IN 1830 a man named George Wilson was sentenced to be hanged, for robbing the mails in the United States, and for murder. Andrew Jackson, who was President at that time, exercised his prerogative, and sent him a pardon. Wilson, however, refused this, and insisted that it was not a pardon unless he accepted it.
The Attorney-general said that the law was silent on this point, and the matter was referred to the Supreme Court. Chief Justice Marshall gave the following decision:
“A pardon is a paper, the value of
which depends on its acceptance
by the person implicated. It is hardly
to be supposed that one under sentence
of death would refuse to accept a
pardon, but if it is refused it is no
pardon. George Wilson must be hanged.”
And so he was.
What folly was it that could have induced Wilson to refuse the pardon that meant life and liberty to him? I do not know. The reader will agree with me that it was folly of a stupendous character. But it was not greater than the folly that leads thousands to refuse, day after day, the pardon that is offered them by God.
Men need pardon because they are offenders against God. Sin is an infinite offense in His sight, and all have sinned. The man who considers himself an exception to this sweeping statement of universal import does but exhibit his ignorance of what sin is, and of his own heart. God, who knows us better than we know ourselves, declares that “ALL have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” (Rom. 3:2323For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; (Romans 3:23).)
All, therefore, need pardon. But none can earn it. For men are not only sinners, but “without strength” (Rom. 5:66For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. (Romans 5:6)). But, thank God, He has not left us to perish without hope. On the ground of the atonement wrought by His own Son He offers a free pardon. Anybody may avail himself of it. Here are its terms: “Through this Man [the Lord Jesus Christ] is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins.” (Acts 13:3838Be it known unto you therefore, men and brethren, that through this man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: (Acts 13:38).)
All that remains, then, for the sinner who feels his guiltiness is to accept, by faith, the forgiveness so freely and righteously offered.
Have you done this, reader? Do not shun the personal question. Pardon is offered: have you accepted it?
Remember that pardon, if not accepted, is no pardon at all. Do not, then, I beseech you, let this priceless boon slip through your fingers.
H. P. B.