======================================================================== THOSE WHO HAVE GONE BEFORE by Mary Wilder Tileston ======================================================================== Summary: Those who have gone before us are not in a state of lethargy or vacancy, but are rather nearer to the perfect love and may guide us towards a holier and ampler freedom. Topics: "Heavenly Service", "Eternal Life" Scripture References: Psalm 16:11, 1 Corinthians 15:58, 2 Corinthians 4:18, Hebrews 12:1, Revelation 7:15 ------------------------------------------------------------------------ DESCRIPTION ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Mary Wilder Tileston preaches about the continued service and presence of those who have passed before us, emphasizing that they are not in a state of inactivity but are actively serving God day and night in His temple. She highlights the closeness of the departed to perfect love and the guidance they can provide towards a holier life, free from the limitations of time. Tileston reminds the congregation that those who have gone before are still engaged in God's work, transitioning from earthly duties to heavenly responsibilities. ------------------------------------------------------------------------ CONTENT ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Therefore are they before the throne of God, and serve Him day and night in His temple; and He that sitteth on the throne shall dwell among them. REVELATION 7:15 So many worlds, so much to do, So little done, such things to be, How know I what had need of thee, For thou wert strong as thou wert true? ALFRED TENNYSON THEY who have gone before have not therefore passed into a condition of lethargy or vacancy. They may be nearer to us, as they are nearer to the perfect love. They may guide us towards a holier and ampler freedom, since they suffer no more the limitations of time. The veil is rent. There is with us the presence of the unseen host. ELISHA MULFORD The work of God hath not lost them, if we take it in its most capacious, comprehensive acceptation. God hath a will to be done not in earth only, but also in heaven; they are not dismissed from the King's business who are called from the camp to the Court, from being common soldiers to be Privy Councillors. ABRAHAM CHEARE ======================================================================== Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/mary-wilder-tileston/those-who-have-gone-before/ ========================================================================