The Signs of the Times
November 30, 1891
Results of the New Birth
Christ said to Nicodemus, “Ye must be born again.” But Nicodemus could not understand this, because he, like the rabbis and scribes and Pharisees, looked at the natural law instead of the spiritual. No man can explain it, because it is supernatural, but the new birth shows practical results. As “the wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth,” so will it be with everyone that is “born of the Spirit.” One of the strongest evidences that the new birth has taken place is that the new-born soul is not self-centered. ST November 30, 1891, par. 1
The Spirit of God operates differently with different individuals. All have the peace of Christ, and fervent, joyous gratitude ascends as incense to heaven. And as the deep movings of the Spirit of God are felt on one's own heart, there is awakened a desire that others shall be born again. The love of God constrains him to labor most earnestly, with tears and prayer, that his relatives and friends may be reconciled to God. ST November 30, 1891, par. 2
Every truly-converted soul is born into the kingdom of God as a missionary. All such have implanted in them an earnest zeal and longing to turn many souls to righteousness. They do not wait for these souls to come to them, but they go forth to seek and save those that were lost. They have the heavenly anointing; a new spiritual strength is imparted to them; for this is the work of the Comforter. They know by their own experience, and through the Spirit of God, how to reach the people. They know how to be patient, and how at all times to manifest the meekness and gentleness of Christ. Through the Spirit of Christ they reach souls in darkness and rebellion against the holy law of God, presenting the truth as it is in him. They are not silent partners, but laborers together with God, longing to bear their testimony for Christ, that they may comfort others with the consolation wherewith they are comforted. If they fall into discouragement, and lose their fervor, because those who have been long in the faith are so indifferent, then they need to pray more and work harder, that they may not fall into the same lethargy, and become unfaithful and disappoint the Master, who has given to every man his work. ST November 30, 1891, par. 3
The atmosphere in many churches is oppressive, because they do not let in the pure air that comes from the throne of God. Their life is not hid with Christ in God. They are not constantly submitting to the discipline of Christ, seeking to acquire his virtues and obtain that wisdom which the Comforter is ever ready to impart. Without a constant, growing interest in the cause of Christ, they will not, cannot, be laborers with God. ST November 30, 1891, par. 4
Those who are self-centered are losing most precious opportunities. “Ye are the light of the world.” A clouded sky does not awaken pleasant feelings; but when the clouds part, and the cheerful beams of the sun shine forth, we say it is as the smile of God. And when the mournful countenance lights up, sending forth the pleasant beams of cheerfulness, we feel comforted. If not a word is spoken, we see the light of Jesus in the human face. ST November 30, 1891, par. 5
The light that shines upon us is not to be hoarded, but to be given to others in clear, steady rays. It is to be an attractive light. The mind is to be stored with the “all things” that Christ will teach us, and the things he will bring to our remembrance, that will strengthen, bless, and console us, and give us his peace; but this great blessing can be retained and increased only by dispensing to others. The attractions of heaven are our light, the words and promises of Christ are our assurance. On these we must rely, and reveal Christ to our world. We must keep the sunny side of our religion in view, instead of becoming a shadow by talking doubts. Murmuring and complaining will never give the right impression of what Jesus has promised to all who will believe on him, accept his word, and be doers of it. ST November 30, 1891, par. 6
“Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world giveth, give I unto you.” “Be careful [that is, unduly anxious] for nothing.” “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid;” “but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” “Let the peace of God rule in your hearts.” ST November 30, 1891, par. 7
“Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.” The disciple of Christ is not to bear a troubled, anxious countenance, as though he were comfortless. Said Christ, “I will not leave you comfortless.” ST November 30, 1891, par. 8
There is in these rich promises the pledged word of One who has evinced how much he loves and values man, and we should ever remember that we are co-workers with God. And as we are thus linked with Jesus, we must manifest the spirit of Christ at all times; we must not fall into discouragement, because of Christ it is said, “He shall not fail nor be discouraged.” ST November 30, 1891, par. 9
Unexpected disappointments will come. Jesus was often grieved at the hardness of heart of the people, and you will have a similar experience. Your prayers, your tears, your entreaties, may fail to awaken a response. Hearts are dead in trespasses and sins. There seems to be no penitence, but only indifference and opposition, and from some even contempt, when you looked for certain victory. But you are not to relax your efforts. If one refuses, turn to another. Have faith that the Comforter will do the work which it is impossible for you to do. Have faith in all the blessed promises which Christ has given you. Work with charity and invincible courage, for you must do this if you would succeed. “Let us not be weary in well-doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” ST November 30, 1891, par. 10
“You do not have to follow your own way, to plan and devise in your own wisdom; if you did, you would certainly fail. But place yourself as a learner in Christ's school. He will teach you; he will discipline and train you in his manner of working. And the Comforter will bring all things to your remembrance. You will find, as you submit to the educating process, that you are becoming spiritually efficient. Even your memory will be strengthened. The words of Jesus will flash into your mind when you need them, and you can repeat the rich promises of God to your own heart and to others. When perplexed, you will not burden others, but will go to the help provided—the Comforter. In this way you will grow, looking unto Jesus, trusting in him, believing him. You will cast all your care on him. And while you move in God's order, carrying on the aggressive warfare, and are personally useful in co-operating with Jesus, you will grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. ST November 30, 1891, par. 11
Growing Christians are always working Christians. No one should be idle now. The thought of being laborers together with God in turning sinners from the error of their ways, should spur us on to diligent efforts. One soul saved for whom Christ has paid the purchase money of his own blood, will give joy to the Redeemer. ST November 30, 1891, par. 12
The Comforter is to abide with you forever, aiding in every effort. The Holy Spirit is promised to every soul who will be a follower of Jesus. Shall we who profess to love Jesus, profess to have this great hope, which is big with immortality and full of glory, go with disconsolate hearts and mournful countenances? Why are we not all alive with love for Jesus? Why are not our hearts joyful in God, even amid trials and temptations? “My peace I give unto you.” Then why do you not take it, and show that you are indeed doers of the words of Christ? “Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.” Shall we not be joyful in God? ST November 30, 1891, par. 13