Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 6 (1889-1890)

Ms 35, 1889

Sermon/Progress in the Work of Christ

Battle Creek, Michigan

November 16, 1889

Previously unpublished.

(A sermon preached at the Battle Creek Tabernacle, November 16, 1889, 11:00 A.M.) 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 1

(Colossians 3:1-10 quoted). We are now called, in the words I have [just] read, to take away our minds from the world—also our affections—our hearts, minds, and intellect, to flow in another channel. This brings us into position where we can grasp hold of things of God. This is the work that is expected of us in the high calling in Christ Jesus. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 2

The young man asked the Saviour what he should do to have eternal life. He called him to the obedience of the law and told him if he loved God with his whole heart he shall live. [Luke 10:27, 28.] If we do love with our whole heart, then we love as Christ loves. Oh, can we comprehend this wonderful love? In church capacity shall we do or say anything to discourage our brethren or, like Christ, build them up? 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 3

There are many representing Christ who falsely represent Him before the world. Our hearts should be going out after God constantly. Our soul’s desire should be for Christ. Christ said, If I be lifted up, I will draw all men unto Me. [John 12:32.] You cannot afford to sin—not one of you. We say unto you who go forward in baptism today, give Christ all your heart. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 4

I am so glad a few more have given their hearts and affections to Him. Oh, give your affections to Him who came to the world clothed in humanity that you may live. Will we clothe ourselves in darkness and doubts and unbelief, and then claim to be His child? Don’t pretend you are Christ’s and have no change [in your life]; don’t offer your righteousness, but hold up His righteousness. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 5

“By this shall all men know ye are My disciples if ye have love for one another.” [John 13:35.] If you are imbued with the love of Jesus, it will flow out from the heart. When we accept Christ, then we take on us the vows to become students in the school of Christ. Ye are dead, your lives are hid in Christ. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 6

There is no such thing as instantaneous sanctification. Sanctify today and tomorrow not by trying to excel this fashion or that fashion or this hat or that dress, but adorn to excel in Christ. Go forward [from] victory to victory; press [on] to be Christlike. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 7

May God help us to be baptized with the Holy Ghost. Christ is all and in all, the true Chain which binds every true child together. Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, then there will be spiritual courage and spiritual fortitude. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 8

Thanksgiving is coming near. Are you fretting over the mercies of God to see what you can be thankful for? Is it for roast turkey, a sumptuous dinner? Do you say you have nothing to be thankful for? Then let me tell you what to be thankful for. Be thankful for Jesus. Oh, let us make it such a Thanksgiving as we have never had before in our lives. If you make a feast, call in the poor, the halt, not those who will make a feast in return. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 9

Then we want to breathe in the atmosphere of heaven. Oh, let us have His blessing. He wants you to have it. He holds it out to you. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 10

Brethren and sisters, let us seek earnestly for faith and the glory of God, and may God help us to cleanse ourselves from the filthiness of the flesh and spirit. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 11

Christ is all, and in all. He is the first and last. He is everything. Then let us press to the high calling in Christ Jesus. 6LtMs, Ms 35, 1889, par. 12