Xxv. to Mr George Gillespie
Samuel Rutherford reflects on suffering and the transformative power of Christ's love in the life of George Gillespie.
Samuel Rutherford, a young ministerial Commissioner of the Church of Scotland, reflects on his experiences of loss, imprisonment, and challenges, ultimately finding joy and salvation in Christ. Despite initial doubts and feelings of abandonment, he comes to see the purpose and love of Christ in his suffering, leading to gratitude and praise for the King who lifts up the downtrodden. Rutherford encourages his fellow minister to remember their covenant with God, to pray for each other, and to share their experiences, acknowledging the transformative power of Christ's cross.
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Gillespie died in 1648, at the age of 36. In spite of his youth he
had been sent as one of the four ministerial Commissioners of the
Church of Scotland to the Westminster Assembly in 1643, where his
learning and effective speaking made a great impression. At the time of
this letter he had been quite recently ordained.
REVEREND AND DEAR BROTHER, -- I received your letter. As for my case,
brother, I bless His glorious name, that my losses are my gain, my
prison a palace, and my sadness joyfulness. At my first entry, my
apprehensions so wrought upon my cross, that I became jealous of the
love of Christ, as being by Him thrust out of the vineyard, and I was
under great challenges, as ordinarily melted gold casteth forth a
drossy scum, and Satan and our corruption form the first words that the
heavy cross speaketh, and say, 'God is angry, He loveth you not.' But
our apprehensions are not canonical, they indite lies of God and
Christ's love. But since my spirit was settled, and the clay has fallen
to the bottom of the well, I see better what Christ was doing. And now
my Lord is returned with salvation under His wings. I see not how to be
thankful, or how to get help to praise that Royal King, who raiseth up
those that are bowed down. And, therefore, let no man scant at Christ's
cross, or raise an ill report upon Him or it; for He beareth the
sufferer and it both.
Brother, remember our old covenant and pray for me, and write to me
your case. The Lord Jesus be with your spirit.
ABRDEEN, March 13, 1637
Sermon Outline
- I points: - Introduction to Gillespie's life and contributions - Reflection on personal losses and gains - The significance of Christ's love in suffering
- II points: - Understanding the nature of trials - The role of apprehensions in our faith - The falsehoods we believe during hardship
- III points: - The transformation of perspective through faith - Recognizing Christ's presence in our struggles - The importance of gratitude and praise
- IV points: - Encouragement to uphold the covenant - The call for mutual prayer and support - Conclusion and blessings
Key Quotes
“my losses are my gain, my prison a palace, and my sadness joyfulness.” — Samuel Rutherford
“our apprehensions are not canonical, they indite lies of God and Christ's love.” — Samuel Rutherford
“let no man scant at Christ's cross, or raise an ill report upon Him or it.” — Samuel Rutherford
Application Points
- Recognize that trials can lead to spiritual growth and deeper faith.
- Support one another through prayer and sharing of experiences.
- Cultivate a spirit of gratitude, even in the face of adversity.