Xxiii. to John Ewart, Bailie of Kirkcudbright
The speaker emphasizes the importance of standing for the truth of Christ and making sure work of salvation, as the time of judgment is approaching.
Samuel Rutherford preaches about the comfort and joy found in openly avouching the Son of God, despite the terrors of great men. He encourages believers to embrace the cross of Christ as a sweet burden that propels them forward to their eternal harbor. Rutherford urges listeners to seek their stronghold in Christ before the storms of life come, emphasizing the importance of standing for the truth of Christ and securing salvation through Him.
Text
Me VERY WORTHY AND DEAR FRIEND, -- I cannot but most kindly thank you
for the expressions of your love. Your love and respect to me is a
great comfort to me.
I bless His high and glorious name, that the terrors of great men
have not affrighted me from openly avouching the Son of God. Nay, His
cross is the sweetest burden that ever I bare; it is such a burden as
wings are to a bird, or sails are to a ship, to carry me forward to my
harbor. I have not much cause to fall in love with the world; but
rather to wish that He who sitteth upon the floods would bring my
broken ship to land, and keep my conscience safe in these dangerous
times; for wrath from the Lord is coming on this sinful land.
It were good that we prisoners of hope know of our stronghold to run
to, before the storm come on; therefore, Sir, I beseech you by the
mercies of God and comforts of His spirit, by the blood of your Savior,
and by your compearance before the sin-revenging Judge of the world,
keep your garments clean, and stand for the truth of Christ, which ye
profess. When the time shall come that your eye strings shall break,
your face wax pale, your breath grow cold, and this house of clay shall
totter, and your one foot shall be over the march, in eternity, it will
be your comfort and joy that ye gave your name to Christ. The greatest
part of the world think heaven at the next door, and that Christianity
is an easy task; but they will be beguiled. Worthy sir, I beseech you,
make sure work of salvation. I have found my experience, that all I
could do has had much ado in the day of my trial; and, therefore, lay
up a sure foundation for the time to come.
I cannot requite you for your undeserved favors to me and my now
afflicted brother. But I trust to remember you to God. Remember me
heartily to your kind wife.
Yours, in his only Lord Jesus.
ABERDEEN, March 13, 1637
Sermon Outline
- Introduction and Gratitude
- Acknowledging the recipient's love and respect
- Expressing comfort in the Lord's presence
Key Quotes
“His cross is the sweetest burden that ever I bare; it is such a burden as wings are to a bird, or sails are to a ship, to carry me forward to my harbor.” — Samuel Rutherford
“When the time shall come that your eye strings shall break, your face wax pale, your breath grow cold, and this house of clay shall totter, and your one foot shall be over the march, in eternity, it will be your comfort and joy that ye gave your name to Christ.” — Samuel Rutherford
Application Points
- Make sure work of salvation by standing for the truth of Christ and laying a sure foundation for the future.
- Recognize the importance of faith and trust in God's presence, even in difficult times.
- Prepare for eternity by giving your name to Christ and living a life of obedience to Him.