some brethren seem all gospel-minded... When we put the gospel above ministry to the saints, we have not the mind of God ... the whole counsel of God... You cannot walk correctly unless you understand the calling of a Christian—the heavenly calling... We are living in such shallow times that Christianity has become so watered down that in many places today it is becoming synonymous with the concept of a home and foreign missionary society... We want to be sure we are making room for the whole scope and realm of God's full and free revelation ... There is something dearer to the heart of Christ than the gospel. "Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it."... Service is not the greatest thing; obedience is the great thing. "To obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams."
"It was not work that characterized them in former days... it was not activity... There is where our danger is... We have practically lost our separateness... and we are obliged to make up for it by a sort of pretentious display of activity before men. You know perfectly well that is the tendency, and that is what catches the young especially... it has a certain amount of attractiveness about it.
"The acceptance of Christ in glory gives me a heavenly character, if I am one with Him, and the rejection of Christ on earth puts me into an outside place, if I have devotedness and affection for Him." W. T. T. 1876
A Few Thoughts in Closing
There is the danger of trying to hide our true state instead of owning it. The putting on a rosy front will never do. Our greatest need is to be broken and humbled so as to confess our poor ways. This, and this only, is the route to blessing (Ezra 9;10:1, 2; Neh. 1:6;9:1-36Let thine ear now be attentive, and thine eyes open, that thou mayest hear the prayer of thy servant, which I pray before thee now, day and night, for the children of Israel thy servants, and confess the sins of the children of Israel, which we have sinned against thee: both I and my father's house have sinned. (Nehemiah 1:6)
1Now in the twenty and fourth day of this month the children of Israel were assembled with fasting, and with sackclothes, and earth upon them. 2And the seed of Israel separated themselves from all strangers, and stood and confessed their sins, and the iniquities of their fathers. 3And they stood up in their place, and read in the book of the law of the Lord their God one fourth part of the day; and another fourth part they confessed, and worshipped the Lord their God. (Nehemiah 9:1‑3); Dan. 9; Lam. 3:18-3218And I said, My strength and my hope is perished from the Lord: 19Remembering mine affliction and my misery, the wormwood and the gall. 20My soul hath them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me. 21This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope. 22It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. 23They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness. 24The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in him. 25The Lord is good unto them that wait for him, to the soul that seeketh him. 26It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord. 27It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth. 28He sitteth alone and keepeth silence, because he hath borne it upon him. 29He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope. 30He giveth his cheek to him that smiteth him: he is filled full with reproach. 31For the Lord will not cast off for ever: 32But though he cause grief, yet will he have compassion according to the multitude of his mercies. (Lamentations 3:18‑32)).
As to what we have written, some might say that it is according to the truth, but it is liable to offend the careless and those who need it the most will not care to read it. Be that as it may, the Lord has said, "Speak My word faithfully." Jer. 23:2828The prophet that hath a dream, let him tell a dream; and he that hath my word, let him speak my word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord. (Jeremiah 23:28).
"The Word of the Lord... was... in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones; and I became wearied with holding in, and I could not." Jer. 20:8, 98For since I spake, I cried out, I cried violence and spoil; because the word of the Lord was made a reproach unto me, and a derision, daily. 9Then I said, I will not make mention of him, nor speak any more in his name. But his word was in mine heart as a burning fire shut up in my bones, and I was weary with forbearing, and I could not stay. (Jeremiah 20:8‑9)., J. N. D. Trans. "Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth?" Gal. 4:1616Am I therefore become your enemy, because I tell you the truth? (Galatians 4:16).
Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.
O fix our earnest gaze
So wholly, Lord, on Thee,
That, with Thy beauty occupied,
We elsewhere none may see.
O kindle within us a holy desire,
Like that which was found in Thy people of old,
Who tasted Thy love, and whose hearts were on fire,
While they waited in patience Thy face to behold.
There is no doubt that our greatest need is heart-warming ministry of Christ and His matchless love to us, to melt our hearts and to devote our lives to Himself. Nevertheless, He will never have us minimize the need of His conscience-searching Word, to expose and rebuke the daring, fleshly worldliness that has become tolerated among us.
A. C. B.
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