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Robert Murray M'Cheyne
Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813–1843). Born on May 21, 1813, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Robert Murray M’Cheyne was a Scottish Presbyterian minister known for his fervent piety and preaching. The youngest of five, he excelled at Edinburgh University, studying classics and divinity, and was licensed to preach in 1835. Ordained in 1836, he served St. Peter’s Church in Dundee, where his passionate sermons and pastoral care revived a spiritually dormant congregation. A close friend of Andrew Bonar, he co-authored a report on Jewish missions in Palestine in 1839, fueling missionary zeal. M’Cheyne’s frail health led to breaks, but he spearheaded a revival in Dundee during 1839–1840, preaching alongside William Burns. He emphasized daily Bible reading, creating a plan still used today, and wrote hymns like “Jehovah Tsidkenu.” Unmarried, he died of typhus on March 25, 1843, at age 29, mourned widely for his holiness. He said, “A man is what he is on his knees before God, and nothing more.”
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Sermon Summary
Robert Murray M'Cheyne delivers a poignant message about the barren fig tree, symbolizing the spiritual state of individuals who appear outwardly flourishing but lack true fruitfulness in their lives. He reflects on the patience of the master who seeks fruit for three years, paralleling God's desire for genuine faith and obedience from His followers. M'Cheyne urges listeners to examine their own hearts, recognizing that mere appearances of faith are insufficient without the evidence of good works and love. He emphasizes that true faith is demonstrated through actions that reflect Christ's teachings, calling for a deeper commitment to spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
Scriptures
The Barren Fig Tree
Within a vineyard's sunny bound An ample fig tree shelter found, Enjoying sun and showers - The boughs were graceful to the view, With spreading leaves of deep-green hue, And gaily blushing flowers. When round the vintage season came, The blooming fig was still the same, As promising and fair; But though the leaves were broad and green, No precious fruit was to be seen, Because no fruit was there. "For three long years," the master cried, "Fruit on this tree to find I've tried, But all in vain my toil; Ungrateful tree! the axe's blow Shall lay thy leafy honours low; Why cumbers it the soil?" "Ah! let it stand just one year more," The dresser said, "till all my store Of rural arts I've shown; About the massy roots I'll dig, And if it bear, we've gained the fig - If not, then cut it down." How many years hast thou, my heart, Acted the barren fig tree's part, Leafy, and fresh, and fair, Enjoying heavenly dews of grace, And sunny smiles from God's own face - But where the fruit? ah! where? How often must the Lord have prayed That still my day might be delayed, Till all due means were tried; Afflictions, mercies, health, and pain, How long shall these be all in vain To teach this heart of pride? Learn, O my soul, what God demands Is not a faith like barren sands, But fruit of heavenly hue; By this we prove that Christ we know, If in His holy steps we go - Faith works by love, if true. August 14, 1834.
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Robert Murray M’Cheyne (1813–1843). Born on May 21, 1813, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Robert Murray M’Cheyne was a Scottish Presbyterian minister known for his fervent piety and preaching. The youngest of five, he excelled at Edinburgh University, studying classics and divinity, and was licensed to preach in 1835. Ordained in 1836, he served St. Peter’s Church in Dundee, where his passionate sermons and pastoral care revived a spiritually dormant congregation. A close friend of Andrew Bonar, he co-authored a report on Jewish missions in Palestine in 1839, fueling missionary zeal. M’Cheyne’s frail health led to breaks, but he spearheaded a revival in Dundee during 1839–1840, preaching alongside William Burns. He emphasized daily Bible reading, creating a plan still used today, and wrote hymns like “Jehovah Tsidkenu.” Unmarried, he died of typhus on March 25, 1843, at age 29, mourned widely for his holiness. He said, “A man is what he is on his knees before God, and nothing more.”